Longan fruit dragon eye. Exotic fruit longan, calorie content, beneficial properties

Synonym: lamyaj, longyan, dragon's eye, soap tree, lamyaj, euphoria longan.

Longan is a very beautiful evergreen sprawling tree with oblong leaves that look like leaves. walnut. The fruits of this exotic plant appear on the branches in clusters and are pale yellow, sometimes brownish or reddish in color. In China, these fruits are called "dragon eyes" (longyan) because of the white translucent pulp. Longan is grown for its edible fruits and is used with pleasure in cooking.

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In medicine

Longan is not included in the State Pharmacopoeia and is not used in the official medicine of Russia, however, it is very popular in the places of its growth and cultivation as a dietary and high-vitamin food product. Traditional healers of the countries of East and Southeast Asia use fresh and dried fruits and seeds of longan as an anthelmintic, anti-inflammatory, sedative, as well as for diseases of the cardiovascular system, obesity and beriberi.

Contraindications and side effects

When eating these tropical fruits, allergic reactions or indigestion may occur. Pregnant and lactating women, as well as children and people with individual intolerance, should use longan fruits with great care.

The stone in the longan fruit is poisonous!

In cooking

Longan tastes vaguely reminiscent of grapes and is mostly eaten fresh. It is added to salads, drinks and confectionery. In Thailand and China, an unusual dessert is made from the pulp of the fruit mixed with rice and coconut milk. The fruits are used to make thirst-quenching drinks, soups, sauces and toppings. In Vietnamese and Taiwanese cuisine, longan is turned into a candied fruit that looks like a raisin. During this processing, all beneficial features fruits are preserved. Europeans "dragon's eye" is better known as an exotic addition to liqueurs, cocktails, fruit salads and ice cream.

Classification

Longan (lat. Dimocarpus longan) - perennial genus Longan, family Sapindaceae (lat. Sapindaceae). In the genus Longan (lat. Longan) there are about 50 species.

Botanical description

Longan is an evergreen upright tree that grows up to 12 meters in height. The trunk of the tree is covered with rough bark, the crown consists of long, densely growing branches. The width of the crown reaches 14 meters. The leaves of the plant are paired, have an oblong, elliptical shape. Their length is 10-20 centimeters, width is 3.5-5 cm. They are leathery and wavy, greenish-gray below and bright green above.

Spherical longan fruits grow in clusters. Covered with a thin but rough crust, they grow up to 2.5 cm in diameter. The translucent pulp of the fruit has a white color and a delicate slimy texture. Inside each fruit is a rounded, black with a white spot at the base, shiny seed.

Spreading

According to one version, the island of Sri Lanka and South India are considered the birthplace of the longan. However, this tree does not really like a hot climate, so there is another version, the true homeland of a subtropical plant is China with the coolest climate. Now longan is cultivated in Vietnam, Burma, Indonesia, Taiwan, Australia, Thailand and the USA. In China, the cultivation of longan is carried out at an extremely high level. Therefore, the fruits grown here are distinguished by their excellent quality. Fruits are exported in large quantities to the countries of eastern and southern parts of Asia, to Europe and the USA.

Procurement of raw materials

Harvesting takes place in summer (June-August). As a rule, longan is eaten fresh. When choosing a fruit, you need to pay attention to the skin, it must be whole, without damage and cracks. Unfortunately, fruits are plucked from the tree while still green, and the ripeness of the fruit can only be determined after removing the peel (some varieties have a greenish crust), unripe "dragon eyes" will taste sour. If you let the fruits lie down for a short time, they will reach the desired condition. Longan is stored for a short time, at room temperature for 2-3 days, in the refrigerator for 6-8 days. For export, longan is sent in dried or canned form, fresh is sent less often.

Chemical composition

The flowers of the plant contain in their composition the tannin tannin and the flavonoid proanthocyanidin, which has an antioxidant property. The pulp contains vitamins thiamine - B 1, riboflavin - B 2, niacin - B 3 or PP, vitamin C, potassium (266 mg), calcium (1 mg), magnesium (10 mg), phosphorus (21 mg), as well as trace elements iron (0.13 mg), manganese (52 µg), copper (169 µg), zinc (50 µg), polysaccharides LP1, LP2, LP3 containing nitrogen. The composition of the seeds of the plant includes gallic, carylagic, hebulic, chlorogenic, ferulic, p-coumaric, synapic, gentisic and ellagic acids. In plant oil, palmitic and oleic acids make up 35 and 28%.

Pharmacological properties

First of all, longan is a valuable food product. Its fruits are rich in vitamins and amino acids, have a low calorie content and can be included in the diet.

Despite the fact that longan is not used in official medicine, due to the substances included in its chemical composition, it has some medicinal properties, for example, astringent and antibacterial, due to the high content of tannins. The content of vitamin C in the pulp of the fruits of the plant allows them to be used for colds and beriberi.

Application in traditional medicine

Longan is a plant widely used in folk medicine China, Vietnam, Taiwan, Thailand and other places of its growth and cultivation. For example, dried seed powder is used by Asian healers to improve blood circulation and reduce sweating, and a decoction of pulp or dried longan fruit is used as a remedy for abdominal pain and to improve digestion. In Vietnamese folk medicine, crushed longan seeds are applied to snake or insect bites.

It is known that eating fruits (pulp, in particular) during intestinal infections helps to cure them. Healers of East and Southeast Asia recommend eating fresh longan fruits as a prophylactic against worms, as well as a vitaminizing agent after a long illness or a strict diet.

It is believed that fresh longan fruits have aphrodisiac properties, and longan honey is effective for colds and even skin infections (topically). There is an opinion that longan has a beneficial effect on the human nervous system, regular consumption of its fruits improves sleep, relieves anxiety and stress.

History reference

Despite the fact that China is considered the birthplace of longan, it is a fairly common fruit in Thailand. Initially, the Thai king Rama V was presented with 4 seedlings of this plant, two of which were planted in Bangkok, and two more in Chiang Mai. Over time, the area of ​​its cultivation has increased significantly, and today it can be found in every corner of the country, which makes it possible to collect longan fruits throughout the year.

