Longan is a tropical fruit that is suitable for consumption. The longan tree belongs to the Sapindaceae family, which encompasses various other fruit-bearing plants. The longan fruit is a little, spherical fruit with a pale white pulp and a yellow-brown outer covering, which is typically found in pendant clusters. The fruit exhibits a slight sweetness and juiciness, displaying resemblances to the lychee fruit. The longan fruit has a somewhat drier sweetness and a musky flavor profile, whereas lychees possess a greater juiciness, aromatic qualities, and a little more pronounced sour sweetness. The fruit known as longan, scientifically referred to as Dimocarpus longan, is commonly referred to as dragon’s eye fruit due to its characteristic appearance. This fruit has a pale white flesh, encasing a little brown seed positioned centrally within its structure.
During the maturation process, the exocarp of the fruit transforms, resulting in the development of a rigid outer covering that may be effortlessly removed when consuming it. It is advisable to extract the seed before consuming the fruit. The increasing recognition of the seeds of the fruit as a nutritious dietary option can be attributed to their rich content of gallic acid (GA) and ellagic acid (EA), both of which are phenolic chemicals obtained from plants. The consumption of longan fruit is observed in various forms, including fresh, dried, and tinned. The fruit is additionally employed for therapeutic applications; it has been utilized in traditional Asian medicine due to its nutritious properties. However, longan is not merely a typical tropical fruit originating from Southeast Asia; it has been utilized for several years in the realm of traditional medicine.
This article aims to examine the various potential health benefits of longan fruit and its role in promoting overall well-being and aiding in the recovery process.
What are the medical advantages of longan fruit?
The term “superfood” has gained significant attention and popularity in both digital and traditional media platforms. Regrettably, a universally recognized medical definition for this terminology is still lacking. Superfoods are characterized by their high nutritious content. The consumption of superfoods has been shown to enhance various facets of overall health. The longan fruit is known for its rich concentration of essential elements. It accomplishes this without introducing any superfluous caloric intake to one’s dietary regimen. Hence, they meet the criteria to be classified as superfoods.
Following are the medical advantages of longan fruit
Enhancing Memory Abilities
The longan fruit exhibits nootropic properties. This implies that the extract derived from the fruit can improve cognitive function and enhance memory. The utilization of longan fruit tonic in traditional Chinese medicine is commonly employed for the treatment of anxiety-induced conditions. According to a study, the consumption of longan fruit has the potential to confer benefits to cognitive function. The reason for the impact of longan is attributed to its influence on the cerebral region responsible for memory processing. Therefore, it aids in mitigating the likelihood of developing Alzheimer’s disease.
Enhances Skin Health
Longan fruits possess high concentrations of vitamin C, which have been found to successfully counteract the manifestations of the aging process. It enhances pigmentation, addresses blemishes, mitigates the appearance of fine lines, and reduces the visibility of wrinkles. Furthermore, this particular fruit contributes to the synthesis of collagen. Consequently, it promotes the generation of novel dermal cells. Consequently, it maintains the overall health of the skin. A study provides evidence in favor of the assertion that the presence of vitamin C in longan fruit contributes to the mitigation of oxidative damage to the skin. Consequently, longan fruit exhibits beneficial properties for promoting skin health. For instance, it reduces the occurrence of skin breaking and peeling. Additionally, it has been observed to decrease skin dryness and promote the maintenance of a youthful appearance.
Enhancing the Quality of Sleep
In the contemporary era characterized by a rapid and demanding way of life, a significant proportion of individuals experience the condition of insomnia, sometimes referred to as sleeplessness. The potential anxiolytic properties of longan make it a potential therapeutic option. The extract derived from fruits has the potential to reduce levels of tension and anxiety. This is achieved by the reduction of cortisol, a stress hormone. Consequently, it has the potential to ultimately enhance both the duration and quality of sleep. Additionally, a study has demonstrated that the consumption of longan fruit has an impact on both the duration and quality of sleep.
Enhances the Immune System
The longan fruit demonstrates significant antimicrobial capabilities. Consequently, this phenomenon aids the immune system in combating infections. Furthermore, this substance is abundant in vitamin C, a widely recognized antioxidant renowned for its ability to mitigate the detrimental effects of free radicals. Multiple studies provide evidence to support the assertion that the consumption of longan fruit can contribute to the enhancement of the immune system’s defense mechanism through the stimulation of adequate white blood cell production. Moreover, the consumption of longan-based tea and herbal infusions is efficacious in the prevention of respiratory abnormalities, sore throat, the common cold, and fever.
Enhances Sexual Desire
The longan fruit is commonly utilized as a conventional dietary adjunct for enhancing libido in individuals of both genders. Furthermore, it is regarded as a conventional aphrodisiac. Fruit juice has been consumed in China for more than four centuries as a purported remedy for sexual deficiencies. It serves a beneficial function in enhancing endurance and thus enhances sexual drive. Extensive research has demonstrated the efficacy of longan in the treatment of erectile dysfunction and the enhancement of sexual health.
