When referring to fruits and vegetables that start with “L,” not many come to mind. But this article will help you learn more, and you’ll be surprised to learn about fruits and vegetables you’ve probably never seen before.
Fruits that start with L (uses, health benefits, and where to buy them)
Let’s assume, apart from the regular lime and lemon, I ask you to name any fruits that start with the letter L. Can you? Don’t worry, I’ll help with some of them. Below is a list of some fruits that start with the letter L, with their uses, health benefits, and where to buy them.
1. Ladyapple
Syzygium suborbiculare is found in the open forest and in Northern Australia. It grows under the forest canopy without going through it to any extent. The Ladyapple is just a cultivar of the apple fruit, although it is often given a sentimental value to the Americans. It is mostly consumed for its sweet taste, but the fruit is packed with nutritional benefits. Amazon or your online store readily delivers this fruit to you.
Uses of ladyapple
- Some individuals eat them in their raw state.
- Their wood may be utilized for firewood purposes, whereas bees may utilize it as their nectar source.
- Leaves of ladyapple may be used for wound dressing on the skin.
Health benefit of ladyapple
- The lady apple is rich in vitamin C, which fights against free radicals in the body and combats cancer.
- Its vitamin C content also makes it good for boosting the immune system.
- The Lady apple contains fiber that reduces carbs in the body, hence blood sugar rises in the body. Studies prove that fiber protects against type 2 diabetes.
- This apple contains fiber, which keeps you satisfied and reduces calorie consumption. There is also a proven presence of ursolic acid, which reduces fat agglomeration, long-term fat reduction, supports muscle building etc.
- It is also good for skin health due to the presence of collagen and elastin and aids in combating bad breath.
2. Langsat
This fruit belongs to the mahogany family, scientifically known as Lansium parasiticum, and is prominent in Malaysia. The langsat fruit bears a resemblance to that of a potato in its outward look, with an inner edible seed with a bitter taste. They are originally from southeastern Asia, with their larger variety known as Duku.
Health Benefits and Uses of langsat fruits
- Langsat is a rich source of riboflavin, which is essential for the production of red blood cells and body growth.
- Consumption of langsat enhances RBC production in the blood and also helps to break down carbohydrates into energy.
- There is the presence of vitamin A in langsat, which is essential for many vital body functions like the health of the eyes, teeth, skin, skeletal tissue etc.
- Antioxidants like liminoids, which are present in langsat, help to combat free radicals and protect against cancerous-causing elements.
- Studies show that langsat seeds are proven anti-malarial.
- This fruit aids in the treatment of digestive tract problems.
3. Lardizabala
The lardizabala tree is grown mostly for its ornamental flowers and edible fruit, called coguil or cógüil in the Mapuche language. Lardizabala biterna is often termed a delicacy in Chile. They are native to the temperate regions of southern and central Chile, are evergreen and are monotypic species of flowering plants.
Uses of lardizabala fruit
- The fruit is mostly cultivated for its sweetness and may be used for its ornamental value in our surroundings or gardens.
Health Benefits of lardizabala
- The lardizabala fruit is a rich source of antioxidants for the body and also a source of dietary fiber.
- The anti-inflammatory effect of their skin has proven to be very effective.
4. Limes
Don’t worry, this is the same lime you are familiar with; round, bright green, with a kind of sour taste. The lime is a citrus fruit with acidic juice and vesicles.
Uses of lime
- Lime juice may be used to make limeade or as an ingredient for cocktails.
- Dried lime may be used as a flavoring for Asian cuisines and Persian cuisine.
- Extraction of essential oils from limes is mostly used in perfumes, cleaning products, and aromatherapy.
Health Benefits of lime
- Lime serves as a good source of vitamin C, which is essential to boosting the immune system.
- The vitamin C content is also good for the skin as it is necessary to make collagen to keep your skin firm and strong.
- Also, the high vitamin C content aids in reducing the risk of blood pressure, which is proven to be one of the major causes of heart disease.
- Lines may prevent kidney stones.
- Citrus fruit has compounds that tend to lower the risk of certain cancers, particularly flavonoids.
5. Limequat
This fruit is scientifically influenced as it is a hybrid between key lime and kumquat. Scientifically known as C. floridana, the limequat is a small, refreshing, exotic fruit with a characteristic sour taste that belongs to the genus Citrofortunella.
Health Benefits and Uses of limequat
- Limequat is a good source of potassium for the body, which helps to combat certain cardiovascular conditions.
- The presence of citric acid in limequat makes it good for fighting the formation of kidney stones and crystallization.
- All citrus fruits have an ample amount of vitamin C, which aids in boosting immune system functioning.
- An applause to all citrus fruits as they contain vitamin C and other antioxidants which are relevant for our respiratory health.
