Daidai

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Daidai (Japanese: 橙, 臭橙; Citrus × daidai), is a variety of bitter orange, with a long history of cultivation in Japan. It is a member of the Rutaceae family and is also known as the Seville orange.

Etymology[edit | edit source]

The term "Daidai," originally written in Kanji as "代々," means "from generation to generation" when translated into English. This name was given because the tree can live for many years, and the fruit remains on the tree for several years if not picked.

Description[edit | edit source]

The Daidai tree is an evergreen, small to medium-sized tree that can reach a height of 3-6 meters. The leaves are broad, glossy, and dark green. The flowers, which bloom in spring, are white and fragrant. The fruit is round, about 7-8 cm in diameter, with a rough and thick rind. The color of the fruit changes from green to yellow-orange when ripe. The pulp is bitter and not usually eaten, but it is used as a flavoring in cooking and in traditional medicines.

Cultivation and Uses[edit | edit source]

Daidai is primarily grown in Japan, particularly in the Kansai region. It is also found in China and South Korea. The fruit is harvested in winter. The peel of the Daidai is used in some traditional Japanese New Year dishes and is also a popular ingredient in the production of marmalade. In traditional Chinese medicine, Daidai is used to treat digestive disorders and to improve circulation.

Cultural Significance[edit | edit source]

In Japan, Daidai is associated with the New Year and is often used as a decoration in Japanese New Year celebrations. It is also a common motif in Japanese art and literature.

See Also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]


Cutlime.jpg
   This article is a Rutaceae stub. You can help WikiMD by expanding it!


Japanese cuisine stub.svg
   This article is a Japanese cuisine–related stub. You can help WikiMD by expanding it!
Food.jpg
This article is a stub related to food. You can help WikiMD by expanding it!


WikiMD
Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD

Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Let Food Be Thy Medicine
Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates

Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD