The Health Properties of the Almond Plant
From its origins east of Pakistan, the almond plant and its fruit, the almond, have taken the world by storm. It is one of the most highly cultivated nut plants in the world and has many health, culinary and industrial uses. Let us just consider the health properties of the almond plant.
WARNING: Almonds may cause moderate to severe allergic reactions in some. If you are susceptible to nut or peach allergies, your risk for almond allergies are also higher. Mild symptoms may include an itching or burning sensation in the mouth, throat, or sinuses. Oral inflammation may also occur as well as tearing, nausea, diarrhea, and sometimes vomiting. Contact with skin may also cause irritation. More severe symptoms may include anaphylactic shock, and extreme digestive and breathing problems.
Be sure to get help immediately if these symptoms arise. Consult a doctor if you believe you may be at risk for such reactions.
Properties of the Almond
There are two kinds of almonds, bitter and sweet. Throughout the world, bakers use the almond plant and its fruit in breads. This is because the sweet almond is about one-quarter carbohydrates. Half of these carbs are fibers, and a quarter, sugars. It is also free of glutens, which makes it an even more popular flour surrogate in cooking.
Low Carbohydrate Diets
Dieters on low-carb diets have found almond plant flour a useful substitute for regular flour.
Diabetes Sufferers
Diabetes sufferers have also found almond plant flour a useful surrogate for flour when baking. Studies however, have shown that an almond enriched diet may not actually have any positive effect on LDL cholesterol levels when taken by actual diabetics. In addition, these studies have shown that the average weight of diabetics tended to increase with a high almond diet.
Wheat Allergies
Those with allergies to regular flour also use almond plant flour in place of the regular variety of flour. This is because almond flour is free of gluten, the sugar that so many find the source of their wheat allergies.
Source of Vitamin E
Almonds are also a major repository of vitamin E. Studies have shown that low levels of Vitamin E may lead to neurological problems, while high levels of Vitamin E, when taken prior to conception, may help prevent congenital heart defects. Furthermore, Vitamin E may also help ward off stroke.
Cholesterol Reducer
Several studies have shown that almonds also play a positive role in reducing the fats that increase the levels of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol. Researchers in a human study showed that almonds helped to reduce the levels of this negative LDL cholesterol by an average one tenth, while at the same time boosting the levels of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (the good cholesterol) by as much as one twentieth.
Clears up Acne
One of the more dubious claims for almonds is that it will help clear up facial acne. There is shaky evidence for this.
Cancer Fighter?
Some studies suggest that almonds may also help prevent colon cancer by helping move waste through the colon. It is unclear whether these colon-cleansing properties are valid.
As an Aid to General Health
Following traditional Hindu medicine, researchers have largely confirmed that almonds help prevent inflammation and increase immunity to certain pathogens. In ancient India, medicine men believed almonds helped the brain remain healthy and quick-witted even into the advances of age. Roghun Badam, an almond plant extract, was a favorite aphrodisiac applied directly to the skin during sensual massage and sometimes ingested orally as well.
So as you can see, almonds are a wonderful addition to your diet.