Walnut
Walnut
Walnut is an essential nut which not only acts as a memory enhancer but also has various medicinal properties.
Walnuts are a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids which are essential good fats that help reduce the risk of heart diseases. Walnuts are also considered as a super food for brain health due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Adding some Walnuts to the daily diet might help improve fertility in men as they improve the quality and quantity of sperm due to the presence of certain important fatty acids and nutrients.
The oil extracted from Walnuts has various benefits and is used in the cosmetic industry. It prevents acne, helps manage dry skin and prevent wrinkles, giving the skin a youthful glow[2-4][6].
Walnuts are a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids which are essential good fats that help reduce the risk of heart diseases. Walnuts are also considered as a super food for brain health due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Adding some Walnuts to the daily diet might help improve fertility in men as they improve the quality and quantity of sperm due to the presence of certain important fatty acids and nutrients.
The oil extracted from Walnuts has various benefits and is used in the cosmetic industry. It prevents acne, helps manage dry skin and prevent wrinkles, giving the skin a youthful glow[2-4][6].
What are the synonyms of Walnut?
Juglans regia, Aksota, Sailabhava, Karparala, Akalbasing, Aakharotu, Akharoda, Akharot, Akrod pappu, Akrottu, Akrod, Akrod, Akharota, Akrotu
What is the source of Walnut?
Plant Based
Benefits of Walnut
Modern Science View
Walnut might help reduce the risk of coronary heart disease. It prevents damage of blood vessels. This is due to its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and lipid-lowering properties[5][8].
Modern Science View
Studies state that Walnut might help reduce the level of LDL or bad cholesterol[5][7].
Ayurvedic View
High cholesterol is due to an imbalance of Pachak Agni (digestive fire). Impaired digestion at the tissue level produces Ama (toxic remains in the body due to improper digestion). This causes accumulation of bad cholesterol and blockage in the blood vessels. Walnut helps to improve Agni (digestive fire) and reduce Ama. This is due to its Ushna (hot) potency. It also helps to remove blockage from the blood vessels by eliminating toxins.
Modern Science View
Walnut can be used for the management of diarrhea[5][9].
Modern Science View
No, Walnuts does not have any significant effect on blood sugar levels. It might help regulate body weight or blood pressure but no impact on blood sugar levels[8][9].
Ayurvedic View
Diabetes also known as Madhumeha is due to an aggravation of Vata and impaired digestion. Impaired digestion leads to an accumulation of Ama (toxic remains in the body due to improper digestion) in the pancreatic cells and impairs the function of insulin. Regular intake of Walnut helps to correct impaired digestion and reduces Ama. This is due its Ushna(hot) and Vata balancing properties.
How effective is Walnut?
Likely effective
Coronary artery disease, High cholesterol
Insufficient evidence
Anemia, Diabetes, Diarrhea, Swelling
Precautions when using Walnut
Advice from Experts
Modern Science View
Walnut should be consumed in a specific dose and for a specific time period as it may cause certain side effects. Its is generally advised to consult your doctor while taking Walnut[2].
Breastfeeding
Modern Science View
It is safe to take Walnuts in food amounts. However, it is advisable to consult your doctor before taking Walnut supplements during breastfeeding[5].
Pregnancy
Modern Science View
It is safe to take Walnuts in food amounts. However, it is advisable to consult your doctor before taking Walnut supplements during pregnancy[5].
Side Effects
Important
Modern Science View
1. Bloating
2. Loose stools
3. Allergies[5].
2. Loose stools
3. Allergies[5].
FAQs about Walnut precautions
Recommended Dosage of Walnut
- Walnut Powder - ¼-½ teaspoon twice a day.
- Walnut Capsule - 1-2 capsules twice a day.
How to use Walnut
1. Raw Walnut
a. Eat raw Walnut or add it to your favorite dessert.
b. Take it as per your liking and requirement.