- Limequat has certain antibacterial functions, hence it is necessary for the treatment of respiratory infections.
6. Limeberry
Triphasia trifolia, which is the scientific name for limeberry, is believed to have originated in China or Southeastern Asia. It has a dull reddish, orange, or crimson color with an acidic sweet taste. The fruit is usually cultivated for its edible and medicinal purposes. Limeberry is quite popular with their own fruit as they have their own outlet, limeberry.
Uses of limeberry.
- Leaves of limeberry may be used for the production of aromatic bath salts.
- This fruit is used for the treatment of sore throats and coughs.
- This acidic fruit may also be used in cosmetic products.
Health Benefits of limeberry
- This fruit possesses a high nutrient level, which aids the maintenance of health.
- It is used for the treatment of colic, diarrhea, and skin conditions.
- Limeberry supports weight loss, aids digestion, and provides relief from constipation.
- It is also used for the treatment of scurvy, eye health, respiratory ailments, urinary disorders, etc.
7. Lingonberries
Vaccinium vitis-idaea has a sour, tart, or slightly sweet flavor. It is an evergreen shrub in the heath family Ericaceae and bears edible fruits. It originally came from the boreal forest and the Arctic tundra throughout the northern hemisphere. If you want to taste this sweet fruit, visit Walmart, the Whole Foods market, or you can order from Amazon or visit the fruit section of your supermarket.
Uses of lingonberries
- They are generally used for medicine production.
- It may also be used for the treatment of certain health conditions like urinary tract infections etc.
- They may be added to meals and goods like sauces, jams, etc.
The health benefits of lingonberries
- These berries are rich in compounds that function as antioxidants, such as manganese, vitamin C, vitamin E, and plant components like anthocyanin and quercetin.
- Consumption of lingonberries protects against low-grade inflammation.
- Due to its low calorie content, daily consumption can prevent weight gain.
- They support heart health, according to preliminary research.
- They aid vision.
8. Loganberry
This fruit plant is another scientifically enhanced species, a cross between the North American Blackberry and the European Raspberries. Both the plant and the fruit look more like blackberries than raspberries. Walmart and Wegman’s are well known sellers of nutritious loganberries in the United States.
Uses of loganberry
- This fruit may be eaten fresh or used for juices or jams.
- Loganberry is a popular flavoring for beverages in the western part of New York City.
- Either in its fresh or canned form, it may be paired with an English sherry trifle or its syrup with sherry.
The Health Benefits of Loganberry
- Loganberry contains antioxidants like anthocyanin, which are the major content to combat free radicals that may affect the body’s functioning.
- Loganberry is a good source of Vitamin C, which also serves as an antioxidant.
- The presence of manganese in loganberry is beneficial for the increase of body metabolism and the fiber content is beneficial for losing body weight as it helps maintain satisfaction and reduce eating rate.
- This fruit contains vitamin C, which is good for the eyes.
9. Loquat
Eryobotria japonica is a large shrub tree, which is commercially cultivated for its orange fruit and its leaves, which are used to make tea. This fruit tree belongs to the family Rosaceae and is native to the cooler hill region of South Central China. They are small round fruits that grow in clusters, with their color varying from yellow to red-orange depending on the cultivar.
Uses of loquat
- Their fruits are edible.
- Their leaves are often used to make medicinal tea.
Health benefit of loquat
- They are low in calorie content but high in essential nutrients required by the body, such as Vitamin A, Vitamin B6, magnesium, potassium, manganese, etc.
- This fruit is a good source of carotenoids, phenolic compounds, potassium, and magnesium, which help to boost heart health.
- Loquat may also have anticancer properties, although more studies are required to prove this fact.
- This fruit tree may also possess anti-inflammatory properties.
- Their leaves, fruit, and seeds may be beneficial to metabolic health.
10. Lucuma
This is the fruit of the pouteria lucuma tree, which is obtained from southern America. Often called the gold of the incas, lucuma has a hard and green outer shell with a soft yellow flesh and a dry texture. Its sweet flavor is likened to sweet potato butterscotch.
Health Benefits and Uses of the lucuma
- The powder obtained has a relatively low sugar content and is fiber-rich. It also contains iron and calcium.
- This fruit reduces the body’s ability to absorb simple sugar due to its rich fiber content and complex carbs.
- Lucuma contains polyphenols which are good for the heart’s health. It may also act as an ACE-inhibitor, which tends to reduce blood pressure, thereby prolonging the heart’s health.
- This fruit may also be introduced into baking desserts.
11. Lychee
This fruit is the only member of the genus Litchi in the soapberry family, Sapindaceae. They are known for their sweet and flowery flavors, and are mostly consumed fresh. They are grown in subtropical regions all over the world and are popular in China and southeastern Asia. Amazon, Instacart, and Miami Fruit Market sell fruits in bulk.
Uses and health benefits of lychee
Lychee may be used for ice cream production and also to make sherbet, jelly, wine, juices, etc. They are also packed with various nutrients and antioxidants. Some of their health benefits include
- From animal research, it shows that extract may help combat cancer.
- They are a rich source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, which may aid heart health and prevent diabetes.
So here we are. You may also do your own research and add other fruits that start with the letter L. Know the fruits you consume and their health benefits, and also ensure you take them in the right proportion to prevent health hazards.
Vegetables that start with l (uses, health benefits, and where to buy them)
The tastes, appearance, and health benefits of the fruits we’re about to study will make you understand that trying new things, meals, and foods is not a bad idea after all. It also introduces you to some of their heritage and culture. Let’s roll!
1. Lambsquarters (Chenopodium album)
Lambsquarters are also called pigweed or wild spinach. It is a very nutritious plant that gives you a generous quantity of essential vitamins and minerals. It can be prepared just like spinach. Most parts of the plants, which include the stems, leaves, and flowers, can be eaten. However, they have saponin content (a natural occurring soap component), which should not be taken excessively.
Nevertheless, it contains protein, magnesium, phosphorus, iron, and a reasonable amount of vitamin A. It is also very high in fiber. You will most likely enjoy and benefit from lambsquarters when they are still tender.
If herbicides or heavy fertilizers were used in the garden, be careful when choosing or picking the lambsquarters you want to harvest and eat. This is because plants are quick to absorb nitrates, which could be unhealthy for you.
You can easily plant the seeds in your garden or purchase them from Amazon, Etsy, or any local grocery store you prefer.
2. Lebanese cucumber (Cucumis sativus)
Cucumis sativus is the scientific name for Lebanese cucumbers. It has white flesh covered with a green skin. It can be up to 10 cm long. It is a juicy, tender, and crunchy vegetable that does not need peeling before consumption.
Health benefits of cucumber
- Cucumbers contain low calories, high water content (keeping you hydrated), vitamins, and minerals.
- It also contains antioxidants, which include tannins.
- Frequent consumption of cucumbers will reduce the risk of high blood sugar and diabetes.
- Abundant amount of fiber that will cure constipation
A good cucumber should have a firm and even structure. It is always available all year round, especially during the summer. It can be sauteed, eaten with salads or other quick meals. It does not require much heat because of its high water content. If you are on a weight loss journey, cucumbers are a very good supplement.
Purchase Lebanonese cucumbers from Tridge, Walmart supercenter, Trader Joe’s, and Amazon.
3. Leek (Allium porrum)
Shallots, chives, garlic, and onions all relate to the leek. They belong to the same family. Leek has a creamy texture and a mild, almost sweet taste when prepared in meals. It almost looks like the bigger and greener version of onions, but trust me, they are not the same.
The health benefits of Leek
- It is rich in antioxidants and nutrients, mostly kaempferol and magnesium, respectively.
- Leeks contain plant-based compounds that help to reduce cardiovascular diseases, inflammation, and blood sugar levels.
- The vegetables are low in calories. It contains reasonable amounts of fiber that can make you full and indirectly promote weight loss.
- Regular consumption of allium will fight upcoming cancerous cells in your body.
Leeks can be eaten raw or incorporated into your meal. It makes a great base for soups, quiches, salads, and dips. It is a very versatile vegetable.
You can purchase leeks from Amazon, Whole Foods Market, or order them from Instacart, or your local and preferred grocery store.
4. Legumes (Fabaceae)
Legumes are the general name for a group of vegetables. Some of the general ones you are used to are peas, beans, and lentils. Legumes have been cultivated and used as food for many years. It is among the first foods humans started eating.
Legumes are mostly consumed by diabetic patients. This is because they are low in calories and contain little or no cholesterol. They are rich sources of magnesium and iron and contain necessary fibers. They can serve as a perfect substitute for meat in terms of nutrition.
Legumes are used in the agricultural sector as food for animals and as fertilizer for plants. In the early existence of, archaeologists found out that legumes were planted and used by the Egyptians to improve the soil. Legumes are very integral plants when practicing the crop rotation method.
Purchase legumes from Walmart Supercenter, Amazon, etc.
5. Lettuce (Lactuca sativa)
Lettuce is one of the staple vegetables that must be used in salads. There are different types of lettuce. However, they all go by the scientific name Lactuca sativa. The health benefits you get depend on the type of lettuce you consume. There are mainly four varieties of lettuce. They are
- Capitata lettuce (head)
- Crispa lettuce (leaf)
- Romaine lettuce (Longifolia)
- Augustana lettuce (Cultuce)
It was called head lettuce because of its round shape. The leaf lettuce is attached to its stem and does not have a head. The romaine lettuce is the one very common in most grocery stores. Meanwhile, the celtuce lettuce has a very large stem and is mostly common in the Western part of the world.
