Medlar: The forgotten fruit with surprising health benefits

Mespilus, as it's called, is a late-fall fruit found from the Black Sea to Iran. The Romans appreciated its taste and spread it throughout Europe. The medlar is a long-living tree that can grow and bear fruit for many years. It's worth having it in your garden because the distinctive fruits are tasty and, above all, very healthy.

Medlar fruits are small and round and usually have brownish skin. Their flesh is hard and astringent, so you need to be patient before eating them. When they are fully ripe or have been frosted, they become soft and sweet. Hence, the medlar's popularity in winter in the past was simply a delicious treat.

Medlar is a rich source of iron, which isn't typically associated with fruit. Iron is essential for oxygen transport in the body and red blood cell production. It also contains B vitamins, which are key in nervous system function, energy production, and proper metabolism. Medlar fruits are a source of flavonoids, which are natural antioxidants. They protect cells from damage caused by free radicals and may have anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer effects.

In folk medicine, medlars were used to ease stomach problems thanks to their high fibre content, which is essential for proper bowel function. They also supported the cardiovascular system and were helpful in treating kidney and gallstones. Recent research indicates that medlar extract may benefit blood sugar levels, making it a potential support in treating diabetes.

Ripe medlar fruits can be eaten raw but also work well after processing. Sweet and aromatic medlar jams taste great on fresh bread or as an addition to cheeses, and you can also prepare liqueur or compote from them. Some people use medlar fruits to bake apple pies, substituting them for apples.