酸甜“小灯笼”——山楂

Core Viewpoint - Hawthorn is an essential fruit in autumn and winter, known for its unique taste and medicinal value, yet consumers still have questions regarding its health effects and proper consumption methods [1] Group 1: Variety Characteristics - Hawthorn, also known as Crataegus, is a deciduous small tree with strong adaptability, thriving in cold, dry climates and poor soils, primarily grown in northern China [2] - Major production areas include Shandong, Hebei, Henan, and Liaoning, with varieties categorized into fresh and processing types [2] - The harvest season is from September to November, and fresh hawthorn can be processed into dried hawthorn for year-round supply [2] Group 2: Nutritional Value - Hawthorn is rich in bioactive compounds, including amino acids, proteins, sugars, minerals, and vitamins, contributing to its high nutritional value [3] - Each 100g of fresh hawthorn contains 89 mg of vitamin C, with vitamin B2 content six times that of apples, and calcium content ranking second among fruits [3] - Hawthorn is recognized as a functional food ingredient, utilized in various products such as teas, jams, juices, and dietary supplements [3] Group 3: Selection Methods - The selection of hawthorn can be guided by the "look, touch, squeeze, weigh" method [4] - Ideal hawthorn should have a bright red color, smooth skin, and a firm texture, while avoiding those with dark spots or irregular shapes [5][6][9] - Fresh hawthorn typically has a green stem; dried or darkened stems indicate prolonged storage [10] Group 4: Storage Methods - Short-term storage (1-2 weeks) should avoid washing before storage to prevent spoilage, while long-term storage (over 6 months) requires thorough cleaning and freezing [12][14] - Fresh hawthorn should be wrapped in dry paper and stored in breathable containers to maintain freshness [13][16] Group 5: Health Benefits - Hawthorn aids digestion and regulates gastrointestinal function, helping alleviate constipation and diarrhea [24] - It lowers blood lipids and prevents atherosclerosis by reducing cholesterol and triglyceride levels [25] - Hawthorn has blood pressure-lowering effects and protects cardiovascular health by improving blood flow [26] - Its antioxidant properties help combat aging and protect the liver [27][31] - Hawthorn can enhance immune function and has potential anti-cancer properties [29][30] Group 6: Consumption Precautions - Daily consumption should not exceed 100g to avoid gastrointestinal discomfort [34] - Special populations, such as those with high stomach acid, pregnant women, and individuals on certain medications, should exercise caution [35][36]