Apple Malus communis: “An apple a day keeps the doctor away,” the apple's medicinal properties are often forgotten. The fruits of Malus communis have been cultivated since Roman times; ripe apples were used as laxatives and unripe ones to counter diarrhea. Most apples are cool and moist; juices and infusions were prescribed for fevers and eye infections.
Warning: Avoid eating the seeds of any apple as they contain high levels of the powerful poison cyanide.
—Botanical name— Malus sylvestris or Pyrus malus
—Chinese Botanical name—
This information clearly states that Apple do have benefits.
—Description— One-a-Day Protection – Cancer; Constipation; Diabetes; Diarrhea; Heart Disease; Lead Poisoning; Stroke; Wound Infection. #
—Family— Rosaceae; other members include rose, almond and strawberry.
—Parts used— Fruit.
—Synonyms— Wild Apple; Common Apple; Malus communis. Wikipedia.org Malus Sieversii;
—Constituents— Pectin and phloretin
—Medicinal Action and Uses— #
Although few contemporary herbalists consider the apple to be an herb, it has a venerable tradition as a healing agent. So much of what the ancient herbalists believed about the healing powers of this delectable fruit has been scientifically supported that it's time to let the apple resume its respected place on the herbal roster.
· DIARRHEA – Some studies show that pectin helps relieve diarrhea because intestinal bacteria transform it into a soothing, protective coating for the irritated intestinal lining. In addition, pectin adds bulk to the stool, which helps resolve both diarrhea and constipation.
Some diarrhea is caused by bacterial infection. One study shows apple pectin is effective against several types of bacteria capable of causing diarrhea. No wonder pectin is the “pectate” in the over-the-counter diarrhea preparation, Kaopectate.
· CONSTIPATION – Physicians recommend diets high in fiber to add bulk to the stool. Bulk stimulates normal bowel contractions and relieves constipation.
· HEART DISEASE AND STROKE – Pectin may help reduce blood cholesterol, a key risk factor for heart disease and some types of stroke. In the presence of pectin, the cholesterol we eat remains in the intestinal tract until it is eliminated. So eat an apple for desert when you have meat and dairy products, and enjoy some protection from their cholesterol.
· CANCER – The American Cancer Society recommends a high-fiber diet to help prevent several forms of cancer, particularly colon cancer. Pectin binds certain cancer-causing compounds in the colon, speeding their elimination from the body, according to a study published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute.
· DIABETES – Physicians also recommend high-fiber diets to control diabetes. Several studies show that apple pectin helps control blood sugar (glucose) levels in diabetics.
Traditional Chinese physicians have used apple bark for centuries to treat diabetes, another use supported by modern science.
· LEAD POISONING – European studies suggest apple pectin helps eliminate lead, mercury, and other toxic heavy metals from the body. Cleansing the body of these poisons is yet another reason for people who live in polluted cities to enjoy the proverbial apple a day.
· WOUND INFECTION – Although the pectin in apple fruit is this herb's major medicinal component, apple leaves contain an antibiotic (phloretin). If you cut yourself out in the orchard, crush some apple leaves and press them onto the wound as first aid until you can wash and bandage it,
—Nutrient Source—
—Side Effects or Negative Effects—
—Deterrent—
—References— The Healing Herbs – The Ultimate Guide to the Curative Powers of Nature's Medicines” by – Michael Castleman, Copyright 1991; ISBN: 0-87857-934-6; Pages 53 – 55
—References—
Recipe: Apple sauce and Raisin Relish found at: Herbs 2000.com
· 1 cup applesauce
· 1/2 cup seedless raisins
· 2 Tbs. grated orange rind
· 1/2 tsp. dried sweet marjoram
Combine applesauce with raisins that have been soaked for 5 minutes in hot water, then drained. Add orange peel and crushed marjoram. Chill 2 hours before serving.
Recipe:
Generated on June 6th, 2007
Updated on July 3rd, 2007
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