Longan

Bio-Activity Analysis
Antioxidant Capacity (ORAC Value) Comparison
SCIENTIFIC DATA VISUALIZATION
Health Benefits & Sources
Why You Need It
- Supports Healthy Sleep: Longan is revered in traditional medicine for its ability to calm the nervous system, helping you fall asleep faster and improve sleep quality.
- Boosts Immunity: Rich in Vitamin C and antioxidants, it helps your body fend off common colds and reduces oxidative stress.
- Enhances Energy & Vitality: The natural sugars (fructose and glucose) provide a quick energy boost, while the iron content supports healthy blood oxygenation.
- Promotes Healthy Skin: The antioxidants combat free radicals that cause aging, helping to keep your skin looking youthful and vibrant.
Deep Dive
Longan works by nourishing the body on a cellular level. The polyphenols found in the fruit act as antioxidants, neutralizing harmful free radicals that damage cells. For energy, it offers a 'clean' source of fuel—providing glucose directly to the brain and muscles without the crash associated with processed sugars. Its most unique benefit is its neuro-regulatory effect; compounds in Longan appear to modulate neurotransmitters associated with stress, promoting a state of 'calm alertness' rather than drowsiness.
Natural Food Sources
The best way to consume Longan is fresh or dried. It is widely available in Asian markets and increasingly in mainstream grocery stores.
| Food Source | Amount (Per 100g) | % Daily Value (Approx) |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh Longan (Pulp) | 1 Serving (100g) | Vitamin C: ~80% |
| Dried Longan | 1 Serving (20g) | Iron: ~15% |
| Longan Tea | 1 Cup | Polyphenols: High |
Supplementation
Dosage: If using dried longan meat (often found in herbal shops), a typical dose is 6g to 12g per day, steeped in hot water as a tea or eaten directly.
Who should take it: It is excellent for students, people recovering from illness, or anyone experiencing mild anxiety or insomnia. Because it is high in natural sugars, those with blood sugar sensitivities should consume it in moderation.
Top Food Sources
Frequently Asked Questions
Safety & Side Effects
Safety Profile: Longan is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for the general population when consumed in food amounts.
Who should avoid it:
- Diabetics: Because Longan is high in natural sugars, it can spike blood glucose levels. Monitor intake carefully.
- People with 'Heat' symptoms: In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Longan is considered a 'warming' herb. If you have a fever, inflammation, or acne breakouts, you should reduce intake.
- Allergies: Though rare, some individuals may experience oral allergy syndrome.
Side Effects: Excessive consumption (more than 200g of fresh fruit daily) may lead to bloating or digestive discomfort due to the fiber and sugar content.
Scientific References
- [1]Lin, L. et al. (2017). 'Antioxidant properties of longan fruit.' *Food Chemistry*.
- [2]Rangkadilok, N. et al. (2005). 'Evaluation of free radical scavenging and antiproliferative properties of longan seeds.' *Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry*.
- [3]He, Z. et al. (2019). 'The sedative and hypnotic effects of longan polysaccharides.' *Journal of Ethnopharmacology*.