Apricot (prunus armeniaca)
Synopsis of apricot
Apricots (Prunus armeniaca) are small, orange-hued fruits from the Rosaceae (rose) family, closely related to peaches, plums, and almonds. Native to China and Central Asia, apricots have been cultivated for over 4,000 years and are now grown globally, particularly in Mediterranean and temperate regions. They are known for their sweet-tart flavor, soft flesh, and nutrient density, particularly when dried.
Apricots are rich in vitamins A and C, potassium, iron, and dietary fiber, especially pectin, which supports digestive health and blood sugar regulation. They also contain high levels of carotenoids, particularly beta-carotene and lutein, which support vision, immune function, and skin health. Their antioxidant properties help reduce oxidative stress and may contribute to anti-aging and anti-inflammatory effects.
Dried apricots are a concentrated source of iron and potassium, often used to support individuals with anemia, low energy, or electrolyte imbalance. The fruit is naturally alkalizing, making it a common part of detox and digestive regimens. The soluble fiber in apricots helps regulate cholesterol, promote satiety, and improve gut microbiota balance.
Apricot kernels (seeds) also have a history of medicinal use. They contain amygdalin (sometimes called laetrile or vitamin B17), a controversial compound that has been researched for potential anti-cancer properties, though its safety is disputed due to the potential for cyanide toxicity in large amounts.
Historical Use:
Apricots have long been valued in traditional medicine systems such as Ayurveda, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Persian, and Greco-Arabic medicine. In Ayurveda, apricots are considered cooling, moistening, and slightly sweet, beneficial for pitta imbalances, and used to quench thirst, relieve constipation, and nourish the skin and blood. Apricot oil, extracted from the kernel, is used in massage and skincare for its emollient and anti-inflammatory effects.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, apricot seeds (xing ren) are used to moisten the lungs, stop coughs, and relieve constipation. They are often included in formulas for dry cough, bronchitis, or constipation due to dryness. The flesh of the apricot was also consumed to nourish fluids and strengthen digestion during hot seasons.
In Persian and Middle Eastern herbal traditions, apricots were used in both culinary and medicinal contexts to cool the body, ease inflammation, and support heart and digestive health. Stewed apricots were a common remedy for mild digestive issues and heat-related ailments.
Today, apricots are used not only as a nutritious fruit and gentle remedy, but also in skincare, detox programs, and immune-supportive diets. Their long history in both food and medicine reflects their value as a nourishing, hydrating, and protective botanical ally.
Apricot is used for these health conditions
Aging (prevention) (Traditional)
Appetite (deficient) (Traditional)
Cancer (natural therapy for) (Traditional)
Cancer (prevention) (Traditional)
Constipation (adults) (Traditional)
Constipation (children) (Traditional)
Debility (Traditional)
Diabetes (Traditional)
Digestion (poor) (Traditional)
Edema (Traditional)
Free Radical Damage (Scientific)
Gastritis (Traditional)
Hair (loss or thinning) (Traditional)
Heart (weakness) (Traditional)
Hemorrhoids (Traditional)
Indigestion (Traditional)
Inflammation (Traditional)
Kidney Stones (Traditional)
Liver Detoxification (Traditional)
Night Blindness (Scientific)
Skin Care (general) (Traditional)
Ulcers (Traditional)
Wasting (Traditional)
Wounds and Sores (Traditional)
Wrinkles (Traditional)
apricot is used to support these body systems
Blood (Traditional)
Digestive System (Traditional)
Eyes (Traditional)
Heart (Traditional)
Immune System (Traditional)
Intestinal System (Traditional)
Liver (Traditional)
Lungs (Traditional)
Skin (Traditional)
Spleen (Traditional)
Stomach (Traditional)
