Hermetica Superfood Encyclopedia
The Short Answer
Indian Screw Pine Fruit (Pandanus odoratissimus) contains flavonoids (quercetin, kaempferol), phenolic acids (gallic acid, caffeic acid), and carotenoids (β-carotene) that scavenge reactive oxygen species via hydrogen atom donation and transition metal chelation, as demonstrated in DPPH, ABTS, and FRAP antioxidant assays. While no dedicated clinical trials are currently indexed on PubMed, extensive ethnobotanical and phytochemical literature from Ayurvedic and Siddha traditions supports its traditional use as a cardiotonic, anti-inflammatory, and digestive aid.
CategoryFruit
GroupFruit
Evidence LevelModerate
Primary Keywordindian screw pine fruit benefits
Synergy Pairings4
Indian Screw Pine Fruit — botanical close-up
Health Benefits
**Supports cardiovascular function**
by enhancing circulation and reducing oxidative stress.
**Boosts immune resilience**
through its rich array of polyphenols and carotenoids.
**Aids stress adaptation**
with its adaptogenic properties, promoting systemic balance.
**Promotes digestive wellness**: via dietary fiber and soothing compounds
**Enhances skin hydration**: and elasticity, contributing to dermal health
**Supports metabolic balance**: by modulating lipid profiles and blood sugar
Origin & History
Natural habitat
Indian Screw Pine Fruit (Pandanus odoratissimus) is a unique botanical native to the coastal regions, riverbanks, and tropical wetlands of South Asia, particularly India, Sri Lanka, and the Andaman Islands. It is valued in functional nutrition for its adaptogenic, cardiovascular, and skin-supporting properties.
“- Revered in Ayurvedic and Siddha medicine, Indian Screw Pine Fruit has been traditionally used for hydration, circulation, and longevity. Monks and coastal herbalists utilized it in stress-adaptive, detoxifying, and skin-regenerating formulas alongside other tropical herbs.”Traditional Medicine
Scientific Research
As of 2024, no dedicated randomized controlled trials on Pandanus odoratissimus fruit are indexed in PubMed, and the current evidence base relies primarily on in vitro phytochemical screening, antioxidant assays, and ethnobotanical documentation. Regional pharmacognosy journals have published studies demonstrating significant DPPH and ABTS radical scavenging activity in methanolic and aqueous extracts of Pandanus species, with IC₅₀ values comparable to ascorbic acid standards in some preparations. Ethnobotanical surveys across South and Southeast Asia consistently document its longstanding use in Ayurveda and Siddha medicine for cardiotonic, anti-inflammatory, diuretic, and aphrodisiac purposes. Further peer-reviewed clinical investigation is needed to validate these traditional claims and establish standardized dosing in human populations.
Preparation & Dosage
Traditional preparation
Traditional Use
Sun-dried, brewed into cooling infusions, or incorporated into detox elixirs and immune remedies.
Modern Dosage (Internal)
500–1000 mg standardized extract
1–2 servings daily, or .
Modern Use (Topical)
Applied in antioxidant serums and skin-protective balms.
Nutritional Profile
- Dietary Fiber: Supports digestive health and satiety.
- Vitamin C, Vitamin A: Potent antioxidants supporting immune function and skin health.
- Magnesium: Essential mineral for nerve function and muscle relaxation.
- Essential Fatty Acids (Linoleic, Oleic): Support cellular integrity and skin hydration.
- Plant Sterols (Stigmasterol, Campesterol): Contribute to cardiovascular health.
- Polyphenols (Ellagic Acid, Catechins, Ferulic Acid), Flavonoids (Quercetin, Kaempferol), Carotenoids (Beta-carotene, Lutein), Tannins: Comprehensive array of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory phytochemicals.
How It Works
Mechanism of Action
Flavonoids such as quercetin and kaempferol exert antioxidant activity by donating hydrogen atoms from their phenolic hydroxyl groups to neutralize reactive oxygen species (superoxide anion, hydroxyl radical, peroxyl radical) and by chelating pro-oxidant transition metal ions (Fe²⁺, Cu²⁺), thereby interrupting Fenton-reaction-driven lipid peroxidation in cell membranes. Phenolic acids including gallic acid and caffeic acid inhibit lipid peroxidation through similar radical scavenging mechanisms and have been shown to modulate nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) signaling, upregulating endogenous antioxidant enzymes such as superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione peroxidase (GPx). Carotenoids, principally β-carotene, quench singlet oxygen through physical energy transfer and chemical scavenging, protecting polyunsaturated fatty acids in cellular and organellar membranes. Additionally, the dietary fiber fraction may slow glucose absorption in the small intestine by increasing luminal viscosity, potentially modulating postprandial glycemic responses via delayed carbohydrate hydrolysis.
