Citrus Fruits

Orange stimulates appetite and activates blood circulation Orange is considered one of the citrus fruits with high health benefits. It helps strengthen the body, improve overall health, and fight diseases. It is regarded as an “alkaline” food because after digestion it produces alkaline substances in the tissues. Orange also stimulates blood circulation and increases iron absorption, which helps raise iron levels in the blood and promotes energy and vitality. In addition, oranges are considered an effective remedy for colds and influenza.

Orange is beneficial for the chest and coughs. At the same time, it is refreshing, appetite-stimulating, and suitable as a drink at all times. Orange juice also improves digestive performance by treating indigestion, stimulating digestion, and increasing digestive secretions.

Orange also strengthens bones because it contains a good amount of calcium, and its fiber content helps reduce constipation.

Orange juice is considered one of the best drinks after exercise or physical activity because it contains beneficial minerals, carbohydrates, and vitamins.

ORANGE PURIFIES THE BODY It is well known that the energy driving the body comes from sugar. Food supplies this sugar either directly through fruits or indirectly through other foods that the body converts into sugar through complex and energy-consuming processes. Fruits are rich in natural sugars, alkaline minerals, vitamins, and organic and amino acids in their simplest forms, making them easy for the body to absorb without exhausting it.

Experts state that fruits provide the greatest nutritional value with the least physical effort. Orange, in particular, is rich in water, natural sugars, vitamin C, and alkaline salts that help maintain youthful cells. It is also an antioxidant because it contains bioflavonoids, which help cleanse the body from free radicals. Therefore, it is highly recommended for sick people.

Orange is also rich in natural fibers and has a delicious taste ranging from sweet to semi-sweet to sour, satisfying all preferences. It also contains alkaline compounds that may help even in cases of stomach ulcers because its acids are transformed into alkaline sugars during digestion.

Fresh orange juice is refreshing and delicious when consumed immediately after squeezing, provided the peel is not squeezed because it may contain substances used to protect the fruit from insects.

Nutritional Components of Orange Orange contains:

  • 80% water
  • 2% fats
  • 10% fiber
  • 5% minerals and acids
  • 3% sugars and vitamins

It also contains minerals such as sulfur, phosphorus, calcium, and copper, in addition to vitamins C, B1, and B2.

Health Benefits of Orange

  • Helps fix calcium in bones and supports bone strength
  • Helps resist colds
  • Protects teeth from decay
  • Stimulates blood circulation
  • Supports liver health
  • Helps reduce constipation, especially if eaten before bedtime
  • Improves chronic indigestion
  • Stimulates appetite
  • Refreshes and energizes the body

Orange and Smoking Cessation: Professor of Chemistry Dr. Linus Pauling advised smokers to eat an orange whenever they feel a strong urge to smoke. Studies in British universities showed that consuming oranges for three weeks helped some smokers quit smoking completely, while many others significantly reduced their cigarette consumption.

Orange and Disease Prevention Modern studies have shown that oranges may help:

  • Reduce cholesterol levels
  • Prevent blood clotting in blood vessels
  • Improve blood flow
  • Lower the risk of heart disease
  • Lower blood pressure
  • Reduce the risk of stroke
  • Strengthen immunity due to its high vitamin C content

Researchers also found that drinking half a cup of orange juice every morning may help protect against strokes, especially in people with high blood pressure or obesity.

Orange and Mental Well-Being: Studies conducted in Europe found that the scent of oranges helps calm anxiety and nervousness, especially before dental treatment. Many dental clinics now use orange fragrance in waiting rooms to help patients relax.

Orange Personality Traits: Some personality theories claim that people who love oranges tend to be sensitive yet independent personalities, while those who dislike oranges are often rational, self-confident, and not easily influenced by others.

Orange remains one of the healthiest and most refreshing fruits, rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and natural fibers that support overall health and vitality.

Apple: A moisturizing fruit that is gentle on the intestines. It is beneficial in acute inflammatory diseases, relieves fever pain, and is useful for the liver, kidneys, and bladder as it facilitates their function. It also soothes coughs and helps expel phlegm. Apples are among the richest fruits in vitamins, and there is a popular saying: “An apple a day keeps the doctor away.” Apples contain vitamins A, B1, B2, and C, and have many medicinal uses.

Apple Juice:
If apples are juiced, the liquid distilled, and stored tightly in bottles, it can remain preserved without spoiling. Drinking two glasses daily is said to help with the following conditions when taken regularly: vascular and lymphatic diseases, arteriosclerosis, gout, liver diseases, anemia, urinary tract diseases, skin diseases, rheumatism, and nervous disorders.

Apple Cider Vinegar

Prophetic traditions mentioning vinegar:

In an authentic narration reported by Muslim from Jabir ibn Abdullah, the Messenger of Allah ﷺ asked his family for food seasoning. They replied, “We have nothing except vinegar.” He asked for it and began eating, saying: “What an excellent seasoning vinegar is.”

