Dragon Fruit – The Mystical Superfood

Dragon Fruit, also known as pitaya or pitahaya, is a tropical Fruit that comes from several cactus species. It far surpasses various other Fruits and berries for its rich magnesium and iron content and is loved for its low calorie content. While consuming fresh Dragon Fruit is a popular way to enjoy its taste and nutritional benefits, Dragon Fruit powder has deservedly gained popularity as a convenient and versatile supplement.

I came across Dragon Fruit Powder from Ancient Purity when looking to add vitamins and minerals into my kids foods and drinks for healthier immune systems. They absolutely love it and specifically enjoy the vibrant, rich colour of the powder, and more notably, the sweet taste that it packs. It can be challenging to feed children healthy things that they enjoy, and its great too for adults to add something a little different and sweet into our sometimes bland, adult choices, that’s also healthy and contains a good source of vitamins and minerals, so our Dragon Fruit find has proven substantial and is now a firm staple in our cupboards. So let’s explore the magical realm that is Dragon Fruit and all of its amazing benefits, and ways you can incorporate this superfood into your life.

Where Does Dragon Fruit Come From?

Dragon Fruit comes from several cactus species belonging to the genera Hylocereus and Selenicereus. The Fruit is native to Central America but is now cultivated in various tropical and subtropical regions around the world. The exact origin of Dragon Fruit is not precisely known, but it is believed to have originated in Mexico and parts of Central America. The cultivation of Dragon Fruit has expanded globally due to its popularity and adaptability to various climates. Today, you can find Dragon Fruit growing in regions such as Southeast Asia, the United States, Israel, Australia, and other tropical and subtropical areas. The Fruit is prized not only for its taste but also for its vibrant colours and potential health benefits.

There are three main types of Dragon Fruit based on their outer skin colour:

Hylocereus undatus (White-fleshed Dragon Fruit): This variety has pink or red skin with white flesh and small black seeds.

Hylocereus polyrhizus (Red-fleshed Dragon Fruit): This variety has pink or red skin with vibrant red or magenta-coloured flesh and small black seeds.

Selenicereus megalanthus (Yellow Dragon Fruit): This variety has yellow skin with white flesh and small black seeds.

Dragon Fruit is known for its unique appearance, with a bright and leathery outer skin covered in prominent scales or spikes. The flesh inside can be sweet and mildly tangy, and the Fruit is often enjoyed fresh or used in various culinary applications, such as salads, smoothies, and desserts.

Dragon Fruit’s Magical Allure

Dragon Fruit, considered a superfood, is not only visually stunning with its vibrant colours and unique appearance, but it also carries some magical and fascinating qualities:

Night-Blooming Beauty:
The flower of the Dragon Fruit plant is a breathtaking sight. The large, fragrant flowers typically bloom at night, and they are often called "moonflowers" or "queen of the night." The bloom is a beautiful and magical event, and the flower's ephemeral nature adds to its mystical charm.

Ancient Symbolism:
In certain cultures, Dragon Fruit has been associated with mystical and mythical symbolism. Some legends and myths suggest that the Fruit is linked to Dragons and holds special powers. In Asian cultures, Dragons are often revered as symbols of power, strength, and good fortune.

Night-Time Energy Boost:
As the Dragon Fruit plant blooms at night, some cultures believe that consuming Dragon Fruit can provide an energy boost during the evening hours. While scientific evidence for this specific claim is limited, the Fruit's natural sugars and nutrient content can contribute to overall energy levels.

Vibrant Colours & Elements:
The vibrant pink, red, or yellow colours of Dragon Fruit are not only visually appealing but also contribute to the Fruit's nutritional value. The pigments responsible for the Fruit's colours, such as betacyanins, are known antioxidants that have health benefits.

Hylocereus Undatus "The White Dragon":
The Hylocereus undatus variety of Dragon Fruit, with its white flesh and pink or red skin, is sometimes referred to as "The White Dragon." This mystical name adds to the allure and enchantment associated with the Fruit.

Dragon Fruit’s unique qualities, folklore, and symbolism contribute to the enchantment people feel when enjoying this tropical superfood. Whether incorporated into culinary creations or appreciated for its beauty, Dragon Fruit continues to capture the imagination and remains a delightful and fascinating Fruit.