Anemia prevention
Insufficient synthesis of erythrocytes with normal functionality might result in the condition known as anemia. The consumption of longans can contribute to the intake of iron. Consequently, it can effectively address the iron shortage and mitigate the associated risk of developing anemia. Furthermore, the presence of minute quantities of iron in longan fruit has the potential to enhance erythropoiesis, the process of red blood cell synthesis, hence facilitating improved blood circulation.
Safeguards Against Persistent Illnesses
The human body primarily generates free radicals in response to stress. These substances have a propensity to induce cellular harm in various tissues and organs. Longan possesses antioxidants that can combat detrimental free radicals. In doing so, they effectively inhibit aberrant cellular apoptosis or injury. This characteristic, when considered holistically, mitigates the likelihood of acquiring long-term health conditions.
Vitality Enhancer
If one is seeking a caffeine substitute, longan fruit may be considered an optimal option. This particular fruit possesses the ability to provide a rapid increase in energy levels. Furthermore, due to its substantial content of natural sugars, longan fruit exhibits exceptional efficacy as a stimulant for enhancing energy levels.
Enhances the process of digestion
Both raw and dried longan fruit contain dietary fiber. Dietary fiber aids in the formation of fecal matter and facilitates regular and efficient gastrointestinal transit. Additionally, it aids in enhancing the composition of gut microbiota, hence promoting optimal functioning of the digestive system. The inclusion of dietary fiber in one’s diet can also serve as a preventive measure against many gastrointestinal problems, including constipation, diarrhea, gastric discomfort, bloating, and abdominal cramping.
Potentially alleviate symptoms of anxiety
Anxiety is a psychological condition characterized by the presence of intense sensations of concern or fear that significantly impede an individual’s ability to engage in their routine daily activities. Numerous empirical investigations have demonstrated that longan fruit possesses potential therapeutic properties for alleviating symptoms associated with anxiety. Longan tea is commonly ingested in the context of traditional Chinese medicine to alleviate symptoms of anxiety.
May support weight reduction
The consumption of longan fruit has been found to potentially contribute to weight loss as a result of its low caloric value. According to an investigation published in 2019, it was found that the consumption of longan fruit has the potential to control hunger and facilitate weight reduction.
What are the adverse effects of longan fruit?
Limited evidence exists regarding the reported adverse effects associated with excessive consumption of longans. However, it is conceivable that an individual may experience an allergic reaction to longan. The probability is extremely low, however. The determining factor is the size of the portions. Individuals diagnosed with diabetes are advised to avoid the consumption of longans. Despite its potential benefits for health and energy due to its significant quantities of vitamins C and B, the sugar concentration of this substance is a matter of concern. The carbohydrate content of uncooked longans is around 20.7 grams per ounce. This phenomenon has the potential to elevate blood glucose levels in vulnerable individuals. One may consider incorporating alternate low-carbohydrate options such as melons, camu camu, and berries into their dietary regimen to obtain an adequate supply of these essential vitamins and minerals.
During the process of cultivation, the longan fruit is susceptible to pest infestations. Consequently, agricultural practitioners commenced employing pesticides as a means of safeguarding their crop yield. Regrettably, the dosage of pesticides and fungicides exceeds the established safe thresholds. Consequently, this amplifies the likelihood of experiencing foodborne illness. In addition, the act of using one’s teeth to remove the peel from the fruit may potentially result in exposure to hazardous concentrations of pesticides. However, it is possible to locate organic varieties of longan fruits that are free from chemical contaminants.
The consumption of longan has the potential to elevate an individual’s body temperature. During pregnancy, individuals may have episodes of vasomotor symptoms commonly referred to as hot flashes. Hence, the consumption of longan may exacerbate the situation. The potential consequences of this condition include xerostomia, gastrointestinal discomfort, and obstetric problems. Therefore, it is advisable to refrain from consuming longans during pregnancy.
The Bottom Line
The consumption of longan confers several advantages to individuals. The longan fruit exhibits a high potassium content, which has been associated with potential benefits in reducing elevated blood pressure levels. Consuming longan tea or including longan fruit in one’s diet during menstruation has the potential to enhance blood nourishment due to its high iron content. The consumption of this fruit has the potential to alleviate symptoms associated with menstrual cramps. Longan fruits have the potential to be preserved by placing them in a plastic bag and storing them in a refrigerator. Although the outer layer of the fruit may undergo a slight firming process, it remains suitable for food for a minimum duration of two weeks.
It has the potential to mitigate the likelihood of developing cancer, and edema, and effectively address the condition of anemia. Additionally, it bestows a radiant appearance on the skin and aids in the management of sleeplessness and stress. Nevertheless, the ingestion of excessive amounts of this fruit may elicit unfavorable side effects due to its high carbohydrate and sugar content. Therefore, individuals diagnosed with diabetes should refrain from consuming longans. To fully maximize the advantages, it is advisable to consume it in moderate quantities.
Sirisha B