13 FEB 2024
Credit: Google Images
Credit: Google Images
The Assam government has announced that 'Kaji Nemu' (citrus lemon) has been recognized as the state fruit of Assam.
Credit: Google Images
Kaji Nemu lemons are a medium to large varietal, averaging 60 to 100 grams in weight and 6 to 11.5 centimeters in length, and have an elongated, oblong, elliptic, to obovate shape.
Credit: Google Images
The lemons can be used raw and have a refreshing, subtly sweet, sour, mildly acidic, and slightly bitter taste.
Credit: Google Images
Kaji Nemu lemons, botanically classified as Citrus limon, are an Assamese variety belonging to the Rutaceae family.
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There are several varieties of lemons grown in Assam, all generally labeled under the name Assam lemons, but there are two main commercial lemons categorized under the name Nemu Tenga: Gol Nemu lemons and Kaji Nemu lemons.
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Gol Nemu lemons, also known as Gul Nemu, are small, sweet, and round fruits, while Kaji lemons, also known as Kazi lemons, are larger, juicier, and more elongated fruits.
Credit: Google Images
Kaji lemons are only grown in Assam and are exported throughout India as a culinary and medicinal citrus.
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Kaji Nemu lemons are a source of vitamin C to boost the immune system, vitamin A to maintain healthy organ functioning, potassium to balance fluid levels within the body, and iron to develop the protein hemoglobin for oxygen transport through the bloodstream.
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In Assam, India, Kaji Nemu lemons are known as the “queen of all citrus fruits” and are used to treat digestive issues. The leaves and oils from the fruit are also used in aromatherapy.
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The lemons can also be dried for extended use or preserved for several years by being covered in salt for a few days, rubbed with mustard oil, and sun-dried.
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Today, Kaji Nemu lemons are grown in home gardens throughout Assam and are also commercially produced in the towns of Nalbari, Golaghat, Aouhata, Nagaon, Barpeta, and Dima Hasao and the districts of Cachar, Sonitpur, and Chirang.