- Admin
- Administrator
Offline - From: Lake Park, Florida
- Registered: 10/02/2012
- Posts: 2,013
Re: Almighty God’s (YHWH) Great Gift to Mankind, The Rare Fruit Trees
Hi Everyone:
Here is a Commentary on Bountiful Trees and Vegetables God (YHWH) has provided for mankind, specifically the Grewia bicolor White Raisin Bush.
These trees or shrubs are often seen in groups along the edges of roads, river banks and dry rivers, growing in large uniform groups.
They are multi-stemmed and densely branched, forming a very irregular leafy canopy, and grow 2 - 5 m. The leaves are broad and hairy, the leaf tips being rounded or pointed, which helps with specific identification. They have yellow, star-like flowers. The fruit is berry-like and hard. The bark is dark grey, deeply fissured and peeling away in strips in old specimens.
Links with animals - The fruit of bushes are eaten by birds, especially hornbills, and also by baboon and monkey.
Human uses - The fruit is edible, the wood used for sticks and knobkieries and young branchlets are used to weave baskets.
Gardening - These small shrubs as are not really attractive or neat enough to be used in gardens.
Leaves - Simple and alternate, the form variable but the under-surface is always distinctly lighter and covered with velvety-grey hairs. The edges are smooth or slightly toothed. Leaf tips are round; leaves are held horizontally or drooping. (10 -32 x 15 - 70 mm)
Flowers - Yellow, star-like flowers are borne in the base of the leaves, October to December. (20 mm)
Fruit - Yellow, star-like fruit is hard and is normally one to two-lobed. It is reddish-brown when mature, December to April. (Each lobe 6 mm)
Stems - Square and fluted, especially the mature branches which have four distinct angles.
Best places to see the White Raisin Bush in Southern Africa:
The White Raisin Bush is found in the Kruger National Park in the Mixed Bushwillow Woodlands, Pretoriuskop Sourveld, Malelane Mountain Bushveld, Sabie Crocodile Thorn Thickets, Knob Thorn / Marula Savannah, Delagoa Thorn Thickets, Riverine Communities, Lebombo Mountain Bushveld, Olifants Rugged Veld, Stunted Knob Thorn Savannah, Mopane Scrubveld, Alluvial Plains, Tree Mopane Savannah & Mopane / Bushwillow Woodlands ecozones.
Tree species of Southern Africa >> Printable Tree List <<
South African Trees >> Printable Tree List <<
The Plant Kingdom (Plantae)
Wildlife - Fauna & Flora of Southern Africa (source - retrieved from on 3/18/2013)
In Genesis 1:11-13, "And God said, Let the earth put forth grass, herbs yielding seed, and fruit-trees bearing fruit after their kind, wherein is the seed thereof, upon the earth: and it was so. 12 And the earth brought forth grass, herbs yielding seed after their kind, and trees bearing fruit, wherein is the seed thereof, after their kind: and God saw that it was good. 13 And there was evening and there was morning, a third day. (American Standard Version, ASV)[for more details, go to www.jw.org].
Clickable images of this fruit and plant can be seen at,
Now to know the truth, go to:
1)
2)
3)
4)
5)
6)
7)
Your Friend in Christ Iris89
Francis David said it long ago, "Neither the sword of popes...nor the image of death will halt the march of truth."Francis David, 1579, written on the wall of his prison cell." Read the book, "What Does The Bible Really Teach" and the Bible today, and go to www.jw.org!
- Admin
- Administrator
Offline
- From: Lake Park, Florida
- Registered: 10/02/2012
- Posts: 2,013
Re: Almighty God’s (YHWH) Great Gift to Mankind, The Rare Fruit Trees
Hi Everyone:
Here is a Commentary on Bountiful Trees and Vegetables God (YHWH) has provided for mankind, specifically the Lemon drop mangosteen, Garcinia intermedia (Clusiaceae)
Common Names
English: lemon drop mangosteen, mameyito
Spanish: mameyito, sastra
Portuguese (Brazil): achachairu
Origin and Distribution
Native to southern Mexico and Central America. Cultivated sporadically throughout the tropics.
Botanical Synonyms
Rheedia intermedia, Rheedia edulis and Calophyllum edule.
Description
Lemon drop mangosteen is a small tree, from 15-20 feet (5-6 m) tall, with a straight, dark brown trunk. Young branches have smooth green bark. Contains yellow latex. Leaves are opposite, stiff, 3-5 inches (7.6-13 cm) long and 1-2 inches (2.5-5 cm) wide. Flowers are whitish and small, perfect, and produced in axillary groups of 1-15 at branch nodes. The fruits are round, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter, with a thin orange to reddish peel. The whitish pulp has an aromatic sweet sour taste, and contains 1-2 seeds. Propagation and Culture
Lemon drop mangosteen is usually propagated by seed, which loses viability rapidly if allowed to dry out. The seeds germinate easily and the tree is precocious, flowering and fruiting in 2-3 years. It can be grown and will fruit in a large pot.
The tree is very adaptable, growing well in different soils and environments from sea level to 4,000 feet (1,219 m) elevation. It grows well in full sun or shade, but fruits better in full sun. Flowers and fruits sporadically throughout the year…
Cultivars and Related Species
There are no named cultivars of lemon drop mangosteen, but some trees have sweeter fruit, and could be propagated by grafting.
There are over 100 Garcinia species, mostly from southeast Asia. Garcinia species from the Americas were once classified as Rheedia, but now all are considered Garcinia.
Uses
Lemon drop mangosteen is primarily consumed fresh, but can also be used to make juices, jams and jellies. The wood is resistant to termites, and is used to make posts and tool handles. The tree is an attractive ornamental, especially when in fruit. [source - retrieved from on 5/11/2013]
Growth
The fast growing tree reaches a height of about 5 meters. It is tolerant of a wide range of soils, up to an altitude of around 4000 feet. It can be grown successfully and will fruit in a large pot. It grows best with regular water in full sun in a humid environment. It tolerates high temperatures but is probably not frost hardy. It has small, whitish flowers which are perfect and makes an attractive ornamental tree, especially when in truit, which may be year round. Its leaves are opposite.
The wood is termite resistant and used to make posts and tool handles.
Propogation
The tree is generally propogated from seeds, though it can be grafted. No named cultivars are known. Seeds lose viability if dried, but can retain viability for a period of months if kept moist.
Fruit
The tree may fruit after as little as two years. The fruits are smooth spheres about an inch in diameter with a thin yellow, orange or red rind around a white pulp. They are edible and have an appealing sweet and sour taste. It is usually eaten out of hand, though can be used for drinks, jams and jellies.[2]
Distribution
Native to Central America, it is cultivated sporadically throughout the tropics.[3]
References
1. ^ "Taxon: Garcinia intermedia (Pittier) Hammel". Germplasm Resources Information Network (GRIN). United States Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service, Beltsville Area. Retrieved 2010-06-12.
2. ^
3. ^ [source - retrieved from on 5/11/2013]
In Genesis 1:11-13, "And God said, Let the earth put forth grass, herbs yielding seed, and fruit-trees bearing fruit after their kind, wherein is the seed thereof, upon the earth: and it was so. 12 And the earth brought forth grass, herbs yielding seed after their kind, and trees bearing fruit, wherein is the seed thereof, after their kind: and God saw that it was good. 13 And there was evening and there was morning, a third day. (American Standard Version, ASV)[for more details, go to www.jw.org].
To view this plant and its fruits, go to,
Now to know the truth, go to:
1)
2)
3)
4)
5)
6)
7)
Your Friend in Christ Iris89
Francis David said it long ago, "Neither the sword of popes...nor the image of death will halt the march of truth."Francis David, 1579, written on the wall of his prison cell." Read the book, "What Does The Bible Really Teach" and the Bible today, and go to www.jw.org!
- •
Thread Starter- Admin
- Administrator
Offline
- From: Lake Park, Florida
- Registered: 10/02/2012
- Posts: 2,013
Re: Almighty God’s (YHWH) Great Gift to Mankind, The Rare Fruit Trees
Hi Everyone:
Here is a Commentary on Bountiful Trees and Vegetables God (YHWH) has provided for mankind, specifically the Garcinia nitida a very rare tree.
