Origin: Peaches originated in China. It was widely cultivated in China and then reached Persia from there. Alexander the Great, furthered spread it into Europe. History reveals that there are paintings of peaches on the walls of Herculaneum which is still preserved despite the destruction of Vesuvius. In the 16th century, Spanish explorers brought it to the American states and in the 17th century, it brought to England and France. It was widely popular in the Victorian era and was served as a dessert in a fine napkin.
Later in the 18th century, Peaches were planted all along the East Coast of the United States. Though, it took some time to start commercial production. In today’s world, California is the leading producer of peaches in the United States.
Scientifically: Peaches, scientifically known as Prunus persica. It belongs to the rose family called Rosaceae. It is grown throughout the year in the warmer temperate regions of both the Northern and Southern hemispheres.
Peaches are available in small to medium-size. Peach trees reach a height of 6.5 meters (21 feet). The leaves are usually glossy green and in the shape of lance and long pointed. They usually have glands at the base of their leaves that secrete a fluid to attract ants and other insects. The flowers are usually in five petals, primarily in pink but occasionally white.
Peach trees are short-lived trees as compared with some other fruit trees. In some of the regions, orchards are replanted every 8 to 10 years. Peach trees are intolerant of severe cold weather and cannot be grown successfully in extremely cold weather. Peaches do well on various soil types but in general, it grows best on well-drained sandy or gravelly loams. On most soils, the peach grows well in nitrogen-rich fertilizers or manures. Trees are usually pruned every year to prevent them from becoming too tall.
Usage: Peaches are widely eaten all over the world as fresh fruit. It is also used in Baking in pies and desserts. Canned peaches and peach jams are also very popular. Peaches are also a very popular ingredient in creams and talcum powder, soaps, etc. Peaches are full of vitamins and minerals. This fruit is also a powerhouse of anti-oxidants which is great for skin and hair. It helps to fight skin damage caused by the sun and pollution.
Below are some DIYs with peaches:
- Take one pureed peach and a tablespoon of yogurt. Mix all the ingredients together and apply on the face and neck. Let it sit for 10 minutes and then rinse. This face pack helps in achieving nourished and glowing skin.
- Take a tablespoon of peach puree, a teaspoon of gram flour and a pinch of turmeric. Combine all the ingredients together and apply on the face for 5-7 minutes. This pack helps in treating acne and reduces its appearance.
- Mix a tablespoon of peach puree and papaya puree. Apply this mixture on the face for 10 minutes. Gently massage and rinse your face. This mask tightens the skin and reduces spots.
- Prepare a homemade scrub with peaches. Mix some peach puree with some oatmeal and honey. Scrub this mixture on the face and neck for 5-7 minutes and then rinse. This mask helps in removing all the dead skin.
- You can apply peach puree mixed with some milk cream. This helps in moisturizing the dry dull skin.
- Mix an egg white with some honey and peach puree. Combine all these ingredients together and apply evenly on the face and neck for 10 minutes. Rinse later. This mask helps to tighten the skin pores and helps in reducing fine lines.