APRICOT

INTRODUCTION

• Apricot is also known as stone fruit. A Yellowish – orange fleshy fruit with a slight tinge of red on one side.
• Apricots are fruit that contains a single seed.
• It has a thin outer skin and can be eaten without peeling.

IN AYURVEDA

Botanical Name – Prunus armeniaca

  Family    Name – Rosaceae

AYURVEDIC MEDICINAL PROPERTIES

• Rasa – Sweet (madhura)
• Guna – Laghu , Snigdha
• Veerya – Shita
• Vipak – Madhura

NUTRITIONAL  VALUE OF APRICOT

• Calories :48
• protein : 1.4 grm
• carbohydrates : 11 grm
• sugar : 9 grm
• fiber : 2 grm
• fat : 0.4 grm
• saturated fat :0grm
• vitamin A ,C , E
• Potassium : 259mg
• other Minerals like calcium , iron , magnesium and phosphorus

Apricots are also a good source of antioxidants like beta-carotene which can help protect body from oxidative stress.

HOW TO CONSUMED APRICOT ?

• Fresh fruits :

Eat fresh apricots whole as a snack or chop them up and add them to salads , yogurt or cereal.

• Dried fruits :

 Dried apricots make a convenient snack and can be added to trail mixes , baked goods or used in cooking.

• Jams
• Juices

Blend fresh apricots with water to make apricot juice .

• Cooked : Apricots can be stewed or cooked into sauces for savory dishes like tagines or used as a topping for desserts.

BENEFITS OF APRICOTS

Apricots have several health benefits due to  their nutrient content .Some of the key benefits include

• Rich in antioxidants : Apricots are high in antioxidants like vitamin C and beta-carotene , which help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals.
• Heart Health : Apricots are a good source of potassium , which is important for heart health .They also help lower cholesterol levels.
• Eye Health : The beta-carotene in apricots is converted to vitamin A in the body , which is essential for good vision.
• Skin Health : The antioxidants in apricots help protect the skin from damage and signs of aging.
• Bone Health : Apricots contain nutrients like vitamin K and calcium which are important for bone health.
• Weight Management
• Hydration : Apricots have a high water content.

SIDE EFFECTS OF APRICOTS

• Allergic Reactions : Some individuals may be allergic to apricots which could lead to symptoms such as itching , swelling or hives.
• Gastrointestinal issues : Eating too many apricots can cause gastrointestinal discomfort , including bloating , gas or diarrhea due to their fiber content.
• Kidney Stones : Apricots are high in oxalates , which can contribute to the formation of kidney stones in susceptible individuals.
• Pesticide Residue : Non- organic apricots may contain pesticide residues.
• Interaction with Medications.