ABSTRACT:
The study on enhancing germination of Garcinia kola was conducted using 5 pre-treatments. These included soaking seeds in cold water for 96, 72, and 48 hours for treatments 1, 2, and 3 respectively, cutting seeds at the opposite end to the radicle with kitchen knife (nicking) for treatment 4 and control treatment (untreated seeds for treatment 5). The aim of this study was to determine the best pre-treatment for optimum germination of Garcinia kola “seed”. Germination tests were carried out after pre-treatments for 10 months using one hundred seeds for each treatment in ICRAF nursery established at IITA station in Onne, Niger Delta Region of Nigeria. The result showed that seed cutting (nicking) was the most suitable pre-sowing treatment to increase seed germination of Garcinia kola. In the first 6 weeks of testing, germination did not occur in all the treatments. From the seventh week, germination commenced in treatments 1 and 4. Whereas treating the seeds with mechanical scarification (nicking) significantly (P<0.05) enhanced germination of Garcinia kola, seed germination was also significantly (P<0.05) improved, at least for up to 33 weeks, by soaking the seeds in cold water for 96 hours. The wide variation in germination percentage, germination rate and germination speed of G. kola depended on dormancy that was overcome by seed treatments prior to sowing.
Garcinia kola Heckel, often called bitter kola, is an indigenous medicinal tree belonging to the family Guttiferae. Morphologically, Garcinia kola resembles Allanblackia floribunda. It is well branched, evergreen, and grown as a medium size tree, reaching 12 m high in 12 years, and found in moist forests throughout West and Central Africa. Garcinia kola has regular fruiting cycle and the tree produces fruits every year. The species is one of the most important trees valued in Nigeria for its medicinal seeds and its exploitation in the natural forests has been very heavy.
The seeds of G. kola have pharmacological uses in treating coughs, throat infections, bronchitis, hepatitis (inflammation of the liver), liver disorders (Farombi et al., 2005). According to Adegoke et al., (1998), seeds of G. kola have inhibitory effects on lipid peroxidation in rat liver homogenates. The seeds which serve as a bitter stimulant also serve as snake repellent when they are placed round the compound (Nair, 1990; Daily Champion, 2004). Other medicinal uses include: purgative, antiparasitic, antimicrobial. The seeds are used to prevent and relieve colic, cure head or chest colds. The seeds constituents include—biflavonoids, xanthones and benzophenones. The antimicrobial properties of this plant are attributed to the benzophenones, flavanones. This plant has shown bronchodilator effect (Orie and Ekon, 1993), anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antibacterial and antiviral properties (Ebana et al., 1991; Akoachere et al., 2004). In laboratory tests, Garcinia kola was found to halt the deadly disease caused by Ebola virus in its tracks. The virus causes Ebola haemorrhagic fever - an often-fatal condition. Compounds from the plant have also proved effective against some strains of flu, a contagious respiratory disease also commonly known as influenza (Iwu, 1993). Its by-products are also useful: the wood makes excellent fuel wood; its dense rounded crown makes it an ideal tree for shade around homestead; the branches are used as chewing stick because of its bitter taste and antibacterial activities of its extracts (Taiwo et al., 1999).
In Nigeria, low populations of G. kola are found in home gardens and few stands are found in the wild due to rapid deforestation and heavy exploitation in the natural forests. These factors seriously depleted the populations of the species. But demand for G. kola is currently very high in Nigeria and though few seeds are available in the markets, production of the species is limited due to problem of seed dormancy. The seeds need to be treated to enhance germination. During a priority setting exercise, Garcinia kola was one of the useful indigenous trees prioritized by farmers in West and Central Africa. For many farmers who practice agroforestry, medicinal and fruit trees turn out to have higher priority. However, it is unlikely that rural farmers would plant G. kola on a large scale because the untreated seeds are difficult to germinate. Discouragingly, farmers believe that germination of G. kola takes about six to twelve months and that only few seeds germinate. They also believe that the tree takes a longer time of about eight to ten years to reach reproductive phase. According to Anegbeh, et al., (2005) early flowering and fruiting of very useful indigenous fruit trees enhance food security and harness rural livelihoods.
The challenges to development institutions are to help overcome these problems and to respond to priorities of rural communities, especially in the area of conserving highly endangered and valued species. Information on improving the germination of G. kola is not available in the Niger Delta Region of Nigeria. Therefore, the objective of this study was to break dormancy and improve germination of G. kola within a short time and make the information available to farmers. [source - retrieved from on 12/152013]
A very rare Garcinia from the jungles of Borneo. Bears 1-2", red ripening fruits with acidic white pulp. Fruits are edible and most commonly used for flavoring. Small, evergreen tree to several feet. Cultural information is limited but the tree is probably tropical and not frost hardy. Related to the mangosteen. [source - retrieved from on 12/15 /2013]
In Genesis 1:11-13, "And God said, Let the earth put forth grass, herbs yielding seed, and fruit-trees bearing fruit after their kind, wherein is the seed thereof, upon the earth: and it was so. 12 And the earth brought forth grass, herbs yielding seed after their kind, and trees bearing fruit, wherein is the seed thereof, after their kind: and God saw that it was good. 13 And there was evening and there was morning, a third day. (American Standard Version, ASV)[for more details, go to www.jw.org].
With respect pictures of this fruit, the only ones are on the entire family at
Now to know the truth, go to:
1)
2)
3)
4)
5)
6)
7)
Your Friend in Christ Iris89
Francis David said it long ago, "Neither the sword of popes...nor the image of death will halt the march of truth."Francis David, 1579, written on the wall of his prison cell." Read the book, "What Does The Bible Really Teach" and the Bible today, and go to www.jw.org!
- •
Thread Starter- Admin
- Administrator
Offline
- From: Lake Park, Florida
- Registered: 10/02/2012
- Posts: 2,013
Re: Almighty God’s (YHWH) Great Gift to Mankind, The Rare Fruit Trees
Hi Everyone:
Here is a Commentary on Bountiful Trees and Vegetables God (YHWH) has provided for mankind, specifically the giant granadilla, Passiflora quadrangularis L. (syn. P. macrocarpa M.T. Mast.), is often called merely granadilla, or parcha, Spanish names loosely applied to various related species; or it may be distinguished as granadilla real, grandadilla grande, parcha granadina or parcha de Guinea. In El Salvador, it is known as granadilla de fresco or granadilla para refrescos; in parts of Colombia, it is badea or corvejo; in the State of Tachira, Venezuela, badea; in Bolivia, granadilla real or sandía de Pasión. In Brazil, it is maracuya-acu, maracuja-assu, maracuja silvestre, maracuya grande, maracuja suspiro, maracuja mamao, or maracuja de caiena. In Surinam, it is grote or groote markoesa; in Peru and Ecuador, tumbo or tambo. In the Philippines, its local names are parola, kasaflora, and square-stemmed passion flower. To Indonesians, it is familiar as markiza, markoesa, markeesa, or manesa, and to the Malays, timun belanda, marquesa or mentimun. In Thailand, it is su-khontha-rot; in Vietnam, dua gan tay, or barbadine, the French name.
Description
The vine is fast-growing, large, coarse, herbaceous but woody at the base, arising from a fleshy root that becomes enlarged with age, and climbing trees to a height of 33 to 50 ft (10-15 m) or even 150 ft (45 m) in Java. It has thick 4-angled stems prominently winged on the angles, and axillary tendrils to 12 in (30 cm) long, flanked by leaflike, ovate or ovate-lanceolate stipules 3/4 to 1 3/8 in(2-3.5 cm) long, sometimes faintly toothed. The alternate leaves are broad-ovate or oblong-ovate, 3 1/4 to 6 in (8.25-15 cm) wide, 4 to 8 in (10-20 cm) long; rounded or cordate at the base, abruptly pointed at the apex, sometimes toothed near the base; thin, with conspicuous veins sunken on the upper surface, prominent beneath. The solitary, fragrant flowers, up to 4 3/4 or 5 in (12-12.5 cm) wide, have a bell-shaped calyx, the 5 sepals greenish or reddish-green on the outside, white, pink or purple inside; the 5 petals, to 1 3/4 in (4.5 cm) long, white-and-pink; the corona filaments 2-ranked, to 2 3/8 in (6 cm) long, purple-and-white below, blue in the middle, and pinkish-blue above, around the typical complex of pistil, style and stigmas.
