Arillus Longan
Longan Aril

Source:
The aril of Dimocarpus longan Lour. (Fam. Sapindaceae).

Distribution:
Mainly in Chinese provinces such as Fujian, Guangxi, Guangdong and Yunnan; also in Hong Kong.

Harvest & Processing:
Harvest fruits after maturation in summer; dry under the sun until nearly dry; peel off arils, dry under the sun or by heat. Alternatively, boil fruits in water for 10 minutes; dry under the sun; roast with fire; peel off arils and dry under the sun.

Description:
Irregular pieces, often stuck together in clusters; 1-1.5 cm long, 1-3.5 cm wide, about 1mm thick; yellowish-brown; translucent. Outer surface (the side near to pericarp) shrivelled and uneven; inner surface (the side attached to the seed) lustrous, marked with fine longitudinal wrinkles. Soft and smooth; sticky. Odour: slightly fragrant; taste: quite sweet.

Indications:
1. Palpitation, insomnia, forgetfulness, dizziness
2. Debility during convalescence and after delivery

Chemical Composition:
Adenine and choline exist in the dried fruit; the seeds contain 2-amino-4-methylhex-5-ynoic acid and 2-amino-4- hydroxymethylhex-5-ynoic acid.