Ă rvore IncrĂvel: Apricot tree / Damasqueiro Fruit/fruto: Apricot/Damasco Origin/Origem: The origin of apricot is controversial, because it was known in Armenia during ancient times, and has been cultivated there for so long that it is often thought to have originated there. One proof of this is that its scientific name is Prunus Armeniaca (Armenian plum). However, apricots have been cultivated in Persia since antiquity too, and dried ones were an important commodity on Persian trade routes. Apricots remain an important fruit in modern-day Iran. The almond of the apricot, i.e. the kernel of the core (the seed) and sometimes also the peach, called in Italian armellina, is used in cooking to replace or enhance the taste of bitter almond, for example, in the confection of biscuits amaretti. It is also used in the manufacture of French liqueurs "Noyau de Poissy".
Benefits of the Apricot 1. Excellent for eye health Several researches show that consuming apricot is great for eye health. Eating between 2 or 3 servings a day prevents macular degeneration in older people. That is, it prevents the loss of vision in the center of the visual field caused by retinal damage.The fruit also helps in strengthening the optical nerves, combats dryness of eyes and even helps to combat several other vision problems. 2. Source of antioxidants Antioxidants are good for helping to fight aging, as they get rid of naturally occurring free radicals in the body, which if not eliminated, can damage the body cell. In addition, antioxidant products help in the functioning of the body.