Day of the apple The healthy remedy from nature

Apple Day: Apples contain many nutrients and are used as a remedy

11/01/2012

„An apple a day and the doctor stays where he likes“, It says in an English proverb. Today's apple is all about the healthy, vitamin-rich fruit. Whether as a food, ornamental plant or remedy - apples are more popular than ever.

Around 5,000 different varieties attract the consumer
„No fruit offers more variety“, says Klaus Hahne, operator of the orchard in Laatzen-Gleidingen. The selection of around 5,000 different varieties ranges from dessert apples to special apples for diabetics. Some companies specialize in preserving old apple varieties while others develop new varieties using genetic engineering. Hahne reports that many customers express specific wishes, such as a high firmness of the apple. Then the plants would have to react and plant appropriate trees. Old apple varieties, such as „ Baron von Berlepsch“, are considered particularly rich in vitamins. In 100 grams of fruit about 25 milligrams of vitamin C are included. Boskoop and Ontario are also among the vitamin-rich varieties.

In Germany apple orchards occupy the largest area in fruit cultivation. This type of large-scale cultivation was introduced to the Romans. It is assumed that the apple originates from Asia and has been cultivated since about the 6th century in Central Europe. From the 16th century, the apple also gained economic importance. Targeted breeding, however, did not start until the 19th century.

Apples: Tasty and healthy
Apples contain over 30 different minerals and trace elements. These include iron and potassium, which regulate the water balance. Due to its numerous fruit acids, it is good for dental health. It also regulates the intestinal activity and contains important vitamins, which include vitamins B1, B2, B6, E and C, provitamin A as well as niacin and folic acid.

Another important ingredient is pectin, which reduces cholesterol and binds and flushes out other pollutants. Flavonoids and carotenoids are also found in apples. They are said to have an antioxidant effect in the body. In addition, they should reduce the risk of cancer. So-called catechins to prevent bronchial and lung diseases.

Irina Jordan-Berndt, Specialist in General Medicine and Nutrition Medicine, summarizes: „It is known that apples contain vitamin C. In addition, there are so-called phytochemicals in the fruit, which are healthy for us humans. They strengthen the immune system, regulate metabolism and fight bacteria. This makes them especially valuable in the prevention of cardiovascular diseases and cancer.“

Up to 70 percent of an apple's vitamins are stored in and just below its shell. If you peel an apple, you forgo a large proportion of it vitamins. In addition to vitamins, the shell also contains magnesium, iron, unsaturated fats and bioactive substances. As a general rule, apples that have grown in the sun are more rich in vitamins than those that grow in the shade.

Apples as a remedy in natural medicine
Apples have always been used as home remedies for various diseases. Egg-grated apples, for example, counteract diarrhea. In throat and throat infections, a teaspoon of apple cider vinegar in combination with a tablespoon of honey can help in a glass of water. Hoarseness can be alleviated by eating a roasted apple with honey. Pregnancy sickness can be avoided by eating an apple before getting up.

In case of insomnia, an apple should be consumed before going to sleep, and in case of nervousness, a self-prepared apple tea will help. An unpeeled apple is sliced ​​and doused with one liter of boiling water. After two hours of brewing, the apple tea is ready. For pure and delicate skin, a peeled apple can be ground, mixed with a little honey and applied as a mask. After 20 minutes of exposure, the mask should be washed off again. (Ag)

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A delicious vegetarian recipe with apple:
Apple and fennel

Picture: Ralf Meilen