KUMQUAT

KUMQUAT

It is a citrus fruit looking like small orange. Four species are known, all originating in China and Japan. Kumquats reach maximum height of about 5 ft. They have pointed elliptical leaves; small white, star-shaped flower, arid sometimes thorns. The orange coloured fruit is usually round to oblong and often less than 2 inches in length. It has a sweet or acid taste and may be eaten raw or as marmalade. Kumquats are also ornamentals. Kumquats are very rich in vitamins A, B and C. It also contains minerals. This fruit is very useful in bronchitis, cough and cold, laryngitis, pharyngitis, sore throat, fevers, diarrhoea, dysentery, spleen disorders etc.

Benefit and uses of Kumquat.

• The kumquat leaves and fruit contain an essential oil, whilst the fruit also contains sugars and organic acids. The fresh fruit is antitussive and expectorant - in Vitamin it is steamed with sugar candy and used in the treatment of sore throats.
  
• The plant is antiphlogistic, antivinous, carminative, deodorant, stimulant.
  
• Kumquat are cholesterol, fat, and sodium free and provide a good source of fiber and of the vitamins A and C. Kumquats contain traces of calcium and iron. For those on a diet, approximately eight kumquats contain 100 calories.