Longan

About

Longan is a tropical fruit known for its sweet and succulent taste, often compared to lychee but smaller and drier. It belongs to the Sapindaceae family, which includes other fruits like lychee, rambutan, and ackee. Longan trees can grow up to 100 feet tall, with clusters of small, brownish-yellow flowers. The fruit itself is encased in a thin, tan, leathery peel with soft hairs, containing a translucent, juicy flesh and a large black seed. Longan is rich in nutrients, including vitamins C and B, potassium, magnesium, and antioxidants like gallic acid and ellagic acid. These nutrients contribute to its health benefits, such as boosting immunity, aiding digestion, and supporting skin health. Longan is also used in traditional medicine for treating conditions like insomnia and stress. It is commonly consumed fresh, dried, or canned and is popular in Southeast Asian cuisine. The fruit's unique appearance, resembling an eyeball, has earned it the nickname "dragon's eye."