Fruits

Apple

A naturally therapeutic and highly digestible food, apples are a fibrous, juicy fruit known to benefit the intestinal tract. Apples are a good source of the vitamins A and C. Their high water content quenches thirst, both cellular and immediate, while the malic and tartaric acids help remove impurities in the liver and inhibit the growth of disease-producing bacteria in the digestive tract. High in the soluble fiber called pectin, apples effectively cleanse the intestines and digestive tract by working as a bulking agent and pushing its way through the intestines, particularly helpful when impactions are present. Studies suggest that including apples in your daily diet may help reduce skin diseases, arthritis, and various lung and asthma problems. Although not particularly high in iron, apples contain an element that improves the assimilation of iron from companion foods. Apple leaves contain an antibiotic which, when crushed, can temporarily substitute for a bandage.

Apricot

Used in traditional medicine for dry constipation, dry throat, dry cough, asthma, and bronchitis, apricots have a lubricating action on the colon and lungs. Apricots are an excellent source of vitamin A and C. Because apricots contain highly concentrated amounts of beta carotene (dried apricots contain more that the raw fruit), they are said to be successful in thwarting certain cancers, especially those of the lung and skin. Beneficial in cases of blood related disorders, tree-ripened apricots and dried apricots are a good source of copper, cobalt, and the organic iron necessary for building red blood cell count.

Banana

A powerhouse of nutritional energy, fully ripe bananas are composed of 76 percent water, 20 percent sugar, 12 percent starch, a large contingent of vitamins and minerals, and a great deal of fiber. Bananas feed the natural healthful bacteria of the bowel; their high vitamin and mineral content benefits the muscular and nervous systems; their sugars are readily assimilated for use as fuel; their pectin content helps heal ulcers and lower blood cholesterol. Rich in the amino acid tryptophan, the banana also contains enzymes that assist in manufacturing sexual hormones. Unripe bananas will tend to cause constipation, while ripe ones promote healthy bowel movements. Known to be high in potassium (the average banana contains 467 mg of potassium and only 1 mg of sodium), bananas can replenish your stores of potassium, one of the most important electrolytes, which helps regulate heart function as well as fluid balance and may also help to promote bone health. In addition, bananas are a good source of pectin, a soluble fiber that absorbs fluid, thus helping to normalize movement through the digestive tract and ease constipation. Bananas offer soothing protection from ulcers by producing a thicker mucus barrier against stomach acid and eliminating the bacteria in the stomach that may cause ulcers. Research has also suggested that eating bananas may reduce the risk of kidney cancer.

Blackberry

Blackberries are valuable as a general tonic and blood cleanser. Rich in vitamin C and pectin, they work as a mild diuretic. Containing high levels of antioxidants blackberries may help slow the aging process and guard against cancer and heart disease. They are highly esteemed in relieving diarrhea due to their astringent effects, and for contracting tissues and reducing secretions. Overindulgence may cause constipation.

Blueberry

Though small in size, science is praising the blueberry as a very powerful disease fighter. An excellent source of vitamins C, A, Iron and Manganese, blueberries may function as a preventative for cancer, heart disease, urinary tract infections, and aid in slowing the aging process. Research has shown that blueberries are among the best fruit sources of antioxidants, thereby helping to neutralize harmful by-products of metabolism. The blue pigment in the berries called anthocyanin is thought to reduce the build up of ‘bad’ cholesterol that can contribute to cardiovascular disease and stroke. Fresh berries have a healing effect on any infection of the mouth, rejuvenate the pancreas, and are useful in countering urinary tract infections, as a laxative and blood cleanser. They also improve circulation and benefit eyesight, particularly night vision. Research suggests that blueberries may inhibit the development of cataracts and glaucoma, and may be effective in treating varicose veins, hemorrhoids, and peptic ulcers.

Cherries

Cherries, a rich source of antioxidants, help prevent or repair cell damage in the body. Cherries contain high levels of Queritrin, a flavonoid suggested by researchers to be a potent anticancer agent, while also acting as an antioxidant that works to eliminate byproducts of oxidative stress, thereby slowing the aging process. The anthocyanin and bioflanoids found in cherries have shown similar activity to aspirin and ibuprofen. These compounds slow down the enzymes Cyclo-oxyygenase-1 and 2, which help to relieve and prevent inflammation in the body. By reducing inflammation, they also help alleviate pain from migraine headaches, arthritis, and gout. Extensive evidence points out that the antioxidant melatonin, which is also rich in cherries, may significantly improve the body’s daily rhythms. Since melatonin is found in small quantities in the body, a slight increase can produce great results, such as improving the body’s natural sleep patterns. This means that eating cherries can increase melatonin levels in the blood, therefore helping you sleep better.

