Contents
Witch’s broom – citrus fruit, otherwise called sheddock. It is the largest fruit in the citrus family. It tastes more sweet than sour. Sometimes the fruit can taste bitter, but this can be avoided by removing the translucent shell from the slices. The pulp of fresh ripe fruit is always juicy. The top layer of this fruit is thick and soft and peels off easily. The flesh inside the fruit can be of different colors: from yellow to red.
The pomelo grows on trees in tropical climates. It began to be grown in China, and the pomelo is mentioned several times in Chinese history books. This citrus is mainly grown in Southeast Asia and China. However, citrus is widely available today in the United States and India. It appeared on the shelves of stores in our country relatively recently, but has already gained popularity.
General benefits
1. Prevents urinary tract infections.
Urinary tract infections are caused by bacteria that attack the urinary system. Vitamin C, found in pomelo, increases urinary acid levels and blocks the growth of bacteria in the urinary tract.
2. Heals the gums.
Bleeding and inflammation of the gums can be a sign of vitamin C deficiency. With regular use of pomelo, there will be no vitamin C deficiency, bleeding and inflammation of the gums will disappear. The pomelo helps to strengthen the gums.
3. Maintains heart health.
Pomelo is rich in potassium, which, like vitamin C, plays an important role in maintaining heart health. This essential mineral regulates blood pressure levels. The abundance of pectin in the pomelo helps to eliminate the accumulated deposits on the walls of the arteries. Pectin improves blood flow through the arteries and thus benefits people with hypertension. Pomelo also reduces the amount of “bad” cholesterol and promotes the production of good cholesterol.
4. Prevents anemia.
Research has shown that vitamin C speeds up the absorption of iron in the body. Iron deficiency often leads to anemia (anemia). A well-chosen diet rich in vitamin C helps fight iron deficiency and improves overall circulation.
5. Is the prevention of colds.
Drinking fresh pomelo or the juice of this fruit helps prevent the formation of toxins and free radicals in the body. Too many free radicals in the body can cause colds, flu, asthma, bacterial infections, allergies, and other illnesses. Vitamin C stimulates the action of antibodies and immune cells that protect the body from bacteria that cause colds and flu.
6. Helps fight cancer.
One of the discussed health benefits of pomelo is that it fights cancer. Pomelo peel is very rich in bioflavonoids that fight cancer and help reduce pancreatic and breast swelling and intestinal swelling. The substances contained in the skin of the fruit also prevent the development of cancer. Pomelo fiber prevents colon cancer.
7. Promotes weight loss.
Fiber is extremely beneficial for weight loss. Foods high in fiber stay in the stomach for a long time and reduce the onset of hunger attacks. It takes time to chew and absorb fiber. But this allows you to reduce the portion and prevent overeating.
This fruit also has the ability to burn fat by reducing the starch and sugar content in the body. However, pomelo should not be considered as the only product that will help you lose weight. Weight loss occurs due to a decrease in the daily amount of calories entering the body and physical activity.
8. Prevents osteoporosis.
Osteoporosis affects posture, body movements, and flexibility. This condition increases the risk of fractures. Treating fragile bones requires a proper diet rich in calcium and minerals. A balanced diet promotes bone regeneration.
The cellulose in pomelo strengthens bones and reduces the potential for fractures. Pomelo juice is known to be good for bones and reduce the risk of osteoporosis. When physical activity is included in the lifestyle, a sufficient amount of calcium and pomelo, the risk of osteoporosis is significantly reduced, the bones become healthy and strong.
9. Improves the work of the digestive tract.
The high level of vitamin C in pomelo keeps the arteries elastic and improves the functioning of the digestive system. Some foods are high in ascorbic acid, which, when broken down, causes an alkaline reaction. Pomelo is rich in fiber, which supports intestinal motility and prevents constipation.
10. Prevents muscle cramps.
Fluid deficiency, dehydration and lack of electrolytes (sodium, potassium and magnesium) in the body are the main causes of muscle cramps. Moderate consumption of pomelo juice saturates the body with electrolytes, which prevents muscle cramps.
