The plant and animal creation is so extensive that some scientists agree with the statement that, despite all the years of human existence, there is still much to know. There are different marine species that survive the extreme conditions of the ocean floor, which has a depth unknown to man. In that place, there is an entire ecosystem to discover and learn from. Likewise, on the earth’s surface, there are also animal species that remain to be discovered, the same can be said of plants. However, their case is especially particular, since they provide other benefits that go beyond feeding general knowledge.
There is a great variety of plants, fruit trees, ornamental, medicinal and of any other type. The truth is that, regardless of the main use we give it, they all have something in common, they have the ability to have a positive impact on our health. It is no secret that many of the drugs to which we have access have been made using plants of all kinds as raw material. Which allows us to see that every plant has a property to discover and exploit. Such is the case of the strawberry tree. Have you ever heard this name? It is a shrub or small tree that is part of the Greek culture and that the Romans considered sacred, since it was dedicated to nymphs who loved the god Janus and was responsible for protecting the entrance of the house. In Spain, during the 18th century, its seeds were used to attract and hunt different species of birds during the winter. However, in addition to what has been said, it is important to highlight its properties and benefits. Would you like to know what they are? If so, you cannot stop reading this article about the strawberry tree.
Instructions
In its juvenile stage, the strawberry tree is similar to a bush. But, as it reaches a certain degree of maturity, it acquires a shape that gives it great ornamental value. Its trunk is reddish in color and is covered with gray scales. Its branches have the same color and, in turn, divide into several reddish-brown twigs. In relation to its fruit, it is a berry that measures between 7 and 10 mm, in its beginnings it is yellow and, when ripe, it turns red. Although it is edible, some consider it to be a bit tasteless, but at the same time sweet. Some compare it to a strawberry, but not because of its taste, but rather because of its appearance and size. Its skin is a bit rough and, when ripe, it acquires the texture of a tropical fruit. Although it is true that it can be consumed, the recommendation is that the intake be moderate, since raw fruit has a pleasant flavor that invites it to be eaten in large quantities. It can be harvested when it turns a deep red color and is smooth to the touch. It must be consumed in less than 24 hours since, after that time, its decomposition process will begin. To be able to store it, it must be picked when its color is deep red, but its skin is firm. This way it can last a few days in good condition. Although it is true that this fruit can be consumed in various ways, such as raw, cooked as a preserve or jam and as alcohol, it must also be taken into account that it has many medicinal properties and benefits, which you need to know in order to get the most out of it. greatest possible benefit.
What do you need
Depending on the place where it is found, the fruit of the strawberry tree is known in different ways, such as Harini, Urraca, Madroños, Sálamo, etc. In addition, it contains many substances that provide great therapeutic benefits for health. Some of them are: flavonoids, pectin’s, phenolic glycosides and tannins.
These substances act together within the body and provide a wide variety of medicinal properties, among which are those that we will be mentioning below: The fruit of the strawberry tree provides different properties that are responsible for protecting the renal system, by reducing inflammation and infections related to urine. It also helps in the prevention of kidney stones, that is, the presence of stones in the internal part of the kidneys or in the urinary tract. Thanks to the fact that it is a powerful antioxidant, it reduces the action of free radicals and prevents the development of degenerative diseases and certain cardiovascular risk factors, such as hypercholesterolemia or an increase in the level of cholesterol in the blood. It has flavonoid compounds that are nothing more than cardioprotective substances that are responsible for reducing the chances of suffering from some type of cardiovascular disease and improving blood circulation in the body. Since the fruits of the strawberry tree have pectin’s, they help regulate intestinal transit. Both its leaves and its most recent shoots are rich in tannins and therefore help fight diarrhea and dysentery. It is very beneficial to treat chronic inflammations in the urethra and prostate, for acute gonorrhoeic cystitis, renal hematuria and other related conditions. It is a good remedy for people who suffer from urinary incontinence and inflammation of the bladder. Since it improves blood circulation and blood flow to the brain, it is recommended for patients suffering from arteriosclerosis. Since they contain pectin, their intake is also recommended for people with diabetes, since this substance is responsible for slowing down the speed of the passage of sugars that go from the stomach to the duodenum, thus preventing blood sugar levels from rising. Contains vitamin P and, therefore, increases the effectiveness of vitamin C, helps prevent and cure bleeding gums and plays a fundamental role in the treatment of edema and dizziness caused by inner ear ailments.
In summary, we can say that both the fruits, the daughters and the bark of the strawberry tree have important therapeutic properties. Its compounds give it functions of different types, such as astringent, antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, etc. In addition, they protect the heart, liver, and kidneys. They are toning, detoxifying and even analgesic. They prevent thrombi from forming, help strengthen blood vessels, help stop bleeding, prevent diseases such as cancer and even contribute to hair growth. However, despite not causing significant side effects, you should be careful not to eat it in excess, as it can lead to intoxication or cause constipation. On the other hand, before using it to treat any of the ailments already mentioned, it is recommended that you consult your doctor. Now, in view of the great benefits it brings to health, what other aspects should you take into account in relation to the use of the strawberry tree? Let’s see it right now.
Tips
There are many ways to prepare the strawberry tree and enjoy its flavor and properties, some of them are the following:
decoctions
To do this, all you have to do is cook about 30 grams of the bark or leaves of the strawberry tree in a liter of water. Then let it sit for a few minutes and it’s ready to drink. Accompany it with a little sugar or other sweetener and drink two or three cups a day to treat urinary conditions. In case of cases of diarrhea, you can drink up to 5 cups a day.
in jams
Use the fruits of the strawberry tree to make jams and other preserves that, in addition to being delicious, will allow you to benefit from the healthy properties it offers. To do this, you will need to locate the following ingredients: 2 kilos of ripe strawberry trees, ½ liter of water, 1 ½ of sugar, 250 grams of sorbitol and the juice of two lemons. The preparation is so easy. You just have to crush the strawberry trees very well and mix them with water and 250 grams of sugar. Then, place this mixture in a saucepan and let it cook over medium heat. In order to remove the grains, while it is still hot, you must pass it through a food mill. Then, to this pulp you will add the remaining sugar, as well as sorbitol and lemon juice. Finally, let it boil for about 4 more minutes or until the jam acquires the texture you want. You can accompany it with bread, cookies or eat alone, if you like.
in liquor
For the homemade strawberry tree liqueur recipe, you will need the following ingredients: ¼ liter of water, ½ of sugar, 1 kilo of ripe strawberry trees and a liter of brandy. To prepare it you just have to wash and drain the strawberry trees, dry them with the help of a kitchen cloth. Then, dissolve the sugar with the water over low heat and let it continue cooking for about 5 minutes. Remove from the fire and let cool. Place the strawberry trees in a sterilized jar. Meanwhile, mix the syrup with the hot water and pour it over the strawberry trees. Finally, cover them tightly and store them in a place that is dark and dry for about 6 months to a year. After that time, filter the liquid and place it in bottles and it will be ready for consumption. Actually, you will be surprised to know that, in addition to its medicinal properties, the strawberry tree can be given different uses. For example, in gardening, it is a small ornamental-type plant or shrub with beautiful colors in shades of red, orange, and yellow, making it very pleasing to the eye. It can also be used as bonsai. However, for this, certain wiring must be used to support its branches during the spring and autumn seasons. Although its branches are very flexible, you must protect them along with the bark of the trunk. On the other hand, it is not recommended that you water it the day before the wiring is installed. Also, keep a close eye on the marks it leaves on the bark because it tends to grow and thicken its branches very quickly. Do not exceed the amount of wire needed and shape it using the proper techniques. Otherwise, it will look sloppy and lose its vivid appearance. Over time, he will take the form he wants. A part of its trunk will dry out and a vein will remain from which other finer and ungainly branches will be produced, resulting in a strawberry tree bonsai. In addition, as we have already seen, its fruit can be used to prepare different types of recipes, such as jams, preserves and even homemade liqueurs for the enjoyment of your friends and family. In some places, it is used to make a delicious wine, while if distilled, the end result will be an arbutus brandy. Since it is a honey plant, it is possible to obtain sugar from this species.
In other parts of the world, such as Libya, its roots are often used to dye different types of skin red. In relation to its trunk or bark, since it is composed of fine, heavy, elastic and strong wood, it is manageable for the manufacture of bows, tool handles, poles and even for making charcoal and good firewood. Now that you know the strawberry tree, its characteristics and all its medicinal properties, you can’t help but make the most of them. Grow a tree of this species in your home, it does not require much work and all its benefits are worth it. You will not regret the good results it will bring to your health. Also, remember that you can also enjoy their other presentations.