Cranberries

As a functional food cranberries are packed with antioxidants and health promoting nutrients. It is widely known that cranberries help prevent urinary tract infections. This is accomplished by preventing bacteria from sticking to the lining of the urinary tract. More recently it has been discovered that the same properties help reduce bacterial adhesion to teeth, thus reducing the formation of dental plaque. Recent studies have also revealed that compounds in cranberries stop certain disease-causing bacteria from sticking to the stomach lining, thus helping to prevent ulcers.

More recently in research conducted at University of Massachusetts and Dartmouth, the same compounds in cranberries that help prevent these infections have been found to inhibit the growth of most cancer cells in experiments with human lung, colon, and leukemia cells – without affecting healthy cells.

Cranberries are also very beneficial for the entire breathing apparatus as they contain one of nature’s most potent vasodilators, which open up congested bronchial tubes. They also contain large amounts of benzoic acid, a natural preservative, which accounts for the Native American practice of adding the dried fruits to preserved foods. Because cranberries contain oxalic acid, they are best used in moderation especially by individuals with osteoporosis, as this acid is known to bind calcium.

Currant

Commonly used as champagne grapes, fresh currant berries and their juices promote a healthy appetite and can help soothe and upset stomach. A folk remedy for colds, the dried fruit also provides bulk to help regulate bowel activity. Current juice has a cleansing antiseptic affect on the system, helping to purify the blood and counteract anemia, and is beneficial for kidney and nervous system problems. When cooked with sugar, the berries tend to lose much of their beneficial medicinal value and become acid-forming.

Date

Sweet and highly nutritious, Dates are a building food often used for weakness or impotence. Because they are heat-producing, they can be used as an energy food for athletes or people engaged in strenuous work. Dates are a good source of iron and niacin, as well as calcium, magnesium and vitamins A, B1, and B2. Dates are highly valued for their natural sugar content which is combined with vitamins, minerals, and fiber, thereby slowing sugar absorption. The fiber or cellulose of the date is very soft and will not irritate a sensitive digestive system, but does have a slight tendency to cause constipation if overeaten. According to Chinese medicine, they influence the stomach meridian, help harmonize the liver, and have been used as an astringent for intestinal troubles. However, because of their high sugar content, dates are not recommended for persons with diabetes, obesity, yeast infections, or respiratory infections.

Durian

Durian, a nutritious fruit native to Southeast Asia, is packed with proteins, minerals, antioxidants and other phytonutrients. For those who can get past its unpleasant aroma, Durian flesh is rich, juicy, and custard-like, and may be spooned out and eaten as is or used in beverages, ice cream, or custards. The flesh is believed to help destroy and expel intestinal parasites. Known traditionally as a warming food, eating the fruit is alleged to restore the health of ailing humans and animals, as well as acting as an aphrodisiac. Durian is not readily available in the US though they may be found occasionally at your local Asian market.

Feijoa

This subtropical small fruit looks a bit like a kiwi without the fuzz. The fruit is lime green in color and has a tart, “tutti-frutti” flavor with scents of pineapple, strawberry, and mint combined. The fruit is rich in water-soluble iodine compounds. The percentage varies with locality and from year to year but the usual range is 1.65 to 3.90 milligrams per kilogram of fresh fruit.

Fig

Used even in ancient times for medicinal purposes, figs are high in minerals and natural sugar content which makes them wonderful for energy and vitality. Either fresh or sun-dried, they are abundant in magnesium, phosphorous, and potassium. They also contain a notable amount of calcium and protein. Dried figs have more dietary fiber than prunes, and work as an excellent natural laxative for sluggish bowels, while lubricating large intestines as well as the lungs; the high mucin content and tiny seeds help gather toxic waste and mucus in the colon and drag them out. Studies suggest that the figs also help kill pernicious bacteria while promoting the buildup of friendly acidophilus bacteria in the bowel. Figs provide a rare fruit source of readily absorbable calcium, which combines with the figs' high potassium content to decrease urinary calcium loss caused by the high-salt diets, thus helping to prevent loss of bone density. Although fresh raw figs are best, dried figs also give nourishment and energy to the body, especially during the winter months.

