7 Impressive Health & Beauty Benefits Of Apricots

1. Key For Anti-Ageing

Famed for being one of nature’s best anti-agers, apricots promote collagen production and skin elasticity thanks to a cocktail of phytonutrients and vitamins C and A. It’s why apricot kernel oil has become hugely popular among experts and facialists alike. It also dates right back to Indian rituals, and the oil itself is proven to protect against UV damage and environmental pollutants.

2. Promote Better Digestion

Nutritionist, Gabriela Peacock recommends upping your apricot intake to keep the immune system healthy, but also to aid digestion. “They’re a high source of beta carotene, lutein and incredibly high in fibre, so they’re a go-to for better gut health.” Not a fan of them raw? Gabriela recommends buying them in their dried form. “Dried apricots are even better for aiding digestion as they contain high levels of nutrients, have calcium for stronger bones and include magnesium, too. All in all, they’re a power fruit not to be missed out on.”

3. Lowers Liver Inflammation

Packed with vitamin C and E, apricots have been proven to lower levels of liver enzymes, which in turn, reduces unwanted inflammation. They work to protect from liver disease and get rid of free radicals that can cause damage. Clarissa confirms: “Their high vitamin content also makes them essential for growth and development in children. They’re also brilliant at healing wounds – they contain carotenoids which take down high levels of inflammation throughout the body – and maintain a healthy wellbeing overall.”

4. Improve Heart Health

While they won’t be a cure-all solution, they’re an excellent way of maintaining a healthy diet and aiding the protection of your heart, thanks to the high levels of beta carotene, vitamin C, potassium and even the fibre. Vitamin C works to protect the heart from free radical damage, while the high levels of potassium are said to lower blood pressure by relaxing the blood vessels and arteries.

5. Soothes Asthma

Apricot oil (rather than the fruit itself) is also believed to be anti-asthmatic in nature and assists in treating the diseases and its associated symptoms. Studies show it has certain stimulant qualities thanks to the high levels of essential oils that aid in relieving stress and reducing pressure on the respiratory system and lungs.

6. Boost Sluggish Immune Systems

“Apricots are jam packed with vitamin A – remember, A is for Apricots,” says Clarissa Lenherr, Nutritional Therapist. “One cup of them can deliver over 50% of your recommended daily intake of vitamin A, which is important for maintaining strong vision, a healthy and well-balanced immune system and it’s absolutely key for boosting your cognitive function.” The high beta carotene levels inside of apricots are proven to enhance the blood flow to the eyes, reversing age-related macular degeneration, while the antioxidant Zeaxanthin offers light filtering functions, in turn, improving your eyesight over time.

7. Fights Anaemia Symptoms

Apricot is an excellent source of iron, a mineral which plays a very important role in the formation of haemoglobin. In addition, apricot also contains copper and vitamin C, both of which aid in iron absorption, which in turn, improves the blood flow in the body, preventing anaemia.
 

Fancy trying apricot oil in your skincare? Take your pick from our SL-approved edit below…