In Chinese folklore, there is a legend about Longan, a noble young man who saved the inhabitants of a village from a cruel dragon. On the edge of the abyss, Longan gouged out the dragon's eyes and threw him at the cost of his life. And in the place where the young man was buried, after some time a wonderful tree grew. Delicious and incredibly useful fruits grew on it. They called the tree - longan.

Literature

1. Pugacheva E.V., Serebryakov S.O. Tropical Fruits, Eyewitness Series, ed. 2016

exotic fruit Longan has a pleasant aroma and exquisite taste. It is also called the sweet "dragon's eye", longan plum and lam yai. The pulp is juicy, with a pronounced taste of musk. The skin is thick but easily removed. You can buy the fruits of the longan tree in large grocery stores, the main thing is not to confuse them with lychee because of their resemblance.

What is longan

The plant is tropical, respectively, thermophilic, rather high (average 7–8 m). It can be grown in greenhouses and apartments (in pots). Regarding the unusual name, in Vietnam there is a province of Long An, where these fruits continue to be grown today. Mostly the fruits ripen from June to August, the crop is harvested during the summer. However, the climate in different parts of the province is different, so year-round harvesting is possible.

What it looks like and where it grows

The fruits are small, about 2-4 cm in diameter, ripen in clusters. Under the brown shell hides juicy pulp, which has the consistency of jelly. The fruit is white, translucent, with a dark bone inside, which is why it is called the dragon's eye. Longan differs from lychee in a less rough surface. The stone and peel are inedible.

There are several versions of the origin of the exotic fruit. According to one version, in 200 BC. e. in China (Shenxing province), the ruler decided to plant the best, in his opinion, fruit trees (lychee and longan), but due to lack of heat, they did not take root. But longan fruits ripen in other provinces - Fujian and Guangdong, from where they are still exported. It is China that is the main exporter of the fruit. No less popular fruits in Thailand. In official sources, there is a mention from 1896 of a traveler's visit to the Thai government. He brought seedlings from China, which were planted not only in the capital, but also in one of the provinces of the kingdom - Chiang Mai. Since then, longan fruits have been harvested in Thailand.

Fruit trees have also taken root outside of Asia - in Puerto Rico, Mauritius and Bermuda, and Australia. They are grown in Taiwan, Indonesia, Laos, Burma, Cambodia, India, Vietnam. The same list can include Sri Lanka, USA, Philippines, Malaysia. However, longans are not as common there as in China and Thailand.

In Southeast Asia, the sale of exotic fruits brings good profits. A third of fresh longans are sent to Europe and America, Asian countries. Most of the harvest is processed, so the "dragon's eye" can be bought not only fresh, but also dried or canned. The main suppliers of fruit are China, Thailand, Malaysia, Vietnam, Indonesia, India.

The taste of the fruit is unique. It is sweet, combines several flavors at once - fresh kiwi, sweet melon, ripe berries. Feature is a pronounced musky aroma. Although longan is not as juicy as lychee, it is sweeter. There is also a certain similarity with the Spanish lime and rambutan.

Species and varieties

There are about 50 varieties of exotic fruit. But there are several varieties that are of the greatest value - Bieo khieo (there is a noticeable green tint on the peel), Do (the fruits are flattened), Si chomphu (pulp with a pink tint, juicy).

Composition and calories

The product is low-calorie, therefore it is included in the diet if necessary to follow a diet. There are only 60 kcal in 100 g of fruit. Minerals include potassium, manganese, iron, zinc. In addition, longan contains calcium, magnesium, copper and phosphorus.

The vitamin composition is represented by vitamins C and B (B1, 2, 3). Longan plum has high levels of ascorbic acid (84 mg), potassium (266 mg) and water (82 g). The content of carbohydrates, proteins, fats in 100 g of fruits is 15, 1.3, 0.1 g, respectively, fiber - 1.1 g.

General Benefit

The product contains a lot of potassium, therefore, when it is used, the heart rate normalizes, more oxygen enters the brain. As a result, it is noted positive influence on mental activity and other important processes occurring in the body.

Given the high content of ascorbic acid, "dragon's eye" is an excellent tool for strengthening immunity, eliminating beriberi and colds. Positive changes also occur due to the intake of B vitamins. Thiamine has a beneficial effect on the nervous, digestive and cardiovascular systems. Riboflavin acts as a regulator of the activity of the nervous system, promotes energy from carbohydrates. Niacin helps to maintain a healthy appearance of the skin, promotes vasodilation and softens the negative effects on the nervous system.

When eating fruit, the following effects develop:

1. Slight increase in blood pressure.
2. Strengthening nails and hair, improving the condition of the skin.
3. Partial elimination of cholesterol and harmful substances from the body.
4. Diuretic action, kidney cleansing, positive effect on the urinary tract.
5. Normalization of the water level in the body.
6. Antibacterial and antiseptic action.
7. Protection of the liver from negative influences.
8. Strengthening the nervous system, eliminating irritability, anxiety and insomnia, better sleep as a result of the development of a sedative effect.
9. Prevention of cancer, cardiovascular and colds, flu.
10. Feeling better with chemotherapy.
11. An increase in the level of iron in the body with anemia.
12. Strengthening immunity, lowering high body temperatures (dried fruits are especially useful for fever and fever).
13. Neutralization of the negative effects of free radicals due to the content of phenols (antioxidant activity due to the content of bile and ellagic acids).
14. Faster healing of skin lesions, improvement in skin diseases.
15. Elimination of apathy, signs of fatigue and the effects of stress, restoration of vitality, invigoration.
16. Anthelmintic effect.
17. Elimination of symptoms of beriberi and scurvy.
18. Normalization of the digestive system.

Not only the fruits are useful, but also the leaves of the plant containing quartzetin:

• strengthening blood vessels, maintaining the normal functioning of the heart muscle;
• help the body in the fight against cancer;
• treatment of diabetes of any type and allergies.

