Ziziphus jujuba, commonly called jujube (sometimes jujuba), red date, Chinese date, Korean date, or Indian date is a species of Ziziphus in the buckthorn family (Rhamnaceae), used primarily as a shade tree that also bears fruit.
It is a small deciduous tree or shrub reaching a height of 5–12 metres, usually with thorny branches. The leaves are shiny-green, ovate-acute, 2–7 centimetres (0.79–2.8 in) wide and 1–3 centimetres (0.39–1.2 in) broad, with three conspicuous veins at the base, and a finely toothed margin. The flowers are small, 5 millimetres (0.20 in) wide, with five inconspicuous yellowish-green petals. The fruit is an edible oval drupe 1.5–3 centimetres (0.59–1.2 in) deep; when immature it is smooth-green, with the consistency and taste of an apple, maturing brown to purplish-black and eventually wrinkled, looking like a small date. There is a single hard stone similar to an olive stone.
Anti-cancerous properties: The water extracted from Chinese dates has the potential to inhibit cancerous cells, especially the ones triggering leukemia.
Aids in controlling body weight: Are you on a weight loss spree, and bored with simply eating oranges and melons? You can choose these luscious red dates. Their low calorie values put together with negligible fat content makes them ideal for snacks. This amazing fruit with the flavor of apples are quite popular among fitness freaks.
Strengthens human immune system: Being rich in vitamin C and A, and potassium, jujube helps in fortifying human immune system. Hence, it is ideal to brace yourself from cold and cough.
Calms your nervous system: The soothing effect of this wonderful fruit enables it to be used as a natural anti-depressant and sedative. The fruit is also ideal when it comes to easing anxiety and stress.
Storehouse of antioxidants: Being a good source of antioxidants, the fruit shields you against liver injuries and cancer. This fabulous fruit helps to keep the free radical level within the optimal limit.
Healthy and younger skin: The antioxidants present in the fruit makes it a natural anti-ageing agent, thus keeping your skin younger. The extracts of Chinese dates are widely used as remedies for skin redness, sunburns, and dryness.
Healthy digestive system: People suffering from constipation and other digestive problems can seek the help of these fruits. Along with promoting digestion, dry jujubes act as gentle laxatives. This amazing fruit also promotes appetite.
Powerhouse of energy: This humble fruit, despite being low in calories, is a good energy booster. So, just eat these fruits to get rid of your fatigue in a quicker way.
Healthy teeth, muscles, and bones: The presence of calcium and phosphorous in this magical fruit have proven to aid in strengthening your bones and teeth. Try this amazing low calorie fruit. This fabulous fruit contains around 3 milligrams magnesium per serving [28 grams] that helps in toning up the muscles.
Efficient pumping of blood: The 0.5 milligram niacin obtained from each jujube serving ensures effective and efficient pumping of blood, thus keeping your energy levels intact.
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