Bitter almonds: description, properties, benefits and harms

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Bitter almonds: description, properties, benefits and harms
Bitter almonds: description, properties, benefits and harms
Anonim

It is generally accepted that almonds are nuts. But this is not so, it refers to stone fruits. And the fruit itself is actually an ordinary drupe. Almonds are valued for the nutritious core they contain.

There are basically two types of almonds - bitter and sweet. If everything is known about the first, then the second always remains in the shadows. So let's talk about bitter almonds.

A bit of history

Ancient Egypt knew about the healing properties of almonds. In addition, the Egyptians revered it as a symbol of the spring rebirth of all nature. In the Persian state, almonds were considered the food of exclusively we althy residents and were served as an exquisite delicacy. And in the Bible, this is a sign of approval of the actions and actions of Aaron.

The legendary Silk Road helped the almond reach the Mediterranean coast. And in the XVIII century, thanks to the Franciscans, an exotic product came to the United States. The state of California is now the main supplier of quality almonds.

bitter almond
bitter almond

Modernity

During the Great Patriotic War, this plant became the embodiment of resilience. On Malakhov Kurgan, where there was not even a meter of unexploded earth, almonds survived. Wood,the only one that remained intact was cut by bullets and shrapnel, with broken branches and barely holding on to its roots. And yet it survived. For many decades, every spring it blooms magnificently, giving a generous harvest.

At present, almonds have chosen the mountains of the Tien Shan, Kazakhstan, Afghanistan, Turkmenistan, northern Iran. In Crimea, mainly sweet varieties of nuts are grown. In Slovakia, it is planted mixed with grapes. Both grapes and almonds benefit from such a neighborhood. The tree protects the vine from the winds and the hot sun.

Where applicable

Bitter varieties of almonds are widely used in perfumery. Various fragrances for eau de toilette and perfumes are produced from the oil. They make high-quality toilet soap and healing creams from it.

Bitter almonds are part of expensive alcohol. Not only the kernel goes into production, but also the shell. It flavors and improves the taste of liqueurs. For example, almonds are added to Amaretto liqueur, which gives this drink a refined and rich taste.

In medicine, bitter almond infusion is known as a sedative (sedative) remedy. Fatty oil is used for injection, it dissolves camphor well. Considered a mild laxative. Scientists recommend it for patients with radiation sickness.

smell of bitter almonds
smell of bitter almonds

In the confectionery industry, the nut kernel is used as a flavoring agent in cakes, pastries, various desserts, muffins. The smell of bitter almonds cannot be confused with any other aroma. It is so fragrant, thin and delicious!

Nut Composition

Basicthe difference between bitter almonds and sweet ones is in the composition of the nut. The kernels of the bitter nut are rich in glycoside, which, in turn, quickly decomposes into sugars, benzaldehydes and into hydrogen cyanide or hydrocyanic acid. It is a highly poisonous substance, leading to death.

Lethal dose for a child - 10 pieces, for an adult - 50 pieces. That is why walnut kernels should not be consumed without preliminary heat treatment.

What are the benefits of almonds for women

But despite the fact that almonds in large quantities are harmful, you should not be biased towards them. It has many useful qualities:

• Almond milk smoothes wrinkles on the face, making it smooth and elastic.

• Selected quality fat (almond oil) is used for massage.

• Infusion of bitter almond kernels effectively removes freckles, age spots.

• The nut kernel contains a lot of protein, carbohydrates, vitamins B, E and PP.

• Contains potassium, sodium, iron, magnesium.

• Bitter almond - excellent a preventive against cancer.

• Raw nuts improve the functioning of the digestive tract and strengthen the circulatory system.

• Almonds relieve migraines, tachycardia, and fight insomnia.

• Almonds combined with wine relieves scalp from dandