Medlar – 5 Health Benefits from The Best Fruit You’ve Never Heard Of

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Medlar - Maybe The Best Fruit You’ve Never Heard Of

The Medlar originates from southwest Asia and southeastern Europe. In Germany it was first brought by the Romans, who first discovered its benefits long before. There are records from about 2000 BC for this unusual fruit.

The Latin name of the medlar is Mespilus germanica which means German medlar. In 1990 in North America the Stern medlar was discovered. It is known as Mespilus canescens.

This unusual fruit can survive in relatively unfavorable conditions because it is resistant to low temperatures, diseases and pests. It gained popularity in the Middle Ages, when Shakespeare, Chaucer and other authors often used it as a symbol of prostitution.  Another interesting fact about this fruit is that it rotten before it ripens and be ready to eat.

Nutritional values of  the Medlar:

Medlar is a low calorie fruit with only 42 calories in 100 grams, which satisfies only 2% of the daily needs of the organism. It contains water, carbohydrates, a small amount of fat, proteins and a satisfactory amount of fiber, which help the work of the guts, and allow proper digestion and protects against constipation.

It contains the  C, A, E, K, as well as the B vitamins, and from great importance is the presence of vitamins B3 (niacin), B5 (pantothenic acid) and B9 (folic acid). 

The Medlar contains the following minerals:

  • potassium
  • magnesium
  • calcium
  • phosphorus
  • sodium

It also contains smaller quantities of zinc, copper, iron, iodine, manganese and selenium.

When Can We Eat Them?

Once they are picked, and the best time for that is when the leaves will fall of the tree, the medlars are hard, and they need a couple of weeks to ripen. After they ripen, the inner part of the fruit becomes soft, creamy and juicy. 

Health Benefits of Medlar:

1. A Natural Antioxidant –  It has vitamins A and C, phenols and flavonoids impart an antioxidant property. These substances remove free radicals off body, which eliminates cells of oxidative agent. Antioxidant properties medlar reduce a risk of degenerative changes, such as cancer, cataracts, diabetes, and others.

2. Improves Immunity – The Iron found in them helps to enhance the immunity of the body. It also helps the body to counteract the various infections and diseases. Red blood cells are vital to provide oxygen to damaged organs, tissues and cells.

3.  Helps in diabetes and heart disease – The tea prepared from medlar 
 is effective for controlling symptoms of diabetes. It regulates the blood sugar levels, and at the same time it reduces body fat and cholesterol.

4. Regulates the monthly cycle in women: Regular use of medlar, eliminates the hunger pains and nausea before the cycle. 

5. Promotes the balance of the organism – 
One of the components that form part of the loquat is the potassium they contain. The potassium has the ability to maintain balanced levels of water in the body, also promotes cellular development, and contributes to the proper functioning of the body.

To sum up, medlars with their thick and interesting flavor, add more contrast to the daily meal. The nutrients they contain can help us to be healthy and energetic during the winter season.

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