Apricots

Regarded as a nutritious and a tonic food, apricot is one of the most important fruits which enjoys world-wide popularity. Apricot is somewhat acid in its raw state but its acidity decreases and sugar content increases as it starts ripening. They are an excellent source of beta-carotene which is useful in treating skin related problems and dried apricots are a good source of iron and potassium. Generally used in its dried form, apricots can also be made into excellent jams, jelly and marmalades amongst others. Consuming apricots is a healthy habit as they have a high nutritious value which can help in treating various problems along with aiding in the overall health and well-being of a person.

The apricot is regarded as a nutritious & tonic food which enjoys world- wide popularity. The nut of the apricot is rich in Protein & fat. It contains 40 to 45 percent of oil, which is practically identical to almond oil. Apricots help cure ailments like constipation, indigestion, anemia, fevers & skin diseases. To enjoy their benefits, store them in a cool & dry place.

Health Benefits 
Apricots are not only colorful and tasty: they also contain several nutrients that promote good health.

• Apricots are very high in beta-carotene and lycopene, two antioxidant compounds commonly found in orange-red fruits and vegetables that promote heart health and prevent several types of cancers.
• Beta-carotene and lycopene in Apricots also protect LDL cholesterol from oxidation, reducing the risk of developing atherosclerosis and several cardiovascular diseases.
• Apricots are very high in vitamin A equivalents that protect from the degenerative effect of free radicals (oxidative stress) that tend to damage blood supply to the eyes and cause macular degeneration.
• Apricots are also a very good source of fiber, which has several health benefits especially related to the health of the digestive tract: it prevents constipation and cancer-promoting conditions such as diverticulosis.

Health Benefits of Apricots:
Apricot fruit is highly valued as a gentle laxative which is beneficial in the treatment of constipation due to its cellulose and pectin contents. They have an alkaline reaction in the system and thus they aid in digestion if consumed before a meal. Moreover, the fresh juice of apricot leaves is useful in skin diseases as it can effectively treat problems like scabies, eczema, sunburns and other skin related problems. Being rich in Vitamin A, they help in the removal of skin pimples and other skin disorders.

Apricot has high mineral content that makes it beneficial in cases of anemia, tuberculosis and asthma. Due to its high content of iron, it is effectively used in the treatment of anemia. The small but essential amount of copper in the fruit makes iron available to the body and it can also help in increasing the production of hemoglobin in the body thereby helping in the treatment of anemia. Moreover, fresh juice of apricots has been found beneficial in the treatment of fevers also. Having so many health benefits, apricot is a dried fruit which can aid in the overall health and well being of a person.

The kernel is used to extract an oil same as the almond. It is popularly used as a tranquilizer, antispasmodic and eases strained muscles. It also acts as a demulcent or relaxing agent. It is beneficial in the healing of wounds. It works effectively in driving out worms through excretion from the body. It is an effectual general tonic.

Apricots prevent constipation as it is highly appreciated, gentle laxative and is used in the medication of constipation. This ability is due to the presence of cellulose and pectin contents in apricots. The cellulose fibers are not digested and act as roughage to help the bowel movement. The pectin present in it helps in absorption and retention of water. It thus mounts the bulk in faeces and causes easy bowel movement. People suffering from chronic constipation can really be relived by regular use of apricots. Normally six to eight apricots per day are recommended to get the desired relief.