Citrus fruits are evergreen shrubs and trees that belong to the Rutov family. Types of citrus plants are diverse today, however, few people know that initially only mandarin, pomelo, lime and citron existed in nature. All other fruits were bred by lengthy selection.
Being juicy and tasty, citrus fruits are popular all over the world. In addition, they are in high demand due to their astounding health benefits. Popular types of citrus fruits, such as lemons, grapefruits and oranges, are not only eaten in their natural form, but also used to make juice, added to jams and marmalades, and also used in cooking to give meat and vegetables a special flavor.
What is the difference?
Citrus fruits are exotic acidic fruits in which seeds are surrounded by juicy and fleshy flesh. Originally grown in Southeast Asia, they have become popular all over the world. How many types of citrus fruits are there in the world? Currently, it is estimated that there are just over thirty independent varieties.
The combination of sweet and sour flavors and vibrant flavors is probably one of the reasons why they are among the favorite fruits for many people around the world. Usually they are juicy, and it is this juice that contains the main acid component, which gives the fruit a characteristic taste. At the same time, they are good not only with great taste, but also make up an important component of a healthy diet, due to their many health benefits.
Citrus fruits come in many types and colors. Their color depends on climatic conditions. There is no winter in the tropical regions, and the fruits remain green or greenish-orange until they ripen. Usually they are collected before they are fully ripe.
Why is caution necessary?
Considering the health benefits, these acidic fruits help in detoxification and are a rich source of vitamin C and other nutrients that the human body needs.
The acidity in citrus fruits is their main feature, as in some cases it can cause indigestion and difficulty in consumption. Some people develop allergic reactions to these citrus fruits or stomach problems. Therefore, you need to listen to your health when using each new product.
Today, most major stores offer to buy many types of citrus fruits. Which ones are the most useful?
Lemon
These fruits have antibacterial, antiviral and immunomodulating properties. Lemon is also used as a weight loss tool, as it helps digestion and cleanses the liver. This citrus contains citric acid, vitamin C, calcium, magnesium, bioflavonoid, pectin and limonene, which are known to strengthen the immune system.
Grapefruit
It is a large subtropical fruit known for its slightly bitter and sour taste. Its name is due to the fact that it grows in clusters similar to grapes (in English - grape). With a high level of enzymes, a high water content and very little sodium, grapefruit helps accelerate weight loss. It also helps prevent cancer, boosts immunity, and helps digestion. It is rich in vitamins B, magnesium, iron, folic acid, manganese, calcium and potassium.
Orange
Speaking about the types of citrus, it is impossible not to mention oranges. These fruits are rich in vitamin C, potassium and beta-carotene. Oranges are an ideal source of nutrients for the body. They help maintain heart health, prevent kidney disease, and lower cholesterol. Oranges are certainly one of the most popular citrus fruits.
Mandarin
Mandarins are types of citrus fruits that stand out in a separate family and are slightly more expensive than oranges. They have a distinctly less sour and sweeter taste. These fruits are rich in vitamin C and beta-carotene. In addition, tangerines are known to help improve digestion, heal wounds and cuts, and limit the risk of obesity.
Clementine
Clementine is a seedless variety of mandarin. Being a rich source of fiber, vitamin C and potassium, it is also regarded as an energy product. In addition, it is an antioxidant and helps in weight loss and in improving vision. Since it is available from November to January, it is also known as Christmas Orange.
Lime
These fruits are similar to lemons, but in contrast, they have a green color and a bitter-sweetish taste. These types of citrus fruits are also rich in vitamins C and A, iron, potassium, magnesium and other minerals. Limes can reverse the signs of aging, make skin younger, and even prevent kidney stones.
Pomelo
Being the largest among citrus fruits, pomelo is an excellent source of vitamins A, B1, B2 and C, bioflavonoids, proteins, fiber, healthy fats, potassium, antioxidants and enzymes. This fruit, as you know, helps digestion, helps maintain heart health and good dental health, and also increases the ability of the immune system to fight against the common flu and colds.
Red orange
Types of citrus fruits are often similar. Nevertheless, red orange is considered a separate variety of fruits. Being one of the most delicious among citrus fruits, it is also effective for health. So, it contains a high level of vitamins C and A, as well as folic acid, anthocyanins and calcium. These substances are essential for the body to prevent cancer and strengthen teeth and bones. In addition, eating red oranges promotes good digestive health. Often you can hear the question: "If two types of citrus are grafted, what happens?". This fruit is a clear answer to it.
Hand of buddha
Its scientific name is Citrusmedicavar Sarcodactylis. Better known as the hand of Buddha, this fruit is rich in vitamin C. It is usually used to make tonics and stimulating drinks. Unlike other citrus fruits, it has dry pulp and no seeds.
Citron
This fruit comes from India and Burma. Citron has tremendous health benefits. The antioxidant properties of the fruit make it ideal for diseases caused by oxidative stress (such as Alzheimer's disease). The fetus has hypoglycemic properties that make it an ideal treatment for diabetes. It also has an analgesic effect on wounds, cuts and burns.
Oroblanco
Oroblanco, commonly referred to as white grapefruit, is rich in natural sugars, dietary fiber, and is an excellent source of antioxidants that prevent free radicals from causing cellular damage to your body. It also does not contain sodium and has a high concentration of beta-carotene.
The benefits of citrus fruits
First of all, they contribute to weight loss. So, one lemon with honey, diluted in warm water, is an excellent tool for weight loss. It works most efficiently if consumed in the morning on an empty stomach. Lemon contains pectin, a soluble fiber that helps burn fat and helps reduce weight.
Secondly, all types of citrus fruits increase immunity: most citrus fruits are an excellent source of vitamin C. This substance, used in conjunction with antioxidants, helps boost your body's immunity. Studies have shown that people who consume citrus fruits are less susceptible to common infections like the common cold and the flu.
Thirdly, citrus fruits improve digestion, in particular, lemon and lime are recommended for this purpose. Drinking a glass of lemon juice with food will help eliminate harmful bacteria in the gastrointestinal tract.
In addition, almost all types of citrus fruits contain small amounts of calcium and potassium. For example, potassium levels in lemon help maintain bone calcium density in the body. Potassium helps prevent calcium loss through the kidneys, thus protecting the body from osteoporosis.
Most citrus fruits contain citric acid, and regular consumption of juices from these fruits helps increase urinary citrate levels. People prone to kidney stones should consume a lot of water to prevent the formation of kidney stones. But adding lemon juice can help reduce the risk of such a calcium stone.
How to use different types of citrus fruitfully?
If you will consume citrus fruits, purchased in advance, store them at room temperature for a week. If you plan to leave them for more time, put the fruits in the refrigerator. There they can remain fit for a month.
If you have an upset stomach, drink a glass of lime juice. This will help get rid of abdominal pain and diarrhea.
Lemon juice is used to wipe freshly cut fruits so that they do not darken. Also, the juice of this citrus, mixed with honey, cleanses the skin well. Since citrus fruits (especially lemon and lime) are acidic in nature, this helps balance the body's pH. Most of these fruits contain less than one hundred calories per serving, so this is a great option for a healthy snack.
Also, these plants can be used for aesthetic purposes. For example, everyone knows such types of indoor citrus fruits as lemon and mandarin. Despite the fact that they do not always bear fruit, such a tree perfectly decorates any home or office interior.