Peach Tree Leaves

Description

In Latin, the peach tree is called Persica vulgaris, or Prunus persica, belonging to the Amygdalus subgenus, Rosaceaefamily. The tree was named by the Greeks after the country this tree was brought from – it was first discovered in Persia (Iran). However, some researchers believe that China is the true homeland of the peach tree. Peach tree leaves are not the only part of the tree which has healing properties. In addition, blossoms, fruits and seeds are also used to manufacture pharmacological products.

Chemical Composition

Persica vulgaris leaves are rich with vitamins, including group B vitamins (B₁, B₂, B₆, and B₁₅), and vitamins A, E and C. Peach essential oil comprises linalool ethers of acetic, formic, caprylic and valeric acids.

Pharmacological Properties

Polyphenol peach tree leaf preparations stimulate the immune system and specifically increase phagocytic activity of neutrophils and macrophages, facilitate active production of antibodies, increase T-cell count, and have anti-tumor effect supported by findings of various studies. N.N. Blokhin Cancer Research Center of the Russian Academy of Medical Sciences (Moscow) carried out trials, which showed that such preparations even prevented growth of malignant tumors in mice. Other studies were carried out on human subjects with stage III-IV malignancies. Intake of peach-containing preparations resulted in major relief or resolution of pain syndromes and improvement of patient’s post-chemotherapy health status. Further, in some studies peach-containing preparations were efficiently used to treat gynecological patients. Such preparations taken in 3 to 5-month cycles resolve symptoms of mastopathy and adenomyosis, and normalize the menstrual cycle. Peaches increase hemoglobin levels. Thus, this fruit is beneficial for people suffering from anemia.

Use in Health and Beauty Products

Peach tree leaf decoctions are used to treat some gastrointestinal diseases, including gastritis and constipation, and headaches and rheumatic pain. Peach tree leaf tinctures and decoctions are prescribed to manage diabetes mellitus and kidney stones, and as antihelminthic drugs. Crushed leaves are used for healing wounds and burns. Such decoctions are also applied topically as warm baths to treat eczema, lichen, neurodermitis, abscess and furuncles.

“Milamed” Company uses peach tree leaves in “Persikaps”.