Satsuma Fruit

One of our loved ones has a Satsuma tree in the yard. It bears an abundance of fruit this year and we already got a big bag full of them, along with the request not to hesitate to ask for more.

A Satsuma bears close resemblance to mandarins and tangerines, but are much easier to peel, almost seedless, and have a slight, sweet taste. The name of this fruit stems from the Satsuma Province in Japan, where it was first exported from to the West.

My curiosity as to the health benefits of this citrus fruit was piqued and here is what I found;

Citrus unshiu.
Also known as cold hardy mandarin, Satsuma mandarin, Satsuma orange, Christmas orange, or Satsuma tangerine.

It is high in protein, antioxidants, dietary fiber, carbohydrates, folate, calcium, potassium, and vitamin C, but low in saturated fat, cholesterol, and sodium.

The riper the fruit, the more sugar it contains and you may want to keep that in mind when you have diabetes.

Studies have discovered that Satsumas also possess a high amount of synephrine. This is a natural antihistamine, known to give relief from symptoms caused by colds and/or allergies.

When buying this fruit, be sure to pick the ones that feel heavy and are slightly soft. When they are too firm, they are rather sour and when they are too soft or already have brown spots, they are close to molding.

They are delicious as a snack, but you can also incorporate them in several dishes which are quickly and easily found online. The best way to store them is in the refrigerator; this will keep them fresh longer and slow down the aging process.

We can not stop ourselves from aging, but we can stop learning, gaining wisdom and understanding. That would be rather foolish though, because we would limit God from giving and rob ourselves from receiving necessary knowledge, blessings, and happiness!

Proverbs 2:6
For the LORD gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding.