Types of citrus fruits: names, descriptions and interesting facts

Citrus fruits are evergreen shrubs and trees that belong to the family of Routus. Types of citrus plants today are diverse, however, few people know that originally in nature there were only mandarin, pomelo, lime and citron. All other fruits were harvested by prolonged breeding.

Being juicy and tasty, citrus fruits are popular all over the world. In addition, they are in high demand because of their striking health benefits. Popular types of citrus fruits, such as lemons, grapefruits and oranges, are not only eaten in a natural form, but are also used for making juice, are added to jams and marmalades, and are also used in cooking to give special taste to meat and vegetables.

What is the difference?

Citrus fruits are sour exotic fruits, in which the seeds are surrounded by juicy and fleshy pulp. Initially grown in Southeast Asia, they became popular all over the world. How many kinds of citrus fruits exist in the world? Currently, it is assumed that the individual varieties are a little over thirty.

The combination of sweet and sour flavors and bright flavors is probably one of the reasons why they are among the favorite fruits for many people around the world. They are usually juicy, and this juice contains the main acid component, which gives the fruit a distinctive taste. At the same time, they are not only good taste, but also an important component of a healthy diet, thanks to their numerous health benefits.

Citrus fruits can be of different types and colors. Their color depends on climatic conditions. In the tropical regions, there is no winter, and the fruits remain green or greenish-orange until they are ripe. Usually they are collected before they fully ripen.

Why do I need to be careful?

Given the health benefits, these acidic fruits help in detoxification and are a rich source of vitamin C and other nutrients that are essential for the human body.

Acidity in citrus fruits is their main feature, since in some cases it can cause indigestion and difficulty in consumption. Some people develop allergic reactions to these citrus or stomach problems. Therefore, you need to listen to your health when using each new product.

Today in most large stores offer to buy many types of citrus fruit. Which of them are the most useful?

Lemon

These fruits have antibacterial, antiviral and immunomodulatory properties. Lemon is also used as a slimming 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 enhance the immune system.

Grapefruit

This 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 grape (in English - grape). With a high level of enzymes, high water content and very little sodium, grapefruit helps to accelerate weight loss. It also contributes to the prevention of cancer, increases the level of 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 reduce 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 somewhat more expensive than oranges. They have a distinctly less acidic and sweeter taste. These fruits are rich in vitamin C and beta-carotene. In addition, mandarins are known to help improve digestion, treat 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 the "Christmas Orange".

Lime

These fruits are like lemons, but unlike them, they have a green color and a bitterish-sweet taste. These citrus fruits are also rich in vitamins C and A, iron, potassium, magnesium and other minerals. Limes can reverse the signs of aging, make the skin younger and even prevent the formation of 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 is known to help digestion, helps maintain heart health and good teeth, and also increases the ability of the immune system to fight against common flu and colds.

Red Orange

Types of citrus fruit are often similar. Nevertheless, the red orange is considered a separate type of fruit. Being one of the most delicious 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 necessary for the body to prevent cancer, strengthen teeth and bones. In addition, the use of red oranges contributes to good digestive health. Often you can hear the question: "If two kinds of citrus fruits are planted, what happens?". This fruit - a clear answer to it.

Hand of Buddha

His scientific name is Citrusmedicavar Sarcodactylis. Better known as the hand of the Buddha, this fruit is rich in vitamin C. It is usually used to make tonics and stimulating drinks. Unlike other citrus fruits, it has a dry pulp and has no seeds.

Citron

This fruit comes from India and Burma. Citron has huge health benefits. The antioxidant properties of the fruit make it ideal for diseases caused by oxidative stress (such as Alzheimer's disease). The fruit has hypoglycemic properties, which make it an ideal tool for the treatment of diabetes. It also has an analgesic effect on wounds, cuts and burns.

Oroblanco

Oroblanko, which is usually 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 use of citrus fruits

First of all, they contribute to weight loss. So, one lemon with honey, diluted in warm water, serves as an excellent means for losing weight. It works most effectively if consumed in the morning on an empty stomach. Lemon contains pectin - a soluble fiber that helps burn fat and helps to lose 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 to increase the immunity of your body. Studies have shown that people who consume citrus fruits are less prone to such common infections as colds and flu.

Thirdly, citrus fruits improve digestion, in particular, lemon and lime are recommended for this purpose. Using a glass of lemon juice with food will help to eliminate harmful bacteria in the gastrointestinal tract.

In addition, almost all types of citrus fruits contain calcium and potassium in a small amount. For example, the level of potassium in the lemon helps to maintain the density of bone calcium 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 of these fruits helps to increase the level of citrate in the urine. People prone to the formation of 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 apply different types of citrus fruits with benefit?

If you eat citrus fruits bought 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 stomach 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, it helps to balance the pH of the body. Most of these fruits contain less than one hundred calories per serving, so this is an excellent option for a healthy snack.

Also these plants can be used for aesthetic purposes. For example, all are familiar with such types of indoor citrus fruits as lemon and mandarin. Despite the fact that they do not always bear fruit, this tree perfectly decorates any home or office interior.