There’s nothing quite like cruising Jamaica’s scenic byways. Take Withorn in Westmoreland, for example. This charming stretch winds through a vibrant community, and for KareemsQuest.com, is a contender for the title of smoothest road I’ve driven on (Cave Valley in St. Ann, watch out!). But a rumbling in my belly soon reminded me it was time for a pitstop. Luckily, a burst of colour caught my eye – a fruit stand beaming with the island’s bounty.
The stalwart of this operation was a young Rasta man, instantly recognisable by his red tam and matching shirt. Around his neck, a beaded necklace – a connection to the earth he so clearly reveres – made of natural elements like wood and shells. As I approached, he greeted me with a warm, “Hi, I’m Sherwayne, but most folks call me Ice.”
While I waited my turn, the rich aroma of ripe jackfruit and papaya filled the air. In the background, a lady was pleading with him to sell her the last jackfruit on his table. But Sherwayne, ever the fair businessman, remained resolute. “Lady,” he explained kindly, “I’d rather share it out in smaller bags so everyone can get a taste, especially my regulars.”
Disappointment etched on her face, the lady turned to leave. Feeling a nudge to help, I chimed in, “Why not grab a couple of bags anyway? He’s a good man, and that jackfruit looks delicious.” Her initial reluctance melted away after a taste. “This is lovely!” she exclaimed, with her eyes lighting up. After which, Sherwayne shot me a grateful nod.
That simple exchange sparked a conversation. It turned out Sherwayne, aka, Ice had been holding court at this spot for over eight years. Pointing to a couple of blenders on the table, he explained, “That’s why they call me Ice – I used to be all about the smoothies.”
His business has blossomed, and now his stall boasts a dazzling array of tropical fruits: plump bananas, mysterious naseberries, and bold orange papayas. Some bananas even dangled from strings, creating a whimsical, fruit-laden canopy.
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More than just a merchant, Ice is a passionate advocate for holistic living. “No sugar or water in my smoothies,” he declared proudly. “The fruits have all the sweetness and hydration you need!” He then delved into a fascinating discourse on the medicinal properties of his produce.
“See that aloe vera over there?” he said, pointing to a spiky green plant. “Soak a piece in some coconut water overnight – it’ll be a bit slimy, but it works wonders for backaches!”
After soaking up this wealth of knowledge, I thanked Ice, grabbed two bags of the coveted jackfruit alongside some juicy oranges, and hopped back in my car.
Tropical Treats & Their Treasures:
While enjoying the island’s delicious fruits, you might be surprised to learn about their hidden health benefits:
- Papaya: This sunshine-coloured fruit is a nutritional powerhouse. According to the National Institutes of Health [1], papaya is rich in vitamins A and C, essential for healthy vision and immunity. It also contains papain, an enzyme that aids digestion [1].
- Aloe Vera: This wonder plant isn’t just for sunburns! The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health [2] acknowledges that aloe vera gel may be helpful in soothing mild skin irritations. Studies are also ongoing to explore its potential benefits for other conditions [2].
- Jackfruit: This versatile fruit isn’t just for vegetarians looking for a meaty substitute. Jackfruit is a good source of fibre, vitamin C, and potassium, according to a study published in the Journal of Agriculture and Food Chemistry [3].
Looking for a taste of authentic Jamaica?
You can find Ice in Withorn community, right opposite the Fresco Gas Station. Need help planning your Jamaican adventure? Head over to https://kareemsquest.com/contact/ to get in touch with Kareem’s Quest, or browse amazing destinations at https://kareemsquest.com/places-to-go/ for more inspiration!
Fruits and Plants Trivia
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