Quandong
Other Names : Santalum acuminatum, Wild Peach, Native Peach, Desert quandong, sweet Quandong
Quandong is actually the name of three wild bush fruits. Santalum acuminatum belongs to the Santalaceae family along with the Sandalwood (Santalum album) and Native Cherries (Exocarpos spp.).
Special Precautions of Quandong
it would seem that there may be an element of toxicity to the seed, and so these are eaten only in extremely meager times.
Health Benefits and Uses of Quandong
Traditionally a significant food source for Indigenous Australians, the Quandong or ‘Wild Peach’, features heavily in Aboriginal mythology across the desert regions of Australia. These glossy, bright, crimson fruits have been a staple for the Pitjabtjara people for over 50,000 years. Whilst the Quandong was considered a wonderful substitute for meat, the leaves and bark of its tree were used for ceremonial and medicinal purposes. On hunting trips, Pitjabtjara men would seek out Quandong trees, consume the fresh fruits for energy and fill their coolamon wiris (dishes) with a supply of Quandong that they could dry and store for use when meat was in short supply. Made up of 25% protein and 70% complex oils, the Quandong kernels would also be used to create powerful antibacterial and anti-inflammatory pastes.
- Contains twice the Vitamin C of an orange.
- source of Vitamin E, folate, magnesium and calcium.
- vegetarian/vegan source of iron and zinc.
- source of phenolic-based antioxidants which boost the immune system, reduce inflammation and protect against a number of diseases including cancer, cardiovascular disease and Alzheimer’s disease.
- The kernel contains a range of complex oils and is recognised for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory qualities.
- The oil rich kernel which is also processed and used to treat skin disorders. Quandong kernels could also be eaten and some tribal groups were known to employ crushed kernels as a form of "hair conditioning oil"
- Anti-oxidant : Contains Rutin, a strong antioxidant that can reduce the proliferation of free radicals. Rutin works with Vitamin C to strengthen capillaries, reduce dark circles under the eyes and strengthen the skin from the affects of aging.
- a tea is used as a purgative.
- Quandong tree roots are also ground down and used as an infusion for the treatment of rheumatism.
- Quandong leaves are crushed and mixed with saliva to produce a topical ointmnet for skin sores and boils.