In Sunan Ibn Majah, Umm Sa‘d reported that the Prophet ﷺ said: “What an excellent seasoning vinegar is. O Allah, bless vinegar, for no household that has vinegar will suffer poverty.”

Vinegar is a liquid substance with a sharp taste and is considered a condiment. Apple cider vinegar is regarded as one of the best types of vinegar. Vinegar is commonly made from apples, grapes, oranges, beets, watermelon, berries, honey, wheat, barley, corn, and potatoes after converting starch into sugar using a special yeast known as “diastase yeast.” It can also be produced chemically.

How Apple Cider Vinegar is Made:
Wash apples thoroughly, cut them into medium-sized pieces, place them in earthenware or plastic containers, cover with cloth, and keep in a warm place for about 45 days until fermentation occurs. Then press the apples, bottle the liquid in glass containers, and seal them.

Another method:
Approximately four kilograms of apples are washed well, cut into quarters without peeling or removing the seeds, then spread in a ventilated basket and covered with light gauze to protect from insects. The apples are left in a warm place for about a week until fermentation odor appears. Bacteria gradually accumulate on the apples. Afterward, they are transferred into containers for slow extraction of juice. The liquid is filtered several times until a clear vinegar free of impurities remains.

Composition of Vinegar:
Vinegar consists of water, acetic acid, and various organic and volatile compounds that give it its taste and aroma.

Chemical Vinegar:
Many commercial vinegars sold in markets are chemically derived acetic acid products and are not equivalent to the vinegar mentioned in prophetic medicine. Chemically acidic vinegar may irritate the stomach lining and cause ulcers if consumed excessively or undiluted.

Traditional and Historical Views on Vinegar:
Ancient Arab physicians praised vinegar and described its benefits and harms. They stated that it benefits inflamed stomachs, suppresses bile, aids digestion, counters phlegm, reduces thirst, strengthens the stomach, and helps with wounds and swelling.

Daoud Al-Antaki stated that vinegar strengthens the stomach, stimulates appetite, stops chronic diarrhea and bleeding, heals wounds, reduces swelling, and relieves gout and joint pain.

Ibn Sina (Avicenna) wrote that vinegar helps prevent tumors and skin eruptions and can relieve headaches when mixed with oil.

Ibn Al-Baitar mentioned that vinegar can help heal wounds, strengthen gums, relieve sore throat symptoms, and soothe burns quickly.

Modern Medical Perspective:
Modern medicine describes vinegar as refreshing, moisturizing, sweat-inducing, diuretic, and stimulating to the stomach. Dr. Jarvis, in his book “Folk Medicine,” praised apple cider vinegar particularly, recommending a mixture of vinegar and honey in water daily for digestive cleansing and general health.

Common Uses of Apple Cider Vinegar:

  • Sore throat: gargling diluted vinegar in warm water.
  • Burns: applying vinegar may reduce blister formation.
  • Vomiting: small diluted amounts may help soothe symptoms.
  • Insect bites: applying vinegar compresses to the affected area.
  • Urinary tract cleansing: diluted vinegar is traditionally used.
  • Insomnia: mixed with honey and warm water before sleep.
  • Cough: mixed with honey and glycerin.
  • Varicose veins: topical application and diluted oral intake.
  • Joint inflammation: diluted intake with meals.
  • Digestive discomfort: diluted vinegar after heavy meals.
  • Weight loss: traditionally consumed diluted with water before meals.

Traditional texts also mention its use for scalp conditions, sweating, bacterial resistance, and circulation support.

Important Note:
Many traditional claims about apple cider vinegar are based on folk medicine and historical sources rather than modern scientific evidence. Excessive or undiluted use may irritate the stomach, teeth, or digestive tract.

Lemon is a perennial tree scientifically known as Citrus limon. It is considered one of the most important plants for household use, both as food and medicine. Spaniards are among the peoples most known for using lemon extensively, and their medical writings frequently mention it.

The lemon originally came from India, and lemon trees were first introduced to Europe during the second century after Christ. Today, they are cultivated throughout most parts of the world. The fruit is the main part used, and it is harvested during winter when its vitamin C content reaches its peak.

Lemons contain about 2.5% essential oil located in the peel, with limonene making up around 70% of the oil. Other important compounds include phellandrene, alpha-pinene, beta-pinene, and citral. The fruit also contains coumarins, bioflavonoids, vitamins C and A, B vitamins, mucilage, and sugars.

Medicinal Uses of Lemon:

  • Acts as an antiseptic and anti-rheumatic agent.
  • Works as an expectorant, helping remove mucus from the respiratory tract.
  • Vitamin C in lemon helps thin and dissolve mucus, making lemon highly beneficial for respiratory health.
  • Functions as an antibacterial agent, detoxifier, and fever reducer.
  • Supports liver, stomach, and intestinal health.
  • Strengthens blood vessel walls, helping prevent bleeding gums and improving circulation disorders.

