Sharing the Harvest: What Citrus Trees Can Teach Us

And just like that, summer is over. In less than two weeks, basketfuls of many varieties of Autumn citrus such as navel oranges, grapefruit, and tangerines will be ripe for the picking. While it feels like we've been on a citrus "break," so to speak, those three to four months between the last harvest in late spring and the first in mid-Autumn are fruitful in less conspicuous ways. There may not be citrus to pick, but the trees are in their busiest season, metabolically speaking. 

Last year, we wrote a blog about the biology of a citrus tree, and the important care that trees need over the summer to effect an optimal harvest. But what about us human beings? Can the summer cycle of the humble citrus tree be an existential metaphor for caring for and finding meaning in our own lives? 

The Seasons of Our Lives

Just as with citrus trees, we cannot expect the excitement of a big harvest in every season. Some seasons are meant to put down roots, others to grow and expand, and others for reaping the fruits of our efforts.

Summer is often associated with the "blahs." The weather is hot, school's out, we're six months past feeling motivated by New Year's resolutions, and an associated sluggishness can ensue. It can easily feel like there's not a whole lot going on.

From the outside, citrus trees don't look very exciting, either. With no visible fruit, it's easy to misconstrue a summer tree as nothing special. However, there is a lot of quiet growth happening in the midst: roots are deepening, leaves are expanding, and trunks are strengthening, enabling the plant to begin the flowering and fruiting cycles of late summer, autumn, winter, and spring. We might think of summer as a season of preparation, for both the trees and our own journeys. With gentle effort, whether it be self-care, working on a project, learning a new language, or simply practicing kindness and patience, the fruits of these efforts will be that much sweeter when the time is right. 

 

Harvest Time

For a citrus tree, "harvest" is pretty simple, right? After the fruits ripen, they're picked and consumed. But actually, there is a bit more to it. A harvest doesn't happen overnight. It's the result of many tender months of cultivation through other seasons. Each type of citrus fruit has its own optimal growth period, and own harvest season, allowing us to enjoy different varieties of fruits from November through May.

Likewise, we shouldn't expect to be constantly "producing" at every moment. Like citrus trees, the more we honor the seasons of growth and rest, the more we can reap the "fruits." And, as we humans are comprised of many varieties as well, our growth period should not be compared to another's harvest period, which can happen at completely different times.

It is also worth mentioning that "harvesting" in one's life may look like a tangible reward or specific goal reached, but it may also be something more lasting and sustainable. For example: If we nurture relationships, over time we harvest closer friendships and connections. If we nurture generosity, we harvest joy in helping the world. If we nurture our minds, we harvest a steady increase in wisdom.

Cultivation Versus Harvest

The word "cultivation" applies to the whole process of a life. How we prepare the soil, sow the seeds, establish roots, create the best conditions for growing, and tend patiently to our growth each step of the way comes down to the choices we make. These stepwise choices are hugely important, and should not be rushed. We all want the big promotion, the book written, the perfect relationship, the financial windfall, the fit body. But harvesting these is just a part of cultivation, dependent upon each step, which can take time. Ralph Waldo Emerson said: "It's not the destination that matters, but the journey." We can learn to appreciate our "summers" in fresh new ways when we realize how integral each season is to the whole picture of cultivating a great life.

 

Sharing the Harvest

Finally, as we enter into the season of Thanksgiving, it feels very fitting to point out the most meaningful comparison to a citrus tree: our harvest is meant to be shared. A fruitful life is not hoarded. When we reap the benefits of careful and steady cultivation, we are invited to then share our joy, wealth, gratitude, wisdom, and other fruits of our stepwise efforts. Growing is not an independent journey. Our roots and branches help hold up others, so that we can help them grow and produce as well. 

As we enjoy this season's sweetly ripened citrus fruits after the long summer, we can be reminded: What we are doing now matters. And, what we pass on to others may be the sweetest harvest of them all.

Sources:

https://bloomvara.com/the-life-cycle-of-a-citrus-tree/

https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/agricultural-and-biological-sciences/citrus-production

https://auntieannebeiler.com/the-secret-to-harvesting-the-life-you-want-is-found-in-your-choices/

Getting Citrusy All Summer Long

The citrus season may have come to a close, and there won't be another harvest until Autumn. The trees will take the summer to grow new fruits. But that doesn't mean you can't enjoy the benefits of the citrus you have left from the spring harvest, all summer long! In today's blog, we'll explore some of the ways you can make the last of your spring citrus, well, last!

