Although its consumption is not massive, the persimmon is one of the oldest and most complete autumn fruits from a nutritional point of view. Native to Asia and cultivated for over 2,000 years, this autumn fruit has not yet fully conquered the fruit stands, despite its multiple health benefits.
Between October and February, its ideal season, persimmons offer an excellent alternative to diversify your diet with a sweet, energetic, and full of properties product. In the grocery store, it is advisable to choose specimens that are firm but not hard —yielding slightly to the touch—, indicating an optimal ripeness point. And a key point: it is advisable not to store them next to apples, as they release ethylene and accelerate their ripening.
Rich in potassium and beta-carotenes, persimmons act as a gentle natural laxative and diuretic. But its virtues do not end there: it helps improve digestion, reduce stress, control diabetes and anemia, and promote cardiovascular recovery.
Thanks to its high concentration of vitamins A and C, antioxidants, and fiber, it also strengthens the immune system. And not only its fruit is useful: its leaves can be used for infusions to help regulate hypertension and blood sugar.
Simple recipes to enjoy it
In its simplest version, persimmons can be enjoyed in sweet salads, along with yogurt, nuts, and a touch of honey. But it also allows for more elaborate preparations, such as a quick microwave compote (2-3 minutes at medium power) or in a skillet, ideal as a side dish for red meats or game.
Another easy option is a healthy dessert: chocolate and persimmon custard. You just have to beat two ripe persimmons with a yogurt and a couple of tablespoons of cocoa powder. The result is a smooth and sweet cream, which can be garnished with pieces of persimmon and grated cocoa.
Seven virtues and a millennia-old legacy
In China, the persimmon tree is revered for what they call its “seven virtues”: longevity, generous shade, shelter for birds, pest resistance, decorative leaves, quality firewood, and soil fertility thanks to its deciduous leaves.
The scientific name of the persimmon, Diospyros, has Greek roots and is often translated as “divine fruit”. And it is not an exaggeration: with its nutritional richness, symbolic value, and versatility in cooking, persimmons are a gem that deserves a more prominent place on our tables.
Persimmons and their multiple properties
Persimmons are a fruit rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, with beneficial properties for health. It stands out for its content of vitamin A, which is crucial for eye health and the immune system, as well as for its high fiber content, which promotes digestion. Additionally, it is a good source of potassium, which helps regulate blood pressure and fluid balance.
The benefits of this autumn fruit
- Antioxidant: Persimmons contain carotenoids, flavonoids, tannins, and vitamin C, which help combat oxidative stress and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
- Eye health: The vitamin A present in persimmons is essential for vision health.
- Immune system: Vitamin A and vitamin C help strengthen the immune system.
- Cardiovascular health: Potassium helps regulate blood pressure and potassium helps maintain a healthy heart.
- Digestion: The high fiber content in persimmons promotes digestion and prevents constipation.
- Skin health: Vitamin A helps maintain healthy skin.
Key components of persimmons
- Vitamin A: Essential for eye health, skin, and the immune system.
- Vitamin C: Antioxidant that strengthens the immune system.
- Potassium: Helps regulate blood pressure and fluid balance.
- Fiber: Promotes digestion and helps maintain a healthy digestive system.
- Antioxidants: Carotenoids, flavonoids, tannins, and vitamin C help combat oxidative stress.
In summary, persimmons are a nutritious and healthy fruit with antioxidant properties that help strengthen the immune system, improve eye health, promote digestion, and regulate blood pressure.
Source: Beonloop.
