They treat digestive and menstrual problems, gas, boost immunity, help with brain health and vitality, and are great for intestinal infections and inflammation, and these are just some of the benefits of medlar (“Mespilus germanica”), the powerful autumn fruit from the “Rosaceae” family, to which apples, pears, and quinces belong.

However, unlike them, medlars are harvested in late autumn and consumed only when the fruit becomes soft and mushy. Their sweet and slightly sour taste is great for making various things like marmalade, cakes, and even liqueur.

Medlar fruit is rich in essential nutrients, including vitamins C and B, and also contains carotene and minerals such as calcium, potassium, magnesium, iron, sodium, and phosphorus.

They are also a rich source of amino acids, tannin, sugar, pectin, and organic acids. The fruit contains phenolic compounds, flavanols, and ascorbic acid that act as powerful natural antioxidants.

Health benefits of consuming Medlar

1 They are rich in Antioxidants

Medlar fruit is rich in polyphenolic compounds, especially phenolic acids, which offer strong antioxidant properties. Foods enriched with these compounds are associated with a reduced risk of chronic conditions such as atherosclerosis and diabetes.

2 They contain anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties

Medlars contain gallic acid, a polyphenol known for its anti-inflammatory effects, which may help reduce fat storage in obese individuals. Also, their antibacterial properties can act on food-associated bacteria, and this study highlights their potential utility in the food preservation industry.

3 They are a friend of immunity

Minerals such as calcium, potassium, magnesium, and iron, which are abundant in medlar, support immune health. The vitamin C contained in loquats also makes them effective in the prevention and treatment of conditions such as scurvy.

4 They support gut health

The high pectin content in the puddle promotes the health of the digestive system by reducing cholesterol levels, preventing constipation, and stimulating bowel activity. The anti-inflammatory effects of this powerful fruit further support a healthy digestive system.

5 They have a positive effect on blood sugar levels

The polyphenols in loquats, including phenolic acids and flavonoids, can help inhibit enzymes such as α-glucosidase and α-amylase, which play an important role in carbohydrate metabolism. All this makes this small fruit similar to small pears, potentially useful for regulating blood sugar levels.

6 They can prevent neurodegenerative diseases

Although conducted on animals, research shows that the high flavonoid content in medlar may act protectively against memory loss and neuronal damage.

Therefore, medlar consumption may be beneficial in the prevention of neurodegenerative conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease. However, to confirm the accuracy, further research is needed that will be conducted on humans.