Save Those Peels!

Citrus peels are a hidden treasure for our health and well being, so don't be too hasty about just tossing them in the compost. If you're short on time, you can simply place peels on your window sill or closet shelf and let them dry naturally. As they dry, they slowly release essential oils into the air and freshen the surroundings.

You know those fancy, delicious, and often expensive citrus-infused vinegars found in specialty stores and gourmet aisles? Make your own!  Simply submerge peels in white vinegar in a sealed repurposed jar and set aside for a few weeks. For pennies, you've just made your own to add to salads and marinades. Add some ribbon and a label to smaller containers like recycled spaghetti or olive jars and you have an instant homemade gift that keeps.

Your summer bird population can benefit too, as hollowed-out peels make great natural bird feeders.  Fill them with bird feed and hang them in your yard with natural fiber yarn or string, and enjoy the bird show!

After spring cleaning, summer is a time to refresh the home with wonderful scents. You can make an aromatic simmer pot with your citrus rinds by warming them on the stove with flower petals, cinnamon sticks, cloves, summer herbs such as basil and rosemary, and other wonderful combinations. You can also dry these same types of ingredients to make a fragrant potpourri for your drawers and closets, or to give as gifts.

 

For other ideas that have a-peel, check out our recent blog, Don't Mind the Rinds.

Juicy Ideas for the Freezer

If your fruit is getting old or soft throughout the warm long days of summer, chances are the juice inside is extra sweet and perfect for making citrus juice ice cubes! As long as there are no visual or olfactory signs of mold or spoilage, you can squeeze all of the juice into ice cube trays and freeze for refreshing and immune system-boosting infused iced drinks all summer long. Then, save the rind, which can be frozen for future use in recipes. You can also zest (grate) the rind prior to juicing, and freeze the zest, or slice and freeze segments just as they are. 

Just make sure to dry whatever part(s) of the fruit you are freezing to minimize ice crystal formation.

The frozen segments, zest, and peels can also be used for teas, sauces, parfaits, and more. Check out some great recipes here!

For even more ideas of how to creatively use your spring citrus in ways that last, check out some of our past blogs on citrus scraps and citrus rinds. So many great ideas to last you all summer long!

We here at Florida Fruit Shippers will be making sure that our groves are growing the best, most delicious citrus for you these coming warm months.  Till Autumn, enjoy the "fruits" of the spring, and have a scent-sational summer!

Sources:

https://homediningkitchen.com/what-can-i-do-with-old-citrus-fruits/

https://www.treehugger.com/how-make-bird-feeder-citrus-peels-4862600

https://theplanetarydiet.com/dont-toss-those-citrus-fruits-here-are-10-easy-recipes-to-use-up-overripe-oranges-lemons-limes-and-grapefruits/

https://survivalfreedom.com/how-to-freeze-citrus-zest-and-peels-for-baking-or-cleaning/

https://farmbackyard.com/how-to-make-homemade-potpourri-with-citrus-fruit-peels/

https://thecrownedgoat.com/10-citrus-inspired-simmer-pot-recipes/

 

All Dads Should Eat Citrus

What would we ever do without our dads? Whether young or old, short or tall, fit or a bit soft around the middle, fathers and father figures offer guidance, protection, love, support, encouragement, wisdom, and a good, healthy dose of humor! Speaking of good health, with Father's Day right around the corner, we here at Florida Fruit Shippers are vested in keeping our dads healthy, vibrant, and strong. And it just so happens that we know a great way to do it: encourage dad to eat citrus as a daily habit!

                   

Citrus Makes Dads Stronger

Everyone knows that citrus fruits are high in Vitamin C, and Vitamin C is well known as an immune booster. What is less known about this miracle vitamin is that it also supports muscle gain indirectly, in several important ways. First, it aids in collagen synthesis. In other words, it helps promote the production of this important protein which makes up the tendons and ligaments that support muscle function. Second, as an antioxidant, Vitamin C lowers inflammation. It is always best to work out in a non-inflammatory state, so that the tiny tears that are made during muscle building workouts can heal and grow the muscles. Third, the immune benefits of this vitamin help keep dad healthy so that he can hit the gym instead of the doctor's office. In addition to Vitamin C, citrus fruits also provide electrolytes, healthy sugars, and hydration, all of which are necessary for optimal muscle function, recovery, and gain.

