Walnut: useful properties and contraindications

This type of walnut is also commonly referred to as a walnut. The tree that bears fruit belongs to the Walnut family, grows from 4 to 25 m tall and higher.

Walnuts and pecans: what is the difference and which one is healthier?

At first glance, walnuts and pecans may seem to be the same fruit. But upon further examination, you can see that they are different species of the Walnut family. And they have differences both in appearance, taste and composition.

Differences in appearance and taste:

1. In its unpeeled form, the fruit looks more like an olive, due to which it received its second name - the olive nut.
2. The pecan kernel has no webbing.
3. The kernels are more elongated and less ribbed.
4. The taste is creamy and sweet.
5. It has no astringency or bitterness.

Differences in composition:

1. The energy value of the pecan is higher, it is about 700 kcal, while the walnut has less than 670 kcal.
2. Pecan has more sugar in its composition, which is why it is prohibited for diabetics.
3. Pecans have 10 g more fat - 75 g.
4. Walnuts do not contain fluoride, which is found in large quantities in pecans.
5. Pecans contain 15 times less starch than walnuts.

Both nuts are of great benefit to the body, so it is difficult to say which one is healthier, it all depends on taste preferences and personal intolerance to any component.

Composition and calories

Walnuts have a high energy value - per 100 grams of kernels there are 670 kcal. The content of protein is 15.5 g, fat - 65 g and carbohydrates - 14 g. Exactly because of the high content of proteins and fat walnuts are an indispensable product for vegetarians and people keeping the fast. They inspire with vivacity and energy, and it is enough to eat only 10 kernels.

Excessive consumption of the king nut is fraught with fat deposition in the waist area and other problematic places. In everything you need to know the measure, so the amount of eaten walnuts should be carefully monitored.

The indisputable fact is that walnuts in useful properties and the content of vitamins and elements is not inferior to other species. The composition of the king nut includes vitamins:

1. B1 - is responsible for metabolism, strengthens the immune system, improves the nervous, cardiovascular and digestive systems.
2. B5 - promotes rapid healing of wounds in the skin and mucosa, which is necessary after surgical interventions.
3. B6 - launches metabolic processes, strengthens the immune system.
4. B9 - promotes cell growth and strengthens bone marrow, is responsible for the normal development of the fetus without pathology.
5. C - is the main antioxidant and immunostimulant.
6. E - is responsible for the health of skin and hair, prevents neurological disorders.
7. H - has a beneficial effect on the condition of the skin.
8. PP - participates in the normalization of the gastrointestinal tract.
9. Potassium - regulates blood pressure.
10. Silicon - promotes the production of collagen.
11. Magnesium - is necessary for the proper functioning of the heart muscle.
12. Iron - promotes blood formation, is responsible for strengthening the skeletal muscles, protects the liver from the negative effects of toxins.
13. Cobalt - is involved in the production of folic acid.
14. Manganese - reduces bone fragility, activates sexual function.
15. Copper - is involved in the formation of the cardiovascular system.
16. Fluorine - improves dental health.
17. Zinc - prevents the development of liver cirrhosis and sexual dysfunction.

Thus, the inclusion of walnuts in the diet is necessary for the health and proper functioning of the body as a whole.

What are the benefits of walnuts for women and men?

General benefits

All the benefits of the king nut lies in the complex of vitamins, micro- and macronutrients and their interaction with each other. Thanks to this, the body receives the following benefits:

1. Strengthening the immune system. It is especially necessary to eat walnuts in the fall and spring during avitaminosis.
2. Reducing the risk of anemia. Minerals increase hemoglobin, so there is an opportunity to get rid of the already existing disease.
3. Strengthen the walls of blood vessels and improve the work of the heart muscle.
4. Start the work of the intestines.
5. Improvement of brain function, providing energy and vigor.

For women

1. Walnuts are the main enemy of mastitis and breast cancer. Plant hormones help prevent the appearance of these diseases.
2. The constant consumption of walnuts relieves women from depression, and most importantly - helps to combat mood swings during hormonal changes during pregnancy or premenstrual syndrome.
3. Vitamin E promotes healthy hair and skin. Daily consumption of nuts helps to get rid of dry split ends and flaky skin.
4. The complex of vitamins B, C, E, silicon and magnesium fights against age-related skin changes, rejuvenates the skin and makes it more elastic.

For men

1. Because of its high protein content, it is indispensable for athletes and those who lead a physically and mentally active life.
2. Improves potency and the duration of an erection.
3. Increases the level of testosterone.
4. Reduces the negative effects of nicotine and alcohol.
5. Increases resistance to stress and performance.
6. Improves sleep.

During pregnancy.

1. Saturate the body of pregnant women with all the vitamins necessary during this period.
2. Improves the hematopoiesis.
3. Establishes the hormonal background.
4. Favors the normal formation of the child's body.
5. Reduces the symptoms of toxemia.
6. Improves skin elasticity, thus reducing the risk of stretch marks.

When breastfeeding

1. Does not lead to gain weight.
2. Improves the cardiovascular system.
3. Helps strengthen bones and muscles, which is necessary for the baby.
4. Immunostimulant, helps to resist viruses and infections.

For children

1. Increases the efficiency of brain activity.
2. Strengthens bone and muscle tissues.
3. Promotes fast regeneration of tissues.
4. Improves the condition of the joints.

The benefits of walnuts with honey

In most cases, when any disease occurs, everyone is accustomed to turn to chemical preparations. But in nature there are many natural products that help both in prevention and in the treatment of existing diseases. And it is honey in combination with walnuts is a panacea for almost all diseases. But before consuming such a treat, you should definitely determine whether there are allergies or insensitivities of the individual components.

Sweetness is not only tasty, but also carries incredible benefits:

• Increases the body's susceptibility to viruses;
• normalizes the metabolism;
• improves blood quality;
• reduces the problem of seasonal diseases;
• Improves skin and hair condition;
• eliminates cysts and other gynecological diseases;
• Helps swelling and inflammation;
• heals the thyroid gland.

The preparation of the treat also does not take much time, so you can make it at any convenient time. For this, you need to peel the nuts from the shell and the membranes, and then add them to the pre-poured in a glass jar honey. Then stir it and put it in the fridge for twenty-four hours.

You can also grind the kernels in a blender and mix with honey. The method of preparation depends on the desire and preference. You can also add sesame seeds, pumpkin seeds, and dried fruit to honey and nuts. In general, there are many variations, you just need to choose the most appropriate.

Is sprouted walnuts useful?

In vegetarianism, it is very common to eat sprouted beans and cereals. Since there are no meat products in the diet, it is necessary to get protein from somewhere. That is why vegetarians began to sprout all protein-providing plants, increasing the amount of protein even in foods that already contain it. This is why walnuts are especially popular. As the sprouts develop, there is an increased synthesis of protein in the kernel. The amount of other vitamins and minerals also increases.

The germination process takes about two weeks. The resulting product is an active component not only to maintain strength, but also to treat many ailments:

• poor blood clotting;
• long healing of wounds and cuts;
• joint problems;
• brittle bones;
• slow gain of muscle mass;
• frequent, unreasonable dizziness and constant fatigue;
• drowsiness and lethargy;
• Drowsiness; absent-mindedness during mental activity.

With the daily use of nuts, the result comes very quickly, but it is important not to stop eating them, but only to change the calendar of their intake. The main convenience of sprouting and eating the king nut is that it is always readily available. Because of its favorable climate, it grows almost everywhere. Therefore, it can always be found in the markets.

To sprout walnuts, it is necessary to:

1. Wash them under running water, each fruit individually.
2. Put them in a pot or other large container, with the number of tiers in which the nuts will lie, it does not matter - all will sprout.
3. Pour clean water at room temperature - so that the water is a couple of centimeters above the top of the fruit.
4. Place in a place with direct sunlight.
5. Change the water daily.

Nuts with sprouts should be stored in the refrigerator, and it is better to leave them in the water.

When the sprouts start to appear, the nut can be cracked and eaten. The norm is 6 kernels for an adult. A child from 5 years of age can be given 2 kernels a day, dividing the reception into two times. The first time is better consumed on an empty stomach in the morning, at least 40 minutes before breakfast, the second - 1-2 hours before bedtime. This regime should be followed for 3-4 weeks, then reduce the number of kernels to 1-2 pieces per day, leaving the reception only on an empty stomach.

Observance of such a diet will give the following results:

• Headaches will disappear;
• Mood swings and depression will disappear;
• The work of the intestines will improve;
• will not torment cramps and pain in muscles and joints;
• pain during PMS will be reduced;
• Most unpleasant manifestations of prostatitis will disappear;
• the condition of the skin and hair will improve;
• strengthen the immune system;
• memory will improve;
• accelerate the healing process of cuts and wounds on the skin;
• bone fragility will be reduced, as well as the time it takes for bones to heal in case of damage.

And that's not all. After eating sprouted walnuts many people note an improvement in their overall health. Of course, the benefit will be only if there are no serious health problems and diseases that can be exacerbated by walnuts. These are pancreatitis, stomach and intestinal diseases, intolerance to the product and allergies. In all other cases walnuts in this form not only can be eaten, but it is necessary as a preventive measure and for the full treatment of existing diseases.

The walnut husks

To the use of the sepals, which are in the kernel, many treat with great skepticism. They argue that no good can come from garbage. And in vain. Broomsticks are a treasure trove of vitamins, minerals and organic substances necessary for normal human existence.

For example, a greater percentage of the partitions contain iodine and vitamin C, which are practically absent from the kernels. It is they have the main antitumor and restorative properties. At the same time they help:

1. Get rid of mastopathy and other breast diseases.
2. Cure prostatitis and adenoma of the prostate.
3. Carry out the prevention and treatment of thyroid diseases.
4. Reduce the risk of cysts and myomas.
5. To speed up the metabolism and improve the metabolic process.
6. Strengthen the immune system and resist respiratory diseases, especially in a period of avitaminosis.
7. Get rid of the rapid fatigue.
8. Increase stress resistance.
9. Lose weight.