Lemon juice is commonly used to help treat:

  • Influenza and colds
  • Chest and respiratory illnesses
  • Digestive weakness
  • Poor appetite
  • Gum inflammation and tooth decay
  • Throat infections through gargling

Beauty and Skin Benefits:

Lemon has long been recognized for its therapeutic, cosmetic, and even psychological benefits. Simply smelling lemon is believed to improve mood and relieve emotional tension, according to aromatherapy experts.

For skin care, lemon:

  • Tightens enlarged pores
  • Helps remove dark spots and blemishes
  • Is rich in vitamin C and has anti-wrinkle properties
  • Can be applied directly to the skin
  • Is often mixed with olive oil for softer, smoother skin
  • Helps remove dead skin cells and improve radiance
  • May be used traditionally for warts and moles

Lemon is also traditionally believed to:

  • Help reduce fat accumulation in thighs and legs
  • Detoxify the skin
  • Support kidney function and reduce fluid retention

Benefits for Hair:

Lemon juice helps dissolve excess oils and regulate scalp oil production. For this reason, it is commonly included in shampoos designed for oily hair. Experts recommend choosing shampoos made with real lemon extract rather than artificial fragrance only.

Lemon Juice and Kidney Stones:

Researchers from the Faculty of Medicine at Gadjah Mada University in Indonesia suggested that lemon juice may help reduce the formation of kidney stones. Kidney stones are often linked to calcium crystal accumulation caused by low citrate levels in urine.

Studies indicated that regular lemon juice consumption may:

  • Increase citrate and potassium levels in urine
  • Help prevent calcium crystal formation
  • Reduce recurrence of kidney stones
  • Improve urine volume without increasing calcium levels

A commonly mentioned traditional preparation involves squeezing two medium lemons into two cups of water and consuming small amounts daily.

Additional Notes: Yellow fruits and flowers such as lemon and quince are traditionally believed to have diuretic properties. Recent studies also suggest that yellow plant compounds may contain antioxidants that help protect cells from oxidation and may support prevention of memory disorders, varicose veins, hemorrhoids, and potentially reduce cancer cell activity.

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Banana, or Talh in classical Arabic, is a word derived from the Indian term “Moozi.” It is also known as the “Fruit of the Wise Men” in India because philosophers were said to rest beneath its shade. Bananas are mentioned in the Holy Quran in Surah Al-Waqi’ah in the verse: “And clustered banana trees (Talh Mandood)”. Scholars have differed in interpreting the exact meaning of “Talh,” but many believe it refers to bananas.

The banana plant is considered one of the tallest herbaceous plants on Earth without a woody trunk, reaching heights of up to 30 feet. A banana plant bears fruit only once, after which it is cut down to allow a new offshoot to grow. Bananas are best harvested while still green and left to ripen away from the plant because if left too long on the tree, the fruit becomes cottony and loses flavor.

Bananas are believed to have originated in India, although some sources trace them to Malaysia. They were known long before the birth of Christ, around 1100 BC, while the New World first encountered bananas in 1516 when the first banana plants were cultivated in the Caribbean. Bananas were first displayed in Philadelphia during the Centennial Exhibition of 1876. The Arabic word “Mawz” comes from the Indian word “Moozi,” while in formal Arabic bananas are called “Talh.” The fruit is also known by various names such as Banna, Ghana, and Funana, before Africans popularized the modern name “Banana.” According to the FAO, world banana production during 1996–1997 reached approximately 57 million tons.

Nutritional Components of Banana:

Bananas contain:

  • Water
  • Carbohydrates
  • Phosphorus
  • Potassium
  • Protein
  • Iron
  • Vitamin A
  • Vitamin B6
  • Ascorbic acid (Vitamin C)

Traditional Medical Uses:

According to The Dictionary of Nutrition and Herbal Healing by Ahmad Qudamah, bananas were traditionally believed to:

  • Relieve chest and lung burning
  • Ease coughs
  • Help ulcers of the kidneys and bladder
  • Increase urination
  • Enhance male fertility and vitality
  • Soften the bowels
  • Promote weight gain

Excessive consumption, however, was said to burden the stomach and increase phlegm and bile. Traditional remedies suggested balancing these effects with sugar, honey, or ginger. Banana cooked with almond oil was believed to benefit the chest, while mixing banana with vinegar or lemon juice and applying it to the scalp was traditionally used for baldness. Banana mixed with watermelon seeds was also used cosmetically to soften skin and reduce blemishes.

Modern Nutritional Benefits:

Bananas are considered one of the best natural energy sources for humans because they:

  • Contain no sodium, helping reduce the risk of high blood pressure
  • Are free from cholesterol and fat
  • Provide easily digestible carbohydrates compared to many other fruits

Modern research has also suggested that bananas may help reduce the risk of heart-related conditions when included as part of a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle.

Bananas and Ulcers / High Blood Pressure:

Nutrition specialists note that every 100 grams of ripe banana provides about 100 calories. Bananas are rich in:

  • Fiber
  • Vitamins A, B, and C
  • Minerals such as iron, zinc, phosphorus, manganese, and sodium
  • Natural sugars and starches

A Swedish study found that ripe or cooked bananas contain compounds that may strengthen stomach lining cells, helping prevent stomach ulcers and supporting healing.