Gooseberry

Though small in size, the gooseberry is reported to be one of the most abundant sources of vitamin C in nature. Gooseberries also have a beneficial effect on constipation, liver ailments, poor complexion, arthritis, and dyspepsia. It has been reported that their oil is rich in the beneficial gamma-linoleic acid.

Grapes

A good source of vitamins A, B-complex, and C, as well as potassium, manganese and other trace minerals, grapes are excellent for cleansing and revitalizing. They are easy on the digestive system and often used for lung ailments and for strengthening the liver, kidneys, and stomach. Grapes are most effective in cases of constipation, gastritis, and chronic acidosis. The black variety of grapes are by far the most potent, being excellent detoxifiers of the whole body, but especially good for the digestive tract, liver, kidneys, and blood. Seeded grapes have an added medicinal benefit, as the outside of the seed contains tartaric acid which helps eliminate mucus from the body, although the skins and seeds can sometimes be irritating to those with colitis or ulcers. Most grapes are good blood builders due to their high iron content, and their magnesium promotes peristalsis for better bowel movement.

Recently, scientists have discovered that the ellagic acid found in grapes may be useful in preventing cancer. Grapes contain beneficial compounds called flavonoids. These flavonoid compounds include quercitin, as well as resveratrol. Both compounds appear to provide protection against heart disease by reducing platelet clumping and keeping the heart muscle flexible and healthy. Additional research has suggested that grapes are beneficial in providing protection against lung and breast cancer, lowering risk of Alzheimer’s and Macular Degeneration. Grapes also provide much of the cardio-protective benefits of red wine, without the risks of alcohol consumption. Fresh raw grape juice is easily assimilated and used in the treatment of liver malfunctions. Combining grape juice equally with nut milk (eg. almond milk) is excellent for anemia.

Grapefruits

Fresh grapefruit, due to its salicylic acid, has proved to be one of the most valuable fruits as an aid in the removal and dissolving of inorganic calcium that may have formed deposits in the joints (as arthritis) as a result of excessive consumption of devitalized white flour and pasteurized milk products. Naringin, a flavonoid isolated from grapefruit, has been shown to promote the elimination of old red blood cells from the body, and normalizes hematocrit levels (percentage of red blood cells in given volume of blood). This fruit is also excellent for the cardiovascular system, helping to lower blood cholesterol, and may even promote plaque removal from the arteries to keep them healthy. Used externally, it is a natural antiseptic for wounds, and is a valuable poison eliminator. One word of caution though, avoid the extensive overuse of all citric acid fruits, as they are powerful dissolvers of accumulations in the body, and the elimination of too much toxic material all at once may cause boils, irritated nerves, diarrhea, and other problems. Citric seed extract, usually derived primarily from grapefruit seeds, is available as a major ingredient in liquid extracts, capsules, and ointments. Among its common internal uses are: for diarrhea, allergies, candida, parasites, flu, strep throat, staph, and yeast infections. Externally it is applied in various dilutions for warts, athlete’s foot, dandruff, and poison oak. Grapefruit seed extract is also useful as a natural non-toxic wash for fruits, vegetables, salads, and meats to remove all pesticides, microbes and bacteria that may be present.

Guava

This tropical fruit is almost as aromatic as is relative – cinnamon. It is an excellent source of vitamin C and potassium. The guava is beneficial for the skeletal and lymphatic systems. It may be one of the foods richest in antioxidants according to recent studies. Antioxidants may contribute to the prevention of cancer. Remove skins and seeds before eating.

Kiwi

Brown and furry on the outside but green and sweet on the inside, Kiwis are one of the most nutritionally rich of our common fruits. They have nearly twice the Vitamin C of oranges, are a significant source of magnesium, and have more potassium than bananas. Kiwis are cooling in nature and help to promote the production of fluids, thus helping to induce urination, relieve a dry mouth, and thirst. According to Chinese Medicine, they support the stomach and bladder meridians, and aid in the passage of kidney stones. Kiwi fruit helps remove excess sodium buildup in the body, and contains enzymes similar to those in papaya and pineapple that help in correcting digestive problems.

