Calamansi is the smallest and probably most widely used fruit amongst the family of citrus. Calamansi was first produced in Southeast Asia. The name is of Arabic origin and it is believed that the Arabs most likely introduced it into India and Persia from where it was taken to Europe. Today it is cultivated in many tropical countries such as Florida, Brazil, Mexico and Egypt.

Calamansi is a small citrus fruit, like a small orange, with skin and flesh that are green in color. The pulp of the fruit taste sour, and the fruit contains twice the amount of juice as the yellow, larger lemon. The juice, as a drink, makes one of the best thirst-quenchers. The acid content of calamansi is known to slow down the oxidation of fresh-cut fruits and vegetables, thus preventing discoloration and acting as a preservative.

Health Benefits:

• Calamansi contains by far more vitamin C than the lemon. A glass of warm water with calamansi juice and a teaspoonful of honey is an ideal remedy for cold and dry cough.

• Calamansi juice is a pep-up in cases of listlessness and a rundown feeling due to vitamin deficiency.

• The pectin content in fruit pulp is said to be beneficial in lowering blood cholesterol.

• The vitamin C content in calamansi increases the body’s resistance to disease, aids the healing of wounds and prevents damage to the eyes.

• Vitamin C is also helpful in maintaining the health of the teeth and other bones of the body. It prevents decay and loosening of the teeth, dental caries, toothache, bleeding of the gums and fragility of bones.

• The rind of the fruit also has medicinal properties. It contains a volatile oil which is used in medicine for improving digestion and removing wind.

• Calamansi is considered highly beneficial in the treatment of digestive disorders.

• The calamansi juice is of great value in constipation, when it is taken first thing in the morning in a glass of warm water.

• The citric acid in calamansi has an alkaline reaction in the system which can relieve peptic ulcers.

• Few drops of warm calamansi-juice diluted with water should be instilled in the eyes in case of conjunctivitis. Its regular use with pure rose water in the ratio of 1:4 is helpful in preventing old-age cataract.

• Calamansi juice diluted in warm water was proven valuable in cystitis. It gives relief to burning sensation and also stops bleeding in cystitis.

• The calamansi juice is also excellent for weight reduction. Fresh juice’ of a calamansi mixed in a glassful of water and sweetened with honey should be taken every morning on empty stomach in case of obesity.

• Calamansi contain limonene, this phytochemical are potent detoxifiers with anti-biotic effect that is protective against bacterial poisoning.

• The potent anti-viral properties in calamansi can kill cholera bacilli within a very short period of time. Drink one part juice and one part water regularly.

• Calamansi peels when rub on dry or scaly skin can restore softness and add moisture to the skin.