Monksfruit

(Buddha fruit; Luo han guo) This is known as the "longevity herb" in China where the tea made with the dried fruits is commonly consumed. It is believed to be the reason why an unusual number of people in areas where the herb is grown live to be 100 years. The fruits contain mogrosides, intensely sweet compounds that are as many as 300 times as sweet as sugar. Often touted as an aid for diabetes, obesity, heat stroke, cough and sore throat. Vines are typically grown on trellises so the smooth round fruits hang down for easy harvest.