11. Contains lemonids.
Pomelo pulp increases vitality, improves mood, and gives strength. Lemonides (special elements) normalize productivity, improve performance and concentration. In addition, the phosphorus contained in pomelo promotes active brain activity.
12. Heals respiratory diseases.
Experts have proven that the use of pomelo has a positive effect on the respiratory tract and lungs. It cleanses the respiratory system by removing accumulated deposits that make breathing difficult and cause various diseases.
13. Useful for diabetes.
In moderation, pomelo is indicated for people with diabetes. Eating this fruit regularly helps stabilize blood sugar. However, in this case, the main thing is not to overdo it, otherwise the effect may turn out to be the opposite.
14. Other benefits.
Citrus fruit is great at eliminating toxins during food poisoning. It helps to align the psycho-emotional state of a person, fights depression and stress. The pomelo contains the “happiness hormone” serotonin, which causes positive emotions. Even the aroma of the zest of the fruit can cheer you up.
Benefits for women
15. Useful for pregnant women.
Regular consumption of pomelo helps fight edema in pregnant women. Citrus contributes to the natural development of the fetus. Potassium, calcium and folic acid contained in pomelo ensure the proper development of the baby’s brain and skeletal system. Citrus fruit fights toxicosis, which is a frequent guest in early pregnancy.
16. Normalizes hormones.
Thanks to pomelo during menstruation and menopause, mood swings are softened, irritability and apathy disappear. Citrus fruit, by normalizing the balance of hormones, increases the chances of successful conception.
Skin Benefits
17. Promotes tissue regeneration.
Pomelo promotes faster healing of damaged tissues. It replaces dead tissue with healthy tissue. Vitamin C enzymes promote collagen production. Collagen is a protein that promotes healthy skin. It makes it elastic and accelerates tissue regeneration.
18. Fights the signs of aging.
Pomelo, like grapefruit, contains spermidine, which protects skin cells from the processes associated with aging and free radical damage. Citrus fights wrinkles, makes the skin youthful, light and soft. Pomelo not only removes free radicals that damage the skin, but also helps the body stimulate collagen production. Pomelo juice has anti-aging properties. A glass of pomelo juice a day will rejuvenate your skin and give it a healthy look.
19. Promotes deep hydration.
As a cosmetic product, pomelo is used to nourish and moisturize the skin. Thanks to this fruit, dry and flaky skin will receive proper hydration, itching and feeling of tightness will disappear.
20. Useful for oily skin.
Pomelo effectively fights oily skin. It removes the oily sheen, normalizes the sebaceous glands. With the systematic treatment of the skin with citrus pulp, the effect will not be long in coming. The skin will acquire an even tone, the oily sheen will disappear, the production of subcutaneous fat is normalized.
Hair Benefits
21. Makes hair strong and healthy.
The vitamins and microelements included in the composition – vitamins of group B, retinol, iron, sulfur, ascorbic acid – have a beneficial effect on the condition of the hair. They make hair strong and healthy, eliminate brittleness, and promote hair growth.
Benefits for men
22. Improves reproductive health.
Pomelo is classified as an aphrodisiac. The fruit improves male potency, restores reproductive capacity and enhances sperm production.
23. Relieves hangover symptoms.
Drinking a few slices of pomelo in the morning after drinking alcoholic beverages reduces the symptoms of alcohol intoxication. Citrus fruit refreshes and restores vitality to the body.
Harm and contraindications
1. Allergic reaction.
Like any citrus fruit, pomelo can cause allergies. If you are allergic to oranges, lemons, and other citrus fruits, stop eating pomelo. In addition, excessive consumption of the fruit can cause diarrhea and redness of the skin.
2. Prohibited for certain diseases.
Pomelo is not recommended for people with hepatitis, colitis, nephritis, stomach acidity, duodenal ulcer and stomach ulcer.
3. It is not recommended to use during lactation.
During breastfeeding, it is better to stop eating this fruit. It can cause an allergic reaction in the fragile body of a newborn. It is recommended to introduce citrus fruits to the mother’s diet no earlier than a year and a half after the birth of the baby.