Due to their high potassium and low sodium content, bananas may also help:

  • Lower blood pressure
  • Maintain healthy muscles and bones
  • Reduce the risk of heart attacks

Studies further indicate that bananas may improve digestion and support intestinal health, especially when fully ripe.

Bananas and Melatonin:

Scientific studies have shown that bananas naturally contain melatonin, the hormone associated with sleep regulation and anti-aging benefits. Researchers described bananas as:

  • Energy-boosting
  • Rich in easy-to-absorb nutrients
  • Helpful in maintaining vitality and healthy body weight

Bananas are also rich in Vitamin B2, which:

  • Helps release energy from fats, carbohydrates, and proteins
  • Supports iron absorption
  • Assists in hemoglobin formation
  • Benefits skin and eye health

Because banana starch is processed differently by the body, some researchers suggest it does not easily contribute to fat storage compared with many other starches.

Additional Health Benefits of Bananas:

May help combat stomach ulcers

Anti-aging properties

Natural energy source

Rich in vitamins A and B

High in essential minerals

Helps lower blood pressure

Supports brain development

Apple: a moisturizing fruit that is easy on the intestines. It is beneficial in acute inflammatory diseases; it helps relieve fever pain; and it is useful for the liver, kidneys, and bladder, as it facilitates their function. It soothes cough and helps expel phlegm. It is one of the richest fruits in vitamins, and the popular saying goes: “Eat one apple a day and keep illness away.” It contains vitamins (A, B1, B2, C), and apples have several medicinal uses.

Apple juice: When apples are pressed and their juice is extracted and stored in bottles, it remains unchanged without spoilage. Drinking two cups of it may help, with regular use, in the following conditions: diseases of blood vessels and lymph glands, atherosclerosis, gout, liver diseases, general anemia, urinary system diseases, skin diseases, rheumatism, nervous disorders, and more.

Apple cider vinegar:
The prophetic hadiths mentioning vinegar:
Muslim narrated in his Sahih from Jabir ibn Abdullah (may Allah be pleased with him) that the Prophet (peace be upon him) asked his household for food seasoning, and they said: “We have nothing except vinegar.” So he called for it, ate it, and said: “What an excellent seasoning is vinegar.” Also in Sunan Ibn Majah, it is narrated from Umm Sa’id (may Allah be pleased with her) that the Prophet (peace be upon him) said: “What an excellent seasoning is vinegar. O Allah, bless vinegar, for it was the seasoning of the prophets before me, and no household becomes poor when it has vinegar.”

Vinegar is a liquid with a sharp taste and is considered a condiment. Apple cider vinegar is one of the best types of vinegar. It is produced from apples, grapes, oranges, beets, watermelon, berries, honey, wheat, barley, corn, and potatoes after converting starch into sugar through fermentation, or by chemical processes.

Apple cider vinegar preparation: Apples are washed well, cut into medium pieces, placed in earthen or plastic containers, covered with cloth, and kept in a warm place for about 45 days until fermentation occurs. Then it is pressed, filtered, and bottled. Another method involves cutting about 4 kg of apples (unpeeled and unseeded), placing them in a ventilated container, covering them with light cloth, and leaving them in a warm place for about a week until fermentation begins, then collecting the liquid gradually and filtering it until pure vinegar is obtained.

Composition of vinegar: water, acetic acid, volatile organic compounds that give it taste and smell.

Chemical vinegar warning: What is sold in markets as apple or grape vinegar is often chemically produced acetic acid, which is not the same as naturally fermented vinegar. It may irritate the stomach lining and cause side effects if not diluted properly.

Lemon: A perennial tree known scientifically as Citrus limon. It is one of the most important plants for household use, both as food and medicine. Its original homeland is India, and it is now cultivated worldwide. The edible part is the fruit, harvested in winter when vitamin C content is highest.

Lemon contains essential oils, flavonoids, vitamins (C, A, B-complex), sugars, and mucilaginous substances.

Uses: antiseptic, anti-rheumatic, expectorant, helps dissolve mucus, reduces fever, supports liver, stomach, intestines, and strengthens blood vessels. It helps with flu, colds, respiratory diseases, sore throat, gum infections, and digestion.

It is also used for skin health, reducing wrinkles, tightening pores, removing dead skin cells, treating warts and skin spots, improving hair health, dissolving fat deposits, and supporting kidney function. Lemon juice may help prevent kidney stones by increasing citrate levels in urine.

Banana:
Banana (known in Arabic as “Talh”) is mentioned in the Qur’an in Surah Al-Waqi’ah: “And clustered banana trees.”

It is a tall perennial plant without a woody trunk. It produces fruit once, then the plant is cut to allow new shoots to grow. It originally comes from India and Southeast Asia.

Bananas contain water, carbohydrates, phosphorus, potassium, iron, vitamins A, B6, and C.

Traditional medicine claims include benefits for cough, chest diseases, digestion, ulcers, kidney and bladder issues, and energy boosting.

