Elaeagnus

Elaeagnus umbellata and Elaeagnus multiflora are deciduous, spreading shrubs of the Elaeagnaceae family, native to East Asia. Botanically, they are specific in their ability to symbiotically fix atmospheric nitrogen and in their leaves and shoots covered with silvery to brownish scales. The fruit is a small, red, juicy drupe (pseudodrupe), often dotted with characteristic spots. Nutritionally, the fruits are unique in their essential fatty acid content in the pulp and seeds, as well as their above-average protein and vitamin A, C, and E content. The phytochemical profile is exceptional due to the extremely high concentration of carotenoids, especially lycopene (often in quantities exceeding those found in tomatoes), which, together with phenolic compounds, gives them strong antioxidant properties.