Citrus Makes Dads More Comfortable

You know all of those reading materials in the bathroom? Well, stock up, because "comfortable" is another word for "regular," which is another word for "not constipated," and dads definitely like to be comfortable. Citrus fruits are high in soluble and insoluble fiber, the two main types of fiber found in the foods we eat. Soluble fiber is the type that dissolves in water, forms a gel, and provides an ideal substrate for the good gut bacteria necessary for the prevention of obesity and diabetes. Insoluble fiber improves stool consistency. Together, it's a winning "comfort" combination.

Citrus Makes Dads Less Grumpy

In addition to the above nutritional benefits, eating citrus has another surprising attribute that other fruits lack: it boosts your mood! And we all agree that dads are more fun when they are in a good mood. The reason for this effect is multifold: That magic Vitamin C also helps to tamper down cortisol, aka the "stress hormone." Likewise, it helps in the production of calming hormones such as dopamine and serotonin. Sure, you can take supplements, but research has shown that Vitamin C is exponentially more bioavailable in fruit than in capsule form. Add to this the benefits of gut health and good regularity, not to mention the scientifically-proven mood-boosting benefits of the citrus essential oils that are released from the rind every time you peel a fruit, and your citrus-savvy dad will transform from Mr. Grump to Mr. Great!

Whether dad digs into a grapefruit, tangerine, or orange, a daily citrus habit will make dad's day, every day. 

Happy Father's Day from Florida Fruit Shippers!

Sources:

https://health.clevelandclinic.org/benefits-of-citrus-fruits

https://cyvigor.com/article/are-oranges-good-for-muscle-gain

https://health.clevelandclinic.org/whats-the-difference-between-soluble-and-insoluble-fiber

https://www.realsimple.com/mood-boosting-fruits-11707092

Don't Mind the Rinds

Don't you love it when citrus is easy to peel?  In fact, easy peel tangerines are a go-to for most busy households. Oranges and grapefruit might require a bit more focus to peel, and sometimes we feel impatient to get past that effort so we can just start eating. In other words, we mind the rinds. Out they go, into the trash or the compost bin.

But wait! Stop! Don't mind the rinds!  In 2024, we did a blog on some amazing uses for citrus rinds. Since then, we've found even more. 

Don't throw your citrus rinds away!

Window Sill (and More) Odor Busters

Perhaps the simplest and least labor intensive hack is to place your peels on windowsills around your home. The natural essential oils like limonene will be released gradually as the peels dehydrate over time, like a time-release all natural air freshener. If your window is open, the breezes will help carry the  bright, invigorating scent around your home, effectively neutralizing old, stale, and musty odors. 

Did your Aunt Bernice come over and warm up her famous onion garlic tuna casserole in your oven? No problem. This same concept can be applied to strong post-baking oven smells: place the peels on a baking sheet and set the oven to its lowest temperature. Watch in awe as crinkled up noses turn into wide open nostrils as the bright aroma of fresh citrus infuses the kitchen.

You can even save those dried peels in the oven for later use: some citrusy dessert recipes call for orange peel, and you'll have them right on hand. You can also infuse them in your tea for extra Vitamin C and antioxidant benefits.

Likewise, fresh peels can be added to dryer loads, drawers, closets, garbage cans, and anywhere else that would benefit from a steady effusion of citrus essential oil. No need to buy the expensive concentrate -- your favorite citrus fruit rinds will do the trick, and when they run out of smell, simply eat more citrus and get more rinds!

Bye-Bye Sugar Clumps

You know those little silica gel packs that come in granular and powdery foods? They keep the moisture out so that the granules or powders don't clump, giving these items a longer shelf life. Here's a twist: an orange peel in a sealed jar of brown sugar keeps the sugar from clumping by keeping the moisture in! That may seem counterintuitive until you look more closely at the chemistry of brown sugar: it contains molasses, which gives it a softer texture and its signature brown color. 

A common problem for brown sugar is that it dries out and makes hard clumps after the package is opened. Keeping a semi-dried orange peel or two in the brown sugar container alleviates this problem. Likewise, if the brown sugar has already dried out, adding the peels after the fact and heating the sugar in the microwave for about fifteen seconds will restore it to its soft, moist texture.

