Fruits, peduncles.
In Chinese traditional medicine, Japanese raisin tree is considered a powerful remedy against hangover that is widely available in nature in both China and the neighbouring areas. The edible peduncles or the fruits are normally the parts used in medicine. The peduncles are the stems that support the flowers and are said to taste between cinnamon, cloves and normal raisins. Modern research has validated the claims of ancient Chinese medicine. Even if lab tests have not been fully completed, the plant was found to reduce inflammation and have anti-viral properties. It also prevents the production of histamine and various other compounds that cause allergies in the body, while acting like a bronchodilator. Japanese raisin tree is effective against asthma, eczema, fibromyalgia and other similar problems. The Japanese raisin tree might also be a cure for fever, since it is known to reduce inflammation. It also treats gastric issues, reducing spasms. In general, it can relieve numerous types of digestive and stomach problems, regardless of their cause. It has a detoxifying effect by boosting the rate of toxin elimination from the body, while it reduces swelling and relieves abdominal and intestinal pain. The Japanese raisin tree is valued in the traditional medicine of several Asian countries, like China, Korea and Japan. It is used against hangover and as a cure for liver diseases, fever and parasitic infestation. The Japanese raisin tree also has a number of industrial uses, the hard wood being a quality furniture material as well as a construction structural item.
The edible peduncles of the Japanese raisin tree can be consumed raw or transformed into fresh juice. It is also possible to ferment them into wine or vinegar, which keep most of the plant's medical benefits. The raisins are sweet with a strong fragrance and can be consumed fresh or prepared in various ways. When dried, the peduncles are very similar to raisins in both look and taste. An extract from the seeds and young leaves is very sweet and can replace honey as an ingredient in candy, wine or desserts.
The Japanese raisin tree needs sun exposure and likes fertile soils with a content of sand or loam. The small flowers are located on terminal cymes and have a pleasant smell. It is grown for its fruits in Japan and other areas of Asia. As a deciduous tree, the Japanese raisin tree tolerates cold temperatures well. The young shoots are still vulnerable to late onsets of frost. The Japanese raisin tree can also survive drought to an extent but needs constant water for best results. However, the plant will die if submerged. Propagation of the Japanese raisin tree can be done using the seeds, which germinate fast if placed in a cold frame when they become ripe. The seeds can also be stored for later use, but in this case germination is a lot slower and can even take one year. As soon as the seedlings are big enough, they can be relocated individually to pots and placed in a greenhouse for the first winter. As soon as the frosts are gone at the end of spring, the plants can be moved outside but some protection is required during the winter. They can also be propagated by cuttings of both crude and mature woods, in a frame in late summer or autumn.
The edible peduncles of the Japanese raisin tree only develop their full taste when they become fully ripe. They can be eaten raw or replace normal raisins with success in any dish or recipe. Unlike raisins, the Japanese ones can be used raw and drying them is optional. The most popular use in China is to prepare a drink named "tree honey" that is considered a very effective counter for hangover. In Australian cuisine, raisins are cut and added as an ingredient in fruit cakes.