The health benefits of lettuce
- Rich source of vitamin K. It is essential for strong bones.
- It is made up of over 90 percent water. It keeps you hydrated.
- The vitamin A in lettuce improves vision and helps prevent cataracts.
- It is safe to eat lettuce. Only on very rare occasions do people develop allergies to lettuce. It has a low calorie count and can be used in different meals, apart from salads.
You can purchase lettuce from Whole Foods Market, Amazon, Tridge, or order from Instacart.
6. Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus)
The scientific name for lemongrass is Cymbopogon citratus. It is a vegetable that can be extracted into oil and used for medicine. It is usually used on the skin, drank or used as an inhaler by aromatherapists to treat different ailments.
Lemongrass is used in beverages and some foods to add flavor. Its fragrance is extracted and used in some cosmetics, soaps, and body deodorants.
Consuming lemongrass has a lot of health benefits, which include
- Preventing the growth of yeast or bacterial infections
- Lemongrass has a substance that is extracted and used to relieve swelling.
- It can be used as a stimulant for the uterus and menstrual flow.
- Expansive antioxidant content
Purchase lemongrass from your local grocery store, Amazon, Etsy, or order it from Instacart. You can purchase it fresh or go for its supplements, oil, or tea.
7. Likok eggplants (Solanum aethiopicum)
Solanum aethiopicum is also called Likok eggplant by scientists. While the local name is bitter eggplant, bitter tomato or just likok. It is grown and sold by only a few farmers. This makes it difficult to be seen, especially with the fact that it quickly runs out of the market. It is mostly eaten in Seattle but comes from the Himalayas, India, and the northern east of Africa.
People who consume likok do so because of its bitter flavor. It can be baked, mashed, roasted or used to cook pasta.
Apart from being Indians’ beloved cuisine, it has so many health benefits.
- The fiber in likok eggplants is good for the human gastrointestinal system.
- Likok contains high water content and very small amounts of cholesterol. This makes it good for a weight loss journey.
- An extract from the peel of likok known as solasodine rhamnosyl glucoside is a good compound needed to fight cancerous cells.
- The phenol that makes the unique color of likok eggplant is good for patients suffering from osteoporosis.
The benefits gained from consuming likok eggplant can never be overlooked. It can help type 2 diabetic patients and prevent chronic heart failure.
If you want to enjoy the health benefits of likok, you should bake, not fry. This is because frying counters the nutritional value and even adds more fat.
It can be purchased from Etsy, Seattle Farmers’ and ordered from Instacart.
8. Lima bean (Phaseolus lunatus)
Does Lima sound quite familiar? Yes! It’s the capital of Peru. It was cultivated and used by the ancient civilization of Peru in cooking. Lima falls into the legume category. It has different varieties; the best of them are the pale green-colored ones.
Health benefits of Lima beans
- It is a superfood that is rich in protein and fiber.
- Lima beans have a low sugar index just like most legumes and could be a great meal for diabetic patients.
- The nutrients in Lima beans fight cardiovascular diseases.
It can be used as a protein in salads, sauteed, and cooked. You can purchase lima beans from Walmart supercenter, Whole Foods Market, Amazon, Etsy, or any other local market you prefer.
9. Land cress (Barbara verna)
Barbarea verna is the scientific name given to land cress. It is a sharp green vegetable that has rich amounts of essential nutrients such as vitamin A and C and omega-3 fatty acids. They are free from allergens and have potential antipyretic and anti-inflammatory properties.
Health benefits of land cress
- Land cress has low calories.
- Aids the immune system in fighting diseases.
- It is a very good weight-loss vegetable.
- The vegetable is compatible with diabetic patients and promotes smooth organ functioning.
- Consuming land cress regularly keeps your heart health in check.
Land cress is best grown on dry land. It can be cultivated in the garden or purchased from Walmart supercenter, Migardener, Johnny’s selected seeds, Amazon, and Etsy.
10. Lupin beans (lupinus albus)
Lupin is a staple vegetable in the Middle East, Australia, and the Mediterranean. It is eaten by the Egyptians and the Romans for the energy it gives them. Lupins are not just beneficial to humans, but also to the soil. They fix nitrogen into the soil and serve as a natural fertilizer for your garden or farm.
It contains rich levels of protein, dietary fiber, zinc, magnesium, and low calories. It can be dried or pickled in a can. It is found in many large supermarkets, as well as Spanish and Italian food stores.
Other vegetables that start with the letter “L” include lawyers’ wig, mushrooms, laver, lemon drop pepper, limestone Lettuce, lo bok. After going through this article, I’m sure you have admired one or more vegetables you want to try out.
Now, get your fresh L vegetables from the grocery stores and supermarkets and start the journey with others.