But, unfortunately, like any natural products, septa is prohibited in some diseases, because it can cause harm. Therefore, you need to remember the following nuances:

1. The use of broomsticks is forbidden for people with pronounced skin diseases. This can include eczema, psoriasis, urticaria and any manifestations of dermatosis.
2. Gastritis and ulcers in the acute stage exclude the use of iodine-containing and fatty products, they lead to an increase in painful sensations, as well as to the deterioration of the whole state and the progression of the disease.
3. With kidney disease, the raw material should not be used - it will cause severe edema and aggravation of the condition.
4. Allergic reactions to products containing iodine and vitamin C, as well as intolerance to any other components of the bracts are reasons for excluding them from the diet in any form.

If there is no pronounced symptomatology of the above-mentioned diseases, you can try an ancient way of treating the septa, namely - tinctures of them.

How to make a tincture

Tinctures from the sepals of walnut are recommended as an additional treatment for serious diseases. These are diabetes, intestinal disorders, diseases of the mammary glands and reproductive organs, as well as the thyroid gland.

The proportions for the tincture must be maintained depending on the nature of the disease.

For diabetes.
What to make:

1. Pour half a cup of the bracts into two cups of vodka.
2. Shaking daily for 10 days, let infuse in a dark place.
3. Take daily in the morning and evening for 2 weeks, regardless of meals, 1 tablespoon.

In gynecological diseases.
Necessary:

1. The septa from 20 nuts pour half a cup of alcohol.
2. Within 10 days, insist in a dark place, not forgetting to shake the container periodically.
3. Drink for 5 days, starting with a proportion of 1:2 (tincture and water, respectively), each day increasing the dose so that by the fifth day the proportion of the ratio was equal.

In diseases of the intestines.
What to do:

• take 1 cup of bracts for 0.5 liters of vodka;
• Insist at least 1.5 weeks;
• take 1 coffee spoon on an empty stomach.

Of course, before taking the tincture, you need to consult with your doctor. If he approves this method of treatment, you can try to take the tincture. But you should not forget about the contraindications. So, tinctures are strictly forbidden to people with pronounced cirrhosis of the liver, as well as those who are allergic to alcohol.

The useful properties of walnut leaves

The chemical composition of walnut leaves is in no way inferior to the kernels and sepals, and in the presence of many components even surpasses them. The leaves contain many beneficial substances and vitamins:

1. A - essential for improving vision, cell growth and slowing the aging process of the body at the cellular level.
2. B1 - is a source of strength and energy, necessary for physical and mental activity.
3. C - ascorbic acid, strengthens the immune system and protects against viral diseases.
4. E - vitamin of youth, improves skin and hair.
5. P - is responsible for the health of the cardiovascular system.

In addition, it contains coumarin, which is useful for thick blood and thrombophlebitis. It has thinner properties and helps after blood transfusions. Essential oils and minerals such as zinc, magnesium, phosphorus, iron and iodine are just necessary for a normal healthy life.

It's also worth saying a few words about yuglone, a unique substance that is part of the leaves of walnut crops.

Juglone is an extract mainly used for fighting parasites in humans and animals. Having antiparasitic and antimicrobial properties, the phytoextract helps to quickly cope with such problems. It is used in pharmaceuticals in the production of medicines for worms, both internal and external use, for varicose veins, immunodeficiency, respiratory diseases, skin problems.

The leaves are used to make tinctures and decoctions for ingestion. They are suitable for compresses and lotions for joint and muscle pain. Extracts from them are widely used in cosmetology and the production of medicines.

The plant is so widespread because of its useful properties:

1. Treatment of skin diseases - acne, acne, lichen. In cosmetology, it is used for complete skin cleansing, clearing pores without the risk of recurrence of the problem in the near future.
2. Wound healing - has an antiseptic and anti-inflammatory effect. It prevents scars after cuts and open wounds on the skin. It is also necessary after surgery and for the restoration of mucous membranes.
3. Establishing the work of the thyroid gland - thanks to the high content of iodine with the constant use of tinctures and decoctions from the leaves you can get rid of iodine deficiency.
4. Getting rid of parasites.
5. Treatment of diabetes - the leaves improve the absorption of glucose and prevent gangrene.
6. Providing a calming effect on the nervous system - necessary for constant stress, nervous breakdowns, as well as excessive mental activity.

Walnut trees are a true panacea for all diseases. That is why, if there is an opportunity to use the leaves for their intended purpose, namely - as a medicine or an addition to the main treatment, it is better not to neglect it.

What are the benefits of the nutshells?

The use of nutshells is possible in any form - from tincture to powder. It can be used both internally and externally. It depends only on the type of disease for which the shell is chosen to treat.

In the composition of the shells in large quantities include vitamins and elements such as steroids, vitamins A, C, E and iodine. This means that preparations made from it will help:

• stabilize the nervous system;
• relieve cramps;
• break down cholesterol and improve blood quality;
• lower blood pressure;
• normalize sleep;
• to balance hormones;
• prevent vascular thrombosis;
• relieve pain in the joints.

