They are also used in the cosmetic industry and for medicinal cosmetics. Long used in Chinese medicine, the stembark is used as an astringent for ulcers, and the fruits used for their antivinous, astringent, carminative and peptic qualities. The seeds, soaked or boiled in water, release the mucilage from the seed coat and make a jelly-like consistency, which has been used for sore throats and eye lotions. Quinces are very widely used as pear rootstocks, and have been so used at least since the 14th century in France. Numerous clonal selections have been made for modern use, including the well-known Quince A, B and C. Cultivation Quinces grow and fruit readily in Southern England and succeeds as far north as Yorkshire with a sunny sheltered site.
Trees do tolerate quite deep shade but are unlikely to crop there.
In less favoured districts it can be trained as a fan or espalier against a wall. Trees only need staking for a few years. Quince rootstocks can themselves be used for quince - Quince A or Quince C making a slightly dwarfed tree. Pear rootstocks make a larger tree. Rootstocks are not essential, though, although trees on their own roots may sucker.