Almond seed is regarded as a nutritional powerhouse and its milk is used as an alternative to cow milk. They are considered the symbol of enduring sadness and female beauty by the Chinese. Further, they are regarded religiously by Christianity and Jewish people.
The consumption of almonds contributes to a balanced nutrient intake, which is crucial for maintaining a healthy lifestyle. The absence of certain essential elements in the body can lead to an imbalance, resulting in stress and anxiety, which in turn leads to several chronic diseases.
Introduction
Almond is classified in the genus Prunus which includes cherries, plums, apricots, and peaches. It has around 430 species that spread throughout northern temperate regions of the globe. Almonds are the seeds of fruits that are cultivated from an almond tree.
Botanical name (Prunus amygdalus), Arabic (لوز lwz), Bangal (বাদাম Badama), Hindi (बादाम Baadaam), Urdu (بادام Baadaam)
Almond Plant
Almond is a small, deciduous tree with greyish-brown bark and lanceolate to elliptic-lanceolate leaves. It bears white to pink flowers and oblong-ovoid drupes measuring 3-6 cm.
The drupe’s outer covering is a thick, leathery hull with a woody, reticulated endocarp containing an edible seed, commonly known as a nut.
The almond tree and its fruit have significant economic, culinary, and nutritional value, making it an important species both commercially and culturally.
Domesticated almonds are not toxic, unlike their wild counterparts, which contain the glycoside amygdalin that turns into deadly prussic acid.
The sweet type of almonds was selected from the many bitter types in the wild, marking the beginning of almond domestication. The domesticated almonds were among the earliest fruit trees to be domesticated and were present in archaeological sites dating back to the Early Bronze Age.
Almond Native Area
Southwestern Asia and the Levant area currently leading producers are the USA, Spain, Australia, China, Iran, Turkey, Morocco, Syria, Italy, and Tunisia
Temperament Group (Potency)
Almonds have Warm 1°, moist 1° temperament
Taste
Almond seeds are sweet nutty or bitter, usually domesticated plants produce only sweet seeds.
Almond Usages
Almonds are consumed raw and also use as an ingredient in casseroles, salads, casseroles, Sweets, and other dishes. Their milk is used as an alternative to cow’s milk. Almond Oil is used both orally and for massaging.
Nutritional Composition
One cup (143 g) Serving of raw almonds seed contains 6.31 g of water and provides 828 Kcal energy. Other components are:
Total Fat | 71.4 g | Amino acids | |
Carbohydrate | 30.82 g | Glutamic acid | 8.875 g |
Protein | 30.24 g | Aspartic acid | 3.774 g |
Dietary Fiber | 17.9 g | Arginine | 3.525 g |
Ash | 4.25 g | Leucine | 2.106 g |
Starch | 1.03 g | Glycine | 2.043 g |
Sugars | Phenylalanine | 1.619 g | |
Sucrose | 5.65 g | Alanine | 1.429 g |
Glucose (dextrose) | 0.24 g | Proline | 1.386 g |
Fructose | 0.16 g | Serine | 1.304 g |
Maltose | 0.06 g | Valine | 1.223 g |
Galactose | 0.1 g | Isoleucine | 1.074 g |
Vitamins | Threonine | 0.859 g | |
Choline | 74.5 mg | Lysine | 0.812 g |
Vitamin E | 36.7 mg | Histidine | 0.771 g |
Vitamin B3 | 5.17 mg | Tyrosine | 0.644 g |
Tocopherol, gamma | 0.92 mg | Cystine | 0.307 g |
Betaine | 0.7 mg | Tryptophan | 0.302 g |
Vitamin B5 | 0.67 mg | Methionine | 0.225 g |
Tocopherol, beta | 0.33 mg | Minerals | |
Vitamin B1 | 0.29 mg | Potassium | 1.05 g |
Vitamin B6 | 0.2 mg | Phosphorus | 688 mg |
Vitamin B2 | 1.63 mg | Magnesium | 386 mg |
Tocopherol, delta | 0.1 mg | Calcium | 385 mg |
Vitamin B9 | 63 µg | Iron | 5.31 mg |
Folate, food | 63 µg | Zinc | 4.46 mg |
Folate, DEF | 63 µg | Manganese | 3.12 mg |
Beta Carotene | 1 µg | Copper | 1.47 mg |
Lutein + zeaxanthin | 1 µg | Sodium | 1 mg |
Vitamin A | 0.9 µg | Selenium | 5.9 µg |
Fatty Acids (Total) | Flavan-3-ols | 6.4 mg | |
Saturated | 5.437 g | Flavanones | 1 mg |
Monounsaturated | 45.12 g | Flavonols | 4.9 mg |
Polyunsaturated | 17.63 g | Isoflavones | 0.05 mg |
Almond Efficacy and Health Benefits
In addition to being a delicious and versatile food, almonds also have several health benefits. They are a good source of healthy fats, fiber, protein, and various vitamins and minerals, including vitamin E, magnesium, and potassium. Additionally, it consists of zinc, selenium, copper, and niacin.