Modern nutrition shows bananas are a natural energy source, fat-free, cholesterol-free, and rich in easily digestible carbohydrates. They help heart health, blood pressure regulation due to potassium, and support digestion.

Pomegranate:
Pomegranate (Punica granatum) is mentioned in the Qur’an in multiple verses. It is a shrub up to 6 meters tall with red flowers and round fruits containing many red seeds.

It originates from Southwest Asia and is widely cultivated in Mediterranean regions.

Chemical composition includes tannins, alkaloids, vitamins (A, B, C), minerals, and organic acids.

Traditional and historical uses include treating intestinal worms, diarrhea, digestive issues, gum inflammation, wounds, and skin diseases.

Modern studies suggest antioxidant properties that may support heart health, reduce inflammation, improve digestion, and help urinary tract conditions. Pomegranate peel contains tannins and is used traditionally as an anti-diarrheal and antimicrobial agent.

Grapes

Grapes are the fruit of the vine plant. The vine is a perennial climbing plant with upright and creeping stems, tendrils, and palm-shaped leaves. It produces clusters of small green flowers that turn into clusters of fruit known as grapes. Their colors vary between green, yellow, red, purple, and black, and their shapes also vary, including long berries, small seedless berries, and large round ones.

Grapes are scientifically known as Vitis vinifera, belonging to the Vitaceae family.

Parts used of the plant: fruits, leaves, sap, and seeds.

Origin of grapes: It is said that the origin of grapevines is Asia. The Phoenicians introduced them to the archipelago islands, Greece, Sicily, Italy, Marseille, Egypt, and the Levant. Many types of grapes have been known since the time of Prophet Noah (peace be upon him).

Chemical composition of grapes:

The grapevine generally contains flavonoids, tannic acid, tartaric acid, inositol, carotenes, scopoletin, and sugars. The fruit contains tartaric acid, malic acid, sugars, pectin, tannins, flavonoid glycosides, anthocyanins, proteins, fats, citric acid, and high levels of minerals such as calcium, phosphorus, potassium, iron, sodium, magnesium, chlorine, and iodine, in addition to vitamins A, B, and C.

When did humans use grapes, and what did ancient medicine say about them?

Humans have known grapes since the dawn of history. They are mentioned in myths and stories and recorded in accounts from China and India. Some countries considered them a symbol of fertility alongside ripe wheat. Ancient remains of grapes have been found in Portugal and the United States. Many types were known since the time of Prophet Noah (peace be upon him), and grapes are mentioned in the Bible and the Torah.

The word “grapes” is mentioned ten times in the Holy Qur’an. Arabs also described grapes extensively in language, poetry, medicine, and prose. They used many terms to describe its stages of growth and ripening, from the early formation of the clusters to drying into raisins.

Ancient medical views:

Ancient Arab and Western physicians described grapes as easy to digest, beneficial for the stomach, good for patients, and stimulating for strength. They purify the blood, support the chest and lungs, and improve body nutrition. Grape juice was used as a diuretic and for treating fevers, while raisins were used for respiratory conditions.

Greek physician Dioscorides believed grapes treated fevers, chest bleeding, and liver diseases. Grape juice was used as a cleanser and diuretic, while grape leaves were used for skin diseases and stopping bleeding in women.

Arab physicians stated that grapes vary in effects depending on their color and taste. Unripe grapes strengthen the stomach and liver and reduce thirst and bile disorders. Grape sap from stems in spring was used to dissolve kidney stones.

Modern medicine:

Modern medicine confirms many benefits of grapes. Doctors often recommend eating about 200 grams daily during the grape season. Grape juice helps in treating respiratory diseases and cough. Grape leaves may act as a diuretic and help in diarrhea and urinary problems.

Some studies suggest that grape consumption may reduce cancer risk in certain populations due to its antioxidant content.

Grapes and cardiovascular health:

Red grape juice contains flavonoids and antioxidants that help reduce cholesterol oxidation and prevent arterial hardening. Studies show improved blood vessel function after regular consumption.

Nutritional value:

Grapes contain natural sugars (glucose and fructose), vitamins such as C and B, and minerals like potassium, calcium, and sodium. They also contain resveratrol, a compound believed to help reduce heart disease risk and improve circulation.

Grapes and bone health:

Grapes may help support bone health due to minerals and compounds that may influence estrogen levels, which play a role in calcium absorption and bone strength, especially in women after menopause.

Health benefits of grapes:

  • Lower blood pressure
  • Improve digestion and relieve constipation
  • Reduce acidity
  • May help prevent cancer
  • Support kidney function and detoxification
  • Provide energy and reduce fatigue
  • Help improve circulation and heart health

Raisins (dried grapes):

Raisins preserve most benefits of fresh grapes and provide higher calories. They are rich in potassium, calcium, sugars, and iron, and support liver function, digestion, and respiratory health. They are considered beneficial for coughs and chest conditions.

Recent studies also show that raisins may have antibacterial properties that help protect teeth and gums.

