Lychee, which has the scientific name Litchi chinensis is in the soapberry family, but is the only member of its genus, meaning that it is quite unique in the world. It is a fruit tree that can grow in tropical and subtropical climates and is native to China. It smells very much like a flower and is often used to flavor cocktails and dishes because of its unique scent, which is lost if not consumed fresh. Here you will know a few unknown lychee benefits.
It is a drupe, externally covered by a pink-red rough textured rind, easily removable. Lychee contains sweet layered white flesh, enveloping a brown colored seed. The taste somewhat resembles that of grapes and is also quite juicy.
Lychee is packed with health benefits of litchi, but they come from the vitamins, minerals, and nutrients in the fruit, including vitamin C, vitamin B6, niacin, riboflavin, folate, copper, potassium, phosphorus, magnesium, and manganese. Furthermore, lychee is a great source of dietary fiber, protein, and a good source of proanthocyanidins and polyphenolic compounds.
Health benefits of Lychee (Litchi)
Lychee benefits for bones
Litchi fruit is abundant in phosphorus and magnesium, both of which are important in maintaining strong bones. Trace elements like copper and manganese strengthen weak bones. The zinc and copper help in improving vitamin D functions in the assimilation of calcium for healthy bones.
Antiviral Capacity
Litchitannin A2, a compound found in lychee, has been closely connected to preventing the spread or outbreak of viruses, including herpes simplex virus and coxsackie virus.
Heart Health
The flavonoids, fiber, and antioxidants in lychees may support heart health. In addition, oligonol derived from lychee fruit has been shown to increase nitric oxide levels in animal studies. Increasing nitric oxide in your blood may open constricted blood vessels and lower your blood pressure.
Natural Pain Killer
This fruit is rich in flavanols that act as a natural painkiller by suppressing inflammation and prevents from resultant tissue damage.
Lychee benefits for Blood Pressure
Lychee is rich in potassium which can help your body maintain a fluid balance. It reduces the constriction of blood vessels and arteries and lowering the stress on the cardiovascular system.
Lychee benefits for Digestion
Lychee fruit is good for digestive health which works by cleaning the stomach as well as enhancing the appetite, cure heartburn and any other burning sensation in the digestive tract. The litchi seed is fully packed with some properties which are good in eliminating the intestinal worms. It also contains soluble fiber which aids in bowel movement and keeps the stomach healthy and free from toxic substances as well as cleaning the colon.
Anti-Cancer Properties
Litchi has anti-cancer properties. This fruit has flavonoids in the pulp which helps to fight fatal and lethal diseases like cancer. It contains Flavones, quercetin, and kaempferol which are powerful compounds in reducing the proliferation of cancer cells. Litchi fruit provides impressive anti-breast cancer properties.
Lychee benefits for skin (Litchi)
Helps Remove Blemishes
Blemishes are the bane of anyone who seeks flawless skin. Applying litchi juice can help fade away the blemishes and marks, leaving you with clear skin.
Reduces Sunburns
Spending too much time under the harsh rays of the sun can cause redness and blisters. Sunburns can cause pain and irritation, and applying litchi infused with vitamin E can help soothe your inflamed skin. Extract the juice from the litchi pulp. Puncture the vitamin E capsule and add it to the juice. Apply to the affected areas and rinse with cold water after 30 minutes.
Hair benefits of Lychee (Litchi)
Lychee benefits for Hair Growth
Litchi, when used topically, can help promote hair growth. Mix the litchi juice and aloe vera in a bowl. Massage the mixture into your scalp. Keep it on for 60 minutes, and wash it off with a mild shampoo.