Words on Wellness • "Buddha's Hand"
by Karin Uphoff
Many holiday traditions across the northern hemisphere include oranges or tangerines as table décor, in favorite recipes or in the Christmas stocking. The primary species and root ancestor of the citrus fruits we know today is citron (Citrus medica), also called ‘Buddha’s hand’ and food in traditional medicine formulas. The citrus family of fruits is native to the warmer and more humid parts of Asia. The current theory is that six million years ago, one parent of all citrus varieties splintered into separate species, and three citrus fruits spread widely: the citron, the pomelo, and the mandarin. Later oranges, lemons and pomelos were introduced to the west from Asia and became a treasured commodity around the world. Grapefruits are the only citrus fruit that originated in the Americas from an accidental cross between pomelo and sweet orange (a hybrid of pomelo and mandarin), that occurred in Barbados in the 1600’s. Citrus hybridizes so easily that there are undoubtedly thousands of separate varieties of citrus in the wild and in cultivation. Citrus adds the perfect zest to nearly every meal, but it’s more than a pretty face with culinary aspirations - it is a powerful medicine for our continued health and well-being.
Most people know the story of penicillin growing on an orange – the gateway antibiotic of the twentieth century. There has been plenty of press about grapefruit juice reducing the efficacity of medications (because it helps clear the liver), but a daily dose of citrus is healthy for a few reasons. The juice is packed with vitamin C which protects our cells from damage and helps us absorb minerals like iron. Rutin (vitamin P), a powerful anti-inflammatory bioflavenoid that strengthens blood vessels, is found in the peel and thin white membrane that surrounds every slice. The peel of citrus has essential oils that combat intestinal parasites and provide immune protection. One of the oils, D-limonene, gives citrus its characteristic aroma and used clinically to dissolve gallstones and treat cancer. Lemons and limes have treated treat colds/flu, skin conditions, gout, scurvy, bladder infections and can improve gut bacteria. The soluble fiber in citrus fruits helps lower cholesterol and regulate glucose levels.
Winter is the season to enjoy these sunshine fruits available from lands south. Make your food good medicine by adding them liberally to your foods and beverages.
