About Walnuts

Walnuts are the fruit of the Juglans regia tree. The term “juglans regia” is derived from the Latin word ‘Jovis Glans’, which means ‘nuts for the Gods’. In many parts of the world, walnuts were considered to be the food of the Gods, and so, the term regia or regal is used for defining these nuts.

History of Walnuts

Walnuts were first cultivated in Persia. These nuts were initially cultivated in Asia and southeastern Europe. History suggests that Greeks used walnut oil in fourth century BC to create beautiful paintings. A group of Franciscan priests brought walnuts to America in 1770.

There are different views as to how these nuts loaded with Omega 3 fatty acids got their name. Some believe that the name “walnut” is derived from the German word “wallnuss orvelsche nuss”, while other believe that the name has been derived from the Anglo Saxon word “wealh” meaning alien and “huntu”, which means nuts.

Health Benefits of Walnuts

•     Walnuts are rich sources of Vitamin B and E, calcium, manganese, potassium, and protein. This super food is considered to be food for the brain and improves brain function significantly.
•     These nuts contain alpha linoleic Omega 3 fatty acids, which curb food cravings and aid weight loss.
•     FDA recommends eating a handful of walnuts everyday to lower LDL levels and to improve overall lipid profile.
•     Walnuts are effective in preventing depression and anxiety and regulating blood sugar levels in people suffering from diabetes.
•     Walnuts are very powerful antioxidants and possess anti-inflammatory properties.