In an era of fashionable superfoods, Žižole – also known as Jujube, or Chinese dates provide an exceptional mix of traditional, nutritional and adaptability. This tiny apple-like fruits have been cultivated and used over the span of thousands of years across Asia and in the Mediterranean and the Balkans. These are getting a new look as an nutrient-rich, natural remedy to sleep, digestion and overall health.
If you’re new to Žižole here’s what you need to know about the basics of Žižole: what they are and ways to get the most out of zizole in the present day.
What Are Žižole?
Žižole are derived of Ziziphus Jujuba which is a drought resistant tree that is native to China however, it is now grown across Southern Europe and parts of the Middle East. in countries like Croatia, Slovenia, and Montenegro Žižole is a popular snack during summer, typically found in garden and farmers ‘ markets during the last days of spring and through the fall.
Fresh vs. Dried
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Žižole, which is fresh appears like small golden brown apple. They have the crisp and nutty taste as well as a slight tart, sweet flavor.
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Žižole dried turns chewy with a dark, brown color and a date-like taste. It’s more flavorful and often found in teas, desserts or traditional medicine.
A fruit that has deep roots
Žižole were used in the diet of humans and the practices in healing for over 4000 centuries. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) the term is Da Zao and they are utilized for:
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Relax your mind.
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Boost immunity
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Support digestion
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Give the blood
in the Balkans along with Mediterranean Žižole represent the spirit of hospitality and changing seasons. Families often preserve the syrups they create at home, in jams made from scratch or in liquors. Despite their roots in the region, they’ve been an enclave treasure in the outside world up to the present.
Nutritional Powerhouse
Do not be fooled by the appearance of their website. Žižole is an abundance of nutrients that promote health:
Nutrient | Per 100g (Dried) |
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Calories | 280 Kilocalories |
Vitamin C | ~70 mg (over 100% RDA) |
Potassium | 250-500 mg |
Fiber | ~6 g |
Iron | ~1.9 mg |
Antioxidants | Flavonoids, polyphenols, saponins |
The nutrients listed are component of the many positive health effects of the fruit that range from boosting your levels of energy, to protecting your skin and heart.
Top Health Benefits of Žižole
1. Improves Sleep and Reduces Stress
One Žižole’s best-known benefits is the fact that it’s a organic aid in sleeping. The compound in the fruit works with neurotransmitters, such as GABA and serotonin in order to aid calm and decrease anxiety.
Sip a cup Žižole tea before when you’re going to sleep, and you can unwind naturally, without Melatonin or any other prescription medications.
2. Supports Digestion and Gut Health
A high content of polysaccharides derived by plant materials, Žižole helps in the regulation of digestion as well as the development of gut microbes. This makes the ideal supplement for those who suffer from a poor digestion or stomachs which are prone to irritation.
3. Strengthens the Immune System
Because of its high vitamin C and antioxidant content, Žižole may help protect cells from damage triggered by free radicals aswell to boost the immune system in particular during flu season.
4. Protects the Heart
Žižole’s potassium assists in controlling blood pressure, and assists in the functioning of the cardiovascular system. When combined with anti-inflammatory ingredients, they could help reduce the risk of developing heart disease.
5. Boosts Skin and Liver Health
Žižole’s antioxidants are associated with better detoxification of the liver, as well as increased collagen production. Both are essential to glowing skin and overall health.
Culinary Uses: How to Eat Žižole
Whatever you prefer, whether you prefer the taste of your food savory or sweet and also practical, Žižole will find its place in the kitchen.
Fresh Ideas:
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Eat raw like apples
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Cut salads into small chunks to give them an exciting twist
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Use it in combination with cheese, nuts, or soft to make an appetizer
Dried Ideas:
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Infuse the tea with a soothing tea
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Mix it into trail mix and oatmeal
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Utilize it in baking (muffins, energy bars, muffins)
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Blend with smoothies for the natural sweetness
Traditional Treats:
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Žižole jam, or syrup is made by slow cooking an assortment of fruits, sugar, spices, and spices
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Homemade Žižole liqueur: A favorite in coastal Croatia, soaked in rakija (brandy)
Sustainability and Cultivation
Žižole plants aren’t only helpful, they’re also incredibly durable. They thrive in conditions that are dry they require just a bit of irrigation, and they are not susceptible against insects natural. They are the ideal choice for environmentally sustainable agriculture and for gardening that’s eco-friendly.
The reality is that smaller farms in Southern Europe and even California are now beginning to incorporate Jujube trees in the practices of regenerative agriculture. They are also a refuge for birds as well as other pollinators, thereby aiding in the preservation of biodiversity.
Where to Find Žižole
Žižole that is fresh typically available through:
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Balkan marketplace (August to October)
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Mediterranean special stores
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Local farmers or online producers
Dry Žižole is offered all through the year.
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Asian grocery stores (sold in red and the jujube date)
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Natural food stores
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Online health stores
When buying dried Žižole, look for:
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No sugar added
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Organic or unfured types
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The chewy but hard texture. The texture is firm, yet slightly chewy.
A Simple Wellness Recipe: Žižole Tea
This calm tea will assist you in settling down, digestion or simply enjoy a peaceful night in.
Ingredients:
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4-5 dried Žižole (halved)
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1 cup hot water 1 cup hot
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Optional alternative: chamomile or ginger slices
Instructions:
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Place Žižole in a mug.
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Pour in hot water (not boiling).
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Let it steep for around 10-15 minutes.
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Get a drink warm and drink it before that you are going to sleep.
Are Žižole Right for You?
Žižole are generally secure for the vast majority of people. It is used to:
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Vegan and vegetarian diets
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Gluten-free food plans
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Low-sodium and heart-healthy lifestyles
Warn: People with diabetes or taking blood pressure medications must consult their doctor as Žižole may impact glucose levels or electrolyte levels.
Final Thoughts
Žižole are more than just a fruit. They’re bridges between traditional healing techniques and modern-day wellness. Their distinctive combination of sweet flavor along with the rich nutritional content as well as their soothing properties make Žižole a perfect complement for any dish.
If you’re steeping tea, mixing smoothies with it or consuming them fresh, Žižole encourages you to take a moment and relax the body while reconnecting to the ages of tradition.