Broccoli, Berries, and Beans, Oh My!

Citrus rinds are rich in potassium and nitrogen, both of which help your garden grow. While composting your peels might eventually result in beneficial rind-infused soil, you can get even more benefits by throwing chopped peels directly in the dirt around acid-loving plants such as broccoli, berries, and beans.  Less is more: if you put in too many peels at a time, you might make the soil too acidic. Better to add small amounts regularly rather than a whole lot of rind at once. To boot, the peels help keep away plant-eating insects and even mammals with the munchies like rabbits and cats who like to use your garden as a botanical litter box. 

Orange rind infused-water can also be a great disinfectant for your garden tools and surfaces, effectively keeping any dangerous chemicals from leaching into the soil. Rinds also come to the odor busting rescue again in smellier parts of your garden, such as compost, fertilizer, and manure piles. While you're outside tending to odor control, go ahead and throw some rinds into your outdoor garbage cans too! Your trash pickup crew will thank you.

Muddling the Issue

Muddling is a mixology term that means to gently crush something to release its full flavor. Citrus rinds have an esteemed place in the long history of cocktail chemistry, and much is written about when muddling is apropos, when it is not, and how to not over-muddle. This issue becomes quite complex for professional mixologists. For the rest of us, the general advice is: muddle away, but don't over-muddle, or the bright fragrant flavors of the orange oils will be replaced by the bitters of the pith. Lightly crushing orange and grapefruit rinds into cocktails, mocktails, and ice cubes can be a delightful hospitality "twist" for your social gatherings.

Whether odor-busting, sugar-saving, plant-growing, or drink-making, citrus rinds are amazing finds. With all of these uses, make sure to keep eating lots of delicious fruits so you have plenty of rinds in stock. Don't mind the rinds!

Sources:

https://homemaking.com/maka/tangerine-peels-on-your-windowsills/

https://thelostherbs.com/dont-throw-away-citrus-peels-do-this-instead/

https://www.thriftyfun.com/How-to-Soften-Brown-Sugar.html

https://www.thespruce.com/how-to-use-orange-peels-in-your-garden-11915743

https://elevatingkitchen.com/do-you-muddle-orange-peel/

One Small Orange for Man, One Giant Citrus Basket for Mankind

 "Space Food." These two words can evoke ideas of freeze dried beef stroganoff or, if you're a Trekkie like me, we might think of a replicator that somehow has the ability to rearrange subatomic particles from biowaste to energy to a gourmet meal (let's not think about the "biowaste" part too much). The reality, however, is somewhere in between. Modern-day space explorers such as the Artemis II crew have certainly leveled up from freeze dried packaged foods, but they have not quite harnessed the ability to order gluten-free chocolate cake from a machine that can convert energy into matter. 

In either case, however, nutrition is an important consideration: astronauts face uniquely challenging physiological conditions and need extra vitamins, fiber, antioxidants, and hydration. When the Artemis crew took off for the moon last week, I couldn't help but wonder: Of the 189 food items offered to them, were they peeling and eating oranges, tangerines, or grapefruit 240,000 miles from the Earth's surface? 

Oranges are the Perfect Space Food! Except...

It seems like a no-brainer: a single orange or tangerine is power fuel for an astronaut, in that it supports immune function, hydration, and regularity while its powerful antioxidants reduce the oxidative stress inherent in the increased radiation and zero gravity conditions they are subject to over extended periods. Early space missions featured powdered citrusy Vitamin C powders like Tang and dried orange and grapefruit juice powders to optimize weight and space limitations, but only whole fruits can offer maximum bioavailability. Whole fruits are also crumb-less, which is an important detail in the highly controlled, zero-gravity environment. Fresh fruits and vegetables are also good for astronaut morale; they are a direct, comforting link to the very aliveness of our planet Earth versus the synthetic and sterile environment of space crafts. 

However, citrus fruits, like other fruits and vegetables, are perishable and take up space, er, while in space. Pre-loading a small spacecraft with lots of oranges, for example, would not be a workable way to include citrus on a long-term mission. Even on a relatively short mission like this one of ten days, a bit of mold can release spores into the air, and there is no way to adequately dispose of spoiled produce.  

That being said, most space missions include a fresh fruit and vegetable locker for the first few days of travel. While the specific items in the Artemis II locker have not been specified, it is certainly possible that oranges, tangerines, or other citrus fruits might have been included for all of the reasons described above.

