Medlar – sources, health benefits, nutrients, uses and constituents at NaturalPedia.com

07/29/2017 / By Earl Garcia

Medlars are the reddish brown edible fruits of the same ornamental plant that belongs to the rose family. The fruits are native to southwest Asia and southeastern Europe, ranging from northern Turkey and Caucasus to the Trans-caucasus region and northeastern Iran. Medlars have been cultivated in the Caspian Sea region of northern Iran for 3,000 years. An entry posted on the Healthy and Natural Life website notes that the fruit’s high nutrient content makes for an ideal food fare against a host of diseases.

List of known nutrients

Medlars are packed with important nutrients that the body needs for proper function and disease prevention. Below is a list of the essential vitamins and minerals found in medlars.

Beta-carotene
Calcium
Copper
Iron
Manganese
Monounsaturated fats
Niacin
Pectin
Polyunsaturated fats
Potassium
Riboflavin
Sodium
Vitamin A
Vitamin B1
Vitamin B2
Vitamin C

Medicinal uses for medlar

Medlars are notably high in vitamin C that fortifies the immune system and prevents the onset of scurvy and bleeding. Likewise, the fruits are an excellent source of potent antioxidants that protect cells from the harmful effects of free radicals. Unripe medlars are also known to contain astringent properties that help address various skin injuries.

The fruits are also touted for their beneficial effects on the digestive system. Medlars are packed with dietary fibers that facilitate digestion and bowel movement. The superfood is especially helpful in alleviating constipation, bloating, and other digestive issues. Aside from this, the high fiber content in medlars are shown to regulate the body’s blood cholesterol levels. Likewise, the superfood is remarkably effective in detoxifying the liver and the kidneys.

In addition, medlars are found to support both the male and female reproductive systems. The fruits are found to regulate menstrual cycle in women and get rid of pains and nausea before the monthly cycle set in. Additionally, medlars are especially helpful in boosting fertility and preventing prostate cancer onset in men.

Medlars have an ample iron supply that stimulates red blood cell production and promotes the overall blood circulation in the body. Because of its high iron content, medlars are noted for their efficacy in treating more serious conditions such as renal failure anemia and chronic ailments of the intestines and the excretory system.

The plant’s abundant iron supply is also found to ward off fatigue and improve the elasticity and tone of muscles. Likewise, the superfood is known to address restless leg syndrome. The superfood is also helpful in regulating the body’s temperature.

Medlars are touted for their positive impact on the nervous system. The fruit is known to boost cognitive health and lower the odds of developing Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. The superfood is shown to improve blood flow to the brain, thus enhancing the body’s cognitive performance.

Body systems supported by medlar

The high vitamin content in medlars are particularly beneficial to the immune, circulatory,muscular, nervous, and digestive systems. The superfood’s detoxifying properties also support the urinary and excretory systems. Moreover, medlars are beneficial to both the male and female reproductive systems.

Ways to use medlar

Medlars are characterized by their tarty flavor, and so they cannot be eaten raw like other table fruits. However, medlars can be processed into preserves, jellies, and desserts. The fruits are commonly eaten with cheese. Aside from this, medlars are used as a flavoring agent in making fruit wines. On the other hand, unripe medlars can be pickled or made into tea. An article posted in BBC.co.uk features an interesting dessert recipe for medlars.