Health & Life

The Ultimate Superfood: Discover the Dried Fruit That’s a Natural ‘Longevity Elixir’

Did you know that a humble dried fruit holds the secret to longevity, lowering blood sugar, and nurturing the liver and gut?

Administrator

15 July, 2024

The Mộc Qua is an extraordinary perennial plant, predominantly found in China and cultivated for its medicinal fruits. In Vietnam, this remarkable plant can be discovered in the provinces bordering Guangdong, China.

The fruits of the Mộc Qua tree are elongated in shape, ranging in size from 10 to 15 cm. Within each fruit lies a hard seed, surrounded by spongy, yellow-brown flesh that emits a distinctive aroma. Unlike most fruits, the Mộc Qua fruit cannot be consumed raw and must be cooked or transformed into jams to be edible. Post-harvest, the fruits are typically sun-dried and then crafted into various medicinal preparations, tailored to specific purposes.

The elongated shape of the Mộc Qua fruit, measuring between 10 and 15 cm in length.

Scientific research has unveiled a treasure trove of beneficial chemical compounds within the Mộc Qua fruit, including glucose, sorbitol, fructose, sucrose, and acids such as quinic, glutamic, citric, malic, and phosphoric acids. Here are some of the most notable health benefits associated with this extraordinary fruit:

Blood Sugar Control

The Mộc Qua fruit is renowned for its natural and effective blood sugar-lowering properties. Studies have revealed the presence of flavonoid and polysaccharide compounds within the fruit, which inhibit the α-glucosidase enzyme, thereby helping to safely manage blood glucose levels. Additionally, the presence of fructose in the Mộc Qua fruit offers a natural alternative to glucose, as it increases blood sugar levels at a slower pace, making it an excellent choice for diabetics.

Cancer Prevention

The Mộc Qua fruit shines as a powerful cancer-fighting agent, rich in vitamin C, which stimulates the immune system and enhances the activity of white blood cells, fortifying the body’s defenses against viruses and bacteria. Furthermore, the fruit’s phenolic compounds effectively neutralize free radicals, contributing to the destruction and inhibition of cancerous cell growth.

Rich in Vitamin C, the Mộc Qua fruit is an exceptional ally in the fight against cancer.

Cardiovascular Health

Scientific studies have uncovered a wealth of zinc and iron in the Mộc Qua fruit—essential minerals that boost the production of red blood cells, preventing anemia and maintaining stable energy levels. Notably, the fruit’s abundant potassium content plays a pivotal role in regulating blood pressure and enhancing blood circulation.

Regular consumption of Mộc Qua fruit contributes to robust cardiovascular health, reducing the risks associated with atherosclerosis, heart attacks, and strokes.

Digestive Support

In traditional medicine, the Mộc Qua fruit has long been revered as a precious remedy for digestive issues. According to experts, extracts from the fruit protect intestinal tissue and combat inflammation caused by inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), such as ulcerative colitis.

The presence of tartaric acid in the Mộc Qua fruit enhances fiber absorption, promoting a healthy digestive system. Other organic acids, including betulinic, oleanolic, and ursolic acids, exhibit strong antibacterial properties and effective pain-relieving qualities, making them valuable allies in the treatment of diarrhea.

Furthermore, the fruit’s high folate content helps manage nausea. Incorporating Mộc Qua into your daily diet ensures your family’s digestive health remains in optimal condition.

Traditional medicine recognizes the Mộc Qua fruit as a valuable aid for digestive issues.

Vision Enhancement

The Mộc Qua fruit is a rich source of flavonoids and plant nutrients, known to combat free radicals that can damage the eyes and retina. Regular consumption of this fruit can support the treatment of night blindness.

Liver Health

The Mộc Qua fruit also bestows benefits upon the liver, thanks to its content of oleanolic acid, a triterpenoid acid with potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. This acid not only safeguards the liver but also supports its function and impedes the progression of hepatitis B virus infections.

In one notable study, a 70% alcohol extract of Mộc Qua fruit provided significant protection to rats suffering from chronic liver necrosis induced by CCl4 injections. Furthermore, when incorporated into a high-fat diet, Mộc Qua fruit helped prevent non-alcoholic fatty liver disease by regulating the expression of receptors and reducing the release of inflammatory cytokines.

Frequently asked questions

The dried fruit known as ‘wolfberries’ or Goji berries is a powerful natural elixir that has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries. These berries are packed with nutrients and antioxidants, offering a range of health benefits.

You can typically find them in Asian markets, specialty health food stores, and online retailers that focus on natural or organic products.

Wolfberries are rich in vitamins, especially vitamin A and C, and essential minerals like iron and zinc. They also contain all eight essential amino acids, making them a complete protein source. Regular consumption of these berries can boost your immune system, improve eye health, lower blood sugar, and even promote a healthy complexion.

You can eat them straight out of the bag as a snack, or you can get creative and add them to your morning oatmeal, yogurt, smoothies, or even salad toppings. Soaking them in liquid, such as water or juice, is also a great way to rehydrate the berries and use them in various recipes.

While generally safe, some people may experience allergies or sensitivity to wolfberries. If you are taking medications or have specific health conditions, it is always advisable to consult your healthcare provider before incorporating any new food item into your diet.