Chemical composition of the product
Nutritional value of pomelo (100 g) and percentage of daily value:
- The nutritional value
- Vitamins
- Macronutrients
- Trace Elements
- calories 38 kcal – 2,67%;
- proteins 0,8 g – 0,98%;
- fats 0 g – 0%;
- carbohydrates 9,6 g – 7,5%;
- dietary fiber 1 g – 5%;
- water 89,1 g – 3,48%.
- S 61 mg – 67,8%;
- B1 0,034 mg – 2,3%;
- B2 0,027 mg – 1,5%;
- B6 0,036 mg – 1,8%;
- PP 0,22 mg – 1,1%.
- potassium 216 mg – 8,6%;
- calcium 4 mg – 0,4%;
- magnesium 6 mg – 1,5%;
- sodium 1 mg – 0,1%;
- phosphorus 17 mg – 2,1%.
- iron 0,11 mg – 0,6%;
- manganese 0,017 mg – 0,9%;
- copper 48 μg – 4,8%;
- zinc 0,08 mg – 0,7%.
conclusions
Pomelo, as you can see, is a very healthy food product. There is much more benefit from it than harm. If you are healthy, the fetus will not be dangerous. But if there are serious diseases, which were discussed above, you should either completely abandon citrus, or use it in moderation and only with the permission of the attending physician.
Useful Properties
- Prevents urinary tract infections.
- Keeps the gums healthy.
- Promotes heart health.
- Prevents anemia.
- Prevents colds.
- Helps Fight Cancer.
- Promotes weight loss.
- Prevents osteoporosis.
- Improves the digestive tract.
- Prevents muscle cramps.
- Contains lemonides.
- Heals diseases of the respiratory tract.
- It is useful in diabetes mellitus.
- Good for pregnant women.
- Normalizes hormonal levels.
- Promotes tissue regeneration.
- Fights the signs of aging.
- Deeply moisturizes the skin.
- Useful for oily skin.
- Leaves hair strong and healthy.
- Improves male reproductive health.
- Relieves hangover symptoms.
- Other benefits.
Harmful properties
- May cause an allergic reaction.
- Forbidden for certain diseases.
- Not recommended for use during lactation.
Additional useful information about pomelo
How to use
1. In cooking.
Pomelo can be used in the culinary world as the main and additional ingredient in all kinds of dishes. This fruit goes well with various components of salads, goes well with fish and meat dishes, is used for baking and desserts. Citrus zest is added to hot drinks.
Most often, the fruit is eaten raw, and this is the best way to use it.
2. In the form of juice.
Juicing pomelo fruit is easy. You can use a juicer for this. However, for a truly delicious pomelo drink, you can add a little water and two tablespoons of honey to the juice. Then stir the mixture thoroughly. When the liquid starts to bubble, pour it into a glass and enjoy the delicious juice. In particularly hot weather, ice cubes can be added to the juice.
3. Using the peel of the fruit.
Crafts are made from the pomelo peel in Europe. To improve the quality of sleep, you can fill a small container with fruit zest and place it on your bedside table. With the help of such a small addition, it will be much easier to wake up, you will meet a new day in a good mood. The pomelo peel can be dried and added to tea. In addition, an infusion can be made from it.
4. In cosmetology.
Pomelo-based cosmetics improve complexion, make the skin firmer and healthier. This citrus fruit can be used to prepare a tonic that will not only refresh the skin, but also eliminate the oily sheen. For oily skin, pure pomelo juice is used, for dry skin it is diluted with water in a 1: 1 ratio. Wipe your face with this tonic morning and evening.
An example of a nourishing pomelo mask
For a nourishing pomelo mask, add 100 tsp to the fruit pulp (1 g). honey and 1 tsp. lemon. This mask will restore the skin. It should be applied to the face before going to bed, except around the eyes and lips. Leave the mask on for 15 minutes, then rinse off with water. Pomelo peel is also used to strengthen nails. They rub the cuticle and the nail plate with it. The nails become strong and stop flaking. Repeat the rubbing procedure 1-2 times a week.
How to choose
- To select a quality fruit, hold it in your hand. It should be heavy enough, which indicates its ripeness and juiciness. A light fruit is evidence of the immaturity or spoilage of the fruit.
