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Chinese jujubes, also referred to as red dates are somewhat chewy and sweet and often resemble dried figs or prunes in their texture. While they are typically red when dried, they can also be green when fresh and are often used in traditional Chinese medicine.
Chinese organic jujube dates come in various types, each with unique characteristics. Below are some of the most popular varieties:
Da Ma Zhan Jujubes
They are one of the biggest jujube varieties with a resilient surface and also grow as large as a hen's egg. When ripe, the skin color of these dates turns a rosy dark red and taste sweet and a little like caramel. Often, they are dried to enhance their sweetness and chewiness.
Li Jujube
These eclipses are commonly cultivated in China and appear to be small to medium-sized fruit with a sweet taste and mild softness. They ripen to a deep red color and are often eaten fresh or dried. Their sunny disposition makes them a favorite among those who prefer a milder date.
Lang Jujube
This variety can be recognized by its elongated shape and exceptionally sweet taste. They are a bit smaller than other Chinese dates and turn dark red when fully ripe. Their highly sweetened flavor can be eaten fresh or used in cooking and preparing herbal medicines.
Kon Ma Jujube
They are often referred to as the iron date due to their tough flesh and small stone. They are resilient and can withstand transportation and storage. They are sweet when dried and a bit challenging to eat fresh because of their toughness. They are primarily used in medicine.
Si Yi Jujube
Also called the Chinese "four hopes" date, this fruit is known for its rich, sweet, and honey-like taste. They are plump and round and turn a deep, vibrant red when ripe. Their skin is thin and delicate and are therefore best consumed fresh or used to make soft candies.
Nong Jujube
They are a large and oval-shaped variety of jujube dates. They have a thick skin and are firm in texture. They taste much better when dried and have a concentrated sweetness that makes them ideal for snacking.
Chinese organic jujube dates are highly valued for their versatility in culinary applications, medicinal properties, and as an ingredient in beauty treatments. Below are some of the ways Chinese jujube dates are used:
Culinary uses
Chinese organic jujube dates have an earthy sweetness that can be enjoyed fresh, dried, or in various dishes. When fresh, they can be eaten raw as a nutritious snack with high fiber content, vitamins, and minerals. They also add natural sweetness when dried and are often consumed as a healthy snack on their own or added to trail mixes.
Chinese jujube dates can also be added to smoothies or juiced to make refreshing drinks that boost energy and enhance hydration. They are often used in baking, where diced or pureed dates can be added to muffins, breads, and cookies for moisture and sweetness. In savory dishes, dried jujubes are often added to soups and stews, especially in Chinese cuisine, to provide sweetness and depth of flavor.
They are commonly used in desserts, including jujube cakes, puddings, and candies, where their natural sweetness is the main attraction. Jujube date tea is a popular drink where dried dates are steeped in hot water and enjoyed as a soothing herbal tea that promotes relaxation and well-being.
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)
In TCM, jujube dates are considered a nourishing tonic that supports the spleen, stomach, and blood. They are often prescribed to help those with weakened blood or who are recovering from an illness to aid in boosting and strengthening the immune system. Because jujube dates are high in antioxidants and vitamin C, they are often used in herbal remedies to fight common colds, flu, and infections.
They are used to promote better sleep, alleviate insomnia, and reduce anxiety and stress. People who take the jujube date fruit are said to have better sleep and a more relaxed feeling. The fruit is sometimes combined with other herbs to enhance its calming effects.
Dried jujubes are a common ingredient in herbal tonics and decoctions meant for boosting energy, improving stamina, and enhancing overall vitality. They are used to support digestive health, relieve mild constipation, and regulate bowel movements due to their high fiber content.
Beauty and skincare
Jujube extract is increasingly popular in modern skincare and beauty products due to its antioxidant properties. One of the common products available in the market are jujube-infused lotions, creams, and serums that help combat aging, moisturize the skin, and promote a healthy, radiant complexion. They also help in reducing wrinkles, fine lines, and dark spots, making the skin look youthful and even-toned.
Jujube soap and cleansers containing jujube extracts are used to deeply cleanse the pores, removing dirt and impurities without stripping the skin of its natural oils. Because of its hydrating properties, jujube is used in face masks to boost hydration and soothe dry, irritated skin.
Jujube seed oil is used in hair care products like shampoos, conditioners, and hair masks to nourish and strengthen hair, promote hair growth, and reduce dandruff. Jujube is also used in cosmetics like lip balms and lipstick to provide hydration and a natural tint to the lips. This gives the lips a healthy, rosy color.
Chinese organic jujube dates are prized for their numerous health benefits, offering a wide range of nutritional and therapeutic effects. Below are some of those benefits:
Rich in Nutrients
This fruit is very high in vitamins and minerals such as vitamin C which plays an important role in boosting the immune system and acting as an antioxidant. They also provide essential minerals like iron, calcium, magnesium, and potassium that help support overall body functions such as nerve function and muscle contraction.
Jujube dates are high in dietary fiber which aids in digestion, helps regulate bowel movements, and prevents constipation. The fiber content also promotes a feeling of fullness, which can aid in weight management. Jujube dates are naturally low in fat and cholesterol-free making them a heart-healthy snack.