Apricot

Apricot has many varieties, the most famous of which is the Hamawi, known for the city of Hama in Syria, as well as the local (baladi), Qaisi, Tadmuri, Luzzi, and Ajami varieties. The apricot is scientifically known as Prunus armeniaca.

Description

The apricot is a fruit-bearing tree that reaches a height of about 15 meters. It is a deciduous tree, shedding its leaves in autumn. In spring, it produces beautiful pink flowers, and in summer, the fruits ripen, giving a golden-orange color. Each fruit contains a single seed. Sweet-seeded varieties are known as “Luzzi,” while bitter ones are known as “Kalabi.” The seeds of bitter varieties are toxic and should not be eaten because they contain cyanide.

Origin

The original homeland of apricot is China, where it grew wild in the mountains of Beijing. It was known in China about 2000 years before the birth of Christ. It was later cultivated in India, Iran, and Japan, then spread to Armenia, Egypt, and other countries. It reached Europe after the birth of Christ and later spread worldwide, especially in cold and temperate regions.

It is widely cultivated in the Taif region and southern highlands, and the Abhadi apricot is considered one of the best varieties.

Cultural and Literary References

Arabs knew the apricot and considered it one of the finest fruit trees, praising its beauty and blossoms. Many poets and scholars wrote about it:

  • Ibn al-Rumi described it as:
    “A peel of refined gold, filled with sweet honey…”
  • Caliph poet Ibn al-Mu’tazz said:
    “An apricot that amazes the mind and calls for joy and delight…”
  • Ibn Rashiq described it poetically as:
    “As if its trees were glowing like burning lamps of gold…”

Apricot in Traditional Medicine

Ibn Sina said:
“Apricot relieves thirst, but should be eaten with anise and mastic, as it may cause fever if it spoils. Its kernel oil is useful for hemorrhoids.”

Ibn al-Baytar stated that it is better than peach, helps relieve bile, cools the stomach, and should be avoided by those with weak digestion or excessive gas.

Other physicians recommended eating apricots on an empty stomach, often followed by mastic and anise.

Qamar al-Din (Apricot Drink)

Qamar al-Din is made from dried apricot juice. The juice is spread on trays and dried under the sun, then cut into sheets and stored for use.

It is commonly consumed in Ramadan by soaking it in water for several hours, then stirring and serving it as a cold drink, sometimes sweetened with sugar.

It is used to treat diarrhea, menstrual disorders, and indigestion, and helps regulate intestinal function and strengthen nerves.

Chemical Composition

Apricot contains vitamins A, B, C, and PP, sugars, fats, starches, tannins, and minerals such as phosphorus, magnesium, calcium, iron, potassium, sodium, sulfur, manganese, fluorine, bromine, cobalt, tartaric acid, and citric acid.

Every 100 grams of apricot pulp contains:

  • 200 mg potassium
  • Significant sodium content
  • 2790 IU vitamin A
  • Protein compounds

Medical Benefits

Qamar al-Din and dried apricots are widely used for:

  • Diarrhea and digestive disorders
  • Menstrual regulation
  • General weakness
  • Increased blood acidity
  • Appetite stimulation
  • Nervous system strengthening
  • Improving immunity and intestinal cleansing
  • Reducing insomnia and mental fatigue
  • Supporting children’s growth and elderly health

It is also used externally as a skin compress to improve skin quality and clarity.

Nutritional Value

100 grams of Qamar al-Din provides:

  • 45% of daily vitamin A needs
  • 8% vitamin C
  • 2–6% vitamin B
  • 3% vitamin B1

Studies have shown that an apricot-based diet may help in cases of anemia, with effects comparable to liver-based diets in some cases.

Precautions

There are no major risks associated with Qamar al-Din. However, people with stomach problems should consume it in moderation. It is generally safe for children and pregnant women.

Carrot

“The king of vegetables and the doctor of eyesight.” Let us take an exciting journey into a treasure full of benefits called carrot.

Carrot is a biennial plant belonging to the Apiaceae (Umbelliferae) family. It comes in several colors such as purple, reddish-purple, yellow, and nearly white. The more orange or red the carrot is, the higher its content of carotene, which the body needs in small daily amounts.

Historical background

The benefits of carrots have been known since ancient times. It is said that the African physician Artie, who lived during the time of Jesus (peace be upon him), used carrots to treat hysteria, psychological agitation, and nervous breakdowns. Modern science has confirmed some of these uses.

Nutritional composition

Carrots contain a high percentage of carbohydrates such as sucrose, glucose, and fructose, as well as cellulose, lignin, and pectins. They are also rich in proteins, amino acids, and alkaline minerals such as potassium, with small amounts of sodium, calcium, boron, iodine, and others.

Carrots also contain many vitamins, mainly:
Vitamin A, B, B2, B6, C, D, and E.
They are especially rich in vitamin PP (niacin), which is rare in most vegetables.