Accordingly, the spectrum of ailments, in the presence of which the shell will be an excellent helper, is also great:

• diseases of the gastrointestinal tract;
• diseases of the genitourinary system;
• angina and laryngitis;
• respiratory tract disorders;
• damage to the skin.

Walnut oil: properties and uses

Cold-pressing, which is used in the factory conditions of production, allows you to preserve all the useful properties of the fruit in the production of oil. It helps maintain the health of the skin, internal organs, as well as cure a number of diseases or relieve their symptoms. The oil has a rich dark yellow color and tart nutty smell and taste.

To understand the properties of walnut oil, you need to pay attention to its composition:

1. Linoleic acid - has an anti-inflammatory effect, accelerates the digestibility of fats, strengthens the walls of blood vessels, restores bone tissue, normalizes the blood supply to the brain.
2. Retinol and tocophenol are responsible for youth and health of the skin at the cellular level.
3. Ascorbic acid - combats infectious diseases, normalizes metabolism.
4. Calcium - strengthens the musculoskeletal system.
5. Iron and iodine - are necessary for the normal functioning of the thyroid gland, eliminate iodine deficiency.

The result of using the oil:

1. Stabilization of the gastrointestinal tract.
2. Restoration of liver cells, which is necessary in the rehabilitation period after prolonged use of antibiotics.
3. Removal of radionuclides, so the oil is shown to people whose work is associated with nuclear and hazardous production.
4. Adjustment of the kidneys, as the oil accelerates the process of excretion of excess fluid, which further reduces the likelihood of swelling.
5. Increasing blood microcirculation, which improves the condition of the urogenital system, and thus - beneficial effects on reproductive function in both men and women.

The oil can be consumed internally in pure form. Different sources describe different dosage, but the average dose is 1 teaspoon 3 times a day for an adult. For children 3 to 5 years - half a coffee spoon twice a day, 5-10 years - a coffee spoon three times a day.

The oil is also used in cooking and cosmetology. Masks and massages based on it are very popular.

Can I fry with oil?

Of course, no one has imposed a ban on the use of walnut oil in frying. But it is necessary to take into account the fact that high temperatures significantly reduce the useful properties of nut oils. It should be noted that the burning process produces cholesterol even from such a useful oil, destroying vitamins and minerals.

Therefore, when using the oil in cooking, it is better to add it to salads - it will give them a tangy taste and aroma, and in interaction with vegetables will make the dish the most useful.

But as for hot dishes and meat - oil should be added before serving or immediately at the end of cooking.

The benefits of jam from green walnuts

Jam from young walnuts is not only incredibly delicious, but also full of useful properties, the list of which is endless. Vitamins, minerals, macro- and microelements, substances and extracts contained in unripe fruits are preserved in the finished jam. The delicacy is brewed only from green nuts, with age the peel becomes dense, so it is no longer possible to make jam.

The benefits of consumption are enormous:

1. Saturation of the body with iodine, which is necessary for the thyroid gland.
2. Strengthening of blood vessels.
3. Stabilization of the gastrointestinal tract.
4. Removal of worms and other parasites, as well as the creation of microflora, not suitable for their reproduction and life.
5. Combating inflammatory processes of the internal organs and skin.
6. Establishing the work of the heart and the cardiovascular system as a whole.
7. Rapid recovery after heavy physical and/or mental activity.
8. Strengthening of bones, teeth and nails.
9. Restoration of reproductive function in women.
10. Relieving men from impotence.

To make a healthy jam, you need to know what you need to pay attention to when choosing fruit. They must be:

• Without damage and brown spots;
• Dense, uniformly soft green color;
• Harvested in May-June - it is in this period, the shell is considered the most useful.

How to boil

There are many recipes for cooking, but one of the easiest and most time-saving is the following. The best ratio of products is 100 fruits per 1 kg of sugar. Nuts in this case should be whole - this will ensure the preservation of iodine, iron and other elements in full concentration.

Cooking process:

1. Peel and wash the nuts, cut off the stalk of the fruit and put them in a saucepan.
2. Pour cold water and leave for 2-3 days, not forgetting to change it every 5 hours.
3. At the end of the specified time, put the darkened nuts in a saucepan and cover with sugar. Leave for 1-2 hours.
4. When the fruit gives juice, turn the burner on low heat, remembering to periodically stir the mass.
5. When the foam appears, the jam is ready.
6. Pour the jam into jars and let it cool. Then put it away in a cool place.

There are many variations of cooking by adding spices and flavorings. But the most useful is jam without any additives.

Can I eat walnuts while losing weight?

Despite the fact that during the diet, many people refuse to eat walnuts because of the high energy value indicator, they do it in vain. This is argued by the fact that during the diet low amounts of calories, fats and carbohydrates are consumed, and along with them - and proteins. But it is protein that is responsible for the normal functioning of organs and overall health. And fats facilitate the absorption of all the vitamins and minerals that are consumed in the form of nuts and other foods. Fiber quickly satiates, keeps you from eating too much of these nuts and satisfies hunger for a long time.

