|
Jujube (Ziziphus jujuba)
Jujube may sound like a funny name for a fruit, but don’t
let the name fool you…this is a very powerful food that packs a healthy punch
for the millions of people who know its true value. Although it has common
names like red date and Korean date, the scientific classification of jujubes
is Ziziphus jujuba. A jujube is typically a small shrub or tree with small
yellowish-green petals and drupe fruits that are about the size of a date and
range from brown to purplish-black. Jujube fruits are native to southern Asia,
including southern and central China. However, it has been introduced to the
rest of the world, primarily Europe, and is available in many exotic fruit
import stores.
The most amazing thing about the jujube fruit is that is has
more than 10,000 years of history, and in that history, over 400 different
cultivars have been formed. In terms of culinary use, jujube fruit are eaten as
dried candies or fresh, and is also occasionally made into juice. In some
countries, the pits are removed and the flesh is pounded with sugar and other
fruits into a cake that can dry in the sun. Regardless of how you eat jujubes,
the powerful antioxidants and organic compounds found in this impressive fruit
will grant you a wide range of health effects. Now, let’s take a more in-depth
look at the many
|
|
Sleep Aid:
For people suffering from insomnia or restlessness, consuming the seeds of the
extract of the jujube fruit can be a good remedy. The soothing nature of the
organic compounds contained in this beneficial fruit can calm the body and
mind, so if you find yourself unable to sleep at night, then perhaps a small
jujube decoction is exactly what you need.
Circulation
Issues: The jujube fruit is a rich source of both iron and phosphorous,
key ingredients in red blood cells. If you suffer from low iron content in your
blood or anaemia, you may experience symptoms like muscle weakness, fatigue,
indigestion, lightheadedness, and cognitive confusion. By increasing your iron
and phosphorous content with jujube fruit, you can increase blood flow, thereby
oxygenating your organ systems and extremities more effectively, giving you an
energy boost!
Bone
Strength: One of the best ways to strengthen your bones is to make sure
that your mineral intake is optimal. By increasing minerals like calcium,
phosphorous, and iron (all of which are prevalent in jujubes), you can ensure
that your bones will remain hardy and strong for years to come. As we age, we
tend to suffer from osteoporosis and other bone degradation conditions, so
adding jujube fruit to your diet can slow or reverse this trend.
Weight
Control: Eating fruits and vegetables is a common suggestion for people
attempting to lose weight, and jujube is another that can easily be added to
that list. With a low calorie count and a high protein and fiber level, jujube
can satisfy your nutritional needs and fill you up, which will prevent you from
snacking in between meals. This will help you maintain your diet or prevent any
additional weight gain.
Immune
System: Jujube is able to benefit the immune system in many different
ways, namely due to its high antioxidant content, including vitamin C, vitamin
A, and various organic compounds and acids. Antioxidants are able to neutralize
free radicals, the dangerous by-products of cellular respiration, which are
responsible for many chronic diseases and illness within the body. Vitamin C
also stimulates the production of white blood cells, the first line of defence
of our immune system.
Stress and
Anxiety: Jujube has been proven to have certain anxiolytic and soothing
effects on the body. By using the jujube oil extract or consuming the fruits
themselves can have an impact on your hormonal levels and induce a calm,
relaxed sensation throughout your body and mind. For people who regularly
suffer from chronic stress or anxiety, snacking on some dried jujubes or
seeking a jujube supplement can help ease the mind and protect the body from
the serious side effects of extended exposure to stress hormones.
|