Carotene benefits

Carotene, the pigment responsible for the orange color of carrots, has many benefits:

  • Helps regenerate tissues and cells
  • Improves skin health and reduces wrinkles
  • Improves hair and nail strength
  • Enhances vision, especially night vision
  • Beneficial for pilots and drivers due to improved eyesight

Carrots are also beneficial in cases of anemia, high blood pressure, and digestive disorders. They help protect the digestive system, stop bleeding, stimulate bile secretion, and strengthen natural immunity.

How to consume carrots

It is important not to peel carrots in all cooking methods, because many nutrients are concentrated in the skin.

  • Raw carrots are easier to digest than cooked ones
  • Carrots can be boiled with parsley and onion (for those with strong digestion only)
  • Carrots can be grated and boiled for liver and jaundice conditions
  • Boiled carrots with honey may help relieve asthma attacks
  • Carrot with rice can be used for severe diarrhea in children

External use

Grated fresh carrots can be used to treat skin irritation and rashes.

Carrots and skin protection

Studies show that regular consumption of carrots may help protect the skin from harmful ultraviolet sunlight. Vitamin A and beta-carotene act as antioxidants that may reduce the risk of skin damage and even skin cancer.

Beta-carotene is converted in the body into vitamin A, which improves night vision and protects skin and mucous membranes. It also helps neutralize free radicals that can damage DNA and contribute to cancer development.

Medical opinions

Experts suggest that vitamin A-rich foods (such as carrots) may reduce the risk of skin cancer and improve overall immunity. It is also essential for eye health, skin integrity, and growth. Deficiency may lead to poor vision, weak immunity, and growth problems.

Additional notes

Dr. Abdul Basit Mohamed recommends carrot juice daily for cancer patients because it contains powerful antioxidants like carotene and lycopene, which help protect cells from damage.

Eating whole carrots is often better than juice alone, as fiber helps improve digestion and intestinal movement.

Fig

Despite what is said about figs regarding their relatively high caloric value compared to other fruits, they remain one of the most beneficial fruits from a nutritional and therapeutic perspective. Fig is an ancient fruit that has been used since early times as both food and medicine. It is still used today to treat a number of health disorders. It is highly nutritious, provides energy, is easy to digest, and acts as a natural stimulant.

Internal Uses

1. Treatment of constipation:
Figs—fresh or dried—can be eaten without special preparation to relieve constipation. Another method is to cook 3–4 fresh chopped figs with 10 raisins in a large cup of milk, and take it in the morning on an empty stomach. Alternatively, 6 figs can be soaked overnight in lukewarm water and eaten the next morning on an empty stomach.

2. Improving digestive disorders:
Fresh figs can be eaten after light meals or before heavy meals to help relieve digestive problems. They are also useful in fighting ulcers, parasites, and bacteria.

3. Relieving respiratory disorders:
Figs contain healing elements that soothe irritated mucous membranes, especially in the respiratory system. Eating fresh figs may help reduce respiratory problems, acting in a similar way to anti-inflammatory agents.

They are also useful for treating sore throat. A remedy includes boiling 4–5 fresh figs in about 50 ml of water, then filtering it, allowing it to cool, and drinking it to relieve throat pain.

External Uses

1. Removing corns (calluses) from the feet:
Figs contain enzymes that help remove excess skin growths. The pulp of the fig is placed directly on the corn and covered overnight with a bandage.

2. Treating skin pimples and ulcers:
Figs can be heated in water or milk, then cut in half and the pulp applied directly to boils or skin lesions. This method is also effective for mouth ulcers.

Figs are widely used in skincare and hair care products due to their moisturizing, soothing, and protective properties. They nourish the skin and hair and protect them from harsh weather and pollution.

Figs and Gout

Gout is a metabolic disease caused by elevated uric acid levels due to excessive consumption of protein-rich foods such as meat and alcoholic drinks, or due to metabolic enzyme disorders.

Although scientific studies are still ongoing, experience shows that figs are among the most nutritious fruits. They are easy to digest, prevent bloating, regulate bowel movement, relieve constipation, act as a mild diuretic, and are beneficial for the liver, spleen, and urinary system. They also help remove kidney and bladder gravel and soothe cough in cases of toxicity and infection.

Additional External Treatment

Ulcerated or infected wounds can be treated by applying mashed dried figs boiled in milk. After cooling slightly, the mixture is placed over the wound and covered with cotton and a bandage. The dressing is changed 3–4 times daily until healing occurs within a few days.

Buddha’s Hand / Citrus Medica (Atréj / Etrog)

Atréj is a citrus tree belonging to the Rutaceae family. It can reach a height of about five meters. Its branches and leaves are smooth, its flowers are white, and its fruit resembles a lemon but is much larger. It has a golden-orange color and a distinctive aromatic fragrance, while its juice is sour.

Names

The fruit is known by several names depending on the region:

  • In Saudi Arabia: Turunj
  • In the Levant: Turunj / Kabbad
  • In Egypt and Iraq: Atréj
  • It is also called: Adam’s apple, Persian apple, and Jewish lemon (as it is used in some of their religious celebrations)

Scientific Name

Citrus medica

Origin

The original habitat of Atréj is generally warm and tropical regions.

