Pear (Naspati)

It is a member of Pyrus communis of the rose family (Rosaceae). It is mainly cultivated in temperate zones. The pear tree is broad-headed and up to 13 metres (43 ft.) high at maturity; it is taller and more upright than the apple tree. The roundish to oval, leathery leaves, somewhat wedge-shaped at their bases appear about the same time as the flowers which are 25 millimetres (1 inch) wide and usually white. The pear flowers form groups of 5 to 8 in erect corymbs and are generally white or pinkish.

Pears are generally sweeter and of softer texture than apples. The fruit is distinguished by the presence of hard cells in the flesh, the so called grit or stone cells which are absent in apples. Pear fruits are elongated being narrow at the stem end and broader at the opposite end.

Pear trees are relatively long living (50 to 75 years) and may reach considerable size unless carefully trained and pruned. Within 4 to 7 years of setting out, the tree begins to bear fruits at the age of 20 to 25; It should yield 25 to 45 bushels of fruit. Fruits are consumed fresh or cooked in various ways. The fermented juice of the pear, corresponding to cider made from apples, is called 'Perry' (a type of wine).

Italy is the largest producer of pears. Then comes China which produces 11% of the world production. Pear contains various vitamins and minerals. It is given in anaemia, general debility, fevers, diarrhoea, dysentery, cough and cold.

Benefit and uses of Pear.

• The leaves have medicinal use in treating sores and swelling.
• The flavour ranges from rather harsh and astringent (cultivars used for making alcoholic drinks) through to soft, sweet and very juicy.
• Pears contain about 14 percent carbohydrates and a small amount of protein and fats. They also contain calcium, phosphorus, iron, vitamin A, thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, and ascorbic acid.
• The pears juice of the ripe fruit is used in the treatment of diarrhoea.
• Pears are primarily eaten out of hand, but can be baked, made into liqueurs, vinegar, juice, jam, and jelly.