Like fruits, longan leaves are a powerful natural antioxidant. Also, when using them, an antiviral and bactericidal effect is noted. Medicinal decoctions and infusions are prepared on the basis of the leaves.

The seeds contain a large amount of saponins. By crushing them and combining with water, soap suds are formed. This product is used as a base for shampoo.

The fruit is used as an aphrodisiac and tonic. Its pulp is added to products intended for the treatment of disorders in the digestive tract. According to the results of one of the studies, regular consumption of fruits can significantly improve the condition of patients who have been diagnosed with damage to the liver and other organs.

In Vietnam, longan is also used externally. For example, with the help of fruit, the negative effects of insect and snake bites are eliminated. It is applied with a bone to the damaged areas. It is believed that it is able to draw out poisonous substances and disinfect the bite site. It is important to apply longan in a timely manner.

Longan is used to maintain mental abilities and maintain a good memory. Substances contained in an exotic fruit protect against sudden cardiac arrest and cardiac attacks. Regular use of the product allows you to get rid of problems with blood circulation.

The riboflavin found in longan is required to keep the eyes healthy. The daily norm for women is 1 mg, for men - 1.3 mg. Reducing the risk of developing cataracts and other ophthalmic diseases with sufficient levels of vitamin in the body is confirmed by the study "Archiv oftalmologie" (2005).

Dried fruits are used for iron and copper deficiency. The daily intake of copper with food for an adult is 900 mcg. If you eat 3.5 dried fruits per day, 19% of the required volume of copper will enter the body. There is a positive effect of longan not only on the bones, but also on the joints, muscle tissue.

For women

while maintaining normal level minerals improves postmenopausal well-being and reduces the risk of osteoporosis. Since only a few longan fruits contain 19% of the daily value of copper, the product is recommended for regular use. Moreover, the fruit has a positive effect on the condition of the skin, reduces sagging, helps to eliminate age spots and dryness, and smoothes crow's feet.

Due to the high content of antioxidants, longan has a rejuvenating, tonic, regenerating effect on the body. With its regular use, strength is restored, metabolic processes are activated.

For men

Longan is an aphrodisiac. It contains a large amount of zinc, an important trace element for the male body. Its normal level must be maintained for the full production of testosterone.

During pregnancy

During the period of bearing a child, it is worth limiting the use of "dragon's eye", because. with its frequent intake in the body in large quantities, the blood sugar content can significantly decrease, which will lead to the development of such a dangerous condition as hypoglycemia. It is not necessary to completely abandon the longan, because it contains a lot of iron. To maintain the normal level of this trace element, dried fruits are chosen.

When breastfeeding

"Dragon's eye" helps women recover faster after pregnancy and childbirth, so if possible, you should regularly eat several fruits. You should not get involved in eating fruit for the same reason as during the period of bearing a baby (the risk of developing hypoglycemia). In addition, the child may experience an allergic reaction.

For children

It is better not to give fruit to small children. Acquaintance with longan is recommended to be postponed until 3 years.

When losing weight

The product is low-calorie, so it is allowed to eat it when losing weight. It is not necessary to include fruit in its pure form in the diet, it can be used as an additional component for cocktails, smoothies, fruit purees and juices. It is also a good addition to curd desserts and yoghurts.

No more than 100-150 g of longan can be consumed daily. Be sure to drink enough clean water, because fruits have a diuretic effect on the body. When losing weight, only fresh longan is included in the diet, high-calorie dried fruits are refused or their consumption is reduced to a minimum. It is a fresh product that activates the metabolism and accelerates the process of losing weight.

Application in cosmetology and for treatment

The leaves and flowers are used for medicinal purposes. The positive effect is achieved due to the content of quercetin. This substance belongs to flavonoids, has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, improves the general condition of the body. Teas, infusions, decoctions are prepared from the raw materials obtained.

Bones are used in the production of care and medicinal products. From this part of the fruit, a pomace is obtained, saturated with tannins and fats. This component in the composition of antiperspirants helps to combat excessive sweating.

The seeds of the fruit contain sapotin, it is added to shampoos and balms as an ingredient that improves hair condition. At home, the pulp is used for masks from peeling and irritation on the skin. Sapotin heals the skin, moisturizes it and saturates it with useful substances. As a result of prolonged use of masks, a lifting effect can be achieved.

Application in cooking

The fruits are not only consumed fresh, but also used for freezing, canning, making liqueurs and dried fruits. They are added to drinks, sauces, salads and desserts. For example, it can be mousse, ice cream or a cocktail. Longan is also used as a filling for baking.

In Asian countries, soup with longan based on coconut milk is prepared. You can cook rice porridge with the fruits of the "dragon's eye" or make a tonic drink. To get a refreshing agent, the pulp is combined with sugar and boiled until it dissolves, water is poured into fruit puree with syrup.

In China and Thailand, the pulp is boiled and then dried. The taste of the finished dessert resembles raisins. And most importantly, useful substances with this method of processing are not destroyed. In regions where exotic fruit is grown, combinations of sweet fruits with fish and spicy food are common. For Europeans, simpler combinations are preferred - cocktails and alcohol with exotic fruit, salad or ice cream.

To get healthy dried fruits as an additional ingredient for meat and fish dishes or rice, longan is boiled in syrup, then dried convenient way. You can use a dryer or oven. Another option is also possible - place the product in the sun, drying it naturally.

Royal bun

This recipe takes 2 hours to complete and the ingredients are for 6 servings of flavorful pastries. Dates and longan plum are used for the filling.

Dough Ingredients:

• 350 g flour;
• 85 g sugar;
• 50 g butter;
• 10 g yeast (dry product);
• 120 ml of milk;
• 2 eggs;
• a pinch of salt.
• Filling:
• 200 g longan;
• 90 g jam;
• 80 g dates;
• 1 tsp powdered cinnamon.

