The “Buddha’s hand” is an unusually shaped citron variety of a fruit which has finger-like sections that resemble a human hand. The fruit is part of the citrus family and is rich in numerous essential nutrients. Thanks to the compounds it contains, it can reduce different kinds of pain, soothe gastrointestinal problems, strengthen your immune system, reduce inflammation, reduce your blood pressure and relieve any kind of respiratory problem.
The fruit is not easily available and should be consumed in the proper amount. It is native to India and China where it has been a part of religious ceremonies for a long time. The fruit is also added to perfumes thanks to its fine citrus smell.
The distribution of the fruit is somewhat limited as not many people are fans of it. However, both the rind and the fruit itself contain special compounds that provide incredible health benefits. Here are some of them:
Respiratory problems
Buddha’s hand is usually used to treat respiratory problems as it’s a natural expectorant. If you’re suffering from excess phlegm in your lungs, the fruit can be of great help. Just soak it in a bowl of sugar and water to make it more effective then consume the fruit to treat the problem.
Pain relief
The fruit has been used as a remedy for pain for millennia. It contains special compounds such as coumarin, limonin and diosmin. Besides its anti-inflammatory properties, Buddha’s hand can relieve swelling and pain from injuries and simple bruises as well, and is believed to accelerate wound healing and reducing the discoloration of bruises.
Gastrointestinal problems
If you’re suffering from any kind of digestive problem, Buddha’s hand can soothe it in just a short time. It can also relieve inflammation in the stomach lining and soothe the intestinal muscles so that the digestive process can occur naturally.
Menstrual discomfort
Buddha’s hand can relieve the symptoms of menstruation and ease the process thanks to its anti-inflammatory nature and its antioxidant properties.
Immune health
Buddha’s hand contains a specific polysaccharide that can stimulate macrophage activity and speed up the efficiency of the immune system. Although it is mostly used as a preventative measure to strengthen the immune system, the fruit can also be consumed when you’re suffering from colds or the flu and can accelerate your recovery.
Regulates blood pressure
An alcohol extract from the fruit acts like a vasodilator and will relax and dilate your coronary blood vessels and improve your circulation, regulating your blood pressure and reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
