Hello everyone! This is Makana.
Today I’m excited to share some fascinating facts about Japanese quince (karin)! Known for its aromatic fragrance and firm fruit, the Japanese quince is not only beautiful to look at but is also appreciated as an ornamental plant.
I was quite frail as a child, and my mother often used traditional Chinese medicine and natural foods to maintain my health. Among these, Japanese quince held a special place in my heart – I still vividly remember the fragrance and effectiveness of the quince tea she would give me when I had a sore throat.
The appeal of Japanese quince goes beyond its visual beauty. Traditionally known by its medicinal names “wamokka” or “mokka,” it has long been valued as a fruit that can help alleviate cold symptoms, including coughs and phlegm associated with asthma. It has been utilized not only as medicine and food but also as a natural room fragrance. In this article, we’ll explore its multifaceted charm, from its origins and characteristics to its various applications.
Japanese Quince Culture
Japanese quince is primarily grown in Nagano, Kagawa, Ehime, and Yamagata prefectures. It was first introduced to Japan during the Heian period (794-1185), reportedly brought back from China by Kobo Daishi. For approximately 1,100 years since then, it has been an integral part of Japanese life.
In Japanese tradition, there are interesting folk beliefs about quince. In some regions, people plant it in their gardens because the word “karin” sounds similar to “karinu” (meaning “not borrowing”), hoping it will help them avoid debt. When planted in temple grounds, it’s called “anranju” (peace orchid tree) and is treated as a sacred tree.
Characteristics of Japanese Quince
Japanese quince is a small tree growing 2-5 meters tall, producing oval-shaped yellow fruits with a strong fragrance. In spring, it bears pink or red flowers, making it popular as an ornamental plant.
The fruit is extremely hard and not suitable for eating raw – it’s even nicknamed “Kuwazu-nashi” (the pear you can’t eat). However, when properly processed, it reveals wonderful flavors and beneficial properties.
Differences Between Quince and European Quince
Japanese quince is often confused with European quince (Marumero), as they share similar appearances, fragrances, uses, and medicinal properties. Sometimes, European quince is even mistakenly sold as Japanese quince in stores.
You can distinguish between them by touch – Japanese quince has a smooth surface, while European quince is fuzzy. They also have different origins: Japanese quince comes from China, while European quince originates from Iran and Turkistan. Their introduction to Japan differs significantly too – Japanese quince arrived in the 9th century, while European quince came in 1634.
Interestingly, the word “marmalade” actually derives from European quince. While we now associate marmalade with citrus preserves, the name originally came from preserves made from European quince peel.
The scientific name of Japanese quince, “Pseudocydonia sinensis,” literally means “Chinese pseudo-quince.” “Pseudocydonia” means “false quince,” and “sinensis” means “from China.” This suggests that Japanese quince might actually be considered an imitation of European quince!
Uses of Japanese Quince
Japanese quince is valued not only for its culinary applications but also for its health benefits and fragrance. It’s commonly processed into fruit liqueur (karin-shu), jam, and syrup. Due to its strong fragrance, it’s excellent for making preserves in sugar or honey. When making honey preserves, it’s recommended to include the seeds in a tea bag during preservation, as they contain many nutritional benefits.
Nutritional Value and Health Benefits
Japanese quince is famous for its effectiveness in treating coughs, phlegm, and asthma. Its popularity as a medicinal fruit grew even more after its cough-suppressing properties were featured in media during the 1975s. This is why you’ll find many throat lozenges containing quince extract today.
The active ingredient is a substance called amygdalin. Home-made quince liqueur can provide these medicinal benefits, making it a useful remedy to keep on hand during cold and flu season. The fruit is also rich in potassium.
The Appeal of Quince Fragrance
The aroma of Japanese quince fruit is exceptional. Simply placing the harvested fruit in a room will fill it with fragrance. This scent has relaxing properties and has long been used as a natural air freshener.
As the fruit ripens, it becomes more yellow and its fragrance intensifies, while its smooth surface develops an oily sheen. At this stage, the aroma becomes even more luxuriant. The scent of quince has become a cherished marker of autumn’s arrival.
Etymology and Use as an Auspicious Tree
There are interesting theories about the origin of the name “karin.” Besides deriving from the Chinese word “huali,” one theory suggests it comes from combining the Japanese words “ken” (hard) and “ri” (pear) to form “kenri,” which eventually became “karin.”
Japanese quince has also been valued as an auspicious tree, thanks to its beautiful flowers and strong fragrance. Its pale pink or white flowers, blooming in early spring, symbolize “new beginnings” and “prosperity,” making it a prized garden tree.
Conclusion
Japanese quince is truly one of nature’s wonderful gifts. It’s medicinal, aromatic, and beautiful, and most importantly, it’s deeply rooted in Japanese traditional life.
Even now, when I catch a cold, I make quince tea using the method my mother taught me. While enjoying its fragrance, I appreciate the wisdom of Japanese traditions passed down through generations.
Why not incorporate this traditional Japanese fruit into your life? Experience its charm for yourself.
In my next post, I’ll share my personal quince recipes and usage tips. Stay tuned!
Please share your memories or questions about Japanese quince in the comments below♪
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