Healthy Caramel Apples

Apples
Apples, native to Eurasia, are members of the Rosaceae (Rose) Family, relatives of peaches and pears, and known botanically as (Malus species). Malus is the Greek term for “round fruit.” Everyone has heard the expression, “An apple a day keeps the doctor away.” Apples are high in pectin, a soluble and help stabilize blood sugar levels. Eating apples stimulate saliva flow, promote good digestion, clean the teeth and stimulate gum tissue. Apples are rich in flavonoids, beta-carotene and vitamins, B, C and the minerals boron, calcium, phosphorus, potassium, and silicon. The tarter an apple is, the higher its Vitamin C content. Apples have long been associated with the planet Venus, the element of Water and the energies of peace, love and health.

Walnuts
Walnuts (Juglans nigra, J. regia) are members of the Juglandaceae (Walnut) Family. The genus name, Juglans, is derived from the Latin Jovis glans, or “nut of Jupiter,” a reminder of the belief that gods dined on walnuts. The Chinese refer to walnuts as “longevity fruit” because a walnut tree lives for several hundred years. Because of their resemblance to the brain, in many cultures walnuts are considered a good brain tonic and are now known to be rich in protein and essential fatty acids. Walnuts have long been associated with the Sun, element of Fire and the energies of consciousness and protection.

Dates
Dates (Phoenix dactylifera) are the fruit of a date palm, and member of the Palmaceae (Palm) Family. The genus name, Phoenix, is perhaps in reference to the mythological phoenix that rises from the ashes, as the date has its roots in the water and its head in the heat of the sky. The species name, dactylifera means fingers, which the dates resemble. The date palm is considered a symbol of fertility. Dates are high in carbohydrates, glutamic acid, tyramine, niacin, boron, iron, magnesium, potassium, and fiber. Dates are a great transition food, for those leaving behind sugar and junk food.

Be sure to brush your teeth or rinse your mouth after enjoying dates, as their stickiness clings to the teeth. The date palm is used in making shelter, baskets, mats, rope and an Arab proverb is there are as many uses for the date palm as days in the calendar. Dates are associated with the Sun, the element of Air and the energies of strength and spirituality.

Next: Sesame Seeds and recipe for Rawsome Caramel Apples