2. Walnut Powder
a. Take ¼-½ teaspoon Walnut Powder.
b. Add to lukewarm water and have it after lunch and dinner.
3. Walnut Capsules
a. Take 1-2 capsules of Walnut.
b. Swallow it with water preferably after meals.
a. Eat raw Walnut or add it to your favorite dessert.
b. Take it as per your liking and requirement.
2. Walnut Powder
a. Take ¼-½ teaspoon Walnut Powder.
b. Add to lukewarm water and have it after lunch and dinner.
3. Walnut Capsules
a. Take 1-2 capsules of Walnut.
b. Swallow it with water preferably after meals.
Benefits of Walnut
How effective is Walnut?
Insufficient evidence
Acne, Eczema
Anti-wrinkle
Wrinkles are due to aging, dry skin and lack of moisture. According to Ayurveda, it appears due to an aggravated Vata. Walnut oil helps in controlling wrinkles and increases moisture content in the skin. This is because of its Snigdha (oily) and Vata balancing properties.
Tip:
1. Take 2-3 drops of Walnut oil.
2. Add coconut oil to it.
3. Gently massage on the affected area to reduce dry and flaky skin.
Dead skin & Blackheads
Walnut scrub is very useful for the skin. It helps in giving a youthful skin by gently removing the dead skin. It also removes clogging from the pores of the skin as well as any impurities.
Tip
1. Take 1/2 - 1 teaspoon of Walnut powder.
2. Add honey to it and mix well.
3. Gently massage on the face and neck for 4-5 minutes.
4. Wash thoroughly with tap water.
5. Use this remedy twice a week to control blemishes and blackheads.
Wrinkles are due to aging, dry skin and lack of moisture. According to Ayurveda, it appears due to an aggravated Vata. Walnut oil helps in controlling wrinkles and increases moisture content in the skin. This is because of its Snigdha (oily) and Vata balancing properties.
Tip:
1. Take 2-3 drops of Walnut oil.
2. Add coconut oil to it.
3. Gently massage on the affected area to reduce dry and flaky skin.
Dead skin & Blackheads
Walnut scrub is very useful for the skin. It helps in giving a youthful skin by gently removing the dead skin. It also removes clogging from the pores of the skin as well as any impurities.
Tip
1. Take 1/2 - 1 teaspoon of Walnut powder.
2. Add honey to it and mix well.
3. Gently massage on the face and neck for 4-5 minutes.
4. Wash thoroughly with tap water.
5. Use this remedy twice a week to control blemishes and blackheads.
Precautions when using Walnut
Side Effects
Important
Modern Science View
Allergic Reactions[5].
Recommended Dosage of Walnut
- Walnut Powder - ½ - 1 teaspoon or as per your requirement.
- Walnut Oil - 2-5 drops or as per your requirement.
How to use Walnut
1. Walnut Scrub
a. Take ½ - 1 teaspoon of Walnut powder.
b. Add honey to it.
c. Gently massage on the face and neck for 4-5 minutes.
d. Wash thoroughly with tap water.
e. Use this remedy 2-3 times a week to get rid of blemishes and blackheads.
2. Walnut oil
a. Take 2-3 drops of Walnut oil.
b. Add coconut oil to it.
c. Gently massage on the affected area to get rid of dry and flaking skin.
a. Take ½ - 1 teaspoon of Walnut powder.
b. Add honey to it.
c. Gently massage on the face and neck for 4-5 minutes.
d. Wash thoroughly with tap water.
e. Use this remedy 2-3 times a week to get rid of blemishes and blackheads.
2. Walnut oil
a. Take 2-3 drops of Walnut oil.
b. Add coconut oil to it.
c. Gently massage on the affected area to get rid of dry and flaking skin.
Frequently asked questions
Modern Science View
Walnuts are actually the superfood for brain. It is recommended to eat 3-4 Walnuts in a day in winters and 2-3 in summers. If you are on a diet, consult your dietitian as it might contribute to your calorie intake.
