13 Great Ways to Use Apples Around the House
Apples are one of the world’s most popular
fruits. Not only are they delicious, but they're extremely healthy as
well. However, did you know that apples, apart from being eaten, have a
number of other incredible uses? Here are 13 ways apples can be used
that you most probably didn't know about:
1. Migraine Relief
If you suffer from migraines, the pain and
discomfort can be overwhelming. However, studies have revealed that
smelling a green apple can help relieve some of the discomfort caused by
a migraine.
2. Prevent Sugar from Crystallizing
Brown sugar is much healthier (and arguably – tastier) than white sugar.
The only problem with it is that it tends to clump and crystallize. To
prevent this from happening, put a piece of apple in a small fabric
pouch and add it to your container of sugar. The apple will increase the
moisture and prevent it from clumping together.
3. Preserve Baked Goods
Bread and cakes tend to dry out quickly, even when kept in a sealed
container. To keep them from drying out, put half an apple into the
container you keep your baked goods in.
4. General Cleaner
Instead of using chemical-filled industrial cleaners, why not make your
own effective, antiseptic, deodorizing cleaner? Simply mix equal amounts
of apple-cider vinegar and water into a spray bottle, and there you
have it!
5. Natural Sweetener
Apples are an excellent replacement for sugar, as they add their unique
flavor without overpowering the dish/drink. Apples contain fructose,
which is healthier than white sugar and artificial sweeteners. Try
adding grated apples to dishes instead of sugar and you’ll be amazed
with the results.
6. Facial Mask
Apples contain a structural heteropolysaccharide called pectin, which
helps tone your facial skin. To use it as a mask, grate it and mix with
honey, then apply the mixture to your face. Let it sit for about 15-20
minutes, then wash it off.
7. Prevent Nausea
Many people suffer from motion sickness while riding in a car, but
eating a green apple can help reduce nausea.
8. Treat Allergies
Apples contain a chemical called quercetin, which helps the immune
system limit the amount of histamines it produces during an allergic
reaction. Histamines are what cause allergic symptoms, so reducing their
amount will help ease your allergies.
9. Make a Fancy Drink
In recent years, flavored vodka has become quite popular, but its price
can be much higher than regular vodka. If you fancy some apple-flavored
vodka, simply follow this recipe:
Cut some apples and put them in a sealed jar.
Cover the apples in vodka, seal the jar and it let sit for a few
days.
If the taste is not yet to your liking, simply let it sit until
you're satisfied with the taste.
10. Accelerate Ripening of Fruits
Some fruits, such as apples, emit a gas
called Ethylene that hastens the ripening of other fruits. If you want
those avocados and bananas to ripen quicker, place an apple next to
them, that ought to do the job.
11. Doggy Treats
While there are many foods you shouldn’t give your dog, apples happen to
be one of the healthiest and most recommended fruits for dogs. Apples
are much healthier than processed dog-treats, but be sure to avoid
giving them the core. Apple seeds contain cyanide which is very
poisonous for humans and dogs alike.
12. Flea Treatment
Apple-cider vinegar is incredibly effective at getting rid of fleas. Mix
equal amounts of water and vinegar, apply it to your pet's fur and
gently massage it into the skin. The vinegar will chase away the fleas
quickly and effectively.
13. Fix Over-Salted Food
If you happen to add too much salt to a dish you’re making, just cut a
few pieces of apple and put them in the pot. The apple pieces will
absorb the salt without damaging the flavor of the dish.