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Quince (Cydonia oblonga)

Botanical Information

  • Family: Rosaceae
  • Common Names: Quince, Golden Apple
  • Parts Used: Fruit, seeds, leaves

Description

Cydonia oblonga is a deciduous tree native to the Caucasus and surrounding regions, widely cultivated for its fragrant, golden-yellow fruit. Traditionally, quince has been used for its astringent, anti-inflammatory, and digestive-supporting properties. The fruit is high in pectin, making it valuable in both culinary and medicinal applications, particularly for soothing the digestive tract.

Historical and Traditional Uses

  • Used in ancient Greece and Rome as a digestive tonic and food preservative.
  • Traditionally employed in Persian and European folk medicine for respiratory health and skin care.
  • The seeds were historically used as a mucilaginous remedy for sore throats and gastrointestinal irritation.

Constituents

  • Pectin
  • Flavonoids
  • Tannins
  • Mucilage (from seeds)
  • Essential oils
  • Organic acids (malic acid, citric acid)

Actions

  • Astringent
  • Demulcent (soothing)
  • Anti-inflammatory
  • Digestive tonic
  • Expectorant
  • Antioxidant

Medicinal Uses

1. Digestive Health:
Quince fruit is known to ease indigestion, diarrhea, and gastritis due to its high pectin content and mild astringent properties.

2. Respiratory Support:
Traditionally used to soothe coughs, sore throats, and bronchial inflammation by consuming quince syrup or seed infusions.

3. Skin and Wound Healing:
The mucilage from quince seeds has been applied to burns, wounds, and dry skin for its soothing and protective effects.

4. Anti-Inflammatory and Antioxidant Benefits:
Rich in polyphenols, quince helps reduce oxidative stress and inflammation, supporting cardiovascular and immune health.

5. Blood Sugar Regulation:
Studies suggest quince may help modulate blood sugar levels, making it beneficial for metabolic support.

Preparation and Dosage

Infusion (Tea – Seeds):

  • 1 tsp of crushed seeds steeped in warm water for 10-15 minutes; drink up to twice daily for throat and digestive relief.

Decoction (Fruit):

  • Simmer sliced fruit in water for 15-20 minutes; drink as a digestive tonic.

Syrup:

  • Cook quince fruit with honey or sugar to create a syrup for respiratory support.

Poultice (Topical Use):

  • Crushed seeds or fruit pulp can be applied to wounds or inflamed skin for soothing relief.

Precautions and Contraindications

  • Pregnancy and Lactation: Safe in food amounts; medicinal use should be monitored.
  • Seed Consumption: Quince seeds contain small amounts of amygdalin, which can convert to cyanide in large quantities—use in moderation.
  • Constipation: Excess consumption of quince fruit may cause constipation due to its astringency.

Energetics (Traditional Medicine Perspectives)

  • Traditional Western Herbalism: Cooling and moistening; supports digestion, lung health, and skin hydration.
  • Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM): Tonifies the stomach and lungs, clears heat, and moistens dryness.
  • Ayurveda: Balancing for Pitta and Vata, but may increase Kapha in excess.

Combinations

  • For Digestive Health: Combine with fennel and ginger.
  • For Respiratory Support: Combine with licorice and marshmallow root.
  • For Skin Healing: Combine with aloe vera and calendula.

Harvesting and Storage

  • Harvesting: Fruits are harvested in late autumn when fully ripe. Seeds are collected from mature fruits.
  • Drying: Air dry seeds and fruit slices in a shaded, well-ventilated area.
  • Storage: Store dried plant material in an airtight container away from moisture and light.

Modern Research

Studies confirm Cydonia oblonga’s benefits for digestion, respiratory support, and inflammation reduction, reinforcing its traditional medicinal uses.

Quince remains a valuable herb in both traditional and modern medicine, particularly for digestive health, respiratory support, and skin nourishment.