Buddha's hand: Difference between revisions

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'''Buddha's Hand''' (Citrus medica var. sarcodactylis), also known as '''Fingered citron''', is a unique variety of [[citron]] that is segmented into finger-like sections, resembling a human hand. The fruit is predominantly used for its strong lemon fragrance and is a popular ingredient in perfumes. The thick peel is often used in traditional [[Chinese medicine]] and as a flavoring in food and drinks.
{{short description|Article about the fruit known as Buddha's hand}}
{{other uses}}


== History ==
[[File:Buddhas_hand_1.jpg|thumb|right|A Buddha's hand fruit showing its distinct "fingers"]]


The Buddha's Hand is believed to have originated in [[India]] or [[China]], and has been cultivated for thousands of years. The fruit is often used in Buddhist rituals, and its unusual shape has made it a popular decorative item in traditional Chinese and Japanese homes.
'''Buddha's hand''' (''Citrus medica var. sarcodactylis'') is a type of [[citrus fruit]] that is notable for its unusual shape, which resembles a hand with fingers. It is a variety of [[citron]] and is used primarily for its fragrant zest and as an ornamental fruit.


== Cultivation ==
==Description==
Buddha's hand is a member of the [[Rutaceae]] family, which includes other citrus fruits such as [[lemons]], [[oranges]], and [[limes]]. The fruit is characterized by its elongated "fingers," which can vary in number and length. Unlike other citrus fruits, Buddha's hand contains little to no pulp or juice, making it unsuitable for juicing.


Buddha's Hand is a small tree or shrub that grows up to 5 meters in height. The plant prefers a sunny location and well-drained soil. It is frost-sensitive and requires protection in colder climates. The fruit is usually harvested in late fall or early winter.
The fruit's skin is bright yellow when ripe and has a thick, pithy rind. The rind is highly aromatic and is often used in [[perfume]]s and [[culinary]] applications.


== Uses ==
==Cultivation==
Buddha's hand is grown in temperate regions and is particularly popular in [[China]], [[India]], and other parts of [[Asia]]. The plant prefers well-drained soil and a sunny location. It is sensitive to frost and requires protection in colder climates.


The Buddha's Hand is not typically consumed due to its lack of pulp and juice. However, its zest is often used in cooking, similar to a lemon zest. The fruit is also used to flavor alcoholic beverages, such as vodka and beer. In traditional Chinese medicine, the Buddha's Hand is used to treat chest pain and respiratory issues.
==Uses==
[[File:Buddhas_hand_1.jpg|thumb|left|Close-up of the "fingers" of a Buddha's hand fruit]]


== Symbolism ==
===Culinary===
Although Buddha's hand is not typically consumed as a fresh fruit due to its lack of pulp, it is highly valued for its zest. The zest can be used to flavor [[desserts]], [[savory dishes]], and [[liqueurs]]. It is also candied and used as a sweet treat or garnish.


In Buddhist tradition, the Buddha's Hand is a symbol of happiness, longevity, and good fortune. It is often used as an offering at Buddhist temples, and is a popular gift during the Chinese New Year.
===Cultural===
In many Asian cultures, Buddha's hand is considered a symbol of happiness, longevity, and good fortune. It is often used in [[Buddhist]] offerings and as a decorative item in homes and temples.


== See also ==
===Medicinal===
Traditionally, Buddha's hand has been used in [[traditional medicine]] for its purported health benefits, including relief from [[pain]], [[inflammation]], and [[respiratory]] conditions.
 
==Related pages==
* [[Citron]]
* [[Citrus]]
* [[Citrus]]
* [[Citron]]
* [[Rutaceae]]
* [[Chinese medicine]]
* [[Traditional medicine]]
* [[Buddhism]]


{{Citrus-stub}}
[[Category:Fruits]]
[[Category:Citrus]]
[[Category:Citrus]]
[[Category:Traditional Chinese medicine]]
[[Category:Edible fruits]]
[[Category:Buddhism]]
[[Category:Medicinal plants]]
{{No image}}

Latest revision as of 11:32, 15 February 2025

Article about the fruit known as Buddha's hand


A Buddha's hand fruit showing its distinct "fingers"

Buddha's hand (Citrus medica var. sarcodactylis) is a type of citrus fruit that is notable for its unusual shape, which resembles a hand with fingers. It is a variety of citron and is used primarily for its fragrant zest and as an ornamental fruit.

Description[edit]

Buddha's hand is a member of the Rutaceae family, which includes other citrus fruits such as lemons, oranges, and limes. The fruit is characterized by its elongated "fingers," which can vary in number and length. Unlike other citrus fruits, Buddha's hand contains little to no pulp or juice, making it unsuitable for juicing.

The fruit's skin is bright yellow when ripe and has a thick, pithy rind. The rind is highly aromatic and is often used in perfumes and culinary applications.

Cultivation[edit]

Buddha's hand is grown in temperate regions and is particularly popular in China, India, and other parts of Asia. The plant prefers well-drained soil and a sunny location. It is sensitive to frost and requires protection in colder climates.

Uses[edit]

Close-up of the "fingers" of a Buddha's hand fruit

Culinary[edit]

Although Buddha's hand is not typically consumed as a fresh fruit due to its lack of pulp, it is highly valued for its zest. The zest can be used to flavor desserts, savory dishes, and liqueurs. It is also candied and used as a sweet treat or garnish.

Cultural[edit]

In many Asian cultures, Buddha's hand is considered a symbol of happiness, longevity, and good fortune. It is often used in Buddhist offerings and as a decorative item in homes and temples.

Medicinal[edit]

Traditionally, Buddha's hand has been used in traditional medicine for its purported health benefits, including relief from pain, inflammation, and respiratory conditions.

Related pages[edit]