Scientific evidence proves that they are effective in Eugeroic, Nutritive, Sedative, Exhilarative, Aphrodisiac, anti-inflammatory, Anti-Oxidant, Cardiotonic, Anti-Carcinogenic, Aperitive, and Immunity booster.
It aids in weight management and lowers the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. When compared with all the other nuts, almonds are the most full of nutrients as well as advantageous elements.
Maintain Brain Health
Almonds possess a copious amount of nutrients that facilitate the advancement and sustenance of the brain’s well-being. This nut is interrelated with an elevated cognitive aptitude and is deemed a fundamental sustenance for maturing juveniles.
Dried fruits embrace two indispensable cerebral nutrients, L-carnitine and riboflavin, which are linked to intellectual activities that yield novel neuronal pathways and a reduced incidence of Alzheimer’s ailment.
Several scrutinies have validated the inclusion of almonds in one’s diet. Immerse the almonds and tender them to the offspring at the inception of each day.
Effective Immunity Booster
Almonds are endowed with an element possessing alkaline properties which functions to bolster the immune system and heighten the capacity to combat various health conditions and afflictions.
In addition to containing copious amounts of alkaline, they boast a high concentration of Vitamin E, a vital antioxidant that effectively eradicates destructive free radicals from the body.
The presence of antioxidants, such as Vitamin E, has an influential impact on health conditions like cancer and heart disease.
Maintain Hearth Health
Almonds contain potassium, protein, and mono-unsaturated fats that are highly beneficial to heart health. Vitamin E, an antioxidant, reduces the likelihood of heart disease, while the presence of magnesium helps prevent heart attacks.
This powerful nut is also a rich source of folic acid, which effectively lowers levels of homocysteine, the culprit behind the buildup of fatty plaque in arteries. In addition, the flavonoids found in the skin of almonds provide a formidable barrier against damage to the walls of arteries.
All of these combined properties make almonds an excellent food for maintaining heart health.
Maintain Cholesterol
Researchers have found that daily consumption of almonds enhances high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol levels and reduces low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels.
Maintaining a healthy balance between these two forms of cholesterol is crucial for reducing the quantity of LDL cholesterol and sustaining healthy cholesterol levels.
Regulate Blood Pressure
Almonds contain potassium, a vital mineral that aids in the regulation of blood pressure. Additionally, their low sodium content helps to stabilize blood pressure levels. Scientists have observed that incorporating almonds into one’s diet can have significant positive impacts on blood pressure regulation.
Promote Bone Health
Almonds provide an excellent source of minerals, vitamins, and phosphorus, which play a vital role in strengthening bones and teeth and preventing age-associated conditions like osteoporosis.
Control Blood Sugar Levels
Almonds have a low glycemic index, which means they can help regulate blood sugar levels. They are also rich in magnesium, which is essential for insulin function and glucose metabolism. Studies have shown that consuming almonds can help improve insulin sensitivity and reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes.
Aid in Weight Management
Despite being calorie-dense, almonds can aid in weight loss. They are high in protein and fiber, which can help reduce appetite and promote feelings of fullness. Studies have shown that including almonds in your diet can help reduce belly fat and overall body weight.
Unsweetened almond milk may prove to be a useful adjunct for those striving to shed pounds. Almonds harbor monounsaturated fats that satiate hunger and prevent overindulgence.
The inclusion of dietary fiber in this beverage produces a sense of satiety. Recent studies have demonstrated that a low-calorie diet rich in almonds may help combat obesity and facilitate the elimination of excess adipose tissue.
Interestingly, fluctuations in weight may be attenuated by the consistent consumption of almonds, which is likely attributable to the role of fiber in fostering regularity and expelling harmful toxins.
Promote Skin Health
Almonds are rich in vitamin E, which is essential for healthy skin. Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant that helps protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals. Studies have shown that consuming almonds can help improve skin health and reduce signs of aging.
Acts as Anti-Inflammatory
Almonds are rich in healthy fats and antioxidants, which have anti-inflammatory properties. Chronic inflammation has been linked to various health problems, including heart disease, cancer, and Alzheimer’s disease. Consuming almonds can help reduce inflammation and lower the risk of chronic diseases.
Aids in Cancer Prevention
Studies have shown that consuming almonds can help reduce the risk of certain types of cancer, including breast, colon, and prostate cancer. The high levels of antioxidants and fiber in almonds may help prevent cancer cells from growing and spreading.
Improve Vigor and Vitality
Almonds are rich in copper, manganese, and riboflavin, which are essential in the process of producing energy and promoting metabolic activity.
These nutrients aid in the conversion of food into fuel, powering the body’s physiological functions.
When one is required to maintain an active lifestyle, carrying dry fruits is an excellent choice as they provide a nutritious source of energy without compromising on excessive calories or fat intake.
Almond Strong Aphrodisiac
Almonds have been traditionally used to improve sexual performance and treat sexual debility. They are believed to increase libido and improve overall sexual health.
