Black walnut is increasingly gaining popularity as one of the healthiest nuts. These ‘health nuts’ are botanical drupes. The health benefits of this nut are beyond incredible. It can help in the reduction of various ailments associated with inflammation. It can regulate blood pressure, increase circulation of body fluids and also boost immunity. Also, this amazing nut can provide protection against cancer. It is a wonderfully healthy nut that can provide overall physical well-being.
Insight Into Black Walnut
Black walnut is a humongous deciduous tree. It is a native to the eastern parts of the United States as well as several parts of Canada. Black walnut, scientifically known as Juglans nigra, was introduced first in Europe around 1600. This tree later spread across the whole European continent and then North America. The nut is born out of the flower of this tree. This nut generally exists in clusters of four or five nuts. It can be harvested for a myriad of uses. Both the husk and the nut can be used for various medicinal purposes. This nut is popularly used for many culinary dishes right from chicken dishes to desserts, both in America and Europe.
This walnut has a distinct taste and aroma that adds to the flavors when used for cooking. This nut is also a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids. The high concentrations of healthy fatty acids and other unique organic compounds give the distinct black color to the nut. The nut of this tree can be consumed as it is. The husk can be ground to form a powder, which has wonderful medicinal properties of its own. Oil can also be extracted from this nut and used for herbal therapies.
4 Incredible Health Benefits Of Black Walnut
1. Skin Care
Black walnut is a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids and several other beneficial antioxidants, which can improve the texture of our skin. Black walnut husk can be used to obtain a powder. This powder is medicinally important because of the abundance of nutrients in it. This powder can be applied topically on the skin to treat many skin related problems like psoriasis, eczema, acne, blemishes etc. This powder can be little harsh on the skin. Hence, it is advisable that this powder is mixed with a carrier salve.
2. Protection Against Fungal Infections
One of the most common type of infection causing fungus is Candida albicans. We can come in contact with this fungus easily in our daily lives. But, poor hygiene can exacerbate this infection by several folds. Thankfully, black walnut can rescue us from this evil. Black walnut contains high concentrations of tannins and juglone. These two components can make the gut inhospitable for the fungus to survive and thrive. Thus, this wonderful nut can protect us from candida attack, which is known for weakening the walls of our blood vessels.
3. Happy Heart
Black walnut is a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids. These healthy fatty acids can protect our hearts from bad cholesterol. High levels of omega-3 fatty acids can eliminate bad cholesterol and increase good cholesterol in our blood. It can also help in regulating blood pressure to keep our hearts healthy. Thus, munching on a few walnuts everyday can really diminish our chances of heart attacks and atherosclerosis.
4. Cancer
Black walnuts are wonderfully rich in antioxidants. These antioxidants can reduce oxidative stress at the cellular level in our bodies. It can protect our cells from oxidative damages by neutralizing free radicals. The presence of juglone, polyphenols and omega-3 fatty acids are also helpful in providing protection against cancer. The overall effect of all the useful compounds present in black walnuts is stronger immunity.
People with nut allergy should use their discretion before eating this nut. So, binge on some tasty black walnuts today with out feeling guilty about health.
