It is crunchy, juicy, varied in taste – and like no other domestic fruit variety packed into the peel with essential nutrients. The apple has an enormously high nutritionally value for the human organism. This was probably already suspected in the 19th century, when the English proverb “An apple a day keeps the doctor away” was created. Today we know from research that it has a very high content of various vitamins, especially vitamin C, a whole range of minerals and trace elements as well as many healthy fiber and antioxidant plant substances.
Well-tried medicinal plant
Just the regular enjoyment of the tasty pome fruit can contribute to health and well-being thanks to these excellent ingredients. But the apple is also an effective and well-tried medicinal plant, which can be used specifically for internal and external complaints. Many will probably remember that they were given a brown porridge made from grated apples as they were children for diarrhea. The fiber and pectins contained in the fruit pulp and above all in the peel are able to bind pollutants and by-products of digestion up to a hundred times their own weight and excreted through the intestine – so the old home remedy can work quite reliably and regulate the digestion quite naturally Other active ingredients additionally prevent the pathogenic bacteria from multiplying.
The detoxifying properties of the fruit also help to maintain, regenerate and protect the intestinal flora. Since this has a very decisive influence on the body’s defenses, the regular consumption of apples can have a positive effect on the entire immune system.
An anti-inflammatory drug
Anyone who catches a cold or a cough in the upcoming season of colds, will find in the natural pharmacy a delicious remedy: baked apples are not only tasty, but also relieve sore throat, hoarseness and fever. During baking, peel and pulp releases anti-inflammatory enzymes that calm the irritated mucous membrane and relieve the pain.
Vitalizing the skin
Our body skin also benefits from the valuable ingredients of the apple. As a food, it provides the body with protective antioxidants and with vitamins and minerals that revitalize and regenerate the skin. For the care of the skin, the fruits can also be wonderfully applied externally. A refreshing mask is made quickly with an apple – it is just rubbed and the mush is applied on the face. In addition, you can mix nourishing substances such as honey, a high-quality oil or quark. The apple’s ingredients support the skin’s ability to absorb and bind moisture – so the complexion feels nice and soft when the mask is removed. For blemished and oily skin, apple cider vinegar is a good choice – diluted with water for cleaning or as facial steam bath.
Recipes for skin and nerves
Apple cider vinegar steam bath
for pimples, blackheads and impure skin
Ingredients
75 ml (2.5 fl) oz apple cider vinegar
Preparation
Heat 1 liter (2 pt) of water and stir in the vinegar.
Application
Put the pot on a table and bend over the face. Cover the head with a towel and leave the steam on the skin for 10-15 minutes. Then gently dab the face dry. The heat ensures that the pores of the skin open and the apple cider vinegar can develop its antibacterial and disinfecting effect. The steam bath promotes the healing of existing pimples and, with regular use, prevents the formation of new pustules and blackheads on the impure skin. Its astringent properties can also improve the appearance of oily skin.
Apple mask
for tired, wrinkled and flabby skin
Ingredients
- 1 apple (as sour as possible)
- 1 tbsp honey
- possibly 1 tbsp apricot kernel oil or other nourishing oil
Preparation
- Wash the apple and finely grate with peel
- Add honey and oil and mix well
Application
Apply the mixture evenly to the face after cleaning. Allow to soak for about 15 minutes, then rinse off with a little lukewarm water. If the skin still needs another care, wait a while to apply again. The mask refreshes, clarifies and strengthens the skin, improves the appearance of the skin and eliminates signs of aging.
Recipes for colds
Apple Spice tea
for colds
Ingredients
- 250 ml (8.5 fl oz) apple juice
- 1/2 teaspoons of fennel fruits
- star anise
- anise
- cinnamon
- cloves
Preparation
- Mix the apple juice with the spices and heat, but do not cook
- Let it rest for 30 minutes, then strain and heat again
Application
In case of colds or after a long winter walk, drink for warming. The tea stimulates the circulation, has an expectorant effect and stimulates the discharge, calms throat and supports the self-healing powers.
Apple wrap
for sore throat, difficulty in swallowing and tonsillitis
Ingredients
- 1/4 liter (8.5 fl oz) of apple cider
Preparation
- Heat the cider
Application
Soak a cotton cloth in the warm cider and wrap it around the neck. Cover the envelope with a terry towel. Leave for 20 minutes, then remove the wrap. Repeat as necessary. The wrap has a cooling, analgesic, decongestant and anti-inflammatory effect.
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