Loquat is a yellowish fruit, which grows in a cluster. The shape of the fruit is somewhat oval, pear-shaped or even round. The scientific name of the fruit is Eriobotrya japonica (Thunb.) Lindl and it belongs to the Rosaceae family. Loquat is known to be indigenous to China. However, it has been grown in Japan and India since antiquity and is also found in Indochina, the Mediterranean region, and to some extent, the New World subtropics. Depending on its variety, the taste of a loquat can vary from subtle to honey-rich.
While some describe the tangy taste of a loquat as sweetly tart, like a cherry, others are of the opinion that its flavor is similar to a blend of plum, pineapple and apricot. The fruit is usually eaten fresh, but can also be utilized in making jams, jellies, pie and sauces. Loquat is covered by a thin peel and contains brown colored seeds. Its roasted seeds can be used as a substitute for coffee, while the fruit is also used for making wine. In addition to this, loquat is associated with many health and nutritional benefits. To know more about the nutritional value of the fruit and its numerous health benefits, read through the following lines.
Loquat Nutrition Facts
Amount ofLoquat: 1 cup, cubed
Total Weight of Loquat: 149 g
Nutrients
|
Amount
|
Basic Components
|
|
Protein
|
0.6 g
|
Carbohydrates
|
18.1 g
|
Water
|
129 g
|
Ash
|
0.7 g
|
Calories
|
|
Total Calories
|
70.0
|
Calories From Fat
|
2.5
|
Calories From Carbohydrate
Calories From Protein
|
65.4
2.2
|
Carbohydrates
|
|
Dietary Fiber
|
2.5 g
|
Fats
|
|
Total Fat
|
0.3 g
|
Saturated Fat
|
0.1 g
|
Polyunsaturated Fat
|
0.1 g
|
Vitamins
|
|
Vitamin A
|
2276 IU
|
Niacin
|
0.3 mg
|
Vitamin C
|
1.5 mg
|
Folate
|
20.9 mcg
|
Vitamin B6
|
0.1 mg
|
Minerals
|
|
Calcium
|
23.8 mg
|
Iron
|
0.4 mg
|
Magnesium
|
19.4 mg
|
Manganese
|
0.2 mg
|
Phosphorus
|
40.2 mg
|
Potassium
|
396 mg
|
Selenium
|
0.9 mcg
|
Sodium
|
1.5 mg
|
Zinc
|
0.1 mg
|
Copper
|
0.1 mg
|
Other Fats
|
|
Omega 3 Fatty Acids
|
19.4 mg
|
Omega 6 Fatty Acids
|
115 mg
|
Health & Nutritional Benefits of Loquat
- Loquat is a good source of Vitamin A, which is crucial for the visual and dental health of an individual.
- Extract from loquat leaves is an important ingredient for lung ailments and has been used by Chinese, since ancient times.
- Loquats are appropriate for maintaining optimum health, as they are low in saturated fat and cholesterol.
- People with a deficiency of Vitamin A should have loquat in large number, because of its rich content.
- Loquats are rich in fiber, making them suitable for those who wish to lose weight.
- The loquat leaf is said to alleviate coughing and nausea. It even dissolves phlegm and is an expectorant.
- Loquat paste helps in soothing the digestive and respiratory systems of a person.
- The loquat leaf is known to shorten the recovery time from respiratory illness.
- Loquat contains malic acid, tartaric acid, citric acid, vitamins A, B and C, and B17. Vitamin B17 is known as amygdaline, laetrile or the anti-cancer vitamin, as it helps prevent cancer.