Thought to have originated from China, the Yuzu (Citrus junos) is a hybrid between the Mandarin Orange and the very hardy (for a citrus) Ichang Papeda.
Though long only associated with Asian cooking, the Yuzu has recently made its way into cuisines throughout the world as a fresh new flavoring which is tart and aromatic, similar to grapefruit but with some mandarin orange overtones.
Also, as it is related to the Ichang Papeda, it is a citrus that can be grown in colder climates than most, tolerating weather as low as 15 degrees F.
The Yuzu juice, rind and peel are all utilized in foods, with popular uses in Japan in ponzu sauce and yuzu vinegar, and used similarly to lemons throughout dishes. In Korea it is used to make a marmalade, as well as a hot tea and a variety of beverages. The rind is used to make yuzu kosho (a chili paste).
Yuzu is also popular for its essential oil and its natural aromaticity.
In aromatherapy Yuzu essential oil has been shown to have similar relaxing effects as Lavender, and in a randomized clinical study Yuzu inhalation was found to alleviate PMS.
The Yuzu also contains valuable citrus oils, such as limonene, which is a known anti-inflammatory, as well as a variety of antioxidants, including high levels of Vitamin C and the health-promoting flavonones, naringin, hesperidin, naringenin and hesperetin.
In Japan, on the winter solstice it is a tradition to prepare a bath with Yuzu, refreshing the skin, guarding against colds and relaxing the mind.
The peel is often used in Kampo (Japanese herbal medicine) for its warming properties and digestive benefits.
Through scientific investigation, Yuzu has been found to exhibit anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, anti-obesity, anti-melanogenic, and anti-allergic activities.
Yuzu essential oil and extracts are increasingly found in personal care products for their antioxidant, skin brightening and revitalizing properties.
One study found that inhalation of yuzu scent significantly decreased salivary chromogranin A levels in stressed women, suggesting that yuzu aroma has measurable anxiolytic effects.
*This content is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to provide medical advice or to take the place of such advice or treatment from a personal physician.