Health Benefits of Dalandan
Rose May Pimentel in Health
Dec 16, 2021 • 2 min Read
Dalandan, also known as sour orange, is one of Pinoys’ favorites. It packs flavor and nutrients. It is an excellent source of Vitamin C, essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that promote our general health.
Dalandan is found across the Philippines and is often dipped in salt or chili to help neutralize the sour flavor. It is used to flavor baked goods, cocktails, and marinades for sweet and savory dishes. Dalandan is best suited for raw applications and is predominately consumed fresh or juiced. The juice can be mixed into shakes, smoothies, or served as a stand-alone fruit juice.
Here are some of the amazing benefits of dalandan:
1. Anti-cancer Potential
According to a study, high levels of antioxidants and vitamin C present in citric fruits such as dalandan can fight free radicals and oxidative stress, particularly for lung cancer.
2. Prevents Kidney Disease
By improving potassium levels and lowering blood pressure, this fruit can help minimize strain on the kidneys and prevent kidney disease.
3. Lowers Cholesterol
The high levels of ascorbic acid and fiber in dalandan allow them to prevent the oxidation of cholesterol, which is how plaque buildup occurs, leading to atherosclerosis and a higher risk of heart attack, stroke, and coronary heart diseases.
4. Treats Viral Infections
Eating this citrus fruit is known to kickstart the immune system. Studies denote specific antiviral and antibiotic properties of the volatile acids contained in dalandan.
5. Chronic Disease
Polyphenolic compounds, flavanones, and other antioxidants help to eliminate chronic inflammation and mitigate the effects of free radicals, which can lead to various chronic diseases.
6. Helps Prevent Constipation
Good fiber levels can stimulate peristaltic motion and improve your general digestive efficiency that prevent constipation.
7. Eye Health
The presence of flavonoids in dalandan helps improve vision health. These antioxidants and many vitamins lower the risk of eye diseases like macular degeneration that mostly occurs with old age.
8. Alkalizing Effect
Despite being a highly acidic fruit, when the body metabolizes many of these acids, it has an alkalizing effect on the overall pH of the body.
9. Treats Fungal Infections
Dalandan is considered to be effective for several skin issues, including ringworm and athlete’s foot. One study demonstrated that, when applied topically, it can reduce fungal growth by 96.43%.
10. Promotes Skin Health
Vitamin C is a precursor to collagen, making it essential for skin integrity and repair.
11. May Support Weight Loss
Dalandan has shown promising effects for weight loss, especially when combined with caffeine. Its active ingredient p-synephrine is a known stimulant and has demonstrated increases in metabolic rate and energy expenditure when used over weeks to months.
12. Aids in Diabetes Management
A study showed that citrus essential oil effectively inhibits the enzymes α-amylase and α-glucosidase, both of which are linked to diabetes (and hypertension).
Check it now and start incorporating this incredible fruit in your daily diet and enjoy its benefits!
Stay healthy and safe!
