Persimmon (Kaki), Organic, Lebanon

Persimmon (Kaki), Organic, Lebanon

Persimmon is an orange tomato-shaped fruit that is native to Asia (particularly Japan and China) with increasing popularity world wide. It has a lovely mild sweetness and it high in vitamins and minerals

Persimmons are high in potassium and beta carotene. They also provide vitamin C, folate, phosphorus, magnesium, and calcium.

Health Benefits

For centuries, persimmon fruits (along with their leaf and seed extract) have been used in Eastern folk medicine to treat a range of conditions. Here are some of the benefits supported by modern science.

Persimmons offer an exceptionally high level of lutein and zeaxanthin, two forms of beta carotene that tend to accumulate in the retina. These compounds act as antioxidants, protecting against vision loss from age-related macular degeneration. Additionally, the vitamin C and vitamin E content of persimmons also guards against oxidative damage.

Persimmons contain a natural compound called fisetin, an antioxidant with several brain benefits. Fisetin enhances long-term memory, prevents neuronal dysfunction, and protects against age-related cognitive decline.

The potassium in persimmons reduces blood pressure, while folate and vitamin C help prevent strokes and heart attacks. With  grams of fiber per fruit, eating a persimmon or two contributes towards the recommendation of at least 25 grams per day.

Fruit in the orange and yellow category, including persimmons, have been shown to reduce the rate of colon cancer in women. The beta carotene content is believed to help control the growth and spread of cancer cells. Persimmons are also a good source of fiber, which is essential for good digestion and the regular removal of toxins from the body.