- A quality fruit should be fragrant.
- An unpleasant smell is an indicator that the fruit has deteriorated.
- An odorless pomelo can be an indicator of improper handling or storage of the fruit and the use of chemicals in the growing process.
- The peel should be slightly soft, light yellow in color, without green or red blotches.
- There should be no damage to the outer shell of the fruit.
- If the color of the peel is uneven, for example, with burgundy specks, this is clear evidence of the use of chemicals when growing the fruit.
- Green spots indicate immaturity of the fetus.
- If, when pressed, a dent forms in the place of the stalk, this means that the flesh has deteriorated.
- Too hard peel is evidence of the immaturity of the fruit.
- January, February and March are considered more successful months for buying a pomelo. It is at this time that fruits ripen.
How to store
- At room temperature, the pomelo can be stored for a month.
- The pomelo can be stored in the refrigerator for 2–4 months.
- The peeled pulp will remain in the refrigerator for 2-3 days.
- Fruit is contraindicated in sealed packaging.
- Make sure that the sun’s rays do not fall on the fruit, they will lead to its rapid drying.
- Do not store pomelo next to other fruits. They will accelerate its ripening, and the fruit may deteriorate ahead of time.
- To extend the shelf life of the fruit, cover the rind with a thin layer of vegetable oil or wrap it in paper.
- It is not recommended to freeze the fruit, as this can impair its taste and texture.
- If you have purchased multiple pomelo fruits, store them so that they do not come into contact with each other.
- Each fruit can be wrapped in paper.
- If one of the fruits begins to deteriorate, it should be eaten immediately or thrown away.
- For longer storage, the pomelo slices can be dried.
History of occurrence
The homeland of the pomelo is China. In this country, the fruit was known for a couple of hundred years BC. Also, pomelo fruits grew in Southeast Asia, Malaysia, on the islands of Fiji and Tonga. The fruit was brought to Europe in the XIV century by seafarers.
Pomelo is otherwise called sheddock, in honor of the English captain Sheddock. It was he who brought pomelo seeds to the West Indies from the Malay Archipelago. This happened in the XNUMXth century.
It is often said that the pomelo is a hybrid that was formed as a result of crossing other fruits. In fact, this is not the case. Pomelo is a full-fledged fruit, an independent type of citrus fruit. If we talk about hybrids, then we can mention that the pomelo, crossed with grapefruit, forms another interesting fruit called sweets. In our time, the pomelo has spread throughout the world. It can be found in Japan, Taiwan, Vietnam, Tahiti, California and Israel.
How and where is it grown
Pomelo – this is how the tree and its fruits are called. The fruit belongs to the citrus family and is the largest among all members of this family. Pomelo trees are tall and can reach 8-10 meters in height. It will take about 5 months for one fruit to ripen. Its dimensions can reach 30 cm in diameter, and weight -10 kg. The average weight of a pomelo is 1-3 kg. The pomelo tree bears fruit 2–4 times a year.
During the flowering of the tree, large white flowers appear. Growing fruits can be located in small clusters of 6-8 pieces close to each other. There are three types of pomelo:
- red – oval-shaped fruit with bitter red flesh;
- pink – juicy fruit with pink pulp. Has anthelmintic properties;
- white – citrus, shaped like a pear. The pulp of this fruit is white and sweet.
The fruit is not grown in Russia, but you can buy it in grocery stores. Currently, the pomelo is grown in China, Thailand, Japan, Taiwan, Vietnam, India, Tahiti, Israel, India and California (USA).
Interesting Facts
- In addition to the pulp of the pomelo in China, its flowers and unripe fruits are used.
- In China, newlyweds are given a pomelo. It is a symbol of procreation and healthy offspring.
- Also, this citrus is a welcome gift for any holiday, especially for the New Year. It symbolizes wealth, well-being, health and prosperity.
- The pomelo’s rind is so thick that it often makes up a third of the total weight of the fruit.
- Before our era, the pomelo was consumed only by the royal nobility.
- Pronounce the name of the fruit with an accent on the letter “e”.
- In China, the pomelo is as much an integral part of the New Year’s festive table as we have tangerines.