The International Space Station, which features refrigeration and is closer to Earth's orbit to more easily receive deliveries, is already including oranges and other fresh fruits and vegetables in its regular menu. But to date, citrus fruits have not yet been specifically assigned to any moon missions.

The Future of Oranges In Space

Thanks to the International Space Station, NASA has begun to experiment with ways to grow edible plants and fruit-bearing bushes and trees in zero gravity to sustain longer missions and a potential future human presence on the moon. They have several programs to this effect, known as Veggie and the Advanced Plant Habitat (APH). So far, the results have been promising, and easy-peel tangerines have been added to the official list of trees that can be grown in space.

So, other than wearing bright orange Orion Crew Survival System suits, the Artemis II crew members most likely did not have any oranges or other types of citrus on their recent mission circumnavigating the moon. 

As space exploration advances, however, finding a way to be able to provide fresh citrus in space is becoming a priority due to its many benefits for astronauts. When that day comes, you can be sure of one thing: it will taste out of this world! 

Sources:

https://www.snexplores.org/article/could-star-trek-replicators-exist

https://people.com/what-is-the-artemis-ii-crew-eating-as-they-fly-to-the-far-side-of-the-moon-11942635

https://www.space.com/iss-cargo-delivery-fresh-fruit-video

https://floridaorange.com/blogs/news/the-role-of-florida-oranges-in-the-space-program-how-nasa-has-used-citrus-to-support-astronaut-nutrition?srsltid=AfmBOoqbmKaM2xc6nzyKcgcI4nO8K5yF1TbXKU62CUMlv06IduAdp0_7

https://www.yahoo.com/lifestyle/articles/astronauts-eating-nasa-artemis-ii-204154661.html?

https://www.nasa.gov/exploration-research-and-technology/growing-plants-in-space/

What Citrus "Type" Are You?

 Spring is in the air, and love is all around as nature celebrates the warmer, beautiful weather. This is the time of year when we start to see pairings happen across the animal kingdom. It's also a time when us humans find some pep in our step (if we're not battling pollen allergies, but you can read more about that here) and sparkle in our eye. We are ready to begin anew, to make new friends and try new things. 

As with anything in life, some people, places, and things are well matched to us, and others may be not so much. We often refer to good matches as our "type," i.e. "This is my type of person," or "This is my type of food." While all citrus varieties are great, have you ever considered which one is most your "type?" Let's look at a few varieties and see what kind of person matches each to make a perfect pear--er, pair!

The Classic Style Person: Navel Orange

Clean lines, sweet fruit, no pesky seeds: the classic navel orange is perfect for the person who likes solid colors, a put together look, an organized life, and a definitive style that, like their fruit counterpart, is straightforward and satisfying. Classic Navel people have happy childhood memories that inform their current life, They love traditions and holidays, family time and healthy routines. 

The Carefree Outdoorsperson: Honeybell

 

The Honeybell lover knows all about the seasons, impermanence, and enjoying the sweetness of life in all of its various stages. Honeybells have a relatively shorter season than other varieties, and as such are particularly treasured during the two short months in late winter and early spring when they can be harvested. Honeybell lovers tend to flow freely between the seasons, treasuring each experience along the way.

The Cutie: Tangerine

Six-year old Ami, pictured above, describes herself as artistic, hungry, funny, fun-loving, colorful, and active. These traits are a perfect match for the easy-peel tangerine. They are so simple to peel and eat, and each segment is like a little piece of nature candy (but a whole lot healthier)! Tangerines are a great match for kids and kids-at-heart. If you are on the go and move a little quicker than average, tangerines are your match!

The Health and Wellness Guru: Grapefruit

Grapefruit are less recognized than oranges and tangerines because, in addition to the sweet juiciness that all citrus fruits contain, they can also have mild to strong bitter notes. This taste is lauded by health aficionados as being exceptionally good for you, as it comes from a flavonoid called naringin. Bitterness is usually associated with the rind of most citrus fruits; in grapefruit, it is also infused into the flesh, making the naringin more bioavailable. Flavonoids are powerful antioxidants and anti-inflammatory agents that are powerful allies in keeping the body disease-free. Health-conscious folks are drawn to grapefruit for this reason, and like their favorite fruits, folks committed to daily healthy habits are willing to take the bitter and the sweet together to reap the benefits. Want to lessen the bitter notes but keep the health benefits of naringin? Try sprinkling some salt on your grapefruit slices, wedges, or halves!

