Uses of longan fruit and lychee
- a general tonic to increase energy and boost the immune system.
- depression.
- reducing stress.
- decreasing fatigue.
- boosting memory.
- improving memory.
- snake bites as an anti-venom.
15 Wonderful Benefits Of Longan Fruit
Longan is a delicious tropical fruit that contains anti-aging properties, improves skin health, nourishes the blood, increases circulation, and enhances memory. The fruit’s amazing health benefits also include boosting the nervous system, improving immunity, lowering blood pressure, calming the body, and improving sleep quality. In Chinese traditional medicine, it is used to increase the Qi (energy) of the heart, and as a sexual and beauty tonic.
What is Longan?
Longan is the fruit of the longan tree (which is scientifically known as Dimocarpus longan). It looks like a berry or a grape and tastes mildly juicy and sweet. Longan is classified within the larger group of soapberries, which is composed of other exotic fruits, such as lychee, ackee, salt lime, and guarana, among others. It is commonly called the dragon’s eye fruit because the flesh of the fruit is pale white with a black seed right in the middle.
As the fruit ripens, the outer layer of skin forms into a hardened shell, so that when they are harvested, the fruit can easily be freed from the shell. Before eating the inner part of the fruit, the seed should be removed, but the essential oils of these seeds are often used for medicinal purposes. It has only recently been introduced to the rest of the world and is now experiencing another resurgence in popularity as a health food. [1]
Longan is classified within the larger group of soapberries, which is composed of other exotic fruits, such as lychee, ackee, salt lime, and guarana, among others. Photo Credit: Shutterstock
Native to Southern Asia, longan has been cultivated and harvested for generations, and its first recorded use is actually more than 2,000 years ago. This fruit is not only an important culinary element but also a popular tool in traditional medicine in Asia, thanks to its unique nutrient profile.
Longan Nutrition Facts
Longan is low in calories, with less than 20 calories present in an ounce of these small fruits. There are also very few carbohydrates found in these fruits, which is good for those on a ketogenic diet. However, longan is an excellent source of potassium and vitamin C, as well as copper, magnesium, phosphorus, and manganese, in addition to numerous B vitamins, including folic acid. The fruit also boasts certain antioxidant polyphenols like corilagin, gallic acid, and ellagic acid that can increase the overall wellness of the body. [3]
Health Benefits of Longan
Let’s take a look at some of the most notable health benefits of longan:
Skin Care
Vitamin C, present in high amounts in longan, is vital for collagen synthesis, which keeps the skin firm and healthy. It provides antioxidant protection against ultraviolet radiation and clears out the oxidative stress in your system. In traditional Chinese medicine, longan soup is a time-tested recipe known to add luster and suppleness to the skin. [4]
Anti-aging
Longan can help eliminate wrinkles, age spots, as well as blemishes and the appearance of scars. The flesh of the fruit contains vitamins B and C as well as antioxidants, which have anti-aging properties and minimize dryness, as well as the cracking and peeling of the skin. [5]
Boosts Libido
Longan tonics have been popular since time immemorial with Chinese women to increase their sensuality and appearance. The fruit helps to increase energy and stave off fatigue. [6]
In a study, it was found that longan extract has anxiolytic activity, which prolonged sleep time in people. The flesh of the fruit and tissues in its seeds are often used in Chinese tonics to enhance calmness and induce deep, rejuvenating sleep. [7]
Blood Tonic
There are trace amounts of iron in longan, which can help to stimulate the production of red blood cells and boost circulation. With proper blood flow, you will have resources delivered to key parts of the body, as well as oxygen, which can increase energy and prevent the symptoms of anemia. [8]
Weight Loss
Due to the extremely low number of calories found in longan, it is extremely effective in losing weight. The nutrient density can help to suppress the appetite, despite being able to eat as many of these fruits as you want without any real fear of compromising on your caloric intake. [9]
In Chinese traditional medicine, it was believed that longan could help to balance the Qi, which can improve energy levels, prevent chronic disease, reduce dizziness, and boost metabolism. Millions of anecdotal reports from China confirm the energy-boosting potential of this fruit.Increases Energy
Regulates Blood Pressure
Potassium, present in longan, has been directly linked to lowering blood pressure. The mineral is a vasodilator, which means that it can release the tension in your blood vessels and arteries, which can ultimately protect the cardiovascular system and reduce your risk of atherosclerosis, heart attacks, and strokes. [10]
Neuroprotection
Research has found that longan can help to balance the electrolytes in the body, and this can, in turn, help to improve the function of the nervous system. The electrical signals required for every action in the body must pass through the electrolytes, so this fruit can help overall function and even muscle movement. [11]
Strengthens Immunity
Longan, being a rich source of vitamin C, can give a boost to your immune system in addition to increasing antioxidant activities. [12]
Despite having a minimal amount of antioxidants, they can still help to eliminate free radicals and neutralize their impact within the body. This can help prevent the mutation of healthy cells, and lower the risk of developing chronic diseases. [14]
Aids in Digestion
Dried and fresh longans have a high fiber content that helps bulk up the stool and promote peristaltic motion. It helps to pass bowel movements and prevent symptoms of constipation, indigestion, diarrhea, bloating, cramping, and general stomach upset, while also improving nutrient uptake efficiency. [15]
Improves Memory
Numerous research studies have linked the consumption of longan with improved cognitive abilities, particularly those relating to the formation and retention of memory. [16]
Alleviate Snake Bites
In Vietnam, the seed of the fruit is commonly used to treat snakebites and is usually pressed against the infected area. It contains saponin, which has the ability to absorb venom.
Vision Health
B vitamins, especially B6, B12, and folic acid present in this tropical fruit lowers the chances of age-related macular degeneration and helps maintain vision health. [17]
Dental Care
Longan abundant in B vitamins is also known to keep the teeth and gums in good condition.
How to Select and Store Longan?
Choose longans, which are ripe and have a deep tan color, and make sure it is not bruised. The fruit is best had fresh or in dried form. It is also available as canned fruit in syrup. Fresh longans can be refrigerated for up to two weeks. You will often find it used in soups, puddings, desserts, and as a flavoring agent in certain beverages or dishes.
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