Why is tejocote illegal?

Once the most smuggled fruit on the Mexican border, tejocote is forbidden no more. Cheap and abundant in the Mexican highlands, tejocote (pronounced te-ho-COT-e) cannot be imported to this country because it can harbor exotic insect pests that could devastate American agriculture.

What is tejocote fruit good for?

Tejocote fruits are an excellent source of vitamin C, an antioxidant that strengthens the immune system, boosts collagen production, and reduces inflammation. The fruits are also a good source of pectin, a starch that helps to thicken preserves and sauces, and contains lower amounts of iron, calcium, and B vitamins.

What is tejocote pulp?

The tejocote resembles a crabapple and was an apple like flavor. Tejocote is sold canned or syrup and can be eaten raw or cooked. Tejocote is the main ingredient used in ponche a traditional Mexican hot fruit punch served in Mexico for Christmas and New Year’s holidays.

Where does tejocote grow?

Mexico
Crataegus mexicana is a species of hawthorn known by the common names tejocote, manzanita, tejocotera and Mexican hawthorn. It is native to the mountains of Mexico and parts of Guatemala, and has been introduced in the Andes. The fruit of this species is one of the most useful among hawthorns.

What are the side effects of tejocote root?

Discussion: Tejocote root toxicity may cause dysrhythmias and respiratory depression. Similar to other species of hawthorn, tejocote root may cross-react with some commercial digoxin assays, resulting in a falsely elevated level.

Is tejocote good for weight loss?

According to a company’s websites in English and Spanish, taking “raíz de tejocote” or Mexican hawthorn “root” capsules (apparently containing the dried and pulverized fruit, among other compounds) has a plethora of purported beneficial effects including “reducing weight and obesity by eliminating body fat”, “cleansing …

What are the side effects of Tejocote root?

Can you eat Tejocote skin?

Tejocotes taste best cooked but can also be eaten raw. It has slight bitter undertones but when cooked its sweetness shines.

Is Tejocote root a laxative?

Mexican scammony root is a type of laxative called a stimulant laxative. Stimulant laxatives can decrease potassium levels in the body. Low potassium levels can increase the risk of side effects of digoxin (Lanoxin).

Is Tejocote root safe?

Can you eat Tejocote raw?

Tejocotes taste best cooked but can also be eaten raw. It has slight bitter undertones but when cooked its sweetness shines. It is also high in pectin which makes this fruit a favorite for candy makers.

Why is tejocote illegal? Once the most smuggled fruit on the Mexican border, tejocote is forbidden no more. Cheap and abundant in the Mexican highlands, tejocote (pronounced te-ho-COT-e) cannot be imported to this country because it can harbor exotic insect pests that could devastate American agriculture. What is tejocote fruit good for? Tejocote fruits are…