Health Benefits of Loquat
Loquat is a yellow fruit and pear-shaped. It is known as Japanese plum or Chinese plum.
Loquat is grown in Himachal Pradesh, Assam and a few hill stations in the South. The tree has many medicinal uses as per Ayurveda.
Loquat is used in fruit salad, jam and jellies. It is also used in the wine. Raw loquats are used in pies and tarts.
The juicy pulp in the fruit can be directly consumed by peeling the skin.
Here are some health benefits of Loquat:
- Loquat has cytokine immune modulation abilities due to which it is beneficial in cancer therapy. One study on the plant leaves showed that they have anti-cancer properties and can suppress carcinogenic cells at various stages of cancer.
- It helps improve the production of insulin and regulate diabetes.
- It is rich in potassium which is beneficial for controlling high blood pressure. It improves the blood flow to the heart and protects the body from the cardiovascular system.
- Due to its dietary fibre, it improves intestinal health. It relieves constipation and improves bowel movement.
- Loquat removes phlegm effectively and soothes the respiratory system. It also aids in treating nausea. Loquat leaves help in the quick recovery of all types of respiratory conditions.
- The antioxidants in it help improve memory and other functions of the brain. It protects from free radicals.
- The high fibre content in it is beneficial for people who want to lose weight.
- Loquat is also rich in vitamin C and hence can boost immunity. It also helps in the production of collagen to repair damaged tissues. It has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties as well.
- Loquat is also believed to be beneficial for HIV. The 2-alpha-hydroxy ursolic acid present in the leaves has a slight restrictive effect on HIV.
- The vitamins and minerals in loquat strengthen bones by preventing the loss of bone density.
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Image Reference: https://pixabay.com/photos/loquat-fruits-pipa-tree-garden-4932587/
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