(Shikwāsā) Flat Lemon

Citrus depressa | シークヮーサー

Botanical Description
A small, sour citrus fruit native to Okinawa and Taiwan. Green when unripe, yellow when fully mature. Grows on small thorny trees with aromatic leaves.

Parts Used
Juice, peel, whole fruit

Energetics
Taste: Sour, aromatic, slightly bitter
Temperature: Cooling
Affinity: Liver, digestion, blood

Actions
Liver tonic, digestive stimulant, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, blood sugar regulator

Traditional Uses
Juice used to flavor food, stimulate digestion, and refresh the body in hot weather. Peel sometimes used for aromatic remedies. Considered a longevity fruit.

Modern Applications
Rich in nobiletin and other flavonoids. Studied for anti-cancer, metabolic, and neuroprotective effects.

Contraindications
Highly acidic—may irritate reflux or ulcers in sensitive individuals. Use moderately with medications affecting the liver.

Preparation Methods
Fresh juice, vinegar, sauces, tea (dried peel), fermented condiments

Dose
Juice: 1–3 tsp fresh juice per serving
Peel: ¼–½ tsp dried zest in tea or food