Health Guide

Qunice

Quince (Cydonia oblonga) is an ancient, aromatic fruit related to apples and pears, often described as a cross between the two. Unlike its common cousins, raw quince is rarely eaten due to its astringent, tart taste and hard texture. However, when cooked, it transforms, releasing a sweet, floral aroma and turning a beautiful deep red. Historically revered in traditional Persian and Chinese medicine, modern science is now catching up to its potent health benefits. It is a nutritional powerhouse, packed with antioxidants, dietary fiber, and phenolic compounds that support digestion, heart health, and immunity. Think of it not just as a fruit, but as a natural medicine cabinet hiding in plain sight.

Evidence BasedDietary Supplement

VERIFIED SOURCE

Bio-Activity Analysis

Antioxidant Capacity Comparison (ORAC Value)

SCIENTIFIC DATA VISUALIZATION

Y-Axis

Antioxidant Units (per 100g)

Fruit Source →

Health Benefits & Sources

Why You Need It

Digestive Health: High in pectin and dietary fiber, quince acts as a natural prebiotic, feeding healthy gut bacteria and regulating bowel movements.
Potent Antioxidant Source: Rich in quercetin, kaempferol, and vitamin C, it helps neutralize harmful free radicals, protecting your cells from oxidative stress.
Heart Health Support: The fiber helps lower LDL (bad) cholesterol, while the antioxidants help reduce inflammation in blood vessels, supporting healthy blood pressure.
Immune Boosting: Its antimicrobial properties and high Vitamin C content make it effective for fighting off common infections and soothing sore throats.

Deep Dive

Quince is unique because its health benefits persist even after cooking. While many fruits lose nutrients when heated, the phenolic compounds in quince become more bioavailable. The fruit is particularly rich in proanthocyanidins, which are compounds known to strengthen blood vessels. For those struggling with digestive issues like IBS or acid reflux, quince jam or syrup has been used for centuries as a gentle, soothing remedy. It works by forming a protective layer over the mucous membranes of the stomach and intestines.

Natural Food Sources

Quince is primarily consumed as a fruit. While it can be found fresh in autumn, it is most commonly available as Quince Paste (Membrillo), Quince Syrup, or Quince Jam.

Food Source	Amount	% Daily Value (Approximate)
Quince Fruit (Raw/Cooked)	1 medium fruit (100g)	High in Vitamin C, Fiber
Quince Paste	1 oz (28g)	Moderate Fiber, Antioxidants
Quince Tea (Boiled leaves/fruit)	1 cup	Moderate Polyphenols

Supplementation

Food First: Eating the fruit or using the paste is the best way to get the full spectrum of nutrients.

Supplements: Quince extract is available in capsule or powder form. These are typically used for concentrated antioxidant support or specific digestive issues.

Dosage: There is no official RDA for Quince. However, for extracts, typical clinical doses range from 250mg to 500mg daily. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions.

Top Food Sources

Fresh Quince Fruit

Best when poached or roasted.

Quince Paste (Membrillo)

High in natural sugars, eat in moderation.

Quince Leaf Tea

Good for digestion and sore throat.

Quince Seed Oil

Used topically for skin health.

Quince Jam

Retains most antioxidants.

Frequently Asked Questions

Raw quince is very hard, gritty, and extremely tart. It tastes astringent (drying to the mouth) like an unripe persimmon. It must be cooked with sugar to become palatable.

Yes, but it is high in natural sugars. It retains the fiber and antioxidants of the fruit. Enjoy it in moderation, ideally paired with protein or healthy fats (like cheese).

Yes. Quince leaf tea is a traditional remedy for digestive upset and sore throats. It contains beneficial tannins and antioxidants similar to the fruit.

Wash, core, and remove seeds (discard seeds). Slice it and poach it in water with honey or sugar until soft and red. You can also roast it like a pear.

Safety & Side Effects

Safety Profile

Quince is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) when consumed in food amounts.

Who Should Be Cautious?

Allergies: If you are allergic to pollen or fruits in the Rosaceae family (like apples, pears, or cherries), you may react to quince.
Kidney Issues: Quince seeds contain amygdalin, which can break down into cyanide. Never eat the seeds raw. If using whole fruit for tea or jam, ensure seeds are removed and discarded. Commercial products are always seed-free.
Pregnancy/Breastfeeding: Safe in food amounts, but avoid concentrated supplements unless approved by a doctor.

Scientific References

[1]Ghafarzadeh, M., et al. (2014). 'Therapeutic effects of quince (Cydonia oblonga) extract on ulcerative colitis.' *Journal of Research in Medical Sciences*.
[2]Khatib, N., et al. (2020). 'Quince fruit: A review of its phytochemistry, pharmacology, and health benefits.' *Journal of Ethnopharmacology*.
[3]Barros, L., et al. (2011). 'Chemical composition and antioxidant activity of Quince (Cydonia oblonga) seeds and pulp.' *Food Chemistry*.