If you eat walnuts correctly, they will not only do no harm, but also improve the internal organs, blood and brain, making it easier to follow the regimen. Therefore, if you eat 6-8 kernels in the first half of the day, you can easily, quickly and profitably get rid of extra pounds.

Walnut in medicine

Walnuts are saturated with a large number of vitamins and minerals necessary for the body. In one kernel, septum, shell and leaves, there are more vitamins than in vegetables and fruits. This is why this kind of nut is so valued in medicine, but of course as a supplement to the main treatment.

Before using nuts for medicinal purposes in the presence of any serious diseases, it is necessary to consult a doctor. He will give his recommendations on whether walnuts and dishes that include them can or cannot be eaten.

In Diabetes Mellitus

Walnuts are one of the few products allowed in this disease, because of the rich complex of vitamins. Thus, when consuming walnut kernels:

• sugar levels are significantly reduced;
• the acidity of the digestive system is stabilized;
• The amount of iodine and iron in the blood is normalized.

That is why most often doctors do not exclude nuts from the daily diet and even recommend their use.

Important: The glycemic index of walnuts is 20 units.

In pancreatitis

Pancreatitis is an inflammation of the pancreas, which comes in two types: acute and chronic. In acute pancreatitis, the consumption of walnuts should be excluded. This is due to the fact that vegetable fats provoke increased production of pancreatic enzymes, which leads to dissolution of the walls of the pancreas. This worsens the condition of the patient, causing bouts of severe pain.

But in the chronic course of the disease you can eat nuts in small quantities. The daily rate should not exceed 1-2 pieces. If unpleasant painful sensations arise, the use should be abandoned immediately.

Gastritis

This disease, like pancreatitis, has 2 forms. In this case, everything depends on the type of nuts. Thus, it is walnuts that doctors recommend to moderate consumption in hyperacidic gastritis (with increased acidity) and in the chronic form.

In addition, in some cases, walnuts with honey or alcoholic tincture is even shown as an additional treatment. Of course, the use of such remedies should be coordinated with the doctor.

For the intestines

Walnuts are of great benefit for the restoration and maintenance of normal intestinal microflora. In some cases, they can even prevent the appearance of a malignant tumor in the colon.

For prevention, it is necessary to include nuts in the diet even before the appearance of unpleasant symptoms. In the absence of other diseases, you should eat up to 10 kernels daily.

For constipation

Walnuts are essential in the treatment of constipation. Due to the high oil content, they contribute to the removal of bile, which helps to eliminate stools from the intestines without liquefying them. They also establish peristalsis. Regular use of walnuts and their companion products will help to cure this disease.

For gout

It is not for nothing that this nut is also called a king nut. Eighty percent of the nuts are prohibited for gout, but walnuts are among the 4 that are allowed for occasional consumption. Fruits, of course, contain purines, but in small doses, namely 25 mg per 100 grams, which is a small figure. And it is almost impossible to eat 100 g of kernels because of their fat content and slow digestibility.

Therefore, in the remission stage, you can eat 1-2 kernels a day. This not only will not cause complications in the course of the disease, but also will improve your health. And a tincture of the leaves, peels or crosspieces of nuts can be used in the form of compresses or lotions for gout-stricken joints.

For the liver

Walnuts have a beneficial effect on the state of the liver in the presence of diseases of this organ. This is an excellent product for the prevention of the development of various ailments. This is due to the fact that walnut kernels clean the blood from cholesterol and other harmful substances, which, naturally, facilitates the work of the liver. Thanks to the accelerated and intensified work of the stomach and gallbladder, the liver does not get clogged. That is why the use of nuts is highly recommended for cleansing the liver and its proper functioning.

The only contraindication is cirrhosis at any stage. The consumption of fruits will only accelerate the process of decay of liver cells and the production of fat.

When hemorrhoids

In this case, walnuts should be included in the diet, since hemorrhoids are one of the complications of constipation. It is the nuts that start the motility of the intestine, than help to avoid the occurrence of the disease or to facilitate its course. The kernels clean and strengthen the blood vessels in the rectum. This eliminates bleeding and rupture of intestinal vessels. The fruit has regenerating and anti-inflammatory properties, which prevents infection from entering the fissures.

For the treatment of hemorrhoids, tinctures of walnut waste are also used in the form of lotions or baths.

In cholecystitis

Cholecystitis is an inflammation of the walls of the gallbladder. Since all food consumed has an effect on this organ, it is necessary to follow a strict regimen both in the acute form and during remission. All choleretic products are strictly forbidden, but walnuts are allowed if at least 6 months have passed after the acute attack. You can consume it only in the ground state 1-2 kernels a day. This kind of walnut is useful for patients due to the fact that it has wound-healing properties, which is necessary for the regeneration of the bladder mucosa.

In psoriasis.

During the disease, walnuts are allowed. But it is better to use them not as a food, but in the form of infusions inside and rubs outside. And it is better to prepare the ether yourself by grinding the kernels in a coffee grinder and squeezing the resulting oil. It should be applied to the affected areas daily.

