Abstract
The uses and medicinal properties of the etrog citron (Citrus medica L.) are mentioned frequently in ancient texts. Systematic descriptions appear for the first time in Greek natural history and medical writings. These descriptions were also used in later centuries in traditional Arabic medicine. In Greek sources, for example, the etrog (pl. etrogim) is mentioned as being effective in alleviating nausea in pregnant women, for hygiene, and for sweetening the breath. In the Talmud, the etrog is listed among the foods that increase sperm, although an excess of the fruit is considered bad for digestion. Parts of the etrog were renowned in particular as a remedy against poisoning. Various beliefs and virtues (segulot) were also attributed to the etrog, including increasing fertility and contributing to easing the pains of childbirth.
Original language | English |
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Title of host publication | The Citron Compendium |
Subtitle of host publication | The Citron (Etrog) Citrus medica L.: Science and Tradition |
Publisher | Springer International Publishing |
Pages | 405-411 |
Number of pages | 7 |
ISBN (Electronic) | 9783031257759 |
ISBN (Print) | 9783031257742 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - 1 Jan 2023 |
Bibliographical note
Publisher Copyright:© The Editor(s) (if applicable) and The Author(s), under exclusive license to Springer Nature Switzerland AG 2023.