Apricots are a widely consumed fruit around the world that have great healing benefits. However, it also has contraindications and side effects. In this sense, we will analyze these aspects, but before we ask ourselves: What is, really, the apricot?
The apricot or prunus armeniaca (Armenian plum) is part of the Rosaceae or rose family, which includes some 2,830 species divided into 95 genera, including plants with great nutritional and medicinal powers, such as almonds (Prunus dulcis), apples ( Malus domestica), blackberry (Rubus fruticosus), cherry (Prunus spp.), pear (Pyrus communis), plumb (Prunus domestica), raspberry (Rubus idaeus) and rose (Rosa canina)
Standard apricot trees can grow 20 to 30 feet (6 to 9 m) tall. While in ideal climates apricot trees have a lifespan of 75 years, in North America that period is shortened to 15 years. The leaves are oblong and two to four inches (5 – 10 cm) in diameter with a pointed tip.
The flowers are light pink in color and reach a size of about an inch. As an apricot ripens, it changes color into a fleshy yellow or orange fruit. The skin is smooth or covered with small hairs depending on the variety, and the grain, the only seed inside, is protected by an outer layer, called a stone.
Apricots are believed to have originated in China over 4,000 years ago, where they were called Moons of the Faithful. This stone fruit was thought to improve fertility. Spanish settlers must be credited with bringing the fruit to the New World, where successful cultivation in California began in the late 18th century.
Economic data
Apricots are grown around the world in many Asian, Middle Eastern, and Mediterranean countries, with North American production occurring primarily in California. The state leads the nation with 95% of total US production, and the United States as a whole produces close to 90% of the world’s apricots.
In ancient Chinese times, apricots were believed to increase fertility. This stone fruit was also considered an aphrodisiac in Europe, a belief enhanced by William Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream. And to this day, apricots are believed to induce the birth of children, as demonstrated in John Webster’s The Duchess of Malfi.
Apricot extract is often used as an ingredient in personal care products and homemade mask recipes. It can also be used as a less expensive substitute for almond oil in some cases.
.
benefits of apricots
A variety of apricot health benefits can be gained by eating the fruit itself. Apricots are an excellent source of beta-carotene, providing 30% of the recommended daily value. They also provide high amounts of vitamin C (ascorbic acid), potassium, and fiber. The different parts of an apricot, the skin, fruit, and kernel, have a variety of medicinal properties, including:
Lower Cholesterol Levels Apricots are rich in beta-carotene and fiber, which help reduce harmful LDL cholesterol levels that cause arterial inflammation, helping to prevent heart disease.
Encourage regular bowel movements. The high fiber content found in the skin also helps lower blood pressure and helps with regular bowel movements.
Additionally, apricot kernels and almond oil have been shown to be helpful in other instances, such as:
Help in gastrointestinal problems. Apricot kernels have been shown to help with gastric problems, such as bloating, and act as a carminative and laxative.
Help with ear problems. Kernel oil drops have also been shown to be beneficial in remedying ear infections and tinnitus.
.
How does it work
Apricot consumption has risen in popularity due to its impressive nutritional profile. Like other Prunus species, apricots are rich in phenolic compounds, which have great antioxidant, cardioprotective properties, but have the highest levels of carotenoids, necessary to maintain eye and skin health, as well as to prevent degenerative diseases.
Other herbs with digestive properties are oregano and sage, while olives and avocados also help reduce cholesterol.
.
Contraindications and side effects
Apricots are generally safe when eaten in moderation. However, eating too many apricot kernels can trigger mild to severe side effects, including vomiting, headaches, nausea, dizziness, and other conditions of general weakness. This is due to small amounts of amygdala in the grain, a naturally occurring cyanogen that can be toxic.
The cyanide content of apricot kernels varies and depends on several factors, including chemical constituents, cultivation practices, variety, origin, and more. Cooking or fermenting the seeds drastically reduces the previous cyanide levels.
Grain consumption is generally safe for those who are allergic to nuts, as apricots are considered a stone fruit. Although, there have been some cases of clinical cross-reactivity in consumers with peanut and almond allergies.
When consuming apricot kernels, consumers are advised to exercise caution. Those with pre-existing health conditions, such as deficiencies in B vitamins, iron or potassium, should consult a health professional before consuming apricot kernels – ground, crushed or otherwise – to self-treat their deficiencies. This is especially true for pregnant or lactating women.
Apricot kernel oil is mostly safe when applied topically. However, it can cause skin irritation.
video of the month