Lemon

A world-class seasoning and a world-renowned natural tonic, lemons are used as a gargle for sore throats, a lotion for sunburn, a cure for hiccups, and a popular home remedy for numerous ailments, particularly colds, coughs and sore throats. Lemons are an outstanding source of vitamin C, but much of this valuable vitamin is lost if the juice is exposed to air or stored for very long. Lemons are wonderful for fevers, and hot lemonade is used to increase perspiration and the production of fluids in the body. They destroy putrefactive bacteria in both the intestines and mouth, and alleviate flatulence and indigestion in general.

Lemons, along with the rest of the citrus family, work as strong solvents in the body, stimulating the liver and gall bladder, and aiding the elimination of toxic accumulations. They contain a substance known as limonene (found in the white spongy inner parts of the fruit), which is used to dissolve gallstones and which shows extreme promise as an anticancer agent. Their potassium content nourishes the brain and nerve cells, and calcium strengthens the body structures and makes for healthy teeth. Externally, lemon juice can be used on sunburn, warts, and corns, and is currently enjoying a revival of interest as a hair rinse and a facial astringent. A strong natural antiseptic, lemon juice destroys harmful bacteria found in cuts and other areas of infection. For skin problems, lemon juice can be applied directly to the skin and allowed to dry. Fresh lemon or lemon juice applied to the inflammation of poison ivy will bring immediate relief.

Lime

Similar to lemons in taste and effect, limes are not as strongly acidic as lemons. An astringent and antiseptic, limes have all the same benefits to the body as lemons. Lime juice is considered very beneficial for the liver, and has a cooling effect that helps to reduce fevers.

Mango

The exotic mango, rich in anti-oxidants, potassium and fiber, is widely renowned for its extensive health benefits. Because of their high iron content, mangoes are suggested for treatment of anemia and are beneficial to women during pregnancy and menstruation. Mangoes are also a great way to replenish lost potassium; people who suffer from muscle cramps, stress, acidosis, and heart problems can benefit from the high potassium and magnesium content. Mangoes, like papaya, contain papain, an enzyme very useful for soothing an upset digestive system. The enzyme list continues with magneferin, katechol oxidase, and lactase that help humans by stimulating metabolism and purifying the intestinal tract. An average sized mango can contain up to 40% of your daily fiber requirement, which science has shown may help protect against degenerative diseases. Mangoes are also a great way to replenish lost potassium. Mangoes possess many phenols such as quercetin, which studies suggest have powerful antioxidant, anticancer, and cardiovascular benefits.

Melon

The high water content of the melon (over 90 percent) makes it an excellent cleanser and hydrator. Melons rejuvenate and alkalinize the body with their highly mineralized living water, and also aid in elimination. Requiring minimal digestive energy, melons pass quickly through the stomach and into the small intestines for easy digestion and assimilation. To ensure easy digestion, it is recommended that we enjoy melons on an empty stomach and eat them on their own. Their silicon content is high, especially when eaten right down to the rind. Cantaloupe has been shown to contain the compound adenosine, which is currently being used in patients with heart disease to keep the blood thin and to relieve angina attacks.

Nectarine

A sweeter, richer, more fragrant, smooth-skinned version of a peach, nectarines can be used just like peaches or apricots, but can be eaten with the skin. An excellent source of Vitamin A and C as well as antioxidants, the nectarine is a good digestive aid and body cleanser when eaten raw.

Orange

The daily use of an orange will aid in toning up and purifying the entire system, acting as an internal antiseptic, tonic, and energizer. The natural acid and sugar in the orange aid digestion and stimulate the activity of the glands in the stomach. Freshly-squeezed oranges are delicious and easily digested, ready for immediate absorption and utilization; rich in alkaline calcium salts that counteract the tendency to acidosis, orange juice also has a general stimulating effect on the peristaltic activity of the colon. The amount of food value contained in the juice of a single large orange is about equal to that found in a slice of bread, but orange juice needs no digestion, whereas bread must undergo digestive processing for several hours before it can be used for energizing and strengthening the body. Although oranges are an excellent source of water-soluble vitamin-C, this vitamin is the least stable of all vitamins. Storage of orange juice at low temperatures destroys the vitamin to some extent, while sterilizing (pasteurization) destroys it completely. Eat the whole orange, excluding the very outer skin, to get the full benefits from the fruit.