The pleasantly aromatic, melon-like fruit is oblong-ovoid, 4 3/4 to 6 in (12-15 cm) wide, and 8 to 12 in (10-30 cm) long; may be faintly ribbed or longitudinally 3-lobed; has a thin, delicate skin, greenish-white to pale- or deep-yellow, often blushed with pink. Beneath it is a layer of firm, mealy, white or pink flesh, 1 to 1 1/2 in (2.5-4 cm) thick, of very mild flavor, and coated with a parchment-like material on the inner surface. The central cavity contains some juice and masses of whitish, yellowish, partly yellow or purple-pink, sweet-acid arils (commonly referred to as the pulp), enclosing flattened-oval, purplish-brown seeds to 1/2 in (1.25 cm) long. [source - retrieved from on //2013]
Pollination
The vine may produce few or no fruits in a dry atmosphere, or in the absence of insect pollinators. Also the pollen may ripen before the stigma is ready to receive it, and, at times, bees may steal the pollen too early in the morning. Hand-pollination is regularly practiced in Queensland and has been successful in limited experiments in Florida. It should be done in the late morning, no later than 4 to 6 hours after the flowers open.
Climate
The ideal climate for the giant granadilla is one that is truly tropical, warm both day and night, with little fluctuation, and with high humidity. It is grown between 700 and 1,500 ft (213 and 457 m) elevations in Jamaica and Hawaii, and up to 3,000 ft (914 m) in India; to 5,000 or, at most, 7,200 ft (1,800 or 2,200 m) in Ecuador. Vines several years old have been killed by winter cold on the Riviera.
Soil
For maximum growth and productivity, the vine requires deep, fertile, moist but well-drained soil. Australians have observed good growth on volcanic, alluvial, and sandy soil, and even decomposed granite. Vines planted in highly alkaline situations in Israel have died after evidencing acute chlorosis.
Propagation
The giant granadilla grows readily from seeds, which germinate in 2 to 3 weeks and the seedlings can be set out when 6 to 12 in (15-30 cm) high. Cuttings of mature wood 10 to 12 in (25-30 cm) or even 2 to 3 ft (.6-.9 m) long, are partially defoliated and deeply planted in well-watered sand. There will be sufficient vegetative growth and root development to permit transplanting in 30 days. Air- or ground-layers are also satisfactory.
Culture
In commercial plantings in Indonesia, the vines are set 6.5 to 10 ft (2-3 m) apart each way. When the plants reach about 6.5 ft (2 m) in height, they must be trained to a strong, horizontal trellis. Pruning may be necessary if the growth becomes too dense. Regular applications of fertilizer high in organic matter, and copious watering are necessary. [source - retrieved from on 1/09/2013]
In Genesis 1:11-13, "And God said, Let the earth put forth grass, herbs yielding seed, and fruit-trees bearing fruit after their kind, wherein is the seed thereof, upon the earth: and it was so. 12 And the earth brought forth grass, herbs yielding seed after their kind, and trees bearing fruit, wherein is the seed thereof, after their kind: and God saw that it was good. 13 And there was evening and there was morning, a third day. (American Standard Version, ASV)[for more details, go to www.jw.org].
Giant green to yellow passion fruit reaching over one foot in diameter. Pulp is not as flavorful as the common passion fruit, but still tasty and often eaten or used in drinks.
Growing Environment: Loves the warm humid tropics, but will not stand flooding. Protect from freezing temperatures. Fruit forms best after self-pollination. [source - retrieved from on 1/09/2013]
To view a picture of the most beautiful flower of this plant, go to,
Now to know the truth, go to:
1)
2)
3)
4)
5)
6)
7)
Your Friend in Christ Iris89
Francis David said it long ago, "Neither the sword of popes...nor the image of death will halt the march of truth."Francis David, 1579, written on the wall of his prison cell." Read the book, "What Does The Bible Really Teach" and the Bible today, and go to www.jw.org!
- •
Thread Starter- Admin
- Administrator
Offline
- From: Lake Park, Florida
- Registered: 10/02/2012
- Posts: 2,013
Re: Almighty God’s (YHWH) Great Gift to Mankind, The Rare Fruit Trees
Hi Everyone:
Here is a Commentary on Bountiful Trees and Vegetables God (YHWH) has provided for mankind, specifically gin or orangeberry, Glycosmis pentaphylla.
Scientific classification
Angiosperms
(unranked):
Eudicots
(unranked):
Rosids
Order:
Sapindales
Family:
Rutaceae
Subfamily:
Aurantioideae
Tribe:
Clauseneae
Genus:
Glycosmis
Species:
G. pentaphylla
Binomial name
Glycosmis pentaphylla
(Retz.)
DC.
Orangeberry (Glycosmis pentaphylla), sometimes referred to as gin berry, is a species of plant that ranges through Southeast Asia and Northern Australia. It is in the Rutaceae, the same plant family as citrus plants. It is cultivated for its edible pink fruits. In temperate zones, it can be cultivated indoors as a houseplant. [source - retrieved from on 5/23/2013]
Orangeberry, Glycosmis pentaphylla
Cloudforest Expert
Posts: 1800
Joined: Fri Nov 26, 2010 8:38 pm
Location: San Joaquin Valley, CA
Climate Zone: Sunset Zone 14, USDA zone 9b
Orangeberry, Glycosmis pentaphylla
made mention of this plant on the end of anther thread recently, but figured maybe I should start a thread on it too. One person responded they where pleased the get some local results on the plant.
I got my seed from Tradewinds Fruit some years ago, and the plants are still in 5 gallon pots, just transfer a slow developer into a 5 gallon pot a year ago and it is growing well, think it got a lot less sun in different location and is not catching up in size. The other two are almost like 5 feet tall including the pot. They year they bloomed, this year they are blooming like crazy and setting fruit sparingly. I wanted to see what the fruit was like, to see if I even wanted to put them in the ground, plus want more size to handle the cold. They take very minor damage most winters, with only a frost cloth over the top, but with the sides not covered., at least down to the mid 20s.When smaller in 2007 when it dropped to 21F preceded by 14 hours below 32F, they were smaller and under the open air patio roof or plant shade house.
Now that I have tried the fruit, and they are 80% seed and the rest split between juice and a less then thin, not so chew able skin, I want to plant them now. I figure the fruit berry size should go up, and even be sweeter and better tasting in the ground. Not a lot of juice, but the taste is different, very sweet and good. Not something to fill up on, but a very nice pleasant treat as you walk out i the garden.
My berries are not quite 1/2 wide and not quite 1/4 inch thick, but they are only in a 5 gallon pot, and the plants are only less then 5 feet actual height and a couple feet wide. I find that if a plant sets good fruit in a pot, it is always much better in the ground. It has a nick name of Gin Berry, so that must mean something, either they use it for the taste or the sugar.
I was surprised to find a number of hits on a google search, when I got them years ago, there was none other then TWF were I got the seeds. Was surprised, even found a University of CA Riverside hit.
They seem a bit more cold sensitive then a regular Citrus, but otherwise seems to have about the same requirements. You can chew the skin and swallow it, but I choose so far to spit it out while eating them in my yard; saving the seeds so far of course. Two good qualifies other then good tasting, sets fruit while and in a pot. that only means they get better in the ground. Oh I guess 3, grows decently fast too. [source - by DavidLJ48 » Fri Jul 29, 2011as retrieved from on 5/23/2013]
In Genesis 1:11-13, "And God said, Let the earth put forth grass, herbs yielding seed, and fruit-trees bearing fruit after their kind, wherein is the seed thereof, upon the earth: and it was so. 12 And the earth brought forth grass, herbs yielding seed after their kind, and trees bearing fruit, wherein is the seed thereof, after their kind: and God saw that it was good. 13 And there was evening and there was morning, a third day. (American Standard Version, ASV)[for more details, go to ].
