Yuzu is a hybrid citrus fruit that is mainly cultivated in Japan, Korea, and China. It looks much like lemon and changes its color from green to yellow when it becomes ripe. But what is yuzu fruit? Yuzu is popularly used in Japanese and Korean cuisine. The origin of the fruit is highly debated but is from the Rutaceae family. Yuzu is popularly called “Yuja” in Korean cuisine. Yuzu is more aromatic and sour than other citrus fruits. Now you might have known about what yuzu fruit is. Now get to know about the surprising benefits of yuzu fruit.
Benefits and Uses of Yuzu Fruit
There are many unbelievable health benefits of Yuzu.
Nutritious
Yuzu fruits are highly nutritious and low in calories. One Yuzu fruit contains the following-
Calories- 20
Fiber- 2 grams
Fat – 0 grams
Carbohydrates- 7 grams
Protein- 1 grams
Sugar- 1 grams
Apart from the above-mentioned, yuzu is also rich in magnesium, manganese, vitamin c, carotenoids, flavonoids, and limonoids.
Fights Against Cancer
Yuzu is packed with many anticancer properties. The carotenoid compounds, vitamin C, and limonoids prevent the risk of various types of cancer, including breast, colon, and prostate cancers. In a test tube and animal studies, scientists found that yuzu peel suppresses the growth of cancer.
Improves Brain Health
Yuzu keeps free radicals from damaging the brain by fighting against bad proteins. Daily consumption of yuzu cognitive decline and cognitive dysfunction. In a study, a rat with induced memory loss was found to have improved memory and reduced oxidation after injecting naringenin from the yuzu.
Fragrance
The fragrance of yuzu is said to be the best stress reliever and is somewhat similar to the lavender fragrance. Research says yuzu fragrance may decrease anxiety, stress, other tensions and elevate mood instantly. Compounds like limonene and linalool are responsible for the soothing effect.
Used in Cosmetics
Yuzu contains p-methoxy cinnamic acid, an ingredient that keeps skin infections at bay. Yuzu extracts are best known for boosting the production of collagen, and apart from Japanese beauty brands, many popular skincare products contain yuzu extract. It also has antimicrobial properties that fight against various skin infections.
Eye Health
The nutrients and vitamin C present in yuzu slow down age-related macular degeneration or AMD, the common cause of vision loss. Instead of taking supplements, you can have nutritious fruits like yuzu.
Reduces Inflammation
Yuzu peel contains limonene, a powerful antioxidant that neutralizes free radical inflammation, stops blood clotting, and promotes better health. A test-tube study found that the flavored compound in the skin of yuzu is used to treat asthma.
