Strawberries
Strawberries, a common fruit, are hailed by nutritionists as "spring's premier fruit" and are an excellent choice for spring wellness. Historically valued for their ability to nourish blood, boost energy, strengthen the spleen, and moisten the lungs, strawberries suit all ages. They are particularly beneficial as a nourishing fruit for those with weakened constitutions.Additionally, the iron, glucose, fructose, malic acid, and citric acid in strawberries can effectively assist in treating springtime ailments like sore throats, lung-heat coughs, and skin boils. Tip: Strawberries have high water content and thin skins, making them prone to mechanical damage or microbial invasion that causes spoilage. It's best to buy and eat them fresh.
MANGO
Mango (Waist Mango)
Dubbed the "King of Tropical Fruits," mango boasts a sweet and fragrant flavor. Among mango varieties, the Waist Mango stands out for its exceptional texture. Though mangoes are generally fibrous, the Waist Mango offers a remarkably smooth and velvety mouthfeel. Combined with its rich, sweet aroma, it creates an irresistible treat.Mangoes are exceptionally rich in beta-carotene, which converts to vitamin A in the body. This nutrient not only protects eyesight but also benefits skin health—a must-try for beauty-conscious individuals.
Tip: While delicious, mangoes are a common allergen. Those with allergies should exercise caution when consuming them.
LOQUAT
Loquat
Loquats bear fruit in spring and ripen in early summer. Traditionally available from May, they now mature as early as March or April in southern regions and are increasingly found in northern markets.Loquats rank among the top three fruits for beta-carotene content. Beyond that, they're rich in B vitamins, potassium, and other nutrients. Moderate consumption supports eye health, skin hydration, and blood pressure regulation. The organic acids like malic and citric acid in the fruit stimulate digestive secretion and boost appetite.
Loquats hold significant medicinal value, with their fruit, seeds, flowers, leaves, bark, roots, and honey all used in traditional medicine. The Compendium of Materia Medica records that "loquats nourish the five vital organs and replenish the heart and lungs," making them a dual-purpose food and medicine for those suffering from dry coughs due to lung dryness.Loquat leaves contain amygdalin, which research has proven to have expectorant and anti-asthmatic effects.
Tip: Loquats have a very short market season. When purchasing, prioritize white-fleshed varieties. Select highly ripe fruits with orange-yellow skin, intact fuzz, and no green spots.Always peel loquats before eating, and discard the pits. Unripe fruits or the pits contain amygdalin, which is toxic. Even ripe loquats should be consumed in moderation—1 to 2 fruits at a time is sufficient. PINEAPPLE>Pineapples boast excellent quality and rich nutrition, containing abundant fructose, glucose, vitamins B and C, phosphorus, citric acid, and protease. They offer benefits such as quenching thirst, aiding digestion, relieving diarrhea, strengthening the spleen and stomach, fortifying vital energy, nourishing blood, promoting digestion, dispelling dampness, enhancing complexion, and supporting weight management.Pineapples contain an enzyme called bromelain, which breaks down proteins to aid digestion, reduces inflammation and edema, and promotes blood circulation. It is especially beneficial after consuming meat or greasy foods, helping prevent fat accumulation.
Tip: The allergen responsible for "pineapple allergy" is primarily bromelain. Saltwater can disrupt bromelain's allergenic structure, neutralizing its toxicity for sensitive individuals. Those with allergies should avoid pineapple altogether or soak it in lightly salted water before consumption.
MULBERRY
Mulberries
Mulberries are the fruit of the mulberry tree, ripening in spring. Ripe mulberries are plump and juicy, with a perfectly balanced sweet-tart flavor. The best ones are large, fleshy, deep purple-red, and rich in sugar.Mulberries improve blood supply to the skin (including the scalp), nourish the complexion, quench thirst, aid digestion, promote bowel movements, and help delay aging.Their iron content is particularly high, reaching 6 to 8 milligrams per 100 grams—20 to 30 times higher than apples, oranges, or pears. Cherry vitamin A content is 4 to 5 times greater than in apples, oranges, or grapes. Consuming cherries promotes hemoglobin regeneration and offers cancer-preventive benefits.
MANGOSTEEN
Mangosteen
Mangosteen flesh is rich in dietary fiber, sugars, vitamins, and minerals like magnesium, calcium, phosphorus, and potassium. It provides excellent nourishment for the body and is particularly beneficial for those who are weak, recovering from illness, or malnourished.
Tip: The rind has a bitter taste. When peeling, avoid letting the rind's juices drip onto the flesh to prevent affecting the flavor.