Medlar: A source of healing

Harvested in late November, the medlar fruit is kept in storage to soften before being prepared for sale.

Mehmet Candan, who makes a living selling medlar fruit, which is among the essential fruits of long winter nights, said, "Our neighborhood is in a rural, high-altitude area. The approximately 50 kilos of medlar I brought to the market this morning sold out in a short time. 

We pick them from the branch and put them in storage to soften; they ripen in about 15-20 days. We select the ripe ones and bring them to the market. Those who know this fruit buy it immediately; there are many who don't know it, but those who taste it ask for it every week. Sales will continue until mid-January. The price per kilo varies between 20-25 TL. 

"A FRUIT THAT IS A CURE FOR A THOUSAND AILMENTS"

Our ancestors used to call it 'a fruit that is a cure for a thousand ailments.' According to what we have learned, medlar provides refreshment to the body due to its cooling properties. It eliminates harmful toxins.

When the leaves of the medlar tree are consumed as tea, they strengthen the immune system and benefit the liver. It increases the body's strength. It has a calming effect.

It prevents skin cancer. It prevents nausea. It reduces the risk of miscarriage in pregnant women. It has pain-relieving properties. Also, those who want to lose weight should drink medlar tea," he said.

News Source: İHA