Cooking:

1. Milk is heated (it should be slightly warm, not hot) and combined with sugar (not all, only 35 g), salt, butter, eggs.
2. Yeast is poured into a homogeneous mixture, the contents of the container are re-mixed.
3. Gradually stir in the flour. The dough should be soft (well kneaded dough does not stick to hands). It is covered and left to rise in a warm place. This will take approximately 1 hour.
4. Pitted dates are combined with an exotic fruit, crushed with a blender and sent to jam ( any will do, select according to your taste), mix thoroughly.
5. The resulting dough is cut into 8 equal parts and formed into balls. 3 balls are set aside and covered with a clean towel so that the dough does not weather. The rest of the balls are rolled into a circle.
6. To proceed to the next step, first prepare a baking sheet. Cut off a piece of parchment of the required size and lay it on a baking sheet, grease with oil.
7. In four circles, the filling is evenly distributed, they are laid out on a baking sheet on top of each other. A fifth circle without filling is laid out on top of the future roll.
8. About 16 cuts are made from the center to the edge (do not cut completely, 1 cm should remain to the edge). You should end up with 8 triangles. These petals turn to the edge of the product.
9. Return to the previously set aside three balls. Each one is cut in half. To work with the dough at this stage, take 5 parts, put one aside. Form balls, then circles.
10. Four blanks are sprinkled with cinnamon and sugar, stacked on top of each other and covered with the fifth blank.
11. With the help of a knife, 8 triangles are obtained. A longitudinal incision is made in the center of each blank, the tip of the blank is pushed into it from the upper side of the product in a downward direction and pulled out. Do the same with the rest of the triangles.
12. The remaining ball is combined with scraps and circles are prepared for roses.
13. Roses are formed from circles, for this they are overlapped in several pieces and folded. Each tube is cut in half and spread around in the center of the future roll.
14. If there is dough left, a small ball can be placed in the center between the roses, and the side petals can be decorated with leaves from the rest of the mass.
15. The bun is baked in a preheated oven. Temperature - 180 ° C, cooking time - 30-35 minutes. Ready-made pastries can be sprinkled powdered sugar and garnish with fresh longans.

Rice with exotic fruit

The dish can be consumed either hot or warm, or cold. To give an appetizing look, rice is laid out in a deep bowl covered with cling film. It is pressed down and transferred to a plate. For convenience, you can attach a plate to a bowl, turn it over and then remove the film.

Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp. glutinous rice;
• 6 art. + 1 and ¼ st. water for cooking the product;
• ¼ st. sake;
• 20 longans (both dried and smoked are suitable);
• 1 tbsp Sahara.

Cooking:

1. Combine rice and water (6 tbsp.), Leave to swell for 8 hours.
2. The pulp is prepared, for this, the peel and seeds are removed from the exotic fruit.
3. Rice is cooked in a rice cooker or boiled in a pot. Next, the remaining water and sake are poured into it.
4. Place the pot on low heat for about 25 minutes. The contents are stirred regularly. Before the end of cooking, add sugar and distribute it evenly.

Alcoholic cocktail

Ingredients:

• vodka and orange juice in a ratio of 2: 1 - 60 and 30 ml, respectively;
• 40 ml of Blue Curacao liqueur;
• 8 longan fruits;
• ice to cool the drink.

Cooking:

1. Alcohol is combined with juice, longan and ice.
2. The ingredients are mixed with an electric mixer, distributed into 2 glasses. If desired, orange slices are used for decoration.

Liquor

This drink is served chilled. If desired, use a lime for decoration. Cool the liquor with ice. The liqueur can be consumed neat or added to cocktails.

Ingredients:

• 0.5 kg of exotic fruit;
• 1 liter of vodka;
• vanillin stick;
• 1 lime.

Cooking:

1. Using a knife, longan is peeled and pitted. The pulp is cut into medium or small pieces, transferred to a glass jar.
2. Squeeze juice from a lime, pour it into a jar. A stick of vanilla is cut and thrown there.
3. Lastly, alcohol is poured, mixed and, having securely sealed the jar, sent to the refrigerator for 3 hours, after which it is filtered. For these purposes, you can use gauze or a fine sieve.

Harm and contraindications

In general, the product is safe, but in some cases you should stop using it:

1. Individual intolerance to the components, accompanied by manifestations of an allergic reaction.
2. Age less than 3 years (for the first time they give no more than 6-8 fruits).
3. Too much vitamin C.
4. Disturbances in the digestive tract (laxative effect develops).

The harm of the fruit is manifested in cases when unripe fruits are eaten (asthma may develop).

An overdose of vitamin C is dangerous for the body. Symptoms of this condition include diarrhea and vomiting. White blood cells can even be damaged.

In Asian countries, fruit is sold all year round. In appearance it is difficult to assess whether he has matured or not. For this reason, it is recommended to first buy a few fruits to sample. If the taste is sour, longan can be left in a warm place for a few days. After ripening, you need to move it to the refrigerator for storage.

There are no spots on the peel of a quality fruit, the color is uniform. You should also inspect the fruit for the presence of rot and violation of the integrity of the peel. There should not be any defects. Deformed fruits with damage lose their taste and benefits.

After harvesting, the fruits are dipped in ice water. Thus, overripe fruit is prevented. The same is done with longan when it is not planned to use it immediately.

Clusters of "dragon's eye" are harvested unripe, consumed at least 1-2 days after collection. The ripened fruit is stored for 7 days (in the event that it was placed in a cold place), then it begins to deteriorate. It should be borne in mind that when buying fruits in the autumn period, the shelf life is reduced.

How to clean and eat longan

Only the pulp is used for food, no more than 150–200 g per day. Vitamin C in such an amount of "dragon's eye" is as much as 84 mg, while the daily norm is 75-90 mg.

To clean the fruit, it is strongly compressed. The skin is cracked and can be easily removed. You can go the other way and make a small incision. It is not difficult to remove the bone, it easily moves away from the pulp. Fruit can be pre-sprinkled with cinnamon sugar or just sugar and eaten.

1. Longan contains a huge amount of vitamin C, it can be used as a complete source of this substance.
2. The fruit really looks like a dragon's eye thanks to unusual look pulp and the presence of a dark bone.