Ayurvedic View
If your digestion is good or you can digest food easily then you can take upto 4-5 Walnuts on a daily basis.
Modern Science View
Soaking can be a beneficial step in case of all the nuts as they contains certain enzymes in raw form which are difficult to digest. In order to make the nuts easily digestible, it is required to soak the nuts for 5-6 hours before consuming.
Ayurvedic View
Walnuts should be soaked before eating them. This makes the Walnuts easy to digest because of its Guru (heavy) property.
Tips:
1. Take 4-5 Walnuts and leave them overnight in a bowl of water.
2. Remove the peels before eating the next day.
Tips:
1. Take 4-5 Walnuts and leave them overnight in a bowl of water.
2. Remove the peels before eating the next day.
Modern Science View
Although Almonds and Walnuts both are regarded as the best superfoods for brain. The difference comes in the level of omega 3. Almond is a rich source of Omega 3 when compared to Walnuts.
Modern Science View
According to a study, it is said that Walnuts can stay fresh for:
6 months in room temperature.
1 year in fridge.
1-2 years in freezer.
After this period, you need to check their quality before using.
6 months in room temperature.
1 year in fridge.
1-2 years in freezer.
After this period, you need to check their quality before using.
Modern Science View
Walnut has certain laxative and purgative properties. So it can make you poop and relieve your constipation. Caution is required while taking if you are suffering from diarrhoea or loose motions[4].
Ayurvedic View
If you are suffering from diarrhea then it is better to avoid Walnuts. It can worsen the condition of diarrhea due to its Rechana (laxative) property.
Modern Science View
Studies state that frequent consumption of Walnut is good for health if you are not overweight[4].
Ayurvedic View
If you are overweight and are already taking enough calories in your diet then it is better to avoided Walnuts. This is because it causes weight gain due to its Madhur (sweet) and Guru (heavy) properties.
Modern Science View
Yes, Walnuts are good for the brain. Walnut has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Walnuts prevent the degeneration of neurons due to aging. It also helps improve cognition[6].
Modern Science View
Yes, Walnuts might help improve male fertility. A study states that adding about 75g of Walnuts in the daily might help improve the quality, quantity and the morphology (normal size and shape) of sperms. This is due to the presence of certain essential fatty acids (omega-3 and 6) and other important nutrients. The leaf extract of Walnut also contains certain constituents that improve sperm count[6][7].
Ayurvedic View
Adding Walnut to your daily diet helps improve sexual weakness as well as the quantity and quality of sperm. This is because of its Vrushya (aphrodisiac) and Shukrala (increasing Shukra Dhatu) properties which helps maintain fertility in men.
Modern Science View
Yes, Walnut helps in managing high blood pressure due to the presence of certain essential fatty acid like Alpha linolenic Acid (ALA) that boost Nitric oxide (NO) production. This helps relax the narrowed blood vessels and lowers blood pressure[14][15].
Ayurvedic View
Yes, Walnut might help manage high blood pressure. It manages cholesterol levels responsible for the narrowing of arteries due to its Ushna property. This helps to digest the Ama. It also has Hrdya (heart tonic) property which helps to support the functioning of heart and reduce the symptoms of high blood pressure.
Modern Science View
Not enough scientific evidence is available to support the role of Walnuts in managing gas or flatulence.
Ayurvedic View
Walnut does not cause gas or flatulence. However, it is Guru (heavy to digest) in nature due to which it becomes hard to digest and might cause gas or flatulence if consumed in excess.
Modern Science View
No, in fact Walnut can help manage acne. It helps reduce the swelling and redness around acne due to its anti-inflammatory activity. It also inhibits the infection in the sebaceous glands (secretes an oily matter called sebum) that may cause acne[10][11].
Modern Science View
Yes, Walnut is beneficial in managing breast cancer as it prevents the growth of cancerous cells, eventually resulting in their death and removal from the body. It also reduces the multiplication of cancer cells in the breast due to the presence of certain fatty acids which then reduce the risk of breast cancer[12].