To see pictures of the fruit and plant and more information on it, go to,
Now to know the truth, go to:
1)
2)
3)
4)
5)
6)
7)
Your Friend in Christ Iris89
Francis David said it long ago, "Neither the sword of popes...nor the image of death will halt the march of truth."Francis David, 1579, written on the wall of his prison cell." Read the book, "What Does The Bible Really Teach" and the Bible today, and go to !
- •
Thread Starter- Admin
- Administrator
Offline
- From: Lake Park, Florida
- Registered: 10/02/2012
- Posts: 2,013
Re: Almighty God’s (YHWH) Great Gift to Mankind, The Rare Fruit Trees
Hi Everyone:
Here is a Commentary on Bountiful Trees and Vegetables God (YHWH) has provided for mankind, specifically the Ginkgo, Ginkgo biloba. Ginkgo is a genus of highly unusual non-flowering plants, commonly called ginkgo, with one living species, G. biloba. The most recently described extinct species (fossil) is Ginkgo huolinhensis.
Prehistory
The ginkgo is a living fossil, with fossils recognisably related to modern ginkgo from the Permian, dating back 270 million years. The most plausible ancestral group for the order Ginkgoales is the Pteridospermatophyta, also known as the "seed ferns", specifically the order Peltaspermales. The closest living relatives of the clade are the cycads,[3] which share with the extant G. biloba the characteristic of motile sperm. Fossils attributable to the genus Ginkgo first appeared in the Early Jurassic, and the genus diversified and spread throughout Laurasia during the middle Jurassic and Early Cretaceous. It declined in diversity as the Cretaceous progressed, and by the Paleocene, Ginkgo adiantoides was the only Ginkgo species left in the Northern Hemisphere, while a markedly different (and poorly documented) form persisted in the Southern Hemisphere. At the end of the Pliocene, Ginkgo fossils disappeared from the fossil record everywhere except in a small area of central China, where the modern species survived. It is doubtful whether the Northern Hemisphere fossil species of Ginkgo can be reliably distinguished. Given the slow pace of evolution and morphological similarity between members of the genus, there may have been only one or two species existing in the Northern Hemisphere through the entirety of the Cenozoic: present-day G. biloba (including G. adiantoides) and G. gardneri from the Paleocene of Scotland.[4]
At least morphologically, G. gardneri and the Southern Hemisphere species are the only known post-Jurassic taxa that can be unequivocally recognised. The remainder may have been ecotypes or subspecies. The implications would be that G. biloba had occurred over an extremely wide range, had remarkable genetic flexibility and, though evolving genetically, never showed much speciation. While it may seem improbable that a species may exist as a contiguous entity for many millions of years, many of the ginkgo's life-history parameters fit. These are: extreme longevity; slow reproduction rate; (in Cenozoic and later times) a wide, apparently contiguous, but steadily contracting distribution coupled with, as far as can be demonstrated from the fossil record, extreme ecological conservatism (restriction to disturbed streamside environments).[5]
Modern-day G. biloba grows best in well-watered and drained environments,[6] and the extremely similar fossil Ginkgo favored similar environments; the sediment records at the majority of fossil Ginkgo localities indicate it grew primarily in disturbed environments along streams and levees.[5] Ginkgo therefore presents an "ecological paradox" because, while it possesses some favorable traits for living in disturbed environments (clonal reproduction), many of its other life-history traits (slow growth, large seed size, late reproductive maturity) are the opposite of those exhibited by modern plants that thrive in disturbed settings.[7]
Given the slow rate of evolution of the genus, it is possible that Ginkgo represents a preangiosperm strategy for survival in disturbed streamside environments. Ginkgo evolved in an era before flowering plants, when ferns, cycads, and cycadeoids dominated disturbed streamside environments, forming a low, open, shrubby canopy. Ginkgo's large seeds and habit of "bolting"—growing to a height of 10 m before elongating its side branches—may be adaptions to such an environment. Because diversity in the genus Ginkgo drops through the Cretaceous (along with that of ferns, cycads, and cycadeoids) at the same time the flowering plants were on the rise, supports the notion that flowering plants, with their better adaptations to disturbance, displaced Ginkgo and its associates over time.[8]
Ginkgo has been used for classifying plants with leaves that have more than four veins per segment, while Baiera for those with less than four veins per segment. Sphenobaiera has been used to classify plants with broadly wedge-shaped leaves that lacks distinct leaf stems. Trichopitys is distinguished by having multiple-forked leaves with cylindrical (not flattened), thread-like ultimate divisions; it is one of the earliest fossils ascribed to the Ginkgophyta.
Phylogeny
As of February 2013[update], molecular phylogenetic studies have produced at least six different placements of Ginkgo relative to cycads, conifers, gnetophytes and angiosperms. The two most common are that Ginkgo is a sister to a clade composed of conifers and gnetophytes or that Ginkgo and cycads form a clade within the gymnosperms. A 2013 study examined the reasons for the discrepant results, and concluded that the best support was for the monophyly of Gingko and cycads, these being the earliest diverging gymnosperms.[9]
References
1. ^ Taylor, Thomas N.; Edith L. Taylor (1993). The Biology and Evolution of Fossil Plants. Englewood Cliffs, NJ: Prentice Hall. pp. 138, 197. ISBN 0-13-651589-4.
2. ^ "Genus: Ginkgo L.". Germplasm Resources Information Network (GRIN). United States Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service, Beltsville Area. Retrieved 2008-03-26. "Illegal and superfluous name (Vienna ICBN Art. 52) for Ginkgo L."
3. ^ Royer et al., p.84.
4. ^ Royer et al., p.85.
5. ^ a b Royer et al., p.91.
6. ^ Royer et al., p.87.
7. ^ Royer et al., p.92.
8. ^ Royer et al., p.93.
9. ^ Wu, C. -S.; Chaw, S. -M.; Huang, Y. -Y. (2013). "Chloroplast Phylogenomics Indicates that Ginkgo biloba is Sister to Cycads". Genome Biology and Evolution 5 (1): 243–254. doi:10.1093/gbe/evt001. PMID 23315384. (source - retrieved from on 3/8/2013)
In Genesis 1:11-13, "And God said, Let the earth put forth grass, herbs yielding seed, and fruit-trees bearing fruit after their kind, wherein is the seed thereof, upon the earth: and it was so. 12 And the earth brought forth grass, herbs yielding seed after their kind, and trees bearing fruit, wherein is the seed thereof, after their kind: and God saw that it was good. 13 And there was evening and there was morning, a third day. (American Standard Version, ASV)[for more details, go to www.jw.org].
Medical Usage
Ginkgo biloba has been used medicinally for thousands of years. Today, it is one of the top-selling herbs in the United States.
Ginkgo is used for the treatment of numerous conditions, many of which are under scientific investigation. Available evidence demonstrates ginkgo's efficacy in the management of intermittent claudication, Alzheimer's/multi-infarct dementia, and "cerebral insufficiency" (a syndrome thought to be secondary to atherosclerotic disease, characterized by impaired concentration, confusion, decreased physical performance, fatigue, headache, dizziness, depression, and anxiety).
Although not definitive, there is promising early evidence favoring the use of ginkgo for memory enhancement in healthy subjects, altitude (mountain) sickness, symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS), age-related eye disorders, and the reduction of chemotherapy-induced end-organ vascular damage.
The herb is generally well tolerated, but due to multiple case reports of bleeding, it should be used cautiously in patients on anticoagulant therapy and those with known blood clotting disorders, or prior to some surgical or dental procedures. (source - retrieved from on 3/8/2013)
Medicinal Uses and Indications:
Based on studies conducted in laboratories, animals, and humans, ginkgo is used for the following:
Dementia and Alzheimer's disease
Ginkgo is widely used in Europe for treating dementia. It was first used because it improves blood flow to the brain. Now further study suggests it may directly protect nerve cells that are damaged in Alzheimer's disease. A number of studies have found that ginkgo has a positive effect on memory and thinking in people with Alzheimer's or vascular dementia.
Clinical studies suggest that ginkgo may have the following benefits for people with Alzheimer's disease:
* Improvement in thinking, learning, and memory (cognitive function)
* Improvement in activities of daily living
* Improvement in social behavior
* Fewer feelings of depression
Several studies have found that ginkgo may work as well as prescription Alzheimer's medications in delaying the symptoms of dementia.