The taste of the fruit is unlike anything else, so you should definitely try longan at least once in your life!

Longan is a delicious exotic fruit familiar to everyone who has been to Asia at least once. Under the nondescript-looking skin, a fragrant and exquisite-tasting pulp is hidden: this fruit does not leave anyone indifferent. An additional bonus is a composition saturated with substances useful for the body that can give odds to many more popular fruits.

Where does it grow

There are two versions of the origin of the longan: China or Burma can be the birthplace of the fruit. The first mention of it dates back to 200 BC. At that time, in the Chinese province of Shenxing, the ruler of the Han dynasty planned to land beautiful orchards. Of all the fruits known to him, he chose the most beautiful - longan and lychee, but they did not take root in the cold climate of the northwestern part of the country.
However, in the warmer southern Chinese provinces of Guangdong and Fujian, where the subtropical climate prevails, the fruits ripen perfectly: the country is their main exporter. They are no less popular in Thailand, where they are locally called lamayaj (Lam Yai). These fruit trees can be found in Cambodia, Indonesia, Vietnam, India, Malaysia, Laos, Philippines, Sri Lanka and Taiwan.
Back in the 19th century, longan was exported outside of Asia. Since then, it has been successfully cultivated in Australia, Puerto Rico, on the island of Mauritius. But in Florida and other warm regions of the United States, the plant has not gained popularity among gardeners and farmers, so you will not find large plantations in the region.

Season

Longan fruits ripen on evergreen trees. The harvest is taken once a year: in Thailand and other southeastern countries, the peak of fruiting occurs in the summer, from June to August. However, the variety of climatic conditions allows harvesting year-round in different parts of the region.
In this regard, the fruit can be found on the shelves of supermarkets at any time of the year. Since a well-ripened fruit can be stored for no more than a week even in the refrigerator, it is harvested slightly unripe for export. This does not affect the taste of the fruit, on the contrary, to improve the taste, it is recommended to eat it no earlier than 1-2 days after harvest.

What does it look like

Longan grows on trees of the same name, the average height of which is 10-12 m, but some specimens can reach 40 m. Their feature is a bushy, dense evergreen crown that can grow up to 14 m wide. The bark of the tree is wrinkled, hard and dense, dark brown in color.
The main thing that attracts people to this plant is its fruits. They ripen on branches in clusters similar to grapes. The size of the fruit is small - about 2-2.5 cm in diameter: they look like large grapes or nuts. The fruits are covered with a dense, hard, rough skin, the color of which, depending on the variety, can be pale yellow, light beige or brown.
Under the inedible skin, a white or slightly pinkish translucent pulp is hidden, resembling jelly in consistency: it is it that is eaten. The fruit has a unique, unlike anything taste, which combines the sweetness of melon, the freshness of kiwi and berry flavor. A special feature is a bright musky aroma. Longan is slightly sweeter than its closest relative, lychee, but less juicy. Other similar fruits include rambutan and Spanish lime.
Under the pulp there is a rounded or oblong bone, the color of which may be dark or slightly reddish. It is impossible to eat it because of the abundance of tannins and sapotin. However, the seeds are used to create medicines, used in cosmetology and traditional medicine.

Name

Longan is known as the "dragon's eye": this is how the translation of the Chinese word longyan sounds. An ancient legend is connected with its appearance about a young man named Longan, who figured out how to rid an entire village of an evil dragon. The legend says that he offered to lay out on the seashore, from which the dragon appeared, the carcasses of cattle soaked in rice wine. The monster was tempted by offerings, but got tipsy and quickly fell asleep.

Then the brave Longan pierced one of his eyes with a spear and pierced the other with a knife. But even the sightless monster entered into a fierce battle that lasted all night. In the morning, the villagers saw the defeated dragon, but the brave young man was also dead. Soon, a tree grew on his grave, bearing fruits that looked like those gouged out eyes of a monster.
There is indeed some truth in this legend. If you separate half of the pulp of the fruit, the large dark bone remaining in the second part will really resemble the pupil of a monster.

Chemical composition and nutritional value

Longan is classified as a low-calorie food. It can be included in a balanced diet and eaten during a diet: the energy value is approximately 60 kcal. It contains practically no fat, 100 grams contain 1.3 and 1.1 grams of protein and fiber. Not embarrassed by the presence of 15 grams complex carbohydrates: due to their composition, they are not deposited in fat, but are processed into clean energy.
Despite the unsightly appearance and modest size, longan is a real vitamin pantry. It contains more vitamin C than an orange: 84 mg in an exotic "nut" versus 60 mg in a citrus. In this regard, a drink from the pulp of longan is prescribed to increase immunity, prevent colds, and treat beriberi. In addition, the fruit boasts the presence of B vitamins:

1. B1, or thiamine. Helps in the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular diseases, problems of the digestive tract, nervous system.
2. B2, or riboflavin. The most important element involved in the "building process" at the intracellular level. Regulates the activity of the nervous system, is involved in the conversion of carbohydrates into energy.
3. B3, or niacin. It takes care of the beauty of the skin, the health of the nervous system, has a pronounced vasodilating effect.

There are many trace elements important for the body in longan, the main of which is potassium, the content of which in 100 grams reaches 266 mg. Its main task is to normalize the heart rate and saturate the brain with oxygen, which positively affects mental activity and other processes in the body. In addition to potassium, longan contains:

• manganese
• phosphorus
• calcium
• magnesium
• iron

Benefit and harm

The abundance of vitamins, microelements, amino acids and other components give longan a number of health benefits. One recent study showed a significant improvement in the condition of patients with damage to the liver and other internal organs, which occurred after regular intake of this fruit.
In addition, longan:

1. Increases immunity and tone, gives cheerfulness, fights apathy, insomnia and irritability, relieves signs of fatigue.
2. Due to the content of iron, it is prescribed for anemia.
3. In folk medicine, it is used as an anthelmintic.
4. Used for prevention oncological diseases and during chemotherapy.