Antioxidant Properties
Jujube dates contain a high amount of antioxidants like flavonoids, polyphenols, and saponins that help protect the body’s cells from free radical damage. This reduces oxidative stress, lowers the risk of chronic diseases, and helps to age healthily. Antioxidants also support skin health by neutralizing free radicals that cause premature aging, wrinkles, and other skin issues.
Boosts immunity
The vitamin C content in Chinese organic jujube dates helps to enhance immune function and increase the body’s ability to fight off infections and illnesses such as common colds and flu. They can be eaten regularly to maintain illness and keep the body in a good state of health.
Improves digestion
The high fiber content in jujube dates supports digestive health by promoting regular bowel movements and preventing constipation. It also helps in the growth of beneficial gut bacteria, which aids in nutrient absorption and overall digestive efficiency.
Better sleep quality
Jujube dates have sedative properties that can help improve sleep quality. Consuming jujube fruit or tea made from the dates is an age-old remedy that has been passed down through generations and is still used to fight insomnia, reduce anxiety, and promote relaxation, helping people to fall asleep faster and enjoy deeper sleep.
Supports blood health
In TCM, jujube dates are known as blood-nourishing fruits that are helpful to individuals with anemia or weak blood. They increase red blood cell count and improve blood circulation and hence are ideal for people looking to boost their blood health.
Weight control
Chinese organic juju be dates are low in calories and fat and high in fiber which makes them a healthy snack for people trying to manage or lose weight. They give a feeling of fullness, reduce hunger pangs, and aid in controlling cravings, making it easier to stick to a balanced diet.
It's essential to store Chinese organic jujube dates properly to maintain their freshness, flavor, and nutritional value. Below are the various storage methods for both fresh and dried jujube dates.
Storing fresh jujube dates
When still unripe, Chinese medicinal herbs and jujube dates can be stored at room temperature for a few days until they ripen. Once ripe, store them in the refrigerator within a breathable container like a plastic bag with small holes or a container with a lid to slow down the ripening process while preventing their skin from drying out. When refrigerated, fresh jujube dates can last for 2 to 4 weeks. Check regularly for signs of softness or mold and remove any affected fruits to prevent spoilage.
Storing dried jujube dates
Since jujube dates are fully dried, they can be safely stored at room temperature in an airtight container to keep them away from light, heat, and moisture. Properly stored dried jujube dates can last up to 1 year at room temperature. In case extended storage is required, jujube dates can be stored in the freezer in an airtight container or freezer bags. In the freezer, dried jujube dates can last up to 2 to 3 years. Since they don't spoil easily, dried jujube dates can be added to a pantry or emergency food supply.
Preventing oxidation
If jujube dates are chopped or sliced, the exposed flesh might start turning brown due to oxidation. To prevent this, squeeze lemon or lime juice on the cut surfaces or store the pieces in an airtight container. The jujube date juice acts as a natural preservative that keeps the fruit fresh for a longer time.
Identifying spoiled jujubes
It's important to regularly check the jujube dates, whether fresh or dried, for signs of spoilage. Look for mold, an off smell, or unusual softness or stickiness. Discard any spoiled fruits to prevent affecting the quality of others in storage.
A1. They are the edible fruits produced by the jujube tree which is native to southern Asia and Mediterranean regions. The jujube tree is known scientifically as Ziziphus jujuba. It grows to a height of about 5 to 8 meters and has a bushy appearance. The tree can live for several decades, even producing fruit for over 100 years in some cases.
Organic jujube dates refer to fruits grown without synthetic pesticides, herbicides, or chemical fertilizers, and are often certified organic by reputable organizations. This ensures that the fruit is grown sustainably and is free from artificial chemicals. They are small, oval-shaped fruits that are green when unripe and turn red or purplish-brown when fully ripe, depending on the variety. They resemble a cross between a date and a small apple or plum in shape and size.
A2. They are generally considered safe and have no side effects. They are usually well tolerated by most people and can be eaten regularly as part of a balanced diet. However, as with any food, moderation is key. A person who eats organic jujube dates excessively may experience a digestive upset that comes in the shape of diarrhea or abdominal discomfort due to their high fiber content. This can cause gas, bloating, or cramping if consumed in large quantities.
They are naturally high in sugar which makes them a sweet and enjoyable snack for everyone, including diabetics. People with diabetes though need to take extra caution, just like they would with any other type of fruit, and monitor their blood sugar levels after eating jujubes. To avoid any adverse reactions, people with known sensitivities or allergies to fruits in the stone fruit category like cherries, or plums should take jujube dates with caution and consult with a professional first.
A3. Yes, Chinese jujube dates are included as an ingredient in many skin care and beauty products all because of their beneficial effects on the skin. They contain antioxidants such as flavonoids and vitamin C that protect the skin from free radical damage and help fight signs of aging like wrinkles and fine lines. The moisturizing properties of jujube extracts help hydrate the skin, making it less dry and more supple, and giving it a better texture. Jujube dates have soothing properties that can calm irritation and reduce redness, making them suitable for sensitive or easily irritated skin.
A4. Yes, they are often recommended in cases of iron deficiency anemia because they are high in iron. The high vitamin C in jujube dates enhances iron absorption in the body which helps promote overall blood health. They are also high in copper, an important mineral for red blood cell formation, and are often used to increase hemoglobin levels and improve oxygen delivery throughout the body.