Almonds - Nature Cures®

Also known as Prunus dulcis var. dulcis. Previously known as Prunus amygdalus

Sweet almonds should not be confused with bitter almonds, Prunus dulcis var. amara, which are full of cyanide. Before consumption, bitter almonds must be processed to remove this poison. The stones of apricots have a similar flavour and poison content. Heating destroys the poison and all almonds sold are now heat-treated to remove traces of poison and bacteria.

Almonds are a dry fruit (not a nut) useful for convalescence, coughs and colds, strengthening the nervous system and increasing sexual vitality. Almonds are high in monounsaturated fats, the same type of health-promoting fats as are found in olive oil, which have been associated with reduced risk of heart disease.

Almonds ability to reduce heart disease risk may also be partly due to the antioxidant action of the vitamin E found in them, LDL is the form of cholesterol that has been linked to atherosclerosis and heart disease. When almonds are substituted for more traditional fats in human feeding trials, LDL cholesterol can be reduced by eight to 12%.

In addition to healthy fats and vitamin E, a handful of almonds contains almost 98 mg of magnesium. They are low in sodium and cholesterol, but 10 almonds provide 70 calories so they are best limited to five or ten per day..

Almonds promote cardiovascular health by providing 257 mg of potassium and only 0.3 mg of sodium, making them an especially good choice to in protecting against high blood pressure and atherosclerosis. They are also a good source of copper.

To best way to consume almonds it to soak them with the skins on overnight to unlock their nutrients. They make an ideal addition to a smoothie for breakfast.

Almond milk is a good alternative to those that have an intolerance to cow’s milk.

Beneficial nutrients in almonds

Fibre
Catechin
Epicatechin
Isorhamnetin
Kaempferol
Protein
Quercetin

Vitamins in almonds

Minerals in almonds

NOTE: There is an increased risk of kidney stones due to the oxalate content of almonds if consumed in excessive amounts, especially for those with kidney disorders.

Externally, sweet almond oil and pastes made from the crushed nuts can help dry skin conditions and a scrub made from crushed almond stones can treat acne.

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