However, one of the longest and best-designed studies found ginkgo was no better than placebo in reducing Alzheimer's symptoms. In a 2008 study, 176 people in the United Kingdom with Alzheimer's took either ginkgo or placebo for 6 months. At the end of the study there was no difference in mental function or quality of life between the groups.
Ginkgo is sometimes suggested to prevent Alzheimer's and dementia, as well, and some studies have suggested it might be helpful. But in 2008, a well-designed study (the GEM study) with more than 3,000 elderly participants found the ginkgo was no better than placebo in preventing dementia or Alzheimer's.
Intermittent Claudication
Because ginkgo improves blood flow, it has been studied in people with intermittent claudication, or pain caused by reduced blood flow to the legs. People with intermittent claudication have a hard time walking without feeling extreme pain. An analysis of eight studies revealed that people taking ginkgo tend to walk about 34 meters farther than those taking placebo. In fact, ginkgo has been shown to be as effective as a prescription medication in improving pain-free walking distance. However, regular walking exercises work better than ginkgo in improving walking distance.
Glaucoma
One small study found that people with glaucoma who took 120 mg of ginkgo daily for 8 weeks had improvements in their vision.
Memory Enhancement
Ginkgo is widely touted as a "brain herb." It has been studied to see whether it can improve memory in people with dementia, and some studies found it did help. It's not as clear whether ginkgo helps memory in healthy people who have normal, age-related memory loss. Some studies have found slight benefits, while other studies have found no effect on memory. The most effective dose seems to be 240 mg per day. Ginkgo is commonly added to nutrition bars, soft drinks, and fruit smoothies to boost memory and enhance mental performance, although it's unlikely that such small amounts of ginkgo would work.
Macular Degeneration
The flavonoids found in ginkgo may help stop or lessen some retinal problems -- problems with the back part of the eye. Macular degeneration, often called age-related macular degeneration or ARMD, is an eye disease that affects the retina. It is a progressive, degenerative eye disease that tends to affect older adults and is the number one cause of blindness in the United States. Some studies suggest that ginkgo may help preserve vision in those with ARMD.
Tinnitus
Nerve damage and certain blood vessel disorders can lead to tinnitus -- ringing, hissing, or other sound in the ears or head. Because ginkgo improves circulation, it has been studied to see whether it can treat tinnitus. A few poorly designed studies found it might reduce the loudness of the sound. However, a well-designed study including 1,121 people with tinnitus found that ginkgo was no better than placebo in relieving tinnitus symptoms. In general, tinnitus is a very difficult problem to treat.
Raynaud' s Phenomenon
One well-designed study found that people with Raynaud' s phenomenon who took ginkgo over a 10-week period had fewer symptoms than those who took placebo. More studies are needed.
Available Forms:
* Standardized extracts containing 24 - 32% flavonoids (also known as flavone glycosides or heterosides) and 6 - 12% terpenoids (triterpene lactones)
* Capsules
* Tablets
* Liquid extracts (tinctures, fluid extracts, glycerites)
* Dried leaf for teas
How to Take It:
Pediatric
Ginkgo is not generally used in children.
Adult
Initial results often take 4 - 6 weeks, but should grow stronger beyond that period.
Memory impairment and cardiovascular function: Generally, 120 mg daily in divided doses, standardized to contain 24 - 32% flavone glycosides (flavonoids or heterosides) and 6 - 12% triterpene lactones (terpenoids). If more serious dementia or Alzheimer's disease is present, up to 240 mg daily, in 2 or 3 divided doses, may be necessary.
Intermittent claudication: 120 - 240 mg per day
Precautions:
The use of herbs is a time-honored approach to strengthening the body and treating disease. Herbs, however, contain components that can trigger side effects and interact with other herbs, supplements, or medications. For these reasons, herbs should be taken with care, under the supervision of a health care provider qualified in the field of botanical medicine.
Ginkgo usually has few side effects. In a few cases, stomach upset, headaches, skin reactions, and dizziness were reported.
There have been a number of reports of internal bleeding in people who take ginkgo. However, it' s not clear whether the bleeding was due to ginkgo or some other reasons, such as a combination of ginkgo and blood-thinning drugs. Researchers aren' t sure, because different studies have found different results. You should ask your doctor before taking ginkgo if you also take blood-thinning drugs.
If you take ginkgo, you should stop taking it at least 36 hours before surgery or dental procedures due to the risk of bleeding. Tell your doctor or dentist that you take ginkgo.
People who have epilepsy should not take ginkgo, because there is concern that it might cause seizures.
Pregnant and breastfeeding women should not take ginkgo.
People who have diabetes should ask their doctor before taking ginkgo.
Do not eat Ginkgo biloba fruit or seed.
Possible Interactions:
Ginkgo may interact with some prescription and non-prescription medications. If you are taking any of the following medications, you should not use ginkgo without first talking to your health care provider:
Medications metabolized by the liver -- Ginkgo can interact with some medications that are processed through the liver. If you take any prescription medications, ask your doctor before taking ginkgo.
Seizure medications (anticonvulsants) -- High doses of ginkgo could make drugs to control seizures, such as carbamazepine (Tegretol) or valproic acid (Depakote), less effective.
Antidepressants -- Taking ginkgo along with a kind of antidepressant called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) may increase the risk of serotonin syndrome, a potentially fatal condition. Ginkgo may strengthen both the good and bad effects of antidepressant medications known as MAOIs, such as phenelzine (Nardil). SSRIs include:
* Citalopram (Celexa)
* Escitalopram (Lexapro)
* Fluoxetine (Prozac)
* Fluvoxamine (Luvox)
* Paroxetine (Paxil)
* Sertraline (Zoloft)
Medications for high blood pressure -- Ginkgo may lower blood pressure, so taking it with blood pressure medications may cause blood pressure to drop too low. There has been a report of an interaction between ginkgo and nifedipine (Procardia), a calcium channel blocker used for blood pressure and arrhythmias.
Blood-thinning medications -- Ginkgo may raise the risk of bleeding, especially if you take blood-thinners such as warfarin (Coumadin), clopidogrel (Plavix), and aspirin.
Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) -- Like ginkgo, the nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) ibuprofen also raises the risk of bleeding. There has been bleeding in the brain reported when using a ginkgo product and ibuprofen.
Medications to lower blood sugar -- Ginkgo may raise or lower insulin levels and blood sugar levels. If you have diabetes, you should not use ginkgo without first talking to your doctor.
Cylosporine -- Ginkgo biloba may help protect the cells of the body during treatment with the drug cyclosporine, which suppresses the immune system.
Thiazide diuretics (water pills) -- There is one report of a person who took a thiazide diuretic and ginkgo developing high blood pressure. If you take thiazide diuretics, ask your doctor before taking ginkgo.
Trazodone -- There is one report of an elderly Alzheimer's patient going into a coma after taking ginkgo and trazodone (Desyrel), an antidepressant medication.
Source:
Follow us: @UMMC on Twitter | MedCenter on Facebook (source - retrieved from on 3/7/2013)
Now to know the truth, go to:
1)
2)
3)
4)
5)
6)
7)
Your Friend in Christ Iris89
Francis David said it long ago, "Neither the sword of popes...nor the image of death will halt the march of truth."Francis David, 1579, written on the wall of his prison cell." Read the book, "What Does The Bible Really Teach" and the Bible today, and go to www.jw.org!
