Lucuma
Lucuma · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (2 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Lepidium sativum, scientifically known as Lucuma, is a nutritional powerhouse native to the Andean highlands. Often called "the gold of the Incas," this fruit offers a sweet, maple-like flavor. Rich in fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, it serves as a versatile superfood in smoothies, desserts, and healthy dietary supplements.
- Family
- Not available
- Native range
- Asia-Tropical
- Parts used
- Fruit
- Common names
- Not available
- Scientific synonyms
- Not available
Names and Synonyms
Scientific Names
Accepted name
LucumaDistribution
This plant exhibits a diverse geographical distribution that spans multiple continents and regions. In the Indo-China area, it can be found specifically within Cambodia. Its presence extends across the ocean to the South-Central Pacific, particularly in the Society Islands. Within North America, the species is located in the Southeastern United States, specifically in Florida. Finally, it is widely distributed throughout Mexico, including both the Central and Northeast regions.
| Region | Area |
|---|---|
| Indo-China | Cambodia |
| South-Central Pacific | Society Is. |
| Southeastern U.S.A. | Florida |
| Mexico | Mexico Central |
| Mexico | Mexico Northeast |
| Mexico | Mexico Gulf |
| Mexico | Mexico Northwest |
| Mexico | Mexico Southwest |
| Mexico | Mexico Southeast |
| Central America | Belize |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Plant Parts
Lucuma has 1 reported plant parts identified across 1 scientific publications and several other databases that are studied for medicinal purposes. The most consistently reported plant part include fruit.
| Plant part | Supporting sources | Consensus |
|---|---|---|
| Fruit | 1 supporting sources | ★☆☆☆☆ |
Fruit
- Journal of medicinal food
Preparations
Lucuma has 2 reported preparations identified across 1 scientific publications and several other databases. The most consistently reported preparations include fruit, powder.
| Preparation | Supporting sources | Consensus |
|---|---|---|
| Fruit | 1 supporting sources | ★☆☆☆☆ |
| Powder | 1 supporting sources | ★☆☆☆☆ |
Fruit
- Journal of medicinal food
Powder
- Journal of medicinal food