Apple
“An apple a day keeps the doctor away”
APPLES - The native home of the apple is not definitely known, but the tree originated probably in the area between the Caspian and the Black seas. Charred remains of apples have been found in the prehistoric lake dwellings of Switzerland. Evidence shows that man has been enjoying apples for at least 750,000 years! Apples were a favorite fruit of the ancient Greeks and Romans.
Also grown in China, Chile, France, Italy, India, United States, Poland, Netherlands, New Zealand Belgium , South Africa.
Scientific classification:
Apple trees belong to the family Rosaceae. They constitute the genus Malus.
Nutritional value:
One medium apple with skin contains 0.47 grams of protein and 4.4 grams of dietary fiber.
Minerals:
Potassium – 195 mg
Calcium – 11 mg
Phosphorus – 20 mg
Magnesium – 9 mg
Manganese – 0.064 mg
Iron – 0.22 mg
Sodium – 2 mg
Copper – 0.049 mg
Zinc – 0.07 mg
Also contains a trace amount of selenium.
Vitamins:
Vitamin A – 98 IU
Vitamin B1 (thiamine) – 0.031 mg
Vitamin B2 (riboflavin) – 0.047 mg
Niacin – 0.166 mg
Folate – 5 mcg
Pantothenic Acid – 0.111 mg
Vitamin B6 – 0.075 mg
Vitamin C – 8.4 mg
Vitamin E – 0.33 mg
Vitamin K – 4 mcg
Contains some other vitamins in small amounts.
Medicinal value:
- Apple Fruit is good for treatment of anaemia, dysentery, heart disease, headache, eye disorders, and kidney stones and promotes vigour and vitality. Research suggests that apples may reduce the risk of colon cancer, prostate cancer and lung cancer
- Apples possess phenolic compounds which may be cancer-protective and demonstrate antioxidant activity. The predominant phenolic phytochemicals in apples are epicatechin, and procyanidin B2
- They may also help with heart disease, weight loss, and controlling cholesterol, as they do not have any cholesterol, have fiber, which reduces cholesterol by preventing reabsorption.
- Apple juice is good to overcome a liverish feeling, further, apples are unlikely to cause allergic reactions and are excellent means of providing essential fluids to the body.
- In specific
- Green Apples – Good for strong bones and teeth, aids in vision, anti cancer properties.
- Yellow Apples – Good for heart and eyes, immune system, reduce risk of some cancers.
- Red Apples – Good for heart, Memory function, lower risk of some cancers and to maintain urinary tract health
- The seeds are mildly poisonous, containing a small amount of amygdalin, a cyanogenic glycoside, usually not enough to be dangerous to humans, but it can deter birds.
Tips and Tricks:
How to pick the perfect apple?
- An apple’s skin should be shiny, not dull. Dull appearing apples won’t be crisp and tasty.
- Apples should be firm and free of bruises and punctures.
- Never buy apples that have not been kept cold since they can be over-ripe in a few days.
- Apples should be hard. If you can dent an apple with your finger, DO NOT BUY IT.
How to store apples?
- To keep apples crisp, store apples refrigerated at about 32 degree Fahrenheit.
Cooking tips:
- Prepare apple dishes just before serving to minimize browning. Protect cut apples from browning by dipping them into a solution of one part citrus juice and three parts water.
Health tips:
- Eating 2 apples a day will reduce your cholesterol level up to 10 %.
- Drinking apple juice, 3 times a day, is said to prevent virus from settling in the body.
- Another benefit of apple is for those who have problem with their stomach. If you have problem with indigestion, eat apples before meals.
- Grated apple, when mixed with live yogurt may be helpful in cases of diarrhea.
Beauty tips:
- Apple which is made into paste is used as a face mask which helps to make your skin smooth and also helps to prevent pimples by which you look attractive.
- Make a paste of the apples and the honey and apply this paste on your face for 30 minutes. Wash it off after 20 minutes with water. Now you will have a fresh look for the party you have been planning for so long or for the outing that you have been dreading looking horrible at. So go ahead and make your own homemade apple and honey mask and get rid of that oily skin.
- It is widely known that apple cider vinegar can be used as a rinse for your hair after shampooing to add healthy body and shine. Recycle an old shampoo bottle and fill it with 1/2 a table spoon of apple cider vinegar and a cup of cold water. Pour through your hair after shampooing several times a week.
- Are your hands and feet feeling tired and swollen after a long day? Treat yourself to a personal spa massage by rubbing apple cider vinegar onto them.
- Apples, as eaten in the fresh state, are a healthy refreshing, crunchy snack. They quench your thirst and their acid content makes them a natural mouth freshener. To bite into a fresh picked apple is a memorable experience. The juice is honey sweet and spicy tart at the same time and the flesh is fragrant and crisp.
