Rounding out August’s hot, muggy weather is the most satisfying thing on a hot day, a very ripe, juicy peach. August is National Peach Month and it was dedicated by Ronald Reagan in 1982. Believe it or not, peaches are native to China and were believed to have been introduced to Europe by the Persians and were then transported to the Americas in the 16th century. Peaches are also a member of the rose family of flowers.
Not only do peaches taste amazing when they are ripe, they are also very good for you, fortified with a good amount of vitamins A and C as well as providing antioxidants that help to prevent blindness caused by Macular Degeneration. When they are in season, peaches have a sweet and tangy taste and if they’re really ripe, the juice will run right down your arm so make sure you have a napkin handy when doing your summer munching. Peaches are also one crop that is heavily sprayed with pesticides (the bugs love peaches too!) so make sure to try and buy certified organic peaches if you can afford them. If you buy non-organic peaches, make sure you wash them very carefully in cool soapy water to remove as much of the pesticides as possible.
Even though Peach month is just about over, make sure you get out there and get some peaches before their season is over; peaches are also great for canning, ensuring you can eat tasty peaches year round! For now, you can rock these fun pieces of jewelry to remind you of how sweet these little fruits are.
Check out these rosy toned blossoming belly rings (they look just like peach blossoms!)