Papaya

The attractive bright orange papaya offers a rich supply of antioxidants such as carotenes, vitamins A, B, C, E, folate and pantothenic acid. These nutrients, along with its potassium and magnesium, add to the health of the cardiovascular system, may help in the prevention of heart disease, adds a boost to the immune system, and may protect against rheumatoid arthritis. The rich vitamin A content is thought to protect against emphysema and other lung inflammations. Due to their high fiber content, papayas may be useful in lowering cholesterol and relieving an irritable bowel. Papaya is probably best known for its ability to aid digestion and tenderize meat; this is due to its papain content (found mainly in the unripe fruit), an enzyme similar to pepsin, the stomach enzyme found in the gastric juices that digest protein. This enzyme also aids in reducing inflammation and promotes healing from burns. Papaya also contains carpaine, a compound possibly providing anti-tumor activity. Papaya juice has been used externally to remove freckles; internally it is easily digestible and cleanses the digestive tract, eliminating gastric indigestion, reducing gas, soothing irritation and inflammation, cleansing and detoxifying the entire body.. Papaya as an important part of the diet will greatly improve the skin, nails, and hair, as well as keep your eyes clear and bright. Papaya seeds act as an effective vermifuge, a substance known to get rid of intestinal worms.

Peach

Peaches, as well as nectarines, are slightly acid fruits that are low in calories and aid elimination. Unlike most fruits, they are a source of calcium. Peaches are easily digested, have a strong alkaline reaction on the body, stimulate the secretion of the digestive juices, help improve the health of the skin, and add color to the complexion. One peach provides almost three quarters of the daily vitamin C requirement while also supplying iron and potassium. They have both laxative and diuretic qualities and are an aid in cleansing the system whenever there is kidney and bladder trouble. With fewer calories and a higher water content than apples and pears, peaches are an excellent fruit for hot summer days. For a “peaches and cream” complexion, apply a poultice of blended fresh peach on the face, let dry, then rinse and pat dry. Peach leaf taken as a tea is used for morning sickness and destroys intestinal worms.

Pears

Sweet and juicy, pears are a nutritionally high in the minerals potassium and boron, with smaller supplies of phosphorus and vitamin A. Pears have a strong diuretic action, are helpful for constipation and poor digestion, and are valuable as alkalizers and cleansers of the system. Their iodine content helps to keep the thyroid functioning properly and the metabolism balanced. Pears are an excellent source of water-soluble fibers, including pectin. In fact, pears are actually higher in pectin than apples. The regular consumption of pears is believed to result in a pure complexion and shiny hair. Dried pears are good energy producer in the wintertime as well as a delicious snack year-round. When cooked, canned or processed, their greatest value is lost, the organic elements having been converted into inorganic matter.

Persimmon

Ripe persimmons taste like a blend of plums, apricots, and honey. The unripe is so harsh it makes your mouth pucker. Persimmons soothe sore throats and irritated intestinal tracts, are noted for their mild laxative qualities, and contain enzymes that break down damaged cells and foreign microbes. Persimmons are low in fat and calorie content, and as a excellent source of vitamin C, acts as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory.

Pineapple

Discovered early on as an important medical plant, the pineapple is a detoxicant and diuretic. Fermented pineapple juice was made into an alcoholic drink, used for fevers and to relieve body heat in hot weather; externally pineapple juice was used for dissolving painful corns and to cure skin ailments. The greatest value of pineapple juice lies in its digestive power, which closely resembles that of human gastric juices. The high levels of vitamin C work as an antioxidant; science has shown that diets rich in antioxidants may be useful in preventing asthma, colon cancer, and rheumatoid arthritis, and also boosts the immune system. The minerals manganese and thiamin, which are abundant in pineapple, aid in energy production in the body. Pineapples contain a fair amount of acids-notably citric, malic, and tartaric-which in their organic form exert a diuretic action, aid digestion and elimination, and help clear mucous waste from bronchial tissues. They are very rich in bromelin, a proteolytic (protein-digesting) enzyme; bromelain literally “digests” dead or diseased cells and foreign microbes in the throat; this enzyme also aids in reducing inflammation and swelling. Research has found two molecules in pineapple stems, CCS and CCZ, which may be effective in defending the body against cancer and in boosting the immune system.

Plum and Prune

The plum is a dynamic fruit, energy-giving and stimulating to the nerves. It contains several fruit acids, some of which have a tendency to irritate the kidneys. Plums and prunes contain oxalic acid, which in its natural state is excellent for both constipation and an inactive liver; when cooked, this oxalic acid becomes inorganic and is harmful to the body. It is best to eat this fruit either raw or dried, and not cooked into any sort of sauces or pastries. Prunes are known for their strong laxative action. When dried they contain a high phosphorus content, and their content of other salts is valuable as food for blood, brain, and nerves.

