Apricot
or Prunus armeniaca stone fruit of the family Rosaceae (order Rosales),
is closely related to peaches, almonds, plums, and cherries. Apricots
are cultivated throughout the temperate regions of the world, especially
in the Mediterranean. They are eaten fresh or cooked and are preserved
by canning or drying.
The apricot was originally domesticated in China but is now cultivated on every continent
except Antarctica. They were later introduced to Europe and Armenia. In
1720, the apricot tree made its way to Virginia but it wasn’t until
1792 that the tree was brought to North America by Spanish missionaries.
Weight Loss: Apricot’s is low on calories and high on fiber content
which improves your metabolic rate and also the digestive and toxic
expulsion body processes. It also maintains optimum fluid balance
keeping you hydrated.
Pregnancy: Driedapricots have since ancient
times been recommended to cure infertility, hemorrhage and spasms. It is
rich in vital vitamins A, C and E as well as minerals like phosphorus,
silicon, calcium, iron (prevents anemia) and potassium, that nourish
pregnant women and lactating mothers. Dried apricot paste is also used
in curing vaginal infections.
Healthy Heart: Apricot combination of
soluble fibers and antioxidants like vitamin C and lycopene are useful
in reducing the LDL (bad) cholesterol while boosting HDL (good
cholesterol) levels. In addition dried apricots are a great source of
potassium, an electrolyte which is useful to regulate proper fluid
balance and heartbeat.
Anti- Anemia: Apricot contains minerals such
as iron and copper (helps iron absorption) that helps in the production
of hemoglobin in red blood cells, boosting critical oxygen supplies to
the body cells, preventing Anemia that causes weakness, fatigue,
dizziness, digestive problems, and other general metabolic problems.
Dried apricots are the richest sources of Non-heme iron which stays for a
longer period of time in the body and is more efficient when it is
absorbed slowly.
Digestive System: High soluble fiber content in
apricots, stimulates gastric juices to break down fatty acids in food,
boosts nutrient absorption, activates the peristaltic movement of the
gastrointestinal tract, and makes bowel movements more regular. Apricots
contain high amount of pectin and cellulose which act as a mild
laxative, thus helping in the treatment of constipation. Dried apricots
contain alkaline compounds that neutralize acids.
Vision Care: Dried
Apricots have high levels of antioxidant, beta carotene that helps
strengthen the optic nerves in your eyes and boost your ophthalmic
health. It is also rich in vitamins A, C and E as well as carotenoids
that reduce the risk of Neovascular Age Related Macular Degeneration and
cataracts.
Anti Cancer: Ripe apricots are rich in carotenoids,
lycopene, Vitamin C and other strong antioxidant phytonutrients that
fight free radicals hindering the normal process of cell growth, and
bringing about changes in DNA of the cells and lead to cancers of the
lungs, oesophagus and the larynx. Apricot also beta carotene a precursor
to Vitamin A vital for cells growth, boosting immunity and for optic
health. Apricot seeds contain a compound called B17 that can fight
cancer.
Respiratory Soother: Free radicals caused due to external
factors of pollution, UV rays and smoke, are the primary reasons for
cell damage and triggers for respiratory disorders like asthma,
tuberculosis, and bronchitis. Dried apricots, due to their antioxidants,
will boost your immunity and keep damaging free radicals at bay.
Skin Health: High content of essential fatty oils, and antioxidants
vitamin A and C, in Apricot oil boost your skin health making your skin
smooth, hydrated, prevents pigmentation, blackheads, acne, reducing fine
lines and wrinkles, and treats sunburn, scabies, dermatitis, and
eczema.
Fluid Balance: High amounts of potassium and sodium in dried
apricots help maintain an optimum electrolyte balance that stimulates
protein synthesis, provides instant energy, reduces muscle cramps , aids
proper expansion and contraction of the muscles, improves metabolism
and assists in proper functioning of tissues, organs and other cells.
Strong Bones: Apricots contain minerals calcium, phosphorus, manganese,
iron, and copper that are essential to ensure the development and
maintenance of healthy bones and prevent age-related conditions,
including osteoporosis and Arthritis.
Hypertension: Dried apricots
contain three times more potassium than bananas and contain only a trace
of Sodium that helps to keep down blood pressure.
Fever Care: A
concoction of apricot, water, and diluted with a little honey will help
provide vital nutrients, relieve thirst, and cleanse the system of
toxins, during a bout of high fever.
Hair: Apricot oil is packed
with essential fatty acids-oleic and linoleic, and antioxidants vitamins
A and E that hydrate, condition, moisturize, soften your hair and is a
great home remedy for problems like dry scalp, psoriasis, dandruff and
eczema.
Blood clotting: Dried apricots contain Vitamin K that is
required for blood clotting in case of injuries and to prevent excessive
bleeding.
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