Citrus fruits, like oranges, mandarins, and tangerines, are cherished for their refreshing aroma and health and beauty benefits. Extracting oil from these fruits, such as satsuma oil, provides a convenient way to enjoy these advantages. Satsuma oil, derived from a specific citrus variety, can enhance health and appearance. Uncover the secrets of Satsuma and explore the transformative benefits of its oil.
What Is Satsuma?
Satsuma is essentially a particular variant of Mandarin. It is a round fruit with a yellow-orange outer skin and bright orange flesh. The vibrant peel of the fruit has a thin and leathery texture with prominent oil glands all over it. It is loosely attached to the segmented flesh and easily peeled off. Also, the fruit is tender, sweet, and incredibly juicy, with few seeds. (1)
Satsuma is high in antioxidants and low in calories. It makes a beautiful breakfast or snack packed with vitamins, minerals, and other essential nutrients. Raw satsuma mandarins are widely used as salad toppings, while baking them with cakes, muffins, etc., will add a refreshing fragrance. For delicious flavor, try blending the fruit into candies, ice creams, smoothies, and cocktails. You can also reap the benefits by including one or two fresh satsumas in your daily diet.
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Origin Of Satsuma
Though the earliest existence of Satsuma dates back to 1429, it first appeared in Japan more than 700 years ago. There was a time when a wide variety of citrus fruits were introduced to the country, and Satsuma mandarin is thought to have originated from a natural mutation that resulted from it. In fact, ‘Bendiguangju’ – a Chinese variety of mandarin- resembles Satsuma; hence, it is believed to be the predecessor of the fruit. (2)
‘Satsuma’ was the former name of the province ‘Kagoshima Prefecture’ situated on the ‘Kyushu Island’ of Japan, and the fruit was named after this place only. It is also popularly known in Japan as ‘Citrus Unshiu Marc.’ Some favorable characteristics of Satsuma, which makes it the primary citrus fruit in Japan, are high productivity, early maturity, and strong disease resistance power.
What Is Satsuma Oil?
Satsuma oil is a versatile essential oil extracted from the skin of Satsuma fruits. Typically, the oil is obtained by cold-pressing fresh Satsuma peels. This is one of the most admired citrus oils you can ever use for health and beauty. As we do not eat the fruit along with its peels, it is always good to opt for satsuma oil, widely available in the market, to enjoy the goodness of the fruit and the peel.
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Health Benefits Of Satsuma Oil
Satsuma oil comes with a host of therapeutic benefits. Here is why it is excellent for our health.
Combats Cancer
Research indicates that regular consumption of satsuma oil can keep liver cancer at bay. Being rich in carotenoids (cryptoxanthin), it is a natural anti-carcinogenic agent for hepatitis C patients. The presence of limonene in it also helps in thwarting the risk of breast cancer in women.
Strengthens Immunity
Like other citrus fruits, Satsuma is packed with vitamin C, which keeps our immune system healthy and strengthens it over time. Vitamin C is a natural antioxidant that fights against harmful free radicals and protects our body from oxidative stress. This keeps colds, coughs, flu, and frequent infections away.
Reduces Hypertension
People suffering from hypertension can consider satsuma oil as a potential aid in controlling their blood pressure levels. It is a rich source of potassium, which helps lower elevated blood pressure and maintain it to a reasonable level. Thus, they can also steer clear of unwanted conditions like atherosclerosis, heart attacks, strokes, etc., triggered by hypertension.
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Regulates Cholesterol
As satsuma oil comes loaded with antioxidants, it can help keep our cholesterol levels under control and lower the risk of cholesterol-related diseases. It decreases LDL or low-density lipoprotein (bad cholesterol) levels in our bloodstream and increases HDL or high-density lipoprotein (good cholesterol). Moreover, the oil contains plenty of soluble and insoluble fibers that prevent our gut from absorbing cholesterol, keeping it healthy.
Keeps Diabetes Away
The high dietary fiber content of satsuma oil makes it an excellent natural remedy for diabetes. It helps keep sugar levels under control by regulating the insulin levels in our body and averting the transformation of sugars into fats.
Purifies Blood
Satsuma oil is a natural blood purifier as its fibers help detoxify our body. In addition, its anti-microbial and antiseptic properties help shield wounds from bacterial and fungal infections.
Improves Digestion
The high fiber content of satsuma oil can cleanse our digestive system quickly and, hence, is excellent for our digestive health. It also has natural antispasmodic properties, which relieve the digestive system after excess vomiting.
Promotes Weight Loss
Regular intake of satsuma oil can prevent overeating and binging by helping you steer clear of hunger pangs. As a result, your metabolism improves, and you start losing excess pounds.
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Beauty Benefits Of Satsuma Oil
Apart from health, satsuma oil is highly beneficial for our skin and hair. Check out how it can enhance your appearance naturally.
- It slows down the process of aging and delays the onset of its signs (wrinkles, fine lines, age spots, etc.) to give a younger and healthier look.
- Eliminates spots, marks, and other blemishes, making the skin look flawless.
- Brightens up the complexion and restores the natural glow of the skin.
- Ensures better health for hair by protecting it from pollution and conditioning it intensely.
- It stimulates the growth of hair and adds beautiful shine as well as bounce to it.
- Puts a stop to premature greying of hair.
Warning: After using satsuma oil topically, avoid exposure to sunlight for at least 12 hours.
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Summary
Satsuma, a mandarin variant, is renowned for its antioxidant-rich, nutritious profile. Extracted from its peel, Satsuma oil offers versatile health and beauty benefits. Rich in carotenoids and limonene, it fights cancer and boosts immunity. The oil aids blood pressure control, cholesterol regulation, and diabetes prevention. Satsuma oil purifies blood, aids digestion, and supports weight loss. It also boasts beauty benefits, slowing aging, eliminating blemishes, brightening the complexion, and promoting healthy hair.