- •
Thread Starter- Admin
- Administrator
Offline
- From: Lake Park, Florida
- Registered: 10/02/2012
- Posts: 2,013
Re: Almighty God’s (YHWH) Great Gift to Mankind, The Rare Fruit Trees
Hi Everyone:
Here is a Commentary on Bountiful Trees and Vegetables God (YHWH) has provided for mankind, specifically the Golden Berry (Husk Berry), Physalis Peruviana, from the genus Physalis, of the family Solanaceae, includes annual and perennial herbs bearing globular fruits, each enclosed in a bladderlike husk which becomes papery on maturity. Of the more than 70 species, only a very few are of economic value. One is the strawberry tomato, husk tomato or ground cherry, P. Pruinosa L., grown for its small yellow fruits used for sauce, pies and preserves in mild-temperate climates. Though more popular with former generations than at present, it is still offered by seedsmen. Various species of Physalis have been subject to much confusion in literature and in the trade. A species which bears a superior fruit and has become widely known is the cape gooseberry, P. Peruviana L. (P. edulis Sims). It has many colloquial names in Latin America: capuli, aguaymanto, tomate sylvestre, or uchuba, in Peru; capuli or motojobobo embolsado in Bolivia; uvilla in Ecuador; uvilla, uchuva, vejigón or guchavo in Colombia; topotopo, or chuchuva in Venezuela; capuli, amor en bolsa, or bolsa de amor, in Chile; cereza del Peru in Mexico. It is called cape gooseberry, golden berry, pompelmoes or apelliefie in South Africa; alkekengi or coqueret in Gabon; lobolobohan in the Philippines; teparee, tiparee, makowi, etc., in India; cape gooseberry or poha in Hawaii.
Description
This herbaceous or soft-wooded, perennial plant usually reaches 2 to 3 ft (1.6-0.9 m) in height but occasionally may attain 6 ft (1.8) m. It has ribbed, often purplish, spreading branches, and nearly opposite, velvety, heart-shaped, pointed, randomly-toothed leaves 2 3/8 to 6 in (6-15 cm) long and 1 1/2 to 4 in (4-10 cm) wide, and, in the leaf axils, bell-shaped, nodding flowers to 3/4 in (2 cm) wide, yellow with 5 dark purple-brown spots in the throat, and cupped by a purplish-green, hairy, 5-pointed calyx. After the flower falls, the calyx expands, ultimately forming a straw-colored husk much larger than the fruit it encloses. The berry is globose, 1/2 to 3/4 in (1.25-2 cm) wide, with smooth, glossy, orange-yellow skin and juicy pulp containing numerous very small yellowish seeds. When fully ripe, the fruit is sweet but with a pleasing grape-like tang. The husk is bitter and inedible. [source - retrieved from on 1/09/2013]
In Genesis 1:11-13, "And God said, Let the earth put forth grass, herbs yielding seed, and fruit-trees bearing fruit after their kind, wherein is the seed thereof, upon the earth: and it was so. 12 And the earth brought forth grass, herbs yielding seed after their kind, and trees bearing fruit, wherein is the seed thereof, after their kind: and God saw that it was good. 13 And there was evening and there was morning, a third day. (American Standard Version, ASV)[for more details, go to www.jw.org].
Characteristics
Physalis peruviana is closely related to the tomatillo, a fellow member of the genus Physalis. As a member of the plant family Solanaceae, it is more distantly related to a large number of edible plants, including tomato, eggplant, potato and other members of the nightshades. It is not closely related to any of the cherry, Ribes gooseberry, Indian gooseberry, or Chinese gooseberry, as its various names might suggest.
The fruit is a smooth berry, resembling a miniature spherical yellow tomato. Removed from its bladder-like calyx, it is about the size of a marble, about 1–2 cm in diameter. Like a tomato, it contains numerous small seeds. It is bright yellow to orange in color, and it is sweet when ripe, with a characteristic, mildly tart flavor, making it ideal for snacks, pies or jams. It is popular in salads and fruit salads, sometimes combined with avocado.
A prominent feature is the inflated, papery calyx enclosing each berry. The calyx is accrescent; at first it is of normal size, but after the petals fall it continues to grow until it forms a protective cover round the growing fruit. Because of the fruit's decorative appearance, it is popular in restaurants as an exotic garnish for desserts. If the fruit is left inside the husks, its shelf life at room temperature is about 30–45 days.
Medical research, folk medicine and potential health value
Scientific studies of the cape gooseberry show its constituents, possibly polyphenols and/or carotenoids, demonstrate anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
The crude extract of the fruit-bearing plant has demonstrated antihepatoma and anti-inflammatory activities.
It has shown possible antidiabetes and antihypertension properties in vitro.
Some "withanolides" isolated from the plant have shown anticancer activity. The unusual 5-chloride withanolide, 9, displayed significant cytotoxic activity.
Antihepatotoxic effects (in rats) against CCl4 were found.
Melatonin (N-acetyl-5-methoxytryptamine) has been found in the plant. Evidence, mainly from animal models, suggests melatonin administration may help to prevent or cure diseases associated with oxidative stress, including neurodegenerative diseases, which frequently occur during aging.
In folk medicine, Physalis peruviana has been used as a medicinal herb to treat cancer, leukemia, malaria, asthma, hepatitis, dermatitis and rheumatism. None of these diseases, however, is yet confirmed in human clinical in vivo studies as treatable by the cape gooseberry.
Pests and diseases
In South Africa, cutworms are the most important of the many insect pests that attack the cape gooseberry in seedbeds; red spiders after plants have been established in the field; and the potato tuber moth if the cape gooseberry is in the vicinity of potato fields. Hares damage young plants, and birds eat the fruits if not repelled. In India, mites may cause defoliation. In Jamaica, the leaves were suddenly riddled by what were apparently flea beetles. In the Bahamas, whitefly attacks on the very young plants and flea beetles on the flowering plants required control.
In South Africa, the most troublesome diseases are powdery mildew and soft brown scale. The plants are prone to root rots and viruses if on poorly-drained soil or if carried over to a second year. Therefore, farmers favor biennial plantings. Bacterial leaf spot (Xanthomonas spp.) occurs in Queensland. A strain of tobacco mosaic virus may affect plants in India. In New Zealand, plants can be infected by Candidatus liberibacter subsp. solanacearum. [source - retrieved from on 1/09/2013]
Note: although called a gooseberry, it is NOT a true gooseberry.
Now to know the truth, go to:
1)
2)
3)
4)
5)
6)
7)
Your Friend in Christ Iris89
Francis David said it long ago, "Neither the sword of popes...nor the image of death will halt the march of truth."Francis David, 1579, written on the wall of his prison cell." Read the book, "What Does The Bible Really Teach" and the Bible today, and go to www.jw.org!
- •
Thread Starter- Admin
- Administrator
Offline
- From: Lake Park, Florida
- Registered: 10/02/2012
- Posts: 2,013
Re: Almighty God’s (YHWH) Great Gift to Mankind, The Rare Fruit Trees
Hi Everyone:
Here is a Commentary on Bountiful Trees and Vegetables God (YHWH) has provided for mankind, specifically the Sweet Scarlet Goumi. The Goumi is a deciduous or semi-evergreen shrub. The Chinese consider its fruit a nutraceutical because of its edible and medicinal qualities and values. The fruit is a round to oval drupe which ripens to red and dotted with silver or brown. It is acidic and juicy and said to help decrease cholesterol. Goumi is a member of Elaeagnus family.
In Genesis 1:11-13, "And God said, Let the earth put forth grass, herbs yielding seed, and fruit-trees bearing fruit after their kind, wherein is the seed thereof, upon the earth: and it was so. 12 And the earth brought forth grass, herbs yielding seed after their kind, and trees bearing fruit, wherein is the seed thereof, after their kind: and God saw that it was good. 13 And there was evening and there was morning, a third day. (American Standard Version, ASV)[for more details, go to www.jw.org].
Sweet Scarlet Goumi goes by various names such as Goumi Berry, Gumi, Natsugumi, Cherry Silverberry, and its scientific name is Elaeagnus mutliflora ovata
The fruit is scarlet, 1/2" long, tart, cherry-like fruit, high in vitamin 'C' . Good fresh and excellent for jelly & pies. Ask us for recipe. Vigorous, hardy & productive bush grows 8-10' high, 12-14' wide. Ripens in Spring. Self-fertile. No major pests or diseases. An unusual Nitrogen fixing shrub that is not a member of Fabaceae, when planted in orchards other fruit yields are said to increase.
Plant is a sunny (1/2 day sun is necessary)location with good drainage. Water regularly and deeply for the first year, especially during dry periods. Fertilize with an all purpose fertilizer before the plant comes out of dormancy in the spring. Adding mulch annually to reduces weeds and preserves moisture. If needed, use an insecticidal soap during the growing season to control insect pests. Annual pruning is not necessary except to remove dead and old wood. The Goumi grows well in most areas other than the extreme south and/or north . In North America, i.e., U.S.D.A. Hardiness Zones 4 to 8.
