Peach (Prunus Persica)

The peach is the fruit of a deciduous tree. The botanical name, Prunus persica, is derived from the Greek word for the fruit after it was introduced into the Mediterranean through Persia and from China. Mythology and History The botanical name, Prunus persica, is derived from the Greek word for the fruit after it was introduced into the Mediterranean. Although this name refers to Persia, as the Persians introduced the fruit into the Western world, peaches actually originated in China. Peach cultivation reached Greece by 300 BC. Alexander the Great introduced the fruit into Europe after he conquered the Persians.

Health Benefits & Modern Medicinal uses

Wonderfully delicious peaches are low in calories and contain no saturated fats. Nonetheless, they are packed with numerous health promoting compounds, minerals and vitamins.
Peaches are high in a number of nutrients human body needs such as niacin, thiamine, potassium and calcium. They are also high in beta carotene, an antioxidant that converts to Vitamin A, which is essential for healthy hearts and eyes. The darker the peach’s color, the more Vitamin A it has in its pulp. The antioxidants may also help in maintaining healthy urinary and digestive functions.

These fruits also contain lycopene and lutein. These are also carotenes, like beta-carotene and give color to the peach. There are several studies and indications that these two substances, can help prevent macular degeneration, cancer and heart disease.

They are rich in many vital minerals such as potassium, fluoride and iron. Iron is required for red blood cell formation. Fluoride is a component of bones and teeth and is important for prevention of dental caries. Potassium is an important component of cell and body fluids that help regulate heart rate and blood pressure.

As peaches are an excellent source of antioxidants, they can help make the skin healthy and also add color to the complexion. Research shows that antioxidants can protect skin from damaging UV rays by counteracting free radical activity.

Peach kernel oil contains vitamins A and E as well as a variety of B-group vitamins. Of these, vitamin E is particularly beneficial to the skin as it is an antioxidant, eliminating free radicals, which are harmful by-products of the metabolic process associated with aging and some cancers.

This essential oil may also help delay the process aging and maintain the elasticity of the skin because it contains varieties of polyunsaturated fatty acids, or PUFAs, which are associated with skin growth and health.

The soothing, emollient nature of peach kernel oil can also benefit anyone who suffers from dry, flaky or sensitive skin. Individuals with delicate skin can also use it as a cosmetics remover.

Light, soothing and not too oily, it also can be used for body and facial massages. Applied as a facial, it can help rejuvenate wrinkles and clean out your pores. It can also be used as lip balm.