Of course, it will not get rid of the problem forever, but it will alleviate the condition and relieve the painful symptoms. You can use the oil only if you are sure that there are no other skin problems or allergies.

For parasites.

Juglone, found in the leaves and the unripe green fruit, is a unique remedy for worms. To get the maximum benefit from it, you need to take oral tinctures, jams, decoctions of them.

Almost all drugstores contain this enzyme, but in its natural form it is more effective and has a greater effect.

For the teeth

Some sources claim that walnut shells, or rather - infusion on it, helps to get rid of tartar. In fact, this is not entirely true. In fact, such mouthwashes can only be effective against soft deposits on enamel and gums. As for hard plaque, this remedy does not work, but it is an excellent preventative against it.

Tinctures of leaves, shells and bark can be rubbed into the gums for inflammation, rinse your mouth with them for a whitening effect, and to avoid tooth decay and dark stains.

Usage in folk medicine

In addition to the already described ways of using walnuts and their leaves in the form of tinctures and decoctions, there are many other methods of making auxiliary preparations based on the product.

Ointment for skin injuries

Pour 20 grams of leaves with half a cup of oil (better from the same walnut). Insist for 10 days, then put on a water bath for 2 hours, but do not bring to a boil. Strain twice through a fine sieve and reheat. After that, add medical wax. All thoroughly mixed. Use both on open wounds and to get rid of scars and scars.

To renew strength during constant physical and mental activity

For this elixir you need to mix walnut kernels (0.5 kg), aloe (100 g), honey (250 g) and the juice of 3 lemons. Mix and take 3 times a day 2 tablespoons before meals.

For the prevention and treatment of SARS

Through a meat grinder in a ratio of 1:1 kernels, dried apricots, prunes and raisins. After that, add honey. There are 3-4 times a day, regardless of meals.

In case of stomach disorders.

Pour 0.5 liters of milk, bring to a boil and boil for 5 minutes, then let cool and leave, wrapped in a warm blanket for 2-3 hours. Drink daily 100 ml before a meal three times a day.

In case of neoplasms

Grind 10 pieces of green walnuts in a meat grinder and mix with liquid honey. Add to the mixture 2 teaspoons of iodine tincture, 0.5 cup of aloe juice and 2 teaspoons of tar. Stir again and infuse for 24 hours. Take 3 times a day with a tablespoon regardless of meals.

For spurs

Boil 10 green nuts in a liter of boiling water. Allow to cool to 40-45 degrees. After that, steamed feet until the water is completely cooled. Repeat the procedure for two weeks.

In cases where you can not take alcoholic tinctures, alcohol can be replaced by sugar. In a proportion of 1:1 mix chopped green nuts and sugar. Give to infuse for a month, daily shaking the container. Syrup, which will stand out after infusion, take 3 times a day with a tablespoon.

Use in cosmetology

Due to the high content of essential oils, vitamins B, C, E and polyminerals, nuts are widely used in cosmetology, and not only at home, but also in professional cosmetology and massage parlors.

Walnut oil, which has a regenerating, anti-inflammatory, relaxing and antioxidant effect, is widely used in beauty salons. On its basis make masks and scrubs for face, body and hair. But even at home it should not be bypassed, because there are many recipes that will help not only to tighten and rejuvenate the skin, but also to get rid of various problems and even diseases.

The only caveat is the presence of allergic reactions and personal intolerance of any component.

For face

1. For dry flaky skin, as well as to get rid of wrinkles. To prepare such a mask you need the following ingredients: a spoonful of crushed walnut kernels, liquid honey and any cosmetic oil in a ratio of 1:1:1. Mix all the ingredients, then apply to a pre-cleaned face. Leave the mask for 15-20 minutes, then wash off with warm water. Constant repetition of this procedure (once every 3 days) will make the skin soft, firm, and give it a glow from within.
2. Mask with lifting effect. Grind walnut kernels to powder, add a tablespoon of shea butter or coconut oil, a tablespoon of honey and an egg yolk. Mix all the ingredients thoroughly and then apply to a clean face. Leave it on your skin for half an hour and then rinse it off. It is also preferable not to use the cream immediately after washing one's face, as the ingredients of the product will become active for at least several hours after they reach the dermis. And the cream can stop this process or even change its effect.
3. For acne. Dissolve a teaspoon of cosmetic clay in warm water until it is a paste. Add to it a pea of zinc ointment, 1 teaspoon of walnut oil and dried ground ginger. Mix everything thoroughly. Apply the resulting mixture for 20-30 minutes. Such manipulation will reduce inflammation and redness from existing pimples and prevent the appearance of new ones.
4. To improve the overall condition of the skin. To do this, take 2 tablespoons of aloe pulp, 1 tablespoon each of chopped leaves and walnut kernels, a teaspoon of dried chamomile flowers. Mix everything. Such a mask will help to get rid of spider veins, as well as purify pores and protect the skin from the influence of negative external factors.
5. Scrub mask for cleansing the skin of the face. Crush three walnut kernels and mix with one egg yolk and three teaspoons of melted butter. Mix, then massage from the center of the face to the contour. Massage for 3 minutes, leave for another 5 minutes and then rinse off in the same massaging motion. Use a cleansing sponge. The massage will help to cleanse the skin from the top coarse layer without mechanical damage, nourish and moisturize it.