Almonds are a rich source of nutrients such as zinc, selenium, and vitamin E, which are essential for reproductive health. They are also natural aphrodisiacs, which can help to stimulate sexual desire.
In addition, almonds have been found to improve blood flow and reduce inflammation, which can help to improve erectile function in men.
Overall, the efficacy of almonds in treating sexual debility is supported by traditional use and some scientific evidence.
Effective for Pregnant Women
Almonds contain folic acid, which aids in the mitigation of birth defects in newborns by promoting proper cell growth and tissue formation.
Neural tube defects, which occur when the neural tube is either underdeveloped or partially formed in a fetus, can be prevented with the assistance of pregnant women.
Almonds’ folic acid content is beneficial to both the mothers and their offspring by ensuring proper neural tube development.
Tonic for Children
Almonds are an excellent source of nutrients for growing children, including protein, fiber, healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals.
Regular consumption of almonds may improve cognitive function, bone health, and overall growth and development in children.
Almonds are a convenient and healthy snack option that can be incorporated into a child’s diet in various forms, such as almond butter, milk, or whole almonds.
However, it is important to note that children with nut allergies should avoid consuming almonds and other nuts.
Improve Skin Complexion
Almonds are known to be effective in improving skin complexion. A combination of equal parts almond oil and honey can be applied to the face to achieve this.
Additionally, a paste made from almonds, milk cream, and coconut oil can be applied to the exposed skin to protect it from sunburn. Almonds are also known to have anti-aging properties and can help reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines on the skin.
Alleviate Anxiety
Almonds contain nutrients such as magnesium and vitamin E, which are known to promote relaxation and reduce anxiety symptoms.
Studies suggest that incorporating almonds into the diet may help alleviate anxiety and stress-related symptoms. However, more research is needed to fully understand the relationship between almond consumption and anxiety relief.
Almond Oil, Versatile Remedy
Almond oil is a highly versatile and beneficial oil with numerous uses in skincare, hair care, and overall health. It is rich in vitamin E, which is essential for maintaining healthy skin and hair.
Almond oil is a great moisturizer for the skin, and its regular use can help improve skin tone, reduce dark circles, and prevent signs of aging. It can also be used as a natural makeup remover and is gentle enough to use around the eyes.
Almond oil can also be used as a hair conditioner, helping to nourish and strengthen hair, while promoting growth and preventing split ends. In addition, almond oil is used in aromatherapy and as a massage oil due to its pleasant aroma and therapeutic properties.
It is also used in cooking, and is a healthy alternative to other cooking oils, as it contains healthy fats and is low in saturated fat. Overall, almond oil is a highly beneficial oil with a wide range of uses for both health and beauty.
Almond’s Folk Usage
People use it as a remedy for constipation, cough, cold, dyspnea, gingivitis, eruption, itch, heartburn, spasms, sores, peptic ulcers, and stomatitis.
Some consider the leaves helpful for treating diabetes and also for treating wounds and skin problems. In South and Central America, they use a tonic prepared from young leaves to cure colic in babies.
Furthermore, in Mexico, people use almond fruit to treat asthma and provide relief from coughs.
Conclusion
Almonds are a delicious and nutritious food that can be enjoyed in various forms. Almonds have a variety of medicinal uses.
They are beneficial for growing children and can be soaked in warm water, ground into a paste, and mixed with milk and honey for daily consumption.
Almonds are also useful for general debility and convalescence. Soaking and grinding them into a fine paste and blending them with buttermilk, ripe banana, and honey can provide a perfect food supplement. Almonds can increase libido and improve sexual performance in cases of frigidity.
They are also helpful for constipation, head lice, toothaches, gum diseases, psoriasis, muscle sprains, and insomnia.
You can combine almond oil with other ingredients to improve your skin complexion and protect it from sunburn.
In South-East Asia, people use the leaves to cure dysentery, and in Mexico, they use almond fruit to treat asthma and coughs. Moreover, many believe that almonds promote longevity and a high intellectual level.
FAQs
What is the recommended daily serving of almonds?
The recommended serving size for almonds is about 1 ounce or 28 grams.
Is consuming roasted almonds healthy?
Roasting almonds can slightly reduce their nutrient content, but they are still a healthy snack option in moderation.
Do almonds help with hair growth?
Almonds are a good source of biotin, which is essential for healthy hair and nails. Consuming almonds may help promote hair growth and improve overall hair health.
Is almond milk a suitable dairy alternative?
Yes, almond milk is a popular dairy alternative that is lower in calories and fat than regular milk. It is also a good source of calcium and vitamin D.
Can almonds cause allergies?
Almonds are a common allergen and can cause allergic reactions in some people. If you have a nut allergy, it’s important to avoid almonds and other nuts.
References:
http://www.indianalmondleaves.com/folkmedicine.php
http://www.askdrmao.com/natural-health-dictionary
Id like to thank you for the efforts you have put in penning this site. Im hoping to see the same high-grade blog posts by you in the future as well. In fact, your creative writing abilities has inspired me to get my own site now 😉