Apple Juice

Vitamins: A, B and C

Minerals: Calcium, magnesium, phosphorous and potassium 

Therapeutic benefits: Historically, apples were prescribed to remedy virtually every illness going and today we still have the popular saying "an apple a day keeps the doctor away".

Juicing apples may help with arthritic and rheumatic conditions, as well as calming, soothing and cleansing the digestive system.

It is particularly effective at treating constipation and diarrhoea and is known to tone up the liver.

Apples contain pectin, a substance that is said to soak up bad cholesterol, thus reducing levels in the blood.

Preparation for juicing: Wash apples thoroughly. If they are covered in a wax-like substance, make sure that this is removed by washing in warm water. It is best to juice the apple with the peel intact, as much of the vitamin C is contained in the skin. Do not, on the other hand, juice the pips, as they are said to contain cyanide. Cut into small pieces and place into the juicer.

Apricot Juice

Vitamins: A, B, C and K

Minerals: Calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorous and potassium

Therapeutic benefits: Due to the high levels of vitamin A found in this fruit, apricots are said to slow down ageing and age-related illnesses. They are also good for strengthening bones and giving vitality to hair and skin.

 

The B vitamin content is useful in calming the nervous system and may be useful in treating depression, PMT and menopausal problems.

Apricots are a rich source of iron and can help treat anaemia.

Preparation for juicing: Wash the apricots under cold running water, cut in half and remove the stone. The skin may be left on the fruit. Cut into small pieces and add to the juicer.

Blackberry Juice

Vitamins: A, B, C and E

Minerals: Calcium and potassium

Therapeutic benefits: Due to the vitamin C and E content, which are powerful antioxidants, blackberries are effective in fighting free radicals, which are molecules that destroy cells and tissues in the body and are linked to cancer and heart disease.

Blackberries are also thought to have anti-ageing properties and are said to be helpful in controlling diabetes.

 

They cleanse the blood and are often used to treat sore throats and diarrhoea.

Preparation for juicing: Blackberries should be as fresh as possible, as they tend to perish rapidly after picking. Ideally, use blackberries that you have been able to pick yourself and juice as quickly as possible afterwards.

They should be ripe, soft and juicy. Make sure that you wash them thoroughly before juicing.

Grape Juice

Vitamins: A, B and C

Minerals: Calcium, copper, iodine, iron, phosphorous and potassium

Therapeutic benefits: The benefits of grape juice are many; nevertheless, it is best well known for its ability and effectiveness in treating tiredness, lack of energy and fatigue. It is an excellent pick-me-up and energy booster.

 

Grape juice is also a rich source of antioxidants and is said to delay the effects of ageing.

It has also been said to help other ailments such as constipation, heart disease, fluid retention, gout, arthritis, tuberculosis, liver problems, haemorrhoids and various allergies.

Preparation for juicing: The skin and seeds of grapes may be added to the juicer, as they contain powerful antioxidants and anti-ageing properties. However, the grapes must be washed really well, as grapes always contain a lot of pesticides and herbicides on their skin. The alternative is to buy organic grapes.

It is also important to note that grape juice contains a lot of natural sugars and therefore diabetics and people suffering from candida, should limit the amount of grape juice that they consume.

Grapefruit Juice

Vitamins: A, B, C, E and P

Minerals: Calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorous and potassium

Therapeutic benefits: Grapefruit juice is an excellent antiseptic, blood cleanser and detoxifier. This is why it is often included in so many detox programmes and diets. It also strengthens the lungs, stimulates the appetite and boosts the immune system.

 

Preparation for juicing: The rind of the grapefruit should be removed before juicing, however, leave the white pith intact as the bioflavanoids contained within in, help the body to absorb larger quantities of vitamin C.