For Hair

1. For shiny hair. Crush 10-15 walnut kernels in a blender. Heat 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil, a teaspoon of coconut oil and a tablespoon of lemon juice in a water bath, without bringing them to a boil. Pour the nut pulp there, then apply it to the roots and the entire length of the curls to the ends. Leave it for half an hour and rinse in the usual way. Repeat the procedure at least two times a week.
2. To activate the bulbs and against hair loss. Crush 7-10 kernels and mix with a teaspoon of cinnamon and 2 tablespoons of olive or coconut oil. Warmed in a water bath, rub into the scalp, wash off after 30 minutes. The mask should be made 2-3 times a week for 1-2 months, depending on the stage of hair loss.
3. For oily hair. Crush 5-7 nuts, mix with grated apple or juice squeezed from it. Apply over the entire length of the hair and roots. Leave on for 15-20 minutes. Repeat the procedure twice a week.
4. For damaged hair after perming or coloring. The recipe of this miracle mask is easy to remember and prepare. To make it, you need to prepare four components: an egg yolk, a tablespoon each of olive oil, chopped nuts and lemon juice. Stir the resulting porridge and apply to the hair along its entire length, warm it with a hair dryer and wrap with a towel. Leave it for 45 minutes.
5. A cream mask for dyed hair. Thanks to this procedure, you can achieve a natural shiny brown shade. For preparation, you need crushed green unripe walnut peels. It should be mixed in a proportion of 1:1 with walnut oil, boil over low heat until it becomes a thick cream. Then allow to cool and apply to the hair along its entire length for 1-1.5 hours. Wash out with shampoo for dyed hair.

Cooking Applications

The royal nut is very widespread in the kitchen. It is used as a spicy additive to salads, for the basis of sauces and marinades for meat, stuffing poultry, in the preparation of confectionery and dough for baking.

Dishes with walnut kernels have charm and incredible flavor, as well as being very useful. In the East no dish can do without walnuts - they are added to soups, mashed soups, in cutlets and dolma. We treat our guests with walnut jam to show our kindness and good wishes.

Mostly kernels are used as a flavoring, but there are recipes where nuts play the most important role.

Dessert - baked apple with nuts

For this, you need to take a large apple, peel the core and pulp, leaving 1 cm from the skin. Put walnuts inside and pour honey with cinnamon. Bake it for 20 minutes at 180 degrees. This dish is a treasure trove of vitamins and energy. Both children and adults will love it.

Sauce

Chop 0.5 cup of walnut kernels and 3 cloves of garlic in a blender. To the resulting pulp add finely chopped coriander, 2 teaspoons of wine vinegar, 0.5 teaspoons of red pepper, coriander and turmeric. Stir it and add 100 ml of chicken stock. Whisk thoroughly with a blender. This sauce goes well with fish, meat or poultry. It does not take more than 15 minutes to prepare, but the taste of the dish only benefits from it.

Satsivi

This is a well-known Georgian dish. It does not take long to prepare, but its bright taste leaves no one indifferent:

1. Slice and boil 1 kg of chicken breast for 15-20 minutes, then pour the broth into a cup and put the breast into the heated oven for a third hour.
2. Chop 2 onions finely and fry in vegetable oil, add 1 tablespoon of flour, stir and after 2-3 minutes pour the broth. Add 1 cup chopped nuts, 1 teaspoon each of honeysuneli, coriander and saffron and 2 tablespoons of wine vinegar.
3. Leave on low heat for 10 minutes. After that, put in the sauce finely chopped chicken and stew for another 10 minutes. Turn off the heat, add the cilantro, minced garlic and salt. Let stand under the lid for 10 minutes.

Health Hazards and Contraindications

Harm from walnuts is possible only because of their improper or excessive consumption. If the daily allowance in the absence of medical contraindications in the amount of 6-10 kernels per day for an adult person is observed, then strong harm can not bring walnuts.

But, unfortunately, despite the extensive list of useful properties, there are also some contraindications:

1. Allergies. Because of the richness of the vitamins and substances in the composition, as well as the high level of protein, walnuts are a potential allergen. Therefore, pregnant and nursing women should be very cautious about eating walnuts. This is due to the fact that even in the absence of a reaction in the mother, it can manifest itself in the child.
2. Irritable bowel syndrome, stomach ulcers, pancreatic and gallbladder diseases in the acute stage. Nuts belong to the products of long-term digestibility, so in the presence of these ailments should be abandoned altogether.
3. Neurodermitis, atopic dermatitis and other skin diseases. All these diseases are the consequences of allergic reactions. This is why foods with even minimal sensitizing activity should be excluded from the diet.

