Longan, a fruit of the Longan tree that goes by the botanical name Dimocarpus longan is touted for its sweet and juicy flavour throughout the world. It is chiefly deemed as one of the better-known tropical members of the soapberry family Sapindaceae, to which fruits like lychee, ackee, salt lime, rambutan and guarana also belong. Longan fruit is much similar to lychee but less aromatic in taste. The fruit is often referred to as ‘dragon’s eye’ because of its appearance since the flesh of the fruit is pale white with a black seed right in the middle. The fruit usually tastes like a grape with a hint of musky flavour.

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The longan is a tropical tree that grows in clusters and may reach to a height of 100 ft. It has a corky bark with thick, long, drooping branches. The leaves are oblong with leaflets that have a wavy, dark, glossy-green upper surface. Flowers are brownish-yellow and fruits are circular hanging in drooping clusters. Fruits have a thin, tan, leathery peel with soft hairs, the flesh is translucent and juicy and the seed enclosed within is large and black. Longan is a tropical plant and thrives well in sandy soil. It is native to India and China, and is very popular in Vietnam, Thailand, and Taiwan as well. Apart from being used for its taste, the healing benefits of longan fruit helps it make its way in traditional Chinese medicine.

Longan Fruit Nutrition

The wealth of nutrients in this incredible fruit includes a good source of vitamin C, B-vitamins and other essential minerals like potassium, copper, zinc, magnesium, phosphorus, iron, calcium and manganese. It is low in calories and also has less carbs making it an appropriate choice for people following a ketogenic diet. This juicy fruit also boasts certain antioxidant polyphenols like gallic acid, corilagin, and ellagic acid that are extremely beneficial for increasing the overall wellness of the body. Additionally, imbued with potent anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antiviral and antibacterial properties, longan fruit is used for treating and managing anemia, iron deficiency, skin issues, stress, insomnia, high blood pressure, obesity, chronic diseases and very well helps in boosting immunity, speeding up healing process, aiding digestion and improving memory capacity. 

Outstanding Health Benefits Of Longan Fruit

Augments Skin Health

The abundance of antioxidants and Vitamin C in this succulent fruit is extremely effective in removing harmful free radicals from the body and owing to its collagen synthesis action, it facilitates regeneration and keeps the skin firm and healthy. Apart from this, the antioxidative nature prevents the skin from ultraviolet radiation and also gradually reverses the various signs of aging like wrinkles, fine lines, dark spots, blemishes, pigmentation etc., thus bestowing a crystal-clear complexion.

Enhances Sleep Quality

Be it an upcoming deadline at your workplace or some kind of stress in your life, sleeplessness or insomnia is common in quite a few individuals in today’s sedentary, fast-paced lifestyle. Loss of sleep can be extremely debilitating and can lead to exhaustion, lethargy and can also disturb your physical and emotional being. The anxiolytic activity of the fruit extract helps to reduce the levels of cortisol which is a stress hormone and thereby attenuates stress and improves the quality, duration and provides peaceful sound sleep. The flesh of the fruit and tissues in its seeds are often used in Chinese herbal tonics to enhance calmness and induce deep, rejuvenating sleep.

Diminishes Anxiety

Owing to the natural stress-boosting properties, the fruit extract is extremely helpful in clearing brain toxins and improves cognitive abilities like memory, concentration etc. It also regulates the serotonin hormone and helps to reduce the various symptoms of anxiety which include restlessness, uneasiness, cold hands, and feet, etc.  It is also beneficial in subduing pain due to headaches.

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Boosts Immunity

Thanks to the array of antioxidants, Longan fruit offers several folk remedies for improving the immune system, fighting microbes and shielding the body against various infections by stimulating the body’s defense mechanism to produce white blood cells. It also portrays the presence of strong anti-microbial properties, which is extremely effective in preventing infections like fever, common cold, sore throat, and other respiratory anomalies.

Enhances Weight Loss

Being low on calories, the addition of this herb to your daily diet plays a key role in reducing obesity. It effectively detoxifies the body by removing harmful toxins and being nutrient-dense, it reduces sudden hunger pangs and a craving for unhealthy dietary choices. A handful of longan fruits not only energizes the body and promotes longevity but also helps in shedding excess weight.

Regulates Blood Pressure

Thanks to the abundance of potassium in longan effectively helps to regulate blood pressure. Potassium is an extremely vital mineral that helps the body in controlling blood pressure effectively as it facilitates to balance out the negative effects of salt. Additionally, it helps to stimulate the functioning of muscles and nerves, dilate and relax the blood vessels, promote blood circulation thereby helping the body to maintain normal blood pressure readings. It also beneficial for the heart and helps in reducing the risk of atherosclerosis.

Promotes Digestion

Sanctified with excellent carminative and digestive qualities, Longan offers an absolute solution for all digestive woes. The anti-flatulent property alleviates the formation of gas in the alimentary canal, thus diminishing flatulence, bloating, constipation, and abdominal distension. The antacid quality of the plant prevents the formation of excessive acids in the stomach thereby treating indigestion, ulcer, gastritis and promoting better absorption of nutrients in the body.

Improves Vision

Longan is rich in B vitamins, especially B6, B12, and folic acid which is extremely beneficial for promoting eye health and clarifying the vision. It also diminishes gradually diminishes the chances of age-related macular degeneration and prevents glaucoma, night blindness and also other eye infections.

Conclusion

Laden with essential vitamins and minerals, this succulent fruit is not only delicious but also showcases a wealth of pharmacological properties making it extremely beneficial for treating a host of ailments including skin issues, insomnia, stress, infections, hypertension, obesity, indigestion etc.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Does Longan Fruit Contribute To Overall Health?

Longan fruit is known for its potential to boost the immune system, improve skin health due to its antioxidant properties, aid in digestion, and provide a natural energy boost.

Can Longan Fruit Help In Managing Stress?

Yes, Longan fruit is believed to have stress-relieving properties due to its natural compounds that can promote relaxation and reduce anxiety, contributing to overall mental well-being.

Is Longan Fruit Beneficial For Improving Sleep Quality?

Some individuals claim that Longan fruit may help improve sleep quality due to its naturally occurring compounds that can have a calming effect on the body and mind.

How Can Longan Fruit Support Eye Health?

Longan fruit contains antioxidants like Vitamin C that are beneficial for eye health. It may contribute to reducing the risk of age-related eye issues due to its antioxidant content.

Can Longan Fruit Be Beneficial For The Skin?

Yes, the antioxidants found in Longan fruit may contribute to healthier skin by combating free radicals, potentially reducing signs of aging and promoting a more radiant complexion.