What is loquat?

Although native to China, this delicate fruit is often called the Japanese plum since that island nation began its cultivation nine centuries ago. A member of the pome family, the loquat is related to apples, pears and quinces. Its pleasing flavor combines apricot, cherry and plum.

What does it do?

This tiny two-inch long fruit boasts a nutritional resume that includes a substantial quantity of vitamins A and C, plus minerals like calcium, potassium, phosphorus and even iron. The fresh fruit has a calming, almost sedative effect. Loquats are also reported to stop uncontrollable vomiting or a manic thirst. The Chinese used this divinely delicious fruit in herbal remedies for coughs and for asthma.

About the herb

Reaching skyward up to 35 feet when mature, the soft-wooded loquat tree actually self-prunes itself to lower heights after bearing the weight of huge fruit crops. Fuzzy hairs the kind that appear on peaches cover the fruit, which contains two or three large seeds. The skin and the fruit meat within display an inviting bright yellow color.

Recommended dosage

Add strength to your eyes the flavorful way by snacking on the fruit of the loquat tree several times each week. Its yellow-orange color reveals the presence of beta carotene, the precursor of vitamin A that is manufactured in our body from plant sources.

The opinions expressed are solely the writer's. NOTE: Visit herbalastrology.com to read Ted PanDeva Zagar's other articles and columns that discuss the benefits of herbs and natural foods.

DISCLAIMER: The author's comments are not intended to serve as medical advice, and he urges his readers to seek qualified wellness professionals to resolve matters of health. Direct your wellness questions with exact time, date and place of birth to Ted PanDeva Zagar at PanDeva@aol.com.