The Cultured Foodie: Cara Cara

Also known as scarlet navels, Cara Cara oranges have all the a-"peel" of classic navels, with a dramatic twist: their flesh is a vibrant red color, reminiscent of stunning sunsets after a stormy afternoon. Like their classic navel cousins, they are seedless and satisfying. They are also a great choice for making a unique and very healthy red orange juice! These oranges pair well with more spicy, fiery, passionate personalities, and especially those with flair who like to wear red and make a dramatic statement.

Can't decide? No problem! Unlike human to human matches, in the case of citrus you can change your type depending on the day. You can be fickle. You can even match with two or more varieties at the same time and not cause any scandal at all. 

What's your citrus type today?

Sources:

https://health.clevelandclinic.org/what-are-flavonoids

https://www.womansworld.com/food-recipes/cooking-tips-techniques/grapefruit-bitter-flavor

www.orangesonline.com

Citrus Solutions for St. Party's Day

No, that wasn't a typo: Saint Patrick's Day, often abbreviated as St. Patty's, is renowned for enthusiastic celebrations and libations. They say everyone has a wee bit o' Irish in them on St. Patty's. What, ye may ask, are we celebrating as we raise a glass and exclaim "Slainte!" with a hearty clink? And what does citrus have to do with it?

More than one thousand years ago on March 17 of the year 461, the patron saint of Ireland--Saint Patrick--died. A few centuries later, the anniversary of his death became a religious holiday in Ireland. Families would pay homage to Saint Patrick in church in the morning and then celebrate for the rest of the day and into the evening. Since this celebration involved corned beef and beer, the celebration tended to become more, er, celebratory as the night wore on. This tradition continues today, not only in Ireland but in countries where there is a significant Irish diaspora, such as the United States, Canada, and Ireland.

Who Was Saint Patrick?

Saint Patrick was known as the patron saint of Ireland. A man named Patrick, born in the late fourth century in Britain, was captured, enslaved, and brought to Ireland at the age of sixteen. There he lived six difficult years as a herder. He managed to escape to another region of Europe, where he became a priest. He then returned to the land of his enslavement and brought his ministry with him. He used a shamrock to represent the Holy Trinity of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. He is credited with bringing Christianity to Ireland.

Why So Much Celebration?

St. Patrick's Day has become synonymous to many as a celebration of Irish culture versus its origins as a religious holiday commemorating the coming of Christianity to Ireland a millennium ago.  This is a welcome thing for many, as not everyone was or is pleased with the historical fact that the "bringing of Christianity" also meant diminishing pre-Christian Celtic traditions, which are also deeply imbued in Irish identity. Honoring the richness of Irish history, culture, and traditions has become something truly worthy of a grand celebration.

What Does All of This Have to Do With Citrus?

Oranges and other sweet citrus fruits did not come to Ireland until about the 16th century, when shipping trade routes brought the tastes of Spain, Asia and other conducive citrus climates to the northern lands. As such, while oranges were not a part of the original celebrations, it became a symbolic fruit representing the "pot'o gold" at the end of the leprechaun's rainbow, as well as a popular way to show off one of the three colors of the Irish flag. In fact, orange is such an important color in Irish culture that we wrote a whole blog on it!

Citrus also comes in handy after St. Patrick's festivities have ended, as all citrus fruits are powerful hangover remedies. The high vitamin C and water content help the body retain glutathione for liver detoxification. It is much better to eat the whole fruits versus juice, which can spike sugar levels.

So raise a wedge o' citrus to your health. From all of us at Florida Fruit Shippers: Happy Saint Patrick's Day! 

Sources:

https://www.bhg.com/holidays/st-patricks-day/traditions/what-is-st-patricks-day/

https://www.irishtimes.com/life-and-style/zest-in-show

https://www.worldatlas.com/culture/what-do-leprechauns-have-to-do-with-saint-patrick-s-day.html

https://www.thedailyview.com/what-do-leprechauns-eat/

https://darkageshistory.com/the-pre-christian-beliefs-of-the-irish-celts/

https://www.womenshealthmag.com/uk/food/healthy-eating/a25366939/best-hangover-food/