Botanical Overview
Malus domestica, commonly known as apple, belongs to the Rosaceae family. The medicinal part considered here is the pericarp, or the fleshy fruit. Apples are widely cultivated in temperate regions worldwide and commonly used both as food and traditional medicine.
Common names include apple fruit and apple pericarp.
Energetics
The apple pericarp is considered cooling and moistening in energetic properties, with sweet and sour tastes. It has a descending directionality and a tonifying effect on qi and body fluids.
Primary Actions
- Antioxidant
- Digestive tonic
- Cardioprotective
- Hypolipidemic
Indications
Western
- Dyspepsia
- Constipation
- Hyperlipidemia
- Mild inflammation
Syndromes
- Mild digestive disturbance
- Atherosclerosis prevention
- Metabolic regulation
TCM
- Thirst
- Dry cough
- Constipation
Syndromes
- Lung yin deficiency
- Stomach dryness
Ayurveda
- Acid reflux
- Indigestion
- Constipation
Syndromes
- Pitta imbalance
- Vata imbalance
Unani
- Digestive weakness
- Excess heat symptoms
Syndromes
- Hot temperament imbalances
Constituents & Mechanisms
The pericarp contains polyphenols, flavonoids, pectin, organic acids, and vitamin C, which contribute antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and lipid-lowering activities.
Dosage & Preparations
- Fresh fruit: 1-2 medium apples daily
- Dried pericarp decoction: 5-10 g daily
- Apple pectin supplements according to label instructions
Safety & Contraindications
Apple pericarp is generally safe as food and medicinal fruit. Excessive consumption of concentrated extracts may cause mild gastrointestinal discomfort. No significant contraindications reported. Use cautiously in cases of rare allergy.
Astrological Correspondences
No established planetary or elemental rulers were identified for Malus domestica pericarp.
Selected References
- Nutritional and health-promoting effects of apples: A review
- Polyphenols in apple: antioxidants, bioavailability, and protective effects
- Malus domestica in Traditional Chinese Medicine
- Rosaceae family: medicinal uses and phytochemistry