Introduction
Cydonia vulgaris is a medium-sized, spreading tree with numerous branches. Its bark is brown, and the branches are often gnarled.
Leaves
The leaves resemble those of the castor plant. They are approximately 2–4 inches long and 1½–3 inches wide. The upper surface is smooth, while the underside is covered with a fine brownish, downy fuzz.
Seeds
The seeds, commonly known as quince seeds (Behidana), are elongated, somewhat rounded, and reddish-brown.
Fruit Varieties
Three varieties of fruit are traditionally described:
- Sweet—commonly used to prepare Murabba (fruit preserve).
- Sweet and sour
- Sour
Habitat and Distribution
Quince is cultivated in Kashmir, Bhutan, Sikkim, the Khasi Hills, Chamba, and Kangra. It is also found in Khorasan, Iraq, and Persia.
In the mountainous regions of India, the fruit generally ripens during June and July.
Temperament
Sweet Variety
The sweet variety is moderate or balanced in heat and cold, classified as first degree.
Sour Variety
Cold and dry, first degree.
Actions
Traditionally, quince is described as
- Cardiac tonic
- Brain tonic
- Stomach tonic
- Liver tonic
- Exhilarant—traditionally believed to promote a feeling of well-being
- Diuretic
- Astringent
Traditional Uses
General Use
Quince is commonly consumed as a fruit. However, it is traditionally regarded as somewhat heavy to digest and astringent in nature.
Cardiac and Brain Tonic
Because of its traditionally described tonic and exhilarating properties, quince is used to invigorate the heart and brain and promote a sense of well-being.
It is traditionally considered particularly beneficial for individuals with a hot temperament and for conditions described in Unani medicine as cardiac weakness and hot-natured palpitations.
Stomach and Liver Tonic
Because of its astringent properties and traditional use as a tonic for the stomach and liver, quince is believed to strengthen these organs and help control diarrhea.
It is also traditionally used for nausea and vomiting.
Thirst
The moistening properties traditionally attributed to quince are believed to help relieve thirst.
Specific Benefits
- Exhilarant
- Cardiac tonic
- Brain tonic
Dosage
Quince juice: (approximately 23–70 mL), traditionally mixed with honey.
Traditional Preparations
Quince is used in various traditional preparations, including
- Jawarish Safarjali—quince-based digestive preparation
- Khamira Marwareed—traditional compound preparation
- Khamira Yaqoot—traditional compound preparation
- Rub-e-Bahi-e-Shireen—sweet quince extract
- Sharbat-e-Bahi—quince syrup
- Murabba-e-Bahi—quince preserve
- Arq-e-Fawakih—traditional fruit distillate