Allergy symptoms

When an allergic reaction occurs, a person immediately needs medical help. If measures are not taken in time, even a lethal outcome is possible. Therefore, you should seek help immediately if the following symptoms are noticed:

• nasal congestion and coughing;
• Itching of the mouth and nose;
• Redness and tearing of the eyes;
• swelling of the throat;
• rash;
• swelling;
• abdominal pain;
• dizziness and fainting;
• numbness of limbs and cramps.

How to choose and store

To choose the right nuts in the shell, you need to pay attention to such nuances:

1. The fruit should have the same size and uniform color without the smell of mold and decay.
2. There should be no mechanical damage or cracks on the shell.
3. The peel should be dense, dry with no dirt present.
4. The fruit should not make any sound when shaken.

To preserve nuts for a long time, the following conditions should be ensured:

1. After purchase, pour the nuts out on newspaper in a warm, dry place to dry out the shells completely, or place them in a barely warm oven for 30 minutes.
2. The temperature should be no lower than 10 degrees and no higher than 15 degrees, and they should be stored only in a cloth bag or a glass covered container.

Peeled nuts are not meant for long storage. They rot quickly, acquire an unpleasant musty odor and bitterness. After the purchase they should be consumed within 10 days and in no case be stored in a plastic bag.

Green unripe nuts should not be stored for a long time either. After purchase, they should be put in the refrigerator and used within 3-5 days.

How to split and peel

To take out the valuable kernel, you have to try hard. People have been trying for thousands of years to find the most convenient way to do this. It can only be cracked with a variety of tools.

1. The most convenient and accessible way for everyone is with a small hammer. To do this, put the nut on a cutting board with the stalk facing down and hit the back of the nut with a hammer. This method will allow the kernel to remain intact.
2. You can also use a special nutcracker. It is necessary to put a nut in it and squeeze the handles.
3. A knife with a sharp tip should be inserted between the halves and, having turned it, open them. The method is quite dangerous due to the fact that it is not so easy to insert the knife, and there is a chance of getting hurt.

How to roast

The roasting process is very simple. Roasted kernels are most often used in cooking, especially for the preparation of confectionery. The most important thing is to watch the degree of roasting. If the process is too long, the kernels lose all of their useful qualities and acquire a bitter taste.

Place the kernels on a dry frying pan, stirring constantly, and keep them on low heat until blackened. After that, put them in another, colder container, and let cool.

How to eat walnuts properly

In order that the use of walnuts brought only benefits and did not cause any harm, you need to remember about some rules of consumption and strictly adhere to them.

How much can be eaten per day.

It depends on a person's body weight, gender, physical activity and age. So, an adult man who leads an active lifestyle and is engaged in intellectual activities, it is recommended to consume up to 10 kernels a day. A woman with the same set of characteristics - 6-7 kernels. For children under 3 years - only after a doctor's recommendation, from 3 to 10 years - 3 kernels a day.

The average figure in the absence of contraindications - 6 kernels.

Can I eat at night and on an empty stomach?

Contraindications to eating on an empty stomach can only be gastrointestinal and digestive disorders. If there are no diseases, you can eat nuts in the morning in the amount of 1-2 pieces before meals, chewing thoroughly. Also a great start to the day would be nut butter.

Regarding the consumption before going to bed - nuts should be abandoned. After 6 p.m. the body and the brain do not need an energy boost, so eating nuts before bedtime can lead to the accumulation of extra pounds and will not bring any benefit.

Do they need to be washed before eating?

Both green nuts and hard-shelled fruits need treatment. As for the peeled kernels, one can only say that they must be washed if they have been sold open weight. If they were cracked with your own hands or bought in a sealed package, then it is not necessary to wash them.

Why is it bitter?

The reason for the bitter aftertaste can be due to improper harvesting or storage conditions. But most often bitterness is felt because the kernels have a thin film. To get rid of it, you can:

1. Pour boiling water over the kernels for 15 minutes - the thin peel will swell and you can easily remove it.
2. Put in the oven for a few minutes - the film will peel off on its own.

To avoid this problem, when buying peeled kernels, choose a dark brown color. They will not be bitter.

Can I give it to animals

Walnuts belong to the prohibited products for pets. Their consumption is strictly prohibited in any form. They contain a large concentrated dose of toxins that paralyze the nervous system of animals. The liver and gastrointestinal tract of animals are unable to digest so many plant enzymes.

Regarding dogs: fruit in dense shells should be kept as far away from them as possible. The animal may bite the fruit, swallowing it with the shell. Not only is this part of the nut not digestible, but it can also damage the mucosa.

Interesting facts

1. Nuts appeared in Russia in the XII century thanks to Byzantine monks.
2. The tree can grow up to 25 m, and in the volume of the trunk - up to 7 m. The average life span of the tree is 150 years.
3. Activated charcoal is produced from the burnt rind of the walnut.
4. High quality furniture is made of walnut wood. And even the chairs from the novel of the same name by Ilf and Petrov were made from it.
5. To get the maximum benefit from the walnut, it should be chewed for at least 1 minute.

Photo of walnuts