Not many things from the garden are loved as much as our beautiful blessed apples.

The Celts of ancient Europe call the God of the apple tree Abellia or Abellio, this apple tree God was widely honoured in Austria, Switzerland and France thousands of years ago.

In Arthurian lore from Great Britain another name for Avalon (the spiritual otherworld) is "The isle of Apples" and that the Apples of Avalon healed all wounds. source: Vita Merlini by Geoffrey of Monmouth´

Golden apples are also well known in Greek mythology. Gaea, Goddess of the earth gave golden apples to Hera as a gift. These golden apples were grown on the tree of life in the garden of Hesperides, at the far western realm of the known Greek world.

Golden Greek apples are also connected with Athena & Aphrodite. Aphrodite being known as the fairest of them all had her in possession a golden apple.

Apples are often associated with good luck, as seen with the good old apple bobbing custom of old Britain, on/around 31st October. the partaking people in this funny custom were known to be become much luck afterwards!.

After eating an apple we really feel good afterwards, as well as being hydrated, they can really bring on good happy feelings. and yes apples are full of vitamins and minerals.

• Biting and chewing an apple stimulates the production of saliva in the month, reducing tooth decay and lowering levels of bacteria.
• A new study showed that drinking apple juice reduces the effects of aging on the brain.
• Apples are full of heathy antioxidants.
• Apples are a great source of potassium, phosphorus, calcium, manganese, magnesium, iron & zinc.
• Apples contain vitamins A, B1, B2, B6, C, E & K.
• Apples are free of fat, sodium and cholesterol.
• Apples are a great blockade against many cancers.
• Apples contain an antioxidant called quercetin that boosts and fortifies the immune system.
• Eating apples reduces the risk of developing eye cataracts.
• Swiftly massage an apple over a t shirt or pullover on the arms, chest, abdomen, this polishing up of the apple can heal many physical ailments, blockages and cramps in the upper body.

Peter Carvello.

January 2024.

diagram thanks to hedinghamfair.co.uk