Persimmon is a deep orange, waxy fruit which is similar to a tomato in shape. Persimmons which have dark-colored flesh are always sweet and non-astringent and should be eaten before they become too soft. Varieties with light-colored flesh have astringent taste until they soften. The astringent taste is due to the presence of a large amount of tannin, the same substance found in tea. As the fruit ripens and sweetens the tannin disappears. Ripening can take place just as well off the tree as on.
Benefits
It is use as a traditional Chinese remedy for hiccups. Take 9 grams of
calyx of the persimmon fruit and 3 grams of fresh ginger. Add water and
steam for a few minutes and eat.
Persimmon cake is also used as a traditional remedy for diarrhea,
hemorrhoids, lung infections and asthma. To make persimmon cake: the fruit
should be plucked when the skin starts turning yellow. Peel and discard the
skin and place the fruit in the sun to dry, applying pressure frequently on
each fruit to gradually flatten it. Continue drying the flattened fruit in
the sun or in the open until a white frosting appears and covers the entire
surface.
Astringent taste of persimmon can help stops diarrhea, reduces sweating,
and slows or stops bleeding.
Persimmons can help prevent cancer because it is high in vitamin A.
It contain compounds known as shibuol and betulinic acid that are
thought to have anti-cancer properties.
A study conducted in Japan showed that the peel of the persimmon
contains phytochemicals known as proanthocyanidins which may protect cells
against oxidative damage associated with aging