Pomegranate

Unlike other fruits, the seeds of the pomegranate are the edible parts of this winter fruit. It is high in fiber, potassium, vitamin C and niacin. Pomegranates have recently experienced a huge increase in popularity because their disease-fighting antioxidant potential. Preliminary studies suggest that pomegranate juice may contain almost three times the antioxidant ability of green tea or red wine. Used for centuries in the Middle East and India to treat inflammation, sore throats, and rheumatism, the pomegranate promotes the production of red blood cells. With a slight purgative effect, pomegranate juice is excellent for strengthening the bladder and other bladder disorders. It is cleansing and cooling to the system. The rind and partitions of the pomegranate are not generally eaten due to their high tannic acid content. The astringent quality of the rind does, however, make for an excellent skin wash.

Raisins

Although they contain less acid than grapes, raisins are very high in natural sugars, so should be used in moderation. In spite of the high sugar content, raisins promote oral health by effectively killing the bacteria that causes cavities and periodontal disease. Raisins are very high in iron, containing almost as much by weight as dried beans or ground beef. In addition, raisins are among the top antioxidant-containing foods, thereby aiding in the prevention of heart disease and cancer.

Raspberry

Raspberries lead all the berries nutritionally, and are one of the most fully digestible and assimilated of all foods. They are considered a good cleanser for excess mucus and for toxins in the body. Very beneficial for all female organs and problems, they help relieve menstrual cramps, and may decrease the menstrual flow without stopping it altogether. Raspberry leaf tea is queen among pregnancy herbs, frequently taken by pregnant women to prevent miscarriages, allay nausea and vomiting, increase milk flow, and reduce labor pains. For those who are not pregnant, the tea nourishes the reproductive organs, and works as an effective anti-diarrheal agent. Raspberry leaves possess the classic properties of astringent herbs, especially the tannins and fruit acids (citric and malic). The nutritional profile shows a manganese content (146 milligrams per 100 grams in the dried leaves) twice as high as any other herb, making it one of the richest sources of this mineral.

Strawberry

The most popular and plentiful of all the berries, strawberries supply more Vitamin C than any other berry. Rich in vitamin K, manganese, iodine, and dietary fiber, they are also a good source of potassium, folate, riboflavin, vitamin B5, vitamin B6, magnesium, copper, and small amounts of omega-3 fatty acids.

Strawberries, like other berries, are known as a rich source of antioxidants – second only to blueberries when compared with other common fruit. Notably, they contain ellagic acid, known to inhibit carcinogens, and the phenols called anthocyanins which give them their ruby red color. The combined phenols in strawberries pack a powerful punch as they are heart-protective, cancer-fighting, and anti-inflammatory all in one. In one study, strawberries topped a list of eight foods most linked to lower rates of cancer deaths among a group of 1,271 elderly people in New Jersey. Its high phytonutrient content has also shown potential benefits to your brain – protecting it from damage and improving your ability to retain what you know and to learn new information.

Soursop

A favorite flavor of ice-cream in the Caribbean, this fruit makes a great cooling drink. The juice of the ripe fruit is said to be diuretic and a remedy for conditions of the kidneys, ureters, bladder, or urethra. Research has shown that the leave and stem of soursop may lower blood pressure, control muscle spasms, dilate blood vessels, and relax smooth muscle. Taken when fasting, it is believed to relieve liver ailments. Pulverized immature fruits, which are very astringent, are boiled and the essence used as a remedy for dysentery.

Watermelon

Watermelon is used as a cooling food in hot weather, for treatment of thirst, and to improve mental depression. Consisting of over 92 percent water, it is popular with dieters, and is an excellent cleanser and detoxifier for the whole body. Watermelon has the greatest dissolving power of inorganic minerals in the body out of all the fruits and vegetables. Surprisingly, it has only half the sugar (5 percent) of an apple, but tastes much sweeter because sugar is its main taste-producing element. One of nature’s safest and most dependable diuretics, watermelon has a remarkable ability to quickly and completely wash out the bladder. The white rind of the watermelon is one of the highest organic sodium foods in nature, and the outside peel is a source of chlorophyll. The rind can be juiced and drunk, or small amounts can be eaten.