Contraindications

The balanced composition and the absence of toxic components in it make the use of longan absolutely safe. The only serious risk is individual intolerance that can cause allergic reactions. For this reason, you should not give it to children under three years old, and also approach the fruit with caution: for the first time, eat no more than 6-8 berries.
In addition, longan has a slight laxative effect, so people suffering from problems gastrointestinal tract should be eaten in moderation. Like all exotics, longan is not familiar to a European person, which can cause similar problems when overeating fruit while traveling.

How to choose

In Asian countries, longan can be found on the shelves of supermarkets and shops all year round. It is almost impossible to determine whether the fruit is ripe or not, so it’s worth taking a couple of berries for a sample. If they have a sour taste, the fruit is still "green": you can choose another batch or leave unripe fruits for 1-2 days in a warm place, and then eat them. It is worth paying attention to the peel. It should be even in color, free of stains, rot, cracks and damage.

When, how, how much

In its raw form, only the pulp of the longan is eaten. If there is no individual intolerance, you can eat it regularly, at any time of the day. The only caveat - you should not use more than 150-200 grams at a time. The fact is that longan contains a large amount of vitamin C - 84 mg, with daily rate for an adult 75-90 mg. This vitamin is extremely beneficial for the immune system, but an overdose of it can cause serious consequences, from vomiting and diarrhea to damage to vital white blood cells.
The skin of the fruit is dense and tough, but it will not be difficult to peel it. The easiest way is to squeeze the fruit with two fingers and press hard, after which the skin will crack and come off easily. The second option is to make a thin cut a couple of millimeters deep along the entire fruit, and then remove the peel. The pulp is easily separated from the stone: by hand or in the process of biting.

cultivation

Longan can be easily grown at home: in an apartment, greenhouse or winter garden. To do this, the bone of the freshly peeled fruit is washed and placed in moist soil, after which the container is placed on the battery. After 10-15 days, a sprout will hatch, then it, together with the earth, should be transplanted into a large pot with earth sprinkled with river sand or pebbles.
Longan will grow without shoots, with an even straight stem, until it reaches a height of 15-20 cm. After that, growth will slow down: do not worry, you must continue to water the plant in a timely manner and keep it in a warm sunny place. To wait for the fruits, you will have to be patient: the first ovaries appear no earlier than 4-5 years after planting.

Application

In fresh form, longan fruits are used in cooking, canned or frozen, liquors are made from them or dried, as in the production of dried fruits. The wood is used to make furniture.
For medicinal purposes, flowers and leaves of the tree are used: they contain the natural flavonoid quercetin. It has an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effect, normalizes the state of blood vessels, improves immunity. Because of this, fresh or dried longan leaves are added to teas, decoctions and infusions are made based on them.
Of particular value are seeds that are poisonous when consumed, but useful in other situations. So, from ancient times they were applied to the places of snake bites, since they tend to disinfect the wound and draw out the poison. This can save the victim in the first minutes before the provision of qualified assistance.
Stone pomace is also used in the beauty industry. Due to the abundance of fats and tanning elements, they are used for the manufacture of antiperspirants, as a substance that reduces the secretion of sweat glands. The sapotin contained in the seeds improves the health and appearance of the hair, which is why it is often used in the production of balms and shampoos.
Longan pulp is used in home cosmetology, as it perfectly moisturizes and nourishes the skin, fights imperfections, relieves irritation and flaking. With prolonged use of a fruit puree mask, a lifting effect and an increase in skin elasticity are noticeable.

Recipes

Traditionally, this sweet fruit is used in desserts and drinks: added to cocktails, ice cream, mousses, cakes. In Asia, soup made from coconut milk and longan or sweet rice porridge with the addition of this fruit is popular. It is worth noting the traditional refreshing drink, which has a tonic and refreshing effect. For its preparation, pitted pulp is boiled in sugar syrup and poured with water.

An interesting way of drying longan. To do this, the pulp is first boiled in syrup, and then placed in the sun, in a dryer or oven for several hours. The result is more high-calorie - about 250 kcal, but even sweeter dried fruits that taste like raisins. They are often added to salads or used as a seasoning for rice, fish or meat dishes.

Exotic longan is a traditional Asian delicacy that is rarely found in ordinary supermarkets. However, its great taste and abundance of nutrients make the fruit a welcome guest in the diet of every person, regardless of the time of year.

Video

Outwardly, longan is very similar, with the difference that its peel is not bright red with pronounced tubercles, but buffy-yellow (sometimes orange), slightly rough, covered with brownish spots. A large purple-black bone shines through the transparent, jelly-like pulp of the fruit. In China, longan is called "Lunyan" (longyan), which means "Dragon's Eye".

In our supermarkets, a healthy exotic fruit is almost never found, but tourists who have visited Thailand are unlikely to have ignored it. If possible, longan should be brought as an edible "souvenir" - its taste cannot but be liked.

And now let's get to know the popular Asian "guest" closer.

Where and how does it grow

The evergreen tree Dimocarpus longan is native to the mountain range on the border between Myanmar and southern China.

For the first time, longan, along with lychee, is mentioned in an ancient legend about the Chinese emperor of the Han Dynasty, who ruled in 200 BC. e. According to sources, the monarch dreamed of planting these fruit trees in the northwestern province of Shenxing, where at that time the capital of the state was located. However, the local climate turned out to be unsuitable for subtropical plants accustomed to the mild conditions of the Fujian and Guangdong regions.

In the mid-1800s, longan was introduced to Australia, and a few decades later to Thailand. Chinese diplomats presented as a gift to the wife of the then ruler of the kingdom - Chulalongkorn, only five seedlings, which gave rise to grandiose plantations throughout the country.

Today Thailand is the second largest producer and exporter of longan., also known locally as Lam Yai. However, only in this country, due to the variety of climate, the fruit can ripen all year round.


In addition to Thailand and China, the islands of Taiwan and Sri Lanka, Malaysia, Indonesia, Cambodia, Vietnam, Laos, India, the Philippines, Australia, the USA and Mauritius are engaged in the cultivation of the "dragon's eye" on an industrial scale.

