The Seven Species of the Land of Israel: Spiritual Meaning and Health Benefits

When the Torah describes the Land of Israel to which the people of Israel are destined to come, it portrays it as the land in which grow the Seven Species for which the land is praised: “For the Lord your God is bringing you into a good land, a land of streams of water, springs and deep waters flowing forth in valleys and hills; a land of wheat and barley, vines and fig trees and pomegranates; a land of olive oil and honey” (Devarim 8:7–8).

In honor of Tu B'Shvat, let us take a closer look at the qualities and benefits of the fruits with which the Land of Israel was blessed.

Wheat

Wheat contains proteins, minerals, and various vitamins, most notably vitamins B and E. The B vitamins are a group of vitamins that assist in the proper metabolism and absorption of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins in the body, thereby helping to increase energy levels and reduce states of restlessness and stress. Vitamin E neutralizes toxins and supports the health of blood vessels, the heart, and more.

Wheat itself has an acidic reaction due to its high phosphorus content, which is why the healthiest way to consume wheat is through sprouting. In addition, drinking wheatgrass juice, in which the nutritional values of wheat are preserved at their peak, has a very high health value.

Barley

Barley is rich in B vitamins and even more so in minerals such as selenium and chromium. Selenium is a powerful antioxidant that supports the immune system and helps eliminate toxins from the body. Chromium balances blood sugar levels, helps reduce cravings for sweets, and contributes to balancing blood fats, making it particularly suitable for people with diabetes.

Here too, consuming sprouted barley — and especially drinking barley grass juice, provides its nutrients in their optimal form.

Grape (Vine)

Grapes — especially red grapes, contain powerful antioxidants. Lutein, found in grapes, plays an important role in eye health and is essential in preventing age-related degeneration of vision.

Another compound found in grapes that gives them their special appeal is resveratrol. This substance provides one of the justifications for drinking red wine for those for whom it is suitable. Resveratrol slows aging processes, contributes to heart health, and significantly improves blood flow to the brain, thereby enhancing cognitive function.

This conclusion was drawn from various studies. In one British study, 24 students were given resveratrol while performing cognitive tasks, and a significant increase in blood flow to their brains was observed. Interestingly, the more challenging the task, the greater the effect of resveratrol on blood flow.

Grapes also contain minerals such as calcium, iron, magnesium, potassium, and more, as well as vitamins A, C, and others. Their nutritional values are at their peak when they are fully ripe and fresh, eaten with both skin and seeds — where most of the antioxidants are found.

Fig

The fig is a fruit with high nutritional value, containing a relatively high protein content, iron (which helps in cases of anemia), and calcium and potassium, which assist in balancing blood pressure. Due to its high fiber content, figs are especially helpful for relieving constipation.

The fruit can be eaten fresh in season (of course, after carefully checking for insects). It is tasty, healthy, and nourishing.

An interesting property exists in the milky sap found in unripe figs and in leaves picked from the tree: applying this sap daily to viral warts may help remove them.

Pomegranate

Pomegranate juice contains a very high concentration of powerful antioxidants that can help prevent atherosclerosis, balance cholesterol levels, and lower blood pressure — partly due to its high potassium content. It also contains compounds that inhibit the growth of prostate cancer cells.

In studies where prostate cancer cells were exposed to low concentrations of pomegranate extract, researchers observed a delay in the growth of cancerous cells. Pomegranates are also rich in vitamin C, which strengthens the immune system.

It is recommended to drink up to one cup of pomegranate juice per day. People who suffer from kidney stones should avoid or at least limit pomegranate juice due to the oxalic acid it contains.

Olive Oil

Olive oil is considered one of the healthiest oils in the world. It supports heart and blood vessel health, balances blood fats, lowers high blood pressure, helps relieve constipation, and more.

Olive leaves also have health-promoting properties: they possess antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal qualities, which can help with colds, flu, and similar conditions. The leaves also help lower blood sugar and blood pressure, balance cholesterol, and have anti-cancer properties.

“Honey” – The Date

The date fruit is rich in dietary fiber, which helps balance blood fats, prevent constipation, and more. It contains antioxidants that help prevent cardiovascular diseases. Dates also contain B vitamins, which assist in improving mood and calming stress.

They include lutein and zeaxanthin, which are essential for eye health, and are rich in minerals such as potassium and magnesium, which help lower blood pressure and prevent constipation.

The date is a naturally sweet fruit that can serve as a healthy candy or snack. It is especially delicious when eaten together with almonds or nuts, making for a satisfying and nourishing mini-meal.