Longans
Did You Know
Longan is the fruit produce of the Lamyai tree, and is mainly grown in the North of Thailand, in the regions of Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai and Chiang Dao. Longan requires a somewhat cooler climate than most other fruits found in Thailand, and these mountainous areas are always much cooler than the South.
The longan, which means “dragon eye” in Cantonese, got its name from the fact that it resembles an eyeball when its shelled.
Longan produces dense clusters of small, brownish-yellow to yellowish-green flowers. Each cluster contains three types of flowers: functionally male, functionally female and hermaphroditic.
In ancient Vietnamese medicine, longan seed was used to stop the bleeding and absorb the venom after a snake bite. This is ineffective, but still commonly used today.
The longan is believed to have originated from the mountain range between Myanmar and southern China. Other reported origins include India, Sri Lanka, upper Myanmar, north Thailand, Cambodia, north Vietnam and New Guinea.
Health Benefits
The nutritional value of Longan is fairly high, with just a handful of fruit proving the daily recommended dosage of both phosphorous and calcium.
Longan are high in antioxidants. Antioxidants help battle free radicals in your body that damage cells and lead to disease. Research shows getting your antioxidants from fresh fruits and vegetables and not supplements, has the most health benefits.
The fruit is a rich source of vitamins A and C and minerals such as iron, phosphorus, potassium and magnesium.
Longans are used in the treatment of insomnia, fatigue, depression and irritability. It also accelerates healing of a wound, improves blood circulation and absorption of iron and keeps the cardiovascular system, skin, gums and teeth healthy.
*Disclaimer: Please seek professional medical advice for a diet that fits your needs.