Among more than 2,500 types of citrus fruits, oranges, tangerines, lemons, and grapefruits are widely popular, while other varieties remain out of the spotlight. One of these is the pomelo, a fundamental type within the citrus family.
The pomelo is not only a huge fruit compared to other citrus fruits but also carries cultural and historical significance. It has been used in traditional Ayurvedic medicine to treat coughs and digestive problems. Hidden beneath its thick rind is a unique taste and distinctive flavor that combines refreshing sweetness with mild acidity, along with multiple health benefits. This makes it an ideal choice for citrus lovers, health and wellness enthusiasts, and even those looking to try a new fruit.
What is a Pomelo?
The pomelo is the largest citrus fruit by size, comparable to or exceeding the size of a cantaloupe. A single fruit typically weighs between one and two kilograms. Its original homeland is Southeast Asia, specifically Malaysia, before it later spread to many regions around the world.
Although available year-round, its peak season extends from October until early spring. The pomelo holds a special place in multiple cultures. In China, for example, many traditionally make sure to eat it during the Mid-Autumn Festival and Lunar New Year celebrations, considering it a symbol of family unity and prosperity. It is believed that eating it brings good luck.
The pomelo is known by several names, most notably “shaddock,” “chakotra” in Hindi, and “karuna” in Sanskrit. A significant part of its size is due to its thick rind and pith. It features a thick outer rind that ranges in color from yellowish-green to pale yellow, underneath which is a very bitter, spongy white pith that must be removed to reach the flesh.
The flesh typically consists of 11 to 18 segments, ranging in color from white to pink or red. It has a sweet, very juicy taste, less bitter than grapefruit, with a light floral aroma that gives it a distinctive flavor.
Benefits of Pomelo
Pomelo is considered a food rich in vitamins, antioxidants, and minerals like potassium, magnesium, iron, and copper, along with fiber and protein. This grants it a range of benefits, the most prominent being:
-
Boosting Immunity
Pomelo is one of the richest sources of vitamin C, providing over 400% of the recommended daily intake, making it a strong supporter of the immune system. This vitamin helps activate white blood cells, improves iron absorption, supports energy levels, and also acts as an antioxidant that helps the body eliminate toxins.
-
Supporting Heart Health
Pomelo contains a rich set of nutrients beneficial for heart health, including potassium and antioxidants, which help regulate blood pressure and improve heart muscle function.
A study published in 2019 indicates that dietary supplements containing pomelo extract contributed to lowering triglyceride levels in rats by up to 21% after 21 days of the experiment. It also reduced total cholesterol by 6% and LDL (bad) cholesterol by up to 41%, alongside its role in raising HDL (good) cholesterol levels. These combined effects help reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke, and high blood pressure, promoting cardiovascular health.
-
Aiding Weight Loss
Despite its large size and sweet taste, pomelo is low in calories, making it a suitable choice for a filling snack. It is also rich in fiber and protein, which promotes a feeling