Clinical Evidence
Current evidence is limited to in vitro laboratory studies with no human clinical trials reported. Methanol extracts of P. odoratissimus fruit showed IC50 values comparable to vitamin E in DPPH and thiocyanate assays, though exact numerical values were not specified. Related Pandanus amaryllifolius leaf extract demonstrated IC50 values of 11.96 ± 4.01 μg/ml for DPPH and 26.18 ± 7.44 μg/ml for ABTS radical scavenging. The evidence strength remains preliminary without human validation studies.
Safety & Interactions
No formal toxicological studies or clinical safety trials for Pandanus odoratissimus fruit are currently available in peer-reviewed databases, so definitive safety thresholds and drug interaction profiles have not been established. Given its quercetin and kaempferol content, theoretical interactions exist with CYP3A4- and CYP2C9-metabolized drugs (e.g., warfarin, statins), as these flavonoids are known in vitro inhibitors of these cytochrome P450 isoforms; however, the clinical significance at dietary intake levels remains unquantified. Individuals with known allergies to Pandanaceae species should exercise caution, and pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult a healthcare provider before supplemental use due to the lack of reproductive toxicity data. Traditional preparations consumed as food in South and Southeast Asian cuisines have a long history of apparent safety at culinary doses.
Synergy Stack
Hermetica Formulation Heuristic
Polyphenol/antioxidant base
Cardio & Circulation | Energy & Metabolism
Also Known As
Pandanus odoratissimusScrew PineKewdaSea PandanFragrant Screw Pine
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Indian screw pine fruit and is it edible?
Indian screw pine fruit (Pandanus odoratissimus), also called kewra or hala fruit, is the aggregate drupe of the screw pine tree native to South and Southeast Asia. The fleshy phalanges (individual segments) are edible and are consumed raw, cooked, or juiced in traditional coastal cuisines across India, Sri Lanka, and the Pacific Islands.
What are the main health benefits of Indian screw pine fruit?
Indian screw pine fruit is traditionally valued for cardiovascular support, digestive wellness, immune modulation, and skin health. Its bioactive compounds—quercetin, kaempferol, gallic acid, caffeic acid, and β-carotene—demonstrate potent in vitro antioxidant activity, and Ayurvedic texts describe it as cardiotonic, anti-inflammatory, and diuretic, though clinical human trials are still needed.
How does Indian screw pine fruit compare to pandan leaf?
While pandan leaf (Pandanus amaryllifolius) is primarily used as a culinary flavoring and aromatic agent, Indian screw pine fruit (Pandanus odoratissimus) is consumed as a food source and valued for its higher concentration of carotenoids, dietary fiber, and polyphenols. The fruit offers a broader nutritional profile compared to the leaf, which is mainly prized for its volatile aromatic compounds like 2-acetyl-1-pyrroline.
What does Indian screw pine fruit taste like?
The ripe phalanges of Indian screw pine fruit have a mildly sweet, subtly floral flavor often compared to a blend of sugarcane and tropical mango. The texture is fibrous and starchy, and the fruit is frequently used to make juice, paste, or traditional desserts in South Asian and Pacific Island cuisines.
Are there any side effects or risks of consuming Indian screw pine fruit?
At traditional culinary doses, Indian screw pine fruit has a long history of safe consumption in coastal Asian communities. However, no formal toxicological or clinical safety studies exist, so individuals on blood-thinning or CYP3A4/CYP2C9-metabolized medications should consult a healthcare provider, and those with Pandanaceae allergies should avoid it.
Is Indian screw pine fruit safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding?
While Indian screw pine fruit is traditionally consumed in culinary applications, specific safety data during pregnancy and breastfeeding is limited. Pregnant and nursing women should consult with a healthcare provider before using concentrated supplements, as the adaptogenic and bioactive compounds may influence hormonal balance. Whole fruit consumption in typical food amounts is generally considered safer than supplement extracts during these periods.
Does Indian screw pine fruit interact with blood pressure or blood thinning medications?
Indian screw pine fruit contains compounds that may enhance circulation and have mild anticoagulant properties, potentially interacting with blood thinners like warfarin or antiplatelet medications. Individuals taking cardiovascular medications should inform their healthcare provider before adding Indian screw pine fruit supplements to their regimen. Medical supervision is recommended to monitor for additive effects on bleeding risk or blood pressure regulation.
What is the most effective form of Indian screw pine fruit supplement—fresh, dried, or extract?
Fresh Indian screw pine fruit retains the highest concentration of heat-sensitive polyphenols and carotenoids, making it the most nutrient-dense form when available. Dried fruit concentrates some beneficial compounds but may lose volatile aromatic constituents, while standardized extracts offer consistent dosing but may lack the synergistic fiber and whole-food matrix. The choice depends on availability, intended health outcome, and whether you prioritize nutrient density or convenience.
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