The Many Benefits to Dragon Fruit Powder

Here are some benefits associated with supplementing with Dragon Fruit powder:

Rich in Antioxidants:
Dragon Fruit is a good source of antioxidants, including vitamin C, beta-carotene, and polyphenols. Antioxidants help neutralise free radicals in the body, which can contribute to aging and various diseases.

Vitamin & Mineral Content:
Dragon Fruit contains essential vitamins and minerals such as vitamin C, vitamin B, iron, and magnesium. These nutrients play vital roles in immune function, energy production, and overall well-being.

Dietary Fibre:
Dragon Fruit is a good source of dietary fibre, which is essential for digestive health. Fibre can help regulate bowel movements, promote a feeling of fullness, and support a healthy gut microbiota.

Hydration Support:
Dragon Fruit has a high water content, contributing to hydration. Staying hydrated is important for overall health, including skin health and proper bodily functions.

Potential Blood Sugar Regulation:
Some studies suggest that Dragon Fruit may have a positive impact on blood sugar levels. The fibre content in Dragon Fruit may help slow the absorption of sugar, potentially benefiting individuals with diabetes or those looking to manage blood sugar levels.

Weight Management:
Due to its high fibre content and low-calorie nature, Dragon Fruit can be a nutritious addition to a weight management plan. Fiber helps promote satiety, reducing overall calorie intake.

Heart Health:
The antioxidants and fibre in Dragon Fruit may contribute to heart health by reducing oxidative stress and supporting healthy cholesterol levels.

Anti-Inflammatory Properties:
Some studies suggest that Dragon Fruit may possess anti-inflammatory properties, which could be beneficial in reducing inflammation in the body.

Additionally, the quality and processing methods of the Dragon Fruit powder can influence its nutritional content, so it's essential to choose reputable sources. At Ancient Purity we have freeze-dried our Dragon Fruit powder so that our powder form still contains all the nutrients from the Fruit as it was and gram for gram it contains potentially more nutrients than it would have if eaten in Fruit form! We also have many reputable companies buying and using our Dragon Fruit powder in their foods, desserts, smoothies etc. I personally use it in baking, smoothies and sprinkled over Greek yogurt, it’s incredible, and paired with our Desert Lime Syrup, always impresses my kids and that is proving harder to do as they get older!

Our favourite Recipe

At Ancient Purity one of our favourite things to do is experiment with our products and come up with new, wonderful ways in which to incorporate our products into our everyday lives. Tom has a brilliant recipe for a Dragon Fruit and Chia Seeds pudding, taken straight from our website, you can see it here, it’s easy to make and so deliciously tasty. Let me walk you through how it’s done below:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup coconut milk.
• 3 tablespoons chia seeds.
• 2 tablespoons shredded coconut.
• 2 small bananas.
• 2 tablespoons Ancient Purity Dragon Fruit (pitaya) Powder.
• Some Fruit and shredded coconut for topping (optional).

Method:

• Divide coconut milk, chia seeds, and coconut equally between two 8 oz. jars, cover, and stir or shake well.
• Place covered jars in fridge overnight to allow chia seed pudding to thicken.
• When ready to eat, place bananas in blender and blend until smooth.
• Add Ancient Purity Dragon Fruit Powder and process until it's blended into the banana puree.
• Pour banana/Dragon Fruit puree on top of chia seed pudding in jars.
• Top with Fruit and shredded coconut for garnish, if desired.

Of course you don’t need to use it for just this recipe alone (although it is a great one!) so get creative and let us know how you get on with your culinary masterpieces!

Incorporating Dragon Fruit powder into your diet can be a flavourful and nutritious addition with health benefits. The magical allure of this superfood lies not only in its vibrant colours and unique appearance but also in its rich antioxidant content, essential vitamins, and dietary fibre. By opting for Dragon Fruit supplementation, individuals may experience advantages such as improved hydration, antioxidant support, potential blood sugar regulation, and digestive health enhancement. While Dragon Fruit is a wholesome choice, it should complement a well-balanced and diverse diet rather than replace essential nutrients obtained from various food sources. Embracing the magical qualities of Dragon Fruit, both in its mythical symbolism and its nutritional profile, can transform the act of nourishing the body into a delightful and enchanted experience. As with any dietary changes, moderation and variety remain key, allowing the magic of Dragon Fruit to harmonise with a holistic approach to wellness. Order Ancient Purity Dragon Fruit Powder Today!