The Panacea Gılaboru Fruit (Viburnum Opulus) and its Use in Anatolia

Abstract

Gilaburu (Viburnum opulus), a product frequently consumed in Central Anatolia and especially in and around Kayseri city. In Kayseri province, renowned for its distinctive local products in gastronomy tourism, the gilaburu fruit, a shrub-like plant that grows naturally, has been granted geographical indication registration. The traditional production techniques of Kayseri gilaburu, known as a panacea, should be passed on to future generations. However, studies investigating the importance of gilaburu as a gastronomic product are insufficient. In this context, the aim of the research is to determine the characteristics of gilaburu, which is frequently consumed in Kayseri region, and to examine the production stages. The research data were obtained through face-to-face interviews with six participants who prepared gilaburu juice on a domestic scale and had knowledge about the properties of gilaburu. In the research, it was determined that gilaburu is good for kidney disease, constipation and menstrual pain, preserved in brine and consumed as fruit juice in winter. Therefore, it is thought that gilabur, which has a crucial place in Kayseri culinary culture, should be promoted as a gastronomic product and contribute to the regional economy.