The Seven Species: Israel's Finest Agricultural Crops

When the Torah describes the land of Israel, which the Israelites are destined to enter, it portrays it as the land where the Seven Species grow, for which the land is praised: "For Hashem your God brings you into a good land, a land of brooks of water, of fountains and depths, springing forth in valleys and hills. A land of wheat and barley and vines and figs and pomegranates, a land of olive oil and honey" (Deuteronomy 8:7-8). In honor of Tu B'Shvat, we will delve into the properties and virtues of the fruits that bless the land of Israel.

Wheat

Contains proteins, minerals, and various vitamins, with notable amounts of vitamins B and E. Vitamin B aids in the proper processing and absorption of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins in the body, helping to increase energy levels and manage stress and restlessness. Vitamin E neutralizes toxins and supports vascular and heart health. Wheat itself has an acidic reaction due to its high phosphorus content, so sprouted wheat is a healthier option. Drinking wheatgrass, which retains the wheat's best values, is highly beneficial to health.

Barley 

Rich in vitamins B but even more so in minerals such as selenium and chromium. Selenium is a powerful antioxidant that aids the immune system and detoxifies the body. Chromium balances blood sugar levels, reduces sugar cravings, and helps balance blood fats, making it suitable for diabetics. Once again, consuming sprouted barley and especially drinking its juice provides the best nutritional value.

Grapevine

Grapes - especially red ones - contain strong antioxidants. Lutein found in grapes plays an important role in eye health and is crucial in preventing age-related macular degeneration. Another special compound found in grapes is "resveratrol." This compound justifies red wine consumption for those for whom it is appropriate, as it slows aging processes, promotes heart health, and significantly improves blood flow to the brain, thereby enhancing brain function. This conclusion was drawn from various studies, including one in the UK, where 24 students performed cognitive tasks and showed significant increases in brain blood flow. Interestingly, the harder the tasks, the more the resveratrol influenced the blood flow. The fruit contains various minerals such as calcium, iron, magnesium, and potassium, as well as vitamins A, C, and others. The nutritional value of grapes peaks when they are fresh, ripe, and consumed with skin and seeds, where most antioxidants are present.

Fig

A nutritionally rich fruit with high protein content, iron aiding anemia, calcium, and potassium that help balance blood pressure. With plenty of dietary fiber, figs aid significantly in relieving constipation. The fruit can be eaten fresh in season (ensure no worms are present). Tasty, healthy, and invigorating. An interesting property is the sap found in unripe figs when picked from the tree, as well as leaves. Applying the sap daily on viral warts can help remove them.

Pomegranate

Pomegranate juice contains a high amount of potent antioxidants that can prevent arteriosclerosis, balance cholesterol, and reduce blood pressure, thanks in part to its high potassium levels. It also contains growth inhibitors of prostate cancer cells. Researchers soaking prostate cancer cells in pomegranate concentrate saw inhibited cancer growth. Pomegranate has a high vitamin C content, boosting the immune system. It is recommended to drink up to one glass of pomegranate juice per day. People with kidney stones should avoid or reduce pomegranate juice intake due to its oxalic acid content.

Olive

Olive oil is considered one of the healthiest oils globally. It promotes cardiovascular health, balances blood fats, reduces high blood pressure, and aids in relieving constipation. Olive leaves also possess health properties: they have antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal properties, aiding in cold, flu, and other ailments. The leaves also help reduce sugar and blood pressure levels, balance cholesterol, and possess anti-cancer properties.

Honey is Date 

The fruit is high in dietary fiber, which helps balance blood fats, prevent constipation, and more. It also contains antioxidants that help prevent heart and vascular diseases. Furthermore, dates include vitamins B that improve mood and relieve stress. The fruit contains lutein and zeaxanthin essential for eye health and a high content of various minerals like potassium and magnesium, aiding blood pressure reduction and relieving constipation. Dates are sweet and can serve as a natural snack or confection. Delicious eaten with almonds or nuts, providing a tasty and satisfying meal.

Eliahu Shechter is an iridologist and natural therapist