Buddha’s hand, have you heard about it? Before you think that it is a religious thing that is related to Buddhism, I will tell you that it is not. Actually, it is fruit even though it may look like a hand of an old witch or Medusa’s head. I will assure you that it is edible and you can eat it. Amazing right? Not just that, the health benefits of Buddha’s hand are enticing as well. And I’ll tell you that the taste of this fruit might be familiar to you. So we will discuss this fruit right in this article.
Buddha’s Hand? What?
The so-called Buddha’s hand is referred to as Citrus medica var. sarcodactylis and fingered citron is a variety of citron that has a fruit that resembled the hand of Buddha. It is called “fo-shou” in China and “bushukan” in Japan. It is a small tree that is 8-15 ft. in height and there is a dwarf one that is only 5 ft. Also, the tree is not tolerant to the frost so the temperature should not drop below 4.4°C.
The fruit is native to the lower Himalayas and China. Some historians believe that the fruit is carried to China by India around the 4th century AD as thanks and that is where the name come from. The fruit is served during the New Year because it is symbolizing longevity, good fortune, and happiness.
The name of this fruit come up from its physical appearance. It has segments with a section that is finger-like that is come together at the base which holds them resembles a hand. This fruit also has many varieties like “open-hand”, “closed hand” and “half-fingered “. Buddha, according to the tradition, prefers the “closed hand” type for it symbolizes the act of praying.
Nutritional value
Because this fruit is considered rare, the information of this is limited. But don’t worry because we listed the nutrient content of this fruit. This fruit contains a high amount of calcium, Vitamin C and dietary fiber and low in carbohydrates, proteins, fats, and sugars.
One cup (100 g) contains the following:
- Calories – 29
- Total fat – 0.3 grams
- Carbohydrates – 9.3 grams
- Fiber – 4 grams
- Sugars – 2.5 grams
- Protein 1.1 grams
- Vitamin A – 0.01 milligrams
- Thiamin – 0.5 milligrams
- Riboflavin – 0.3 milligrams
- Niacin – 0.13 milligrams
- Vitamin C – 368 milligrams
- Calcium – 36 milligrams
- Phosphorus – 16 milligrams
- Iron – 0.55 milligrams
Health Benefits of Buddha’s Hand
The Buddha’s hand is used in many religious ceremonies and traditions maybe because Buddha’s open hand is important in the Buddhist faith. Also, this fruit is useful in many ways because of its smell. Although it may not be seen in the local market and not that popular, the health benefits of Buddha’s hand are not questionable. Below is the list of the health benefits of Buddha’s hand that you can get from this fruit.
- Eases menstrual discomfort. Having a menstrual cycle is not that nice at all. There is always the pain, discomfort, cramps and mood swings that every woman suffer from whenever the time of the month comes. What’s more is that menstrual cycle are different in every woman. Some may have only slight discomfort but some have the harsher and more painful one.
- Helps the respiratory issues. The respiratory is the most common reason why this fruit is popular. The fruit acts as an expectorant so it becomes a remedy for those who are suffering from a prolonged and nasty cough or anything that is caused by catarrh or phlegm. So take this fruit if you are asking for a painless and quickest remedy that gives fast and effective relief.
- Lower the level of blood cholesterol. The reason why you should take this fruit is that it aids in lowering the level of blood cholesterol. How? Because of this fruit has the presence of pectin that not only regulates the level of blood cholesterol but also boosts the metabolism and the circulation.
- Gastrointestinal benefits. This fruit greatly helps people who suffer from gastrointestinal issues like bloating, upset stomach, constipation, diarrhea or cramps. This fruit is a fast-working remedy that helps to ease the stomach lining’s inflammation and also soothes the intestinal muscles. Because of that, the digestion and excretion will now occur normally.
- Relieve the pain. This fruit contains coumarin, diosmin, and limonin that have anti-inflammatory properties that help to relieve the pain and swelling whether it is an injury or major bruises.
Conclusion
What matters is what being inside can describe this fruit. You may see it during Halloween as a decoration and perfume but don’t be afraid to taste it and get the nutrients that you needed. Set aside what it is called and what it looks like, ok? You will never know unless you try it. And remember that if you ever passed by the local market and see this fruit, grab it, pay for it and lastly eat it.