Chemical Composition

The peel of the fruit contains essential oils, mainly limonene (about 90% of the oil content), along with flavonoids, coumarins, triterpenes, vitamin C, carotene, and pectin substances.

Atréj in Traditional Medicine

The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) compared the believer who recites the Qur’an to the Atréj fruit: its taste is good and its fragrance is good.

It is also mentioned in ancient religious texts such as the Torah, where it is described as a “fruit of joy.”

Ancient physicians and scholars praised it for its multiple benefits. Ibn Sina described it as cooling to the stomach and beneficial for people suffering from excess bile.

Arab physicians divided its benefits into four parts: peel, pulp, juice, and seeds—each having different medicinal properties.

Medicinal Benefits (Traditional Medicine)

  • The dried peel helps repel insects and improves air fragrance
  • Helps digestion and reduces gas
  • Juice of fresh peel was used traditionally for snake bites
  • Peel powder was used for skin conditions
  • Pulp soothes the stomach and reduces heat
  • Juice helps relieve thirst, vomiting, and digestive imbalance
  • Seeds were used in traditional remedies for toxins and as mild laxatives

Modern Medicine Uses

In modern medicine, Atréj is used as:

  • Appetite stimulant
  • Digestive aid and anti-gas agent
  • Antibacterial and antiviral agent
  • Immune system booster
  • Fever reducer
  • Natural remedy for colds, flu, and respiratory infections
  • Helpful in balancing blood pressure

It is also used for treating throat infections and improving overall immunity.

Summary

Atréj is considered a multifunctional citrus fruit combining nutritional, aromatic, and medicinal benefits. It supports digestion, immunity, respiratory health, and helps in relieving fever, cold, and flu symptoms while contributing to blood pressure balance.

Cherry (Prunus avium)

The cherry plant is a perennial tree that grows up to about 8 meters in height. It has brown bark, oval leaves, and flower clusters containing between 2 and 16 blossoms. Its fruit is round, glossy, attractive, and ranges in color from bright red to deep red.

Part Used

The parts used from the cherry plant are:

  • Fruits
  • Stems

Scientific Name

Cherry is also known as Prunus avium, belonging to the Rosaceae family.

The word “cherry” is derived from ancient Greek terminology related to similar fruits.

Origin

The cherry tree is originally native to Southwest Asia. It was later cultivated in Europe and is now widely grown in temperate regions around the world.

Chemical Composition

Cherry fruits contain:

  • Small amounts of salicylates
  • Cyanogenic glycosides
  • Vitamins A, B1, and C
  • Natural sugars
  • Minerals such as phosphorus, iron, calcium, magnesium, sodium, potassium, zinc, copper, sulfur, manganese, chlorine, and cobalt

Cherry stems contain phenolic compounds, including salicylic acid and tannins.

Cherry in Traditional Medicine

Cherries became widely popular during the Middle Ages. In the 1st century AD, the physician Dioscorides stated that cherries help relieve gas.

In the 16th century, herbalist John Gerard noted the French tradition of hanging sweet cherries in homes to prevent fever.

King Louis XIV was known for his love of cherries, often picking them directly from trees.

Native American tribes used cherry bark to relieve childbirth pain, cough, colds, hemorrhoids, and diarrhea. European settlers later adopted its medicinal uses, and by the 19th century it became widely used in herbal medicine.

Modern Medical Uses

Modern research suggests that cherries:

  • Act as a natural blood cleanser
  • Help remove toxins from the body
  • Relieve fatigue in cells
  • Stimulate muscles and nerves
  • Fight infections and bacterial growth
  • Strengthen the immune system
  • Act as a mild diuretic
  • Help in tissue regeneration
  • May support relief from arthritis
  • May assist in eliminating bladder stones and intestinal fermentation issues
  • Help combat signs of aging

Unripe cherries are sometimes given (in small amounts) to people with weak stomachs or liver problems.

Cherry Stem Uses

Cherry stems are used in European herbal medicine due to their astringent properties. They contain tannins and are used as a diuretic and are traditionally recommended for:

  • Bladder inflammation
  • Kidney infections
  • Urinary retention
  • Gout

Preparation:
A teaspoon of dried stem powder is added to a cup of boiling water, left to steep for 10 minutes, then filtered. It is taken as one cup in the morning and one in the evening.

External Uses

Crushed cherries can be used externally as compresses to:

  • Relieve headaches (applied to forehead)
  • Improve skin health on face and neck
  • Help fight fungal infections

Important Notes

  • Obese individuals should avoid eating cherries after meals; they are better consumed between meals.
  • Fruits should not be eaten immediately before heavy meals, as their sugars may interfere with digestion.
  • Drinking water immediately after eating cherries is not recommended, as it may cause digestive discomfort.
  • Eating cherries on an empty stomach may support digestion.
  • Cherry seed oil may be used externally for rheumatism, boils, skin spots, and joint inflammation.
  • Cherry seeds are toxic and must not be eaten.