Kumquats

Did You Know

• Rubbing or squeezing Kumquats between your fingers helps it release the sweet, citrus-like scent of the rind.

• Ripe Kumquats range from bright orange to yellow-orange. Stay away from greenish, unripe fruits. The skin should be nice and firm, free of blemishes or shriveled areas

• Kumquats will last for about two days at room temperature, or about two weeks in an airtight, refrigerated container.

• In folk medicine in some Asian countries, the Kumquat has been used to treat coughs, and colds.

• Kumquats are best eaten whole — unpeeled. Their sweet flavor actually comes from the peel, while their juice is tart.

Health Benefits

• The edible seeds and the peel of kumquats provide a small amount of omega-3 fats.

• Kumquats are rich in plant compounds, including flavonoids, phytosterols and essential oils. There are higher amounts of flavonoids in the Kumquat’s edible peel than in the pulp. Some of the fruit’s flavonoids have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. 

• The essential oils in kumquats leave a scent on your hands and in the air. The most prominent one is limonene, which has antioxidant actions in your body. 

*Disclaimer: Please seek professional medical advice for a diet that fits your needs.