Botanical description

Dimocarpus longan is a low, usually 9 - 12 m no more, tree with a spreading crown. Sometimes, if the soil and climatic conditions are especially favorable, it can reach 30 m.

The leaves are large lanceolate, 10–20 cm long, with a dark green glossy coating, collected 6–9 pieces on one handle, like an ash tree. The flowers are small, light yellow, grouped like "panicles". The fruits, about 2.5 cm in diameter, form clusters so heavy that the branches droop under their weight. The harvest from one tree is up to 200 kg.

The fruits are harvested by hand, cutting them along with the branch. With this method, the fruit is stored much longer.

At the time of harvesting, longan should be slightly unripe, otherwise there will be difficulties in transporting it. Before getting to our table, the fruits should be aged a little so that they become as tasty and soft as possible.

Wild longan is under threat today due to massive deforestation. In the International Red Book, it is listed as a species in a vulnerable position.

What does it taste like and how to eat it

"Dragon's eye" not only externally, but also. However, it is more sweet, sugary, with a pronounced musky aroma. According to some, the taste of longan is a cross between grapes and melons. Although, like every exotic fruit, it is difficult to describe.

It is believed that the most the best varieties today grown in Thailand and Vietnam.

Longan is consumed mainly fresh. Only the pulp is edible, but the peel and seeds are used for medicinal purposes.

In Asia, where longan comes from, it is served as a dessert on its own, as an ice cream topping and part of a complex sweet and sour side dish for fish and meat. Dried fruit is often included in hot Chinese soups, sauces or snacks. Oriental medicine claims that it has a pronounced sedative effect.

For export, in addition to fresh longan, canned is supplied - in sugar syrup or without it.

In Vietnam, Indonesia and China, liqueurs and soft drinks are made from this tropical fruit.

How to choose a ripe longan

1. Usually in Thai markets you can see bundled branches with bunches of fruit, and you need to buy them in the first place. The longan left without a stalk deteriorates very quickly.
2. The peel of the fruit should be elastic, without dents, cracks, dark spots and other damage.
3. The degree of ripeness of a longan is determined only by taste, so it is better to ask the seller to try one copy. A slight sourness indicates that the fruit is not ripe. It is better to look for another bunch, or, if the purchase has already been made, let the fruits lie in a warm, dark place for 2 to 3 days.
4. Too soft to the touch longan, most likely overripe.
5. In season: from June to August, "dragon's eye" is sold at the lowest prices. Then the fruits get a little more expensive, but still quite affordable for the average buyer.

How to store

Like other tropical fruits, longan spoils quickly at home. At room temperature, it can lie no more than 3 days, and in the refrigerator, in a plastic bag - up to a week.

If you want to significantly extend the shelf life of the product, it should be frozen.

While in Thailand or other Asian countries, it is difficult to resist the temptation to bring local tropical fruits to family and friends. Longan, unlike durian or Vietnamese coconuts, just refers to those fruits that you can and even need to take with you.

What to take into account:

• The fruits must be slightly immature to withstand the long flight. It is best to contact the seller in the market with a request to pick up fruits of the desired condition - he will definitely help.
• It is better to pack longan in a special plastic container or a cardboard box, and not just carry it in a plastic bag. It is advisable to additionally wrap the bunch in paper or foil. From above, the packaging is wrapped with several layers of an opaque film, which is well fixed with adhesive tape.
• If fruits are bought almost before departure, you can take them already immediately put in baskets, a similar service is offered to tourists everywhere.

How to clean

The dense skin of the fruit is inedible, but it is easy to remove. To do this, you need to tear off the longan from the branch and squeeze it with two fingers at the stem. With proper ripeness, the peel will burst and be removed in two halves.

Another option is to make an incision in the peel with nail scissors or a knife, and then peel it off, much like an egg shell.

Those who try an exotic oriental fruit for the first time often ask if it is possible to eat a longan bone? Probably, there is a fear of accidentally swallowing it, since the fruit is small. We urge everyone to be careful! The "dragon's eye" bone is considered as unfit for food as that of the lychee.

calories

Longan can be safely included in your menu for those who are struggling with excess weight or just watching their figure, since it is 82% water. There are only 60 kcal in 100 g of fruit. At the same time, the product saturates the body with carbohydrates and allows you not to feel hunger for a long time.

But dried fruits are better to eat in limited quantities, since their calorie content is much higher - 286 kcal / 100g.

Useful video

A very short video from which you will learn how longan is sold, how it can be cleaned, what is inside, and what it tastes like.

Health benefits and harms

A small-sized fruit has a unique vitamin and mineral composition. In particular, he is rich in:

• iron
• copper
• potassium
• magnesium
• phosphorus
• zinc.

It also contains:

• B vitamins and ascorbic acid;
• alimentary fiber;
• flavonoids;
• phenolic acids.

Attention!

For medicinal purposes, it is better to use dried fruits, since all the useful substances in them (except vitamin C) are in a concentrated form.

Beneficial features

1. Longan contains more vitamin C than fresh oranges. By eating 100 g of popular citrus fruits, we will replenish the daily supply of ascorbic acid by 88%, and by 140% if we use an Asian fruit. It is not surprising that the "dragon's eye" recommends as an excellent tool for improving immunity, fighting colds and inflammatory processes. In Eastern medicine, longan is considered an effective antipyretic, it is used in the fight against scurvy.
2. Regular consumption of fruit improves the functioning of the cardiovascular system, eliminates arrhythmias, and reduces the risk of stroke and heart attack.
3. Due to the high content of iron - it is 20 times more in longan than in grapes and 15 times more than in spinach, the fruit is recommended to be included in the diet for anemia and related symptoms: weakness, pale skin, increased fatigue, dizziness, tachycardia.
4. The fruit, rich in antioxidants, has a rejuvenating effect on the body, stimulates metabolic and regenerating processes, tones, and gives strength.
5. It is considered effective in the fight against tumors, including malignant ones.
6. According to research by Western scientists, the "dragon's eye" has a positive effect on brain function and can be used to prevent or treat neurodegenerative diseases of the nervous system, including Parkinson's syndrome. In addition, it normalizes sleep, protects against stress and depression.
7. Chinese doctors use longan for malfunctions of the gastrointestinal tract.