Modern Science View
Although not enough evidence is available, Walnut might cause certain allergic reactions on some individuals who are sensitive to it.
Ayurvedic View
Use Walnut powder or oil on the skin with coconut oil or rose water as it can cause skin allergy if you have a hypersensitive skin. This is due to its Ushna (hot) potency.
Modern Science View
There is not enough scientific evidence available to support the beneficial role of Walnut for hair. However, Walnuts are used in hair color and vitamin E in Walnut might improve hair growth[5][13].
Ayurvedic View
Walnut oil helps to control hair fall and promote hair growth when applied to the scalp. This is because hair fall is mainly due to an aggravated Vata dosha in the body. Walnut or its oil acts on hair fall by balancing Vata. It also promotes hair growth and removes excessive dryness. This is due to its Snigdha (oily) and Ropan (healing) properties.
References
- The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia Of India.Part 1 Volume 1.
- Hamdollah D, Jamshid M, Ghasem G, et al.A Review Study on Phytochemistry and Pharmacology Applications of Juglans Regia Plant.Pharmacogn Rev. 2017;11(22):145–152.
- Parle M, Khanna D.Walnut: NOT A HARD NUT TO CRACK.IRJP.2011;2(5):8-17.
- Gupta C, Upadhayaya A,Sharma N.AKSHOTAKA HERB USED IN ANCIENT INDIAN MEDICINE- LITERARY AND PHARMACOLOGICAL REVIEW.WJPLS. 2017;3(7):73-77.
- WebMD.English Walnut: Uses, Side effects, Doses, Interactions [Internet].Atlanta [last updated in 2016].
- Robbins WA, Xun L, FitzGerald LZ et al.Walnuts improve semen quality in men consuming a western-style diet: randomized control dietary intervention trial.Biology of Reproduction.2012;87(4),101:1–8.
- Akomolafe SF, Oboh G. Walnut leaf extract acts as a fertility agent in male Wistar albino rats - A search for herbal male fertility enhancer. J Complement Integr Med. 2017 Nov 17;15(2).
- Rabiei K, Ebrahimzadeh MA, Saeedi M,et al. Effects of a hydroalcoholic extract of Juglans regia (walnut) leaves on blood glucose and major cardiovascular risk factors in type 2 diabetic patients: a double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial. BMC Complement Altern Med. 2018;18(1):2-7.
- Njike VY, Ayettey R, Petrarao P, et al.Walnut ingestion in adults at risk for diabetes: effects on body composition, diet quality, and cardiac risk measures.BMJ Journals.2015.
- Kılıç S, Okullu SÖ, Kurt Ö,et al. Efficacy of two plant extracts against acne vulgaris: Initial results of microbiological tests and cell culture studies. J Cosmet Dermatol.2018.
- Rowe W.Eat Beautiful: Nourish your skin from the inside out.Random house.2016.
- Hardman WE, Primerano DA, Legenza MT,et al. Dietary walnut altered gene expressions related to tumor growth, survival, and metastasis in breast cancer patients: a pilot clinical trial. Nutr Res. 2019;25(2019):1-28.
- Mersin S.Top 100 Foods for a Younger You: 100 Remedies to Turn Back the Clock.Duncan Baird Publishers.2016.
- Domènech M, Serra-Mir M, Roth I, et al. Effect of a Walnut Diet on Office and 24-Hour Ambulatory Blood Pressure in Elderly Individuals. Hypertension. 2019;73(5):1049-1057.
- Ros E, Izquierdo-Pulido M, Sala-Vila A.Beneficial effects of walnut consumption on human health: role of micronutrients.Current Opinion in Clinical Nutrition & Metabolic Care.2018;21(6):498–504.
Disclaimer
The content is purely informative and educational in nature and should not be construed as medical advice. Please use the content only in consultation with an appropriate certified medical or healthcare professional.