Not everyone has heard about Chinese lemon. It is a pity, because it supports immunity and soothes the effects of stress, which is of considerable importance in a busy world. It also protects the liver and helps in the fight against fatty. It is worth convincing him.
Chinese lemon, or Schisandra Chinensis, is a creeper giving birth to small, red berries. It comes from Asia, hence its name, although today it is also affected by Europe. In traditional Asian medicine, the plant is known as “fruits of five flavors”. Their uniqueness lies in the fact that in one fruit you can feel sweetness, acidity, bitterness, tightness and delicate saltiness. In China, it has been used as an agent for centuries, and today it also goes to Polish gardens and pharmacies.
Contrary to its name, the Chinese lemon can be successfully grown in Poland. He needs fertile, slightly moist soil and supports that he could climb. Although it comes from colder regions of Asia, it is doing well in our climate. It is enough to provide the plant with adequate protection against frost. You have to wait a few years for the first fruit, but later one bush will give us even a few kilos of berries.
Chinese lemon can be bought in herbal stores and pharmacies in the form of dried, lifts or tinctures. It also has the form of capsules or oils. It is also increasingly available in online Superfoods stores and in gardening nurseries that offer cuttings of this extraordinary plant.
The lemon is considered an adaptogen, i.e. a plant supporting the body in dealing with stress and fatigue. His berries contain lignans with a strong liver protective effect. They support its regeneration and protect cells from damage. Thanks to the presence of antioxidants such as vitamins C and E, as well as numerous phenolic compounds, these fruits strengthen immunity and slow down the aging process.
The influence of Chinese lemon fruits on the nervous system is also significant. Its regular consumption improves concentration, reduces the feeling of fatigue and makes it easier to fall asleep. Research also indicates that This plant supports lipid metabolism, which is of great importance in problems with fatty liver. In addition, it improves circulation, regulates the pressure and may have anti -inflammatory effect. It is worth knowing that these unique fruits also improve libidoand in both men and women. However, not everyone can reach for a lemon without restrictions. People with heart disease, hypertension or pregnant women should seek medical advice in advance.
Lemon berries can be processed in many ways and each of them allows you to maintain valuable properties of the plant. Here are some ideas for its processing, storage and use in the kitchen.
Collect the berries when they are fully ripe (very red, firm). Rinse, dry with a paper towel. Spread a thin layer on baking paper or a dryer mesh with hot air, at a temperature of about 35-45 degrees Celsius (low temperature so as not to destroy vitamins). Dry until they become flexible and dry, but not hard as stone. Store in a dry, shady place in a tightly closed jar.
Chinese lemon fruits can be frozen. Spread fresh berries individually on a tray, then transfer to string containers or bags. After thawing, they are not ideal for raw food, but they work for juices, tinctures, cocktails.
Berries can be poured with alcohol and prepared a tincture that will take over the taste, color and many fruit properties during the winter. It is worth adding to it honey or sugar, citrus peel or spices (cloves, cinnamon) for the aroma.
- Jams, juices, juices
The lemon has a distinct taste, but if you combine it with other fruits (e.g. apples, quince, raspberries), it gains a milder profile. Fresh and strained juice is great as a tonic. You can also boil with a little sugar or honey and store in the fridge.
- Teas, infusions, extracts
Dried berries can be brewed (e.g. 1-2 teaspoons of dried a cup of boiling water), drink as adaptogenic tea. The leaves also give an infusion, but a bit milder, reminiscent of green tea with a hint of citrus.
Source: NowowoPuje.pl
