10 beneficial ways to use Satsuma mandarin for good health

Satsuma mandarin is medium to large-sized citrus fruits shaped like flattened spheres. They measure between 6 and 10 centimeters wide and 2 to 3 centimeters tall. When ripe, Satsuma mandarins have an orange-red, somewhat leathery peel with prominent oil glands. The loose-fitting rind is full of volatile oils, which release a bright citrus aroma. The dark orange flesh is firm, extremely juicy, and has few to no seeds. Satsuma mandarins are considered the sweetest of all the citrus varieties though they do offer some acidity. In Japan, Satsuma growers keep fruit in storage before they send it to market, a process that reduces acid content, creating a better balance of sugar and tartness. Satsumas need to be handled with care; their loosely attached skins will bruise easily under slight pressure, which will affect the quality of the flesh.

Benefits of satsuma mandarin

1. Natural Anti-Cancerous Agent –

The profusely rich presence of carotenoids in these fruits can avert the risk of liver cancer. Beta cryptoxanthin present in this juice has the potential benefits to thwart off cancer risk in people suffering from hepatitis C. Research indicates that regular use of this orange juice by hepatitis C patients averted the risk of liver cancer. Packed with limonene, we also call this fruit to delay the onset of breast cancer in women.

2. Improves Immune Systems –

Satsuma is a rich source of vitamin C. This vitamin is a natural antioxidant that fights against free radicals in the human body. These weaken the immune system, making it susceptible to frequent infections. Thus, this fruit can be included in one’s daily diet to boost up immunity power. It also helps safeguard from cold, cough, as well as other infections.

3. Good for Hypertension –

These Mandarin oranges are natural sources of potassium. Potassium plays a major role in maintaining the levels of blood pressure. Hence, people who are suffering from hypertension can consume these fruits to lower blood pressure levels. This will thwart off medical conditions triggered by hypertension.

4. Aids Weight Loss –

A supreme source of natural fibers, it has been advocated to be a good weight loss companion. Intake of fiber-rich foods keeps hunger pangs away for a longer period. Thus, it prevents one from overeating and bingeing. This, in turn, helps in boosting metabolism levels and shed unwanted fat in a better way.

5. Natural Detoxifying Agent –

The fiber-rich Satsuma helps in flushing out the toxins from the human body, thus purifying the blood. These fruits are also known to possess anti-microbial properties. Thus, it could be used to safeguard injuries and wounds from septic conditions triggered by fungal and bacterial infections.

6. Good for Digestive Health –

It is a good source of fiber. This makes it easy to cleanse the system. The natural antispasmodic properties of these fruits help in calming down the digestive system due to excessive vomiting.

7. Delays Ageing Process of Skin –

Satsuma comes packed with antioxidants, Vitamin C. The C Vitamin neutralizes the free radicals present in your body, flushes out the toxins, and thus delays the onset of fine lines and wrinkles. By elimination of toxins, the orange also helps in eliminating the blemishes from your skin.

8. Helps In Keeping Cholesterol Levels Under Control –

The antioxidants present in Satsuma aid in lowering the levels of LDL and promote HDL. These members of the orange family combat the free radicals. Free radicals, if left untamed, could oxidize cholesterol, making it stick to arterial walls, thus paving way for cardiovascular disorders such as atherosclerosis. The presence of insoluble and soluble fibers in surplus levels also prevents the absorption of cholesterol in your gut.

9. Good for Diabetics –

This fruit is a good source of fiber. Plus, it has the potential to lower and control insulin levels by preventing the transformation of sugars into fats. Thus, it can be used by diabetics to keep their sugar levels under control.

10. Healthy Hair –

These oranges are known sources of Vitamin B 12 and Vitamin E. Both these vitamins are quintessential for the growth of hair. A natural antioxidant, regular use of this fruit satsuma for hair safeguards the hair from the negative impacts of pollution, thus preventing premature graying. Rinsing the hair with a rinse made of coconut oil and Satsuma juice is known to render a visible shine to it.

Adding satsumas to your diet

Satsuma mandarins are most commonly eaten fresh. They can be added to green salads or used in baked, frozen, or fresh dessert applications. Use Satsuma mandarin juice for cocktails or smoothies, or blend with other citrus juices. Pair with yogurt, endive, arugula, winter squash, and leeks. Use them alongside seafood, pork, or chicken. Satsuma mandarins pair well with sweet and spicy flavors like soy, ginger, garlic, vanilla, honey, and olive oil.

Satsumas are in season in the winters and can consume any time of the day though the best time to consume them is in the morning.

Side effects

There are no proved side effects if consumed in moderation.

Preparation for Banana Satsuma smoothie

Ingredients

Banana – 1, medium, peeled, cut into chunks

Satsuma – 1, peeled, sliced

Low fat yogurt – 1 cup

Pineapple juice or apple juice – ½ cup

Preparation

In a blender combine banana, orange sections, yogurt, and the juice.

Cover and blend until smooth.

Garnish with a mint sprig and enjoy.

Recipe for Satsuma mandarin

Yields 6

Ingredients

4 lbs Satsuma oranges

1/4 cup fresh Lemon Juice

6 cups Sugar

1/4 tsp. butter

2 T. Bourbon

Instructions

Wash and peel the Satsumas. Cut the peel into very thin strips about 1

inch long, reserve the flesh. Boil the peel for 10 minutes in 4 cups of

water. Drain and add 2 cups fresh water. Puree the orange flesh and

lemon juice and add to the peels, bring to a full boil. Add the sugar and

butter and cook over medium heat, stirring frequently until 220 degrees.

Add bourbon, ladle into hot jars, seal. Boil 10 minutes in a hot water bath.

Remove and cool.

The bourbon is the key here, while it can be omitted, it does enhance the

flavor of the marmalade remarkably.