What are the health benefits of eating apricots?

Apricots are a good source of carotenes such as lycopene and lutein. These carotenes are responsible for the red, orange, and yellow colors of fruits and vegetables. They are particularly beneficial in preventing macular degeneration, heart disease, and cancer.

When I spent a few days with a little known tribe high in the Himalayas, I was amazed to see how precious apricots were to them. They believed they gave them longevity (many of the villagers were over 100 years old). The kernel provided fuel and cooking oil, while the flesh of the fruit provided vitamins and minerals (especially zinc and iron) and useful protein. Dried apricots do not attract bacteria because the skin has antibacterial properties, and during the long winter months, dried apricots are a great source of vitamins and minerals. The high fiber content eases bowel movements, and apricot oil has anti-inflammatory properties, both when rubbed into joints and taken internally.