Tourists visiting Asian countries, where the climate and food are completely different, can eat the "dragon's eye" to reduce the load on the stomach and help it better digest unfamiliar food. Adaptation will be faster. A single serving should consist of 7 - 10 fruits, no more.

Not only the pulp of longan is useful. The leaves and flowers of the plant contain a large amount of flavonols quercetin and quercetin, which have a pronounced antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral effect. They are often included in medicinal teas and decoctions.

Longan bone in Vietnam is traditionally applied to the site of a snake bite, believing that it helps to neutralize the poison. Like it or not, it is not known, but another property of the seed is beyond doubt: when crushed, it is an excellent anthelmintic.

Contraindications

1. Due to its high sugar content, longan should be consumed in limited amounts in type 1 and type 2 diabetics.
2. The fruit can cause allergic reactions, children under 3 years old should not be given it.
3. Overeating can cause indigestion.

Longan ("dragon eye") is one of the most useful and delicious exotic fruits. If possible, you should try it on your travels. And be sure to bring it with you.

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Longan, also known as "dragon's eye", is a small, sweet fruit of the evergreen longan tree. These exotic fruits are called the little brothers of the lychee fruit. The color of the skin of the fruit varies from brown to orange, the flesh inside the fruit is pinkish. Longan tastes sweet with a hint of musk, very similar to lychee. Longan grows in clusters on evergreen trees, the height of which can reach 20 meters. China is considered the birthplace of longan, from where it spread throughout the world and is now grown in Thailand, India and other Asian countries. The trees bear fruit in the summer season, but dried fruits (no less tasty than fresh ones) are available all year round.

In this article, we will share with you information about the health benefits and harms of longan fruit - about the ten most beneficial properties of longan for our health and the existing contraindications to its use.

Longan - composition, nutritional value, calories, BJU

Longan fruits contain almost 80% daily requirement a person in vitamin C. Longan also contains a large amount of useful minerals such as: iron, phosphorus, magnesium, potassium. In more detail, you can familiarize yourself with the nutritional value of the fruit and the composition in the table below.

The name of indicators	Unit ism	in 100 g fruit	in 1 fruit (3.2 g)
Water	G	82.75	2.65
calories	kcal	60	2
Protein	G	1.31	0.04
Fats	G	0.10	-
Carbohydrates	G	15.14	0.48
Cellulose	G	1.1	-
Minerals
Calcium, Ca	mg	1	-
Iron, Fe	mg	0.13	-
Magnesium, Mg	mg	10	-
Phosphorus, R	mg	21	1
Potassium, K	mg	266	9
Zinc, Zn	mg	0.05	-
Vitamin C	mg	84.0	2.7
Thiamine	mg	0.031	0.001
Riboflavin	mg	0.140	0.004
Niacin	mg	0.300	0.010
Lipids
Cholesterol	mg	-	-

Now that you know more about nutritional value longan, let's look at its beneficial properties for human health.

Longan fruits are widely known for their beneficial and healing properties in many diseases, which are much more than one might imagine.

1. Treats diseases of the nervous system

   This fruit does wonders for nervous diseases Therefore, doctors often recommend taking it to people suffering from nervous disorders as an antidepressant. Useful material as part of longan, they relax, soothe and reduce human fatigue. Longan is also recommended for neuroses and insomnia.

2. Improves cell regeneration

   The fruits of Thai longan promote wound healing and even increase life expectancy. This is due to polyphenols, which help fight free radicals and prevent cell damage. Longan also helps reduce the risk of developing certain types of cancer.

3. Prevents iron deficiency anemia

   Longan improves blood circulation and, due to the high content of iron in the fruit pulp, prevents the occurrence of iron deficiency anemia.

4. Tones and energizes

   This is one of the most useful properties of the Dragon Eye. It is an excellent tonic, fills the body with vitality and energy for a long time. Longan fruit can be used to relieve insomnia and anxiety that result from lack of vital energy.

5. Useful properties of longan for weight loss

   The fruit of this Thai fruit can be consumed with low calorie diet, as it contains a small amount of fats and carbohydrates. This is an option healthy snack for those who want to lose weight. The carbohydrates found in longan are complex, they increase energy, stamina and reduce food cravings.

6. Rich in Vitamin C

   Longan contains a large amount of vitamin C, which fights colds and flu, and also improves the body's immunity. In addition, vitamin C helps absorb iron and improves skin condition.

7. Reduces stress and anxiety

   Longan reduces stress and fatigue of the body. It effectively stimulates the spleen and heart, normalizes blood circulation and has a calming effect on the nervous system. Due to this, longan reduces the risk of heart attacks and strokes.

8. Longan is good for skin and hair health

   Longan is good for the health and beauty of the skin. Its pulp has a rejuvenating effect, reduces peeling and dryness of the skin, improves its elasticity. Longan also keeps teeth and gums healthy.

   Longan seeds also contain saponin, which is very beneficial for hair and can be used as an additive in shampoo or hair conditioner.

9. Reduces sweating

   Longan is used to combat excessive sweating. The crushed seeds of this tropical fruit, containing saponin, tannins and fats, are used in cosmetology to reduce the secretion of sweat glands.

10. Treats snake bites

    The benefits of longan seeds in the treatment of snake bites have been proven. In case of an accident, the seeds should be applied to the bite site as soon as possible, they will draw out the snake venom from the skin and heal the bite.

How to clean and eat longan

In this short video you will learn how to use longan correctly.

Longan - harm and contraindications

Contraindications to the use of this exotic fruit have not yet been identified. But individual intolerance and allergic reactions are not excluded. Start using small doses and analyze the reaction of your body. It is also worth paying special attention to the ripeness of the fruit, its freshness and the trustworthiness of the seller.

We hope you enjoyed this article on the benefits of longan. Are you ready to try this amazing fruit? Tell us about your experience or ask your questions in the comments below.