Health Benefits of Apricot

The apricot is one of the most important health fruits. It belongs to the sub-acid class. Apricot is very nutritious and tonic food and enjoys world wide popularity.

The apricot is believed to have originated in China, where it has been cultivated for over 4,000 years. It was regarded as a food medicine by Greek physicians and while the Romans dedicated it to Venus- the goddess of love.

Health Benefits of Apricot:

   Constipation: Apricot is highly valued as a gentle laxative and is beneficial in the treatment of constipation. This is due to its cellulose and protein contents. The cellulose - which is not digested, act as a roughage- that indigestible part of the food which helps the bowel movement and the pectin which absorbs and retains water, thereby stimulating smooth bowel movement.

    Anaemia: The apricot is an excellent food remedy for anaemia on account of its high content of iron. The small but essential amount of copper in the fruit makes iron available to the body.   

•  Fevers: Fresh juice of apricots, mixed with glucose and honey, is a very cooling drink during fevers. It quenches the thirst and eliminates the waste products from the body.

• Skin Diseases: Fresh juice of apricot leaves is useful in skin diseases. It can be applied with beneficial results in scabies, eczema, sun-burn and itching of the skin due to cold exposure.      

• Indigestion: Apricots have an alkaline reaction in the system. They aid the digestion, if consumed before a meal. Marmalade, made from originally grown fruit, is also valuable in the treatment of nervous indigestion.

Apricots are rich in natural sugars, vitamins A and C, riboflavin (B2) and niacin (B3). The nut of the apricot is rich in protein and fat and is considered as valuable as any other nut.

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