History
The cashew tree produces a fruit whose seed is known as the “cashew nut” or “cashew apple,” and its scientific name is Anacardium occidentale. It originates from South America, particularly northeastern Brazil. It was exported to the Caribbean at an unknown date.
Varieties
The number of varieties is unknown. The cashew apple is a false fruit: it develops from the floral receptacle rather than from the ovary, as is the case for true botanical fruits. It is a soft, pear‑shaped fruit.
Its size ranges from 5 to 12 cm. The cashew apple turns red or yellow when ripe. It has a fibrous, very juicy but astringent pulp (it causes thirst). It leaves an acidic, slightly harsh taste in the mouth. At the base of the fruit sits a curled, grey nut measuring about 3 cm long and 1 to 2 cm wide.
Flowering occurs from December to March, and fruiting takes place between February and July.
Medicinal Properties
Cashew nuts are recognized by physicians for numerous medicinal benefits, including cancer prevention—particularly colon cancer—protection against cardiovascular diseases, lowering blood pressure, supporting the health of hair, bones, and nerves, preventing gallstones, aiding weight loss, providing antioxidants, improving digestion and sleep, eliminating free radicals, fighting macular degeneration, and protecting teeth and gums.
To enjoy these benefits, it is recommended to consume cashew nuts at least once a week.
Uses
Before being eaten, the cashew nut must be heated and its shell removed, as it contains toxic resins. The nut is roasted and shelled, and is commonly eaten as a snack. The fruit itself is used to make jams and juices. The fruit’s outer shell is used to produce a toxic oil that serves as a wood fungicide.
On the island of La Désirade, the cashew apple candied in sugar syrup is a local specialty known as pruneau Désirade. Punches and jams delight both children and adults.
In Brazil, it is used in the preparation of caipifruta, a variation of the caipirinha in which cashew apple replaces lime.
Be careful: its juice is known to leave permanent stains on clothing.
