Malus domestica
Apples are a popular fruit that is enjoyed by people all over the world. They are a good source of fibre and vitamin C, and they have been linked to a number of health benefits, such as, reducing the risk of heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, and some types of cancer. Apples make a great infusion and can provide a sweet additive to a tea.
Alternative Names
Apple French | Common apple | Crab apple | Cultivated apple | European crab apple | European Wild Apple | Wild crab
Benefits
- Improves digestion. Apples are a good source of fibre, which is important for digestive health. Fibre helps to keep your digestive system running smoothly and can help to prevent constipation.
- Boosts the immune system. Apples are a good source of vitamin C, which is an important antioxidant. Antioxidants help to protect your cells from damage, which can help to boost your immune system.
- Lowers the risk of heart disease. Apples are a good source of soluble fibre, which can help to lower cholesterol levels. High cholesterol levels are a risk factor for heart disease.
- Lowers the risk of type 2 diabetes. Apples are a good source of soluble fiber, which can help to lower blood sugar levels. High blood sugar levels are a risk factor for type 2 diabetes.
- May help to prevent cancer. Apples contain antioxidants that may help to protect your cells from damage. This damage can lead to cancer.
- Is a good source of vitamins and minerals. Apples are a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, potassium, and fibre. These nutrients are important for overall health.
Botanical Description
Apples are a type of fruit that is native to Europe and Asia. They are a member of the rose family and are closely related to pears, quinces, and crabapples. Apples are typically round or oval in shape and have a thin skin that can be green, red, yellow, or a combination of colors. The flesh of an apple is white or yellow and is juicy and crisp.
Active Ingredients
Fibre | Vitamin C | Potassium | Quercetin | Phloridzin | Procyanidins | Flavonoids
Harvesting
Apples are harvested in Autumn, when they are fully ripe and have a deep color. The best time to harvest apples is in the morning, when the fruit is cool and the moisture content is high.
The harvesting process begins with the removal of the apples from the tree where they are sorted and cleaned. They are then sorted and washed.
After washing, the apples are dried. This can be done in a variety of ways, including air drying, sun drying, or dehydrating. Air drying is the most common method of drying apples. The apples are simply placed in a cool, dry place and allowed to dry naturally. Sun drying is another option, but it is important to make sure that the apples are not exposed to direct sunlight, as this can cause them to spoil.
Mythology/Folklore
Apples are a popular cultivated fruit that has been featured in mythology and folklore for centuries. In many cultures, apples are associated with love, fertility, and knowledge.
In Greek mythology, the apple was a symbol of love and beauty. The goddess Aphrodite was often depicted holding an apple, and the apple was said to be the cause of the Trojan War. In the story, the goddess Eris threw a golden apple into a wedding feast, inscribed with the words “Kallisti,” which means “For the fairest.” Three goddesses claimed the apple: Hera, Athena, and Aphrodite. Paris of Troy was appointed to select the recipient. After being bribed by both Hera and Athena, Aphrodite tempted him with the most beautiful woman in the world, Helen of Sparta. Paris awarded the apple to Aphrodite, and Helen eventually married Paris, which led to the Trojan War.
In Norse mythology, the apple was a symbol of fertility. The goddess Idunn was the keeper of the golden apples of immortality, which she kept in a box. The gods ate these apples to maintain their youth and vitality.
In Celtic mythology, the apple was a symbol of knowledge. The apple tree was sacred to the goddess Brigid, who was associated with healing, poetry, and smithcraft. The apple was also said to be the food of the gods, and it was believed that eating an apple would grant one wisdom and immortality.
Apples are also featured in many other myths and legends. In the bible story of Adam and Eve, Eve is tempted by a talking snake to eat the forbidden apple from the Tree of Knowledge of Good and Evil.
Use
To make apple tea, simply steep dried apples in hot water for 5-10 minutes. You can also add other ingredients to your tea, such as cinnamon, cloves, or honey.
Possible Side Effects
Apple tea is a healthy and delicious drink with few side effects. One potential side effect of apple tea is an allergic reaction. Another potential side effect of apple tea is heartburn as it contains sorbitol, a sugar alcohol that can cause heartburn in some people. Apple tea can also interact with certain medications.
