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'Sudachi' (''Citrus sudachi''; Japanese: ) is a small, round, green citrus fruit that is relatively unknown to the world except in Japan, where it is used alongside another citrus fruit, the ''yuzu'' and the ''kabosu''. The fruit is the symbol of the prefecture of Tokushima where the majority of the fruit is cultivated. Cultivation is centered mainly in the communities of Sanagouchi-mura, Kamikatsu-cho and Kamiyama-cho. [1] The plant has white flowers which bloom in May and June. Cultivation starts in the fall.
A slice of this fruit is served with many traditional Japanese dishes which include fish, soba, udon, nabe, and even some alcoholic beverages. It is considered to have a zestier flavor and aroma than lemons or limes. It also boasts a higher calcium and ascorbic acid (vitamin C) content than lemons. Sudachi flavored products (such as ice cream, vodka coolers, ice pops, and soft drinks) can also be found in Japan particularly in Tokushima Prefecture where the fruit is sold cheaply. The actual fruit is regarded as a delicacy in other parts of Japan as it is often expensive.
In 2006, a Tokushima University research team has published a report which suggests that the fruit may be effective in lowering glucose levels in diabetic patients. The team gave rats sudachi zest over a one year period and found the glucose levels fell and the health of the rats to improve. Although this effect has not yet been tested on humans, it can be potentially used for naturopathic medicine.