Apple information and how it is used as a herb in alternative herbal treatments to treat ailments and problems such as stomach cramps, cancer and diabetes.
Although we believe in the therapeutic and healing properties of herbs, care must be taken in the use thereof, as they are powerful compounds.
Apple
Botanical Classification: Family Rosaceae
Genus and specie: Malus sylvestris or Pyrus malus.
Description of the herb apple:
This commonplace tree can grow up to 40 feet high and more than 300 varieties are found.
Parts used:
The fruits and leaves are used.
Properties:
The fruit varies and taste and texture range from crisp to mealy and can be sweet or sour, depending on the variety. The fruits have great anti-diarrhea and laxative properties, and although it sounds like a contradiction, both of these conditions can be helped with apples.
Therapeutic uses:
Internal use:
The pectin in apples is transformed into a soothing coating for the intestines by intestinal bacteria, which eases stomach cramps.
Pectin adds bulk to stools and is useful in combating diarrhea.
A study that appeared in the "Journal of the National Cancer Institute" hints that pectin may stop cancer spreading through the body, and that pectin binds certain carcinogenic compounds in the colon, speeding their elimination from the body.
A study published in the "Annals of Internal Medicine" showed that apple pectin helps to reduce blood sugar levels in diabetics.
Apple pectin reportedly helps retain cholesterol in the stomach, binding cholesterol to itself and carrying it through the digestive tract to be eliminated and is also reported to help the body rid itself of
. lead
. mercury
. and other heavy metals prevalent in modern water, food, and air.
External use:
Apple leaves contain phloretin, which is a natural antibiotic.
Crushed clean apple leaves may be applied to minor wounds and scratches as a temporary treatment until the wounds can be cleaned and bandaged.
Aromatherapy and essential oil use:
None noted.
Safety precautions and warnings:
An apple seed contains a high level of cyanide - so much so that ingesting massive amounts of apple seeds can be fatal, and it is not advisable to eat great amounts of apple seeds.
People with weak stomachs, prone to diarrhea or constipation must eat apples in moderation, as it can precipitate either of the conditions in susceptible individuals.
Large amounts of apple pectin could delay the absorption of most drugs if taken at the same time.
Apple - Useful In Combating Diarrhea
Gerald Crawford was born in South Africa, studied electronics, telecommunication, eco-travel and african travel concepts. He taught responsible tourism in South Africa. If you have any questions or comments please e-mail me on. E-mail Address: southafricantravelarticles@12234455.co.za Website Address: www.12234455.co.za