An Apple A Day

It's the time of year when people in these parts head to Apple Orchards and Pumpkin patches. That made me think about what do apples really do for you? 

Well...

If you use it in a facial mask, it will replenish moisture. An apple’s acids help smooth fine lines.  (In a blender puree chop 1 green apple with the skin on and ½ cup sliced green grapes. Add 1 T. lemon juice and ¼ cup aloe vera. Keep blending until a thick paste forms. Apply to your face and neck. Leave on for 15 minutes, then rinse with warm water.)

The apple’s skin is packed with an antioxidant called quercetin.  This antioxidant may protect your lungs from pollutants. So think twice about peeling your apples and maybe improve your lung function.

Dandruff a problem? Then use apple cider vinegar directly on your scalp after washing your hair. Leave it on for 1 minute, then rinse off.  The vinegar smell will dissipate quickly.

Love to bake, don’t love the calories?  Use unsweetened applesauce for half the butter or oil in cake recipes.  Your dessert will be naturally sweeter and moister with much less fat.  Applesauce is cholesterol and fat-free. 1 cup has almost as much fiber as 1 cup of brown rice.  

Late night? Use chilled apple slices on your eyes to reduce puffiness just like you would cucumber slices. 

I'm anxious to get out to our favorite orchard and get some Honeycrisp apples. I wouldn't use these for a facial because they are just too good to eat!