Now to know the truth, go to:
1)
2)
3)
4)
5)
6)
7)
To enjoy an online Bible study called “Follow the Christ” go to,
Your Friend in Christ Iris89
Francis David said it long ago, "Neither the sword of popes...nor the image of death will halt the march of truth. "Francis David, 1579, written on the wall of his prison cell." Read the book, "What Does The Bible Really Teach" and the Bible today, and go to www.jw.org!
- •
Thread Starter- Admin
- Administrator
Offline
- From: Lake Park, Florida
- Registered: 10/02/2012
- Posts: 2,013
Re: Almighty God’s (YHWH) Great Gift to Mankind, The Rare Fruit Trees
Hi Everyone:
Here is a Commentary on Bountiful Trees and Vegetables God (YHWH) has provided for mankind, specifically the governor’s plum, Flacourtia is a genus of flowering plants in the willow family, Salicaceae. It was previously placed in the now defunct family Flacourtiaceae. The generic name honors Étienne de Flacourt (1607–1660), a governor of Madagascar. It contains 15 species of shrubs and small trees that are native to the African and Asian tropics and subtropics. Several species, especially F. indica, are cultivated as ornamentals and for their fruits. The trunks of small trees are often guarded by branching spines/ [source - retrieved from on 1/09/2013]
Description
This is a bushy shrub or tree with a spiny trunk and branches. In shrub form it grows up to 25 feet (7.6 m) and as a tree it reaches a maximum height around 50 feet (15 m). The drooping branches bear oval leaves. The seeds are dispersed by birds.
Relatives
The family Salicaceae includes well-known species such as kei apple (Dovyalis caffra) louvi (Flacourtia inermis), paniala (F. jangomas), and rukam (F. rukam).
The Ramontchi fruit itself is a pome about an inch thick and red ripening purple. It is very fleshy and has 6 to 10 seeds in layered carpels. The pulp is yellow or white and sweet with an acidic tang. It is eaten raw or made in to jelly or jam. It can be fermented to make wine.[3]
The leaves and roots are used in herbal medicine for treatment of snakebite. The bark is believed to be effective for arthritis. Most parts of the plant are used for cough, pneumonia, and bacterial throat infection. It has also been used for diarrhea.
The tree is planted as a living fence; it was one of the species used for the Indian Inland Customs Line. The wood is used for firewood and small wooden tools such as plow handles.[3]
Cultivation
The plant is known as an occasionally invasive introduced species in some areas. It has been cultivated in Florida in the United States and today it occurs as a weed in some parts of the state. [source - retrieved from on 1/09/2013]
In Genesis 1:11-13, "And God said, Let the earth put forth grass, herbs yielding seed, and fruit-trees bearing fruit after their kind, wherein is the seed thereof, upon the earth: and it was so. 12 And the earth brought forth grass, herbs yielding seed after their kind, and trees bearing fruit, wherein is the seed thereof, after their kind: and God saw that it was good. 13 And there was evening and there was morning, a third day. (American Standard Version, ASV)[for more details, go to www.jw.org].
To see distribution in the USA, go to
Now to know the truth, go to:
1)
2)
3)
4)
5)
6)
7)
Your Friend in Christ Iris89
Francis David said it long ago, "Neither the sword of popes...nor the image of death will halt the march of truth."Francis David, 1579, written on the wall of his prison cell." Read the book, "What Does The Bible Really Teach" and the Bible today, and go to www.jw.org!
- •
Thread Starter- Admin
- Administrator
Offline
- From: Lake Park, Florida
- Registered: 10/02/2012
- Posts: 2,013
Re: Almighty God’s (YHWH) Great Gift to Mankind, The Rare Fruit Trees
Hi Everyone:
Here is a Commentary on Bountiful Trees and Vegetables God (YHWH) has provided for mankind, specifically the grapefruit (Citrus × paradisi) is a subtropical citrus tree known for its bitter fruit, an 18th-century hybrid first bred in Barbados. When found, it was named the "forbidden fruit"; and it has also been misidentified with the pomelo or shaddock (C. maxima), one of the parents of this hybrid, the other being sweet orange (C. × sinensis).
These evergreen trees usually grow to around 5–6 meters (16–20 ft) tall, although they can reach 13–15 meters (43–49 ft). The leaves are dark green, long (up to 150 mm, 6 inches) and thin. It produces 5 cm (2 in) white four-petaled flowers. The fruit is yellow-orange skinned and largely an oblate spheroid; it ranges in diameter from 10–15 cm. The flesh is segmented and acidic, varying in color depending on the cultivars, which include white, pink and red pulps of varying sweetness. The 1929 US Ruby Red (of the Redblush variety) has the first grapefruit patent.
History
1750 Engraving of The Forbidden Fruit Tree by Georg Dionysius Ehret
One ancestor of the grapefruit was the Jamaican sweet orange (Citrus sinensis), itself an ancient hybrid of Asian origin; the other was the Indonesian pomelo (C. maxima). One story of the fruit's origins is that a certain "Captain Shaddock” brought pomelo seeds to Jamaica and bred the first fruit. However, it probably originated as a naturally-occurring hybrid.
FORBIDDEN-FRUIT-TREE
The Trunk, Leaves, and Flowers of this Tree, very much resemble
those of the Orange-tree.
The Fruit, when ripe, is something longer and larger than the largest
Orange; and exceeds, in the Delicacy of its Taste, the Fruit of every
Tree in this or any of our neighbouring Islands.
It hath somewhat of the Taste of a Shaddock; but far exceeds that, as
well as the best Orange, in its delicious Taste and Flavour.
—Description from Hughes' 1750 Natural History of Barbados.
The hybrid fruit, then called "the forbidden fruit", was first documented in 1750 by a Welshman, Rev. Griffith Hughes, who described specimens from Barbados in The Natural History of Barbados. Currently, the grapefruit is said to be one of the "Seven Wonders of Barbados."
The grapefruit was brought to Florida by Count Odet Philippe in 1823 in what is now known as Safety Harbor. Further crosses have produced the tangelo (1905), the Minneola tangelo (1931), and the oroblanco (1984).
The grapefruit was known as the shaddock or shattuck until the 19th century. Its current name alludes to clusters of the fruit on the tree, which often appear similar to grapes. Botanically, it was not distinguished from the pomelo until the 1830s, when it was given the name Citrus paradisi. Its true origins were not determined until the 1940s. This led to the official name being altered to Citrus × paradisi, the "×" identifying its hybrid origin.
An early pioneer in the American citrus industry was Kimball Chase Atwood, a wealthy entrepreneur who founded the Atwood Grapefruit Co. in the late 19th century. The Atwood Grove became the largest grapefruit grove in the world, with a yearly output of 80,000 boxes of fruit. It was there that pink grapefruit was first discovered in 1906.
Ruby Red grapefruit
The 1929 Ruby Red patent was associated with real commercial success, which came after the discovery of a red grapefruit growing on a pink variety. Only with the introduction of the Ruby Red did the grapefruit transform into a real agricultural success. The Red grapefruit, starting with the Ruby Red, has even become a symbolic fruit of Texas, where white "inferior" grapefruit were eliminated and only red grapefruit were grown for decades. Using radiation to trigger mutations, new varieties were developed to retain the red tones which typically faded to pink, the Rio Red variety is the current (2007) Texas grapefruit with registered trademarks Rio Star and Ruby-Sweet, also sometimes promoted as "Reddest" and "Texas Choice". [source - retrieved from on //2013]
In Genesis 1:11-13, "And God said, Let the earth put forth grass, herbs yielding seed, and fruit-trees bearing fruit after their kind, wherein is the seed thereof, upon the earth: and it was so. 12 And the earth brought forth grass, herbs yielding seed after their kind, and trees bearing fruit, wherein is the seed thereof, after their kind: and God saw that it was good. 13 And there was evening and there was morning, a third day. (American Standard Version, ASV)[for more details, go to www.jw.org].
The negative and/or the danger presented by this most healthful of fruit juices.
First the health benefits of this fruit:
Rich in the Nutritional Powerhouse Vitamin C
Grapefruit is an excellent source of vitamin C, a vitamin that helps to support the immune system. Vitamin C-rich foods like grapefruit may help reduce cold symptoms or severity of cold symptoms; over 20 scientific studies have suggested that vitamin C is a cold-fighter. Vitamin C also prevents the free radical damage that triggers the inflammatory cascade, and is therefore also associated with reduced severity of inflammatory conditions, such as asthma, osteoarthritis, and rheumatoid arthritis. As free radicals can oxidize cholesterol and lead to plaques that may rupture causing heart attacks or stroke, vitamin C is beneficial to promoting cardiovascular health. Owing to the multitude of vitamin C's health benefits, it is not surprising that research has shown that consumption of vegetables and fruits high in this nutrient is associated with a reduced risk of death from all causes including heart disease, stroke and cancer.
Enjoy Benefits from the Antioxidant Lycopene
The rich pink and red colors of grapefruit are due to lycopene, a carotenoid phytonutrient. (PLEASE NOTE: Lycopene is only found in pink and red grapefruit. White grapefruit does not provide this carotenoid.) Lycopene appears to have anti-tumor activity. Among the common dietary carotenoids, lycopene has the highest capacity to help fight oxygen free radicals, which are compounds that can damage cells.
Choosing to regularly eat lycopene-rich foods, such as pink grapefruit, and drink green tea may greatly reduce a man's risk of developing prostate cancer, suggests research published the Asia Pacific Journal of Clinical Nutrition (Jian L, Lee AH, et al.)
In this case-control study involving 130 prostate cancer patients and 274 hospital controls, men drinking the most green tea were found to have an 86% reduced risk of prostate cancer compared, to those drinking the least.
A similar inverse association was found between the men's consumption of lycopene-rich fruits and vegetables such as tomatoes, apricots, pink grapefruit, watermelon, papaya, and guava. Men who most frequently enjoyed these foods were 82% less likely to have prostate cancer compared to those consuming the least lycopene-rich foods. [source - retrieved from on //2013]
Now the negatives and dangers of grapefruit:
Grapefruit and grapefruit juice have the potential to interact with numerous drugs.[1] Organic compounds, furanocoumarin derivatives, interfere with the hepatic and intestinal enzyme cytochrome P450 isoform CYP3A4 and are believed to be primarily responsible for the effects. Bioactive compounds in grapefruit juice may also interfere with P-glycoprotein and organic anion transporting polypeptides (OATPs) either increasing or decreasing bioavailability of a number of drugs.
Affected drugs [VERY IMPORTANT]
This list is incomplete; you can help by expanding it.
The following drugs are affected by CYP3A4 inhibition with grapefruit compounds:
* The benzodiazepines triazolam (Halcion), orally administered midazolam (Versed), orally administered triazepam (Mogodon), diazepam (Valium), alprazolam (Xanax) and quazepam
* ritonavir (Norvir) inhibits CYP3A4 preventing the metabolism of protease inhibitors
* sertraline (Zoloft and Lustral)
Additional drugs found to be affected by grapefruit juice include, but are not limited to:
* Some statins such as atorvastatin (Lipitor), lovastatin (Mevacor), and simvastatin (Zocor, Simlup, Simcor, Simvacor) but not Pravastatin (Pravachol), fluvastatin (Lescol) or rosuvastatin (Crestor) which are unaffected by grapefruit.
* Dihydropyridines including felodipine (Plendil), nicardipine (Cardene), nifedipine, nisoldipine (Sular), nitrendipine (Bayotensin)
* losartan (Cozaar)
* The cough suppressant dextromethorphan[citation needed]
* modafinil (Provigil, Alertec, Modavigil, Modalert, Modiodal, Modafinilo, Carim, Vigia)[citation needed]
* repaglinide (Prandin)[7]
* verapamil (Calan SR, Covera HS, Isoptin SR, Verelan
* buspirone (Buspar) Grapefruit juice increased peak and AUC plasma concentrations of buspirone 4.3- and 9.2-fold, respectively, in a randomized, 2-phase, ten-subject crossover study. [9]
* levothyroxine (Eltroxin, Levoxyl, Synthroid) Effects of grapefruit juice on the absorption of levothyroxine.
* Antiarrhythmics including amiodarone (Cordarone), dronedarone (Multaq), quinidine (Quinidex, Cardioquin, Quinora), disopyramide (Norpace), propafenone (Rhythmol), and carvedilol (Coreg)
* Antihistamines astemizole (Hismanal) and terfenadine (Seldane) - now removed from the US and Canadian markets
* cisapride (Prepuslid, Propulsid) (which treats GERD) - now removed from the US and Canadian markets
* Erectile dysfunction drugs sildenafil (Viagra), tadalafil (Cialis), and vardenafil (Levitra)
* The anti-migraine drugs ergotamine (Cafergot, Ergomar), amitryptiline (Elavil, Endep, Vanatrip) and nimodipine (Nimotop)[7]
* Fluvoxamine (Luvox, Faverin, Fevarin and Dumyrox)[12]
* Codeine and Tramadol.[13] It reduces the amount of codeine converted by CYP3A4 into norcodeine thus increasing the amount metabolized into morphine. Morphine itself, however, is not affected by grapefruit juice, as it is not metabolized by the cytochrome P450 system.
* Cyclosporine (Neoral). Blood levels of cyclosporine are increased if taken with grapefruit juice. A plausible mechanism involves the combined inhibition of enteric CYP3A4 and P-glycoprotein, which potentially leads to serious adverse events (e.g., nephrotoxicity).Blood levels of tacrolimus (Prograf) can also be equally affected for the same reason as with cyclosporine. [both drugs are calcineurin inhibitors]
* omeprazole (Losec, Prilosec)
* zolpidem (Ambien) Little or no interaction with grapefruit juice.
* oxycodone (Oxycodone is metabolized by the cytochrome P450 system, specifically CYP3A4, of which the bergamottin flavonoid is a strong inhibitor)
* hydrocodone (The hepatic cytochrome P450 enzyme CYP2D6 converts it into hydromorphone, a more potent opioid.)
* dihydrocodeine
* quetiapine (Seroquel)
* methadone Inhibits the metabolism of methadone and raises serum levels.
* buprenorphine Metabolized into norbuprenorphine by cytochrome-P450 isoenzyme 3A4
* Tyrosine kinase inhibitors, including imatinib (Gleevec) and nilotinib (Tasigna), used to treat chronic myelogenous leukemia and gastrointestinal stromal tumors.
* trazodone (Desyrel) Little or no interaction with grapefruit juice.[15]
* Anthelmintics (Used for treating certain parasitic infections, includes praziquantel albendazole and mebendazole)
* carbamazepine (Tegretol) Grapefruit or grapefruit juice slows the breakdown of this drug, increasing the level of it in blood
* imatinib (Gleevec) Although no formal studies with imatinib and grapefruit juice have been conducted, the fact that grapefruit juice is a known inhibitor of the CYP 3A4, suggests that co-administration may lead to increased imatinib plasma concentrations. Likewise, although no formal studies were conducted, co-administration of imatinib with another specific type of citrus juice called Seville orange juice (SOJ) may lead to increased imatinib plasma concentrations via inhibition of the CYP3A isoenzymes. Seville orange juice is not usually consumed as a juice because of its sour taste, but it is found in marmalade and other jams. Seville orange juice has been reported to be a possible inhibitor of CYP3A enzymes without affecting P-glycoprotein when taken concomitantly with cyclosporine.
* Loperamide (Imodium)[citation needed]
* colchicine (Colcrys)[citation needed]
* erlotinib (Tarceva)
* In a mouse study, blood concentrations of acetaminophen/paracetamol (Tylenol) were found to be increased by white and pink grapefruit juice, with the white juice acting faster. [source - retrieved from on //2013]
Now to know the truth, go to:
1)
2)
3)
4)
5)
6)
7)
Your Friend in Christ Iris89
Francis David said it long ago, "Neither the sword of popes...nor the image of death will halt the march of truth."Francis David, 1579, written on the wall of his prison cell." Read the book, "What Does The Bible Really Teach" and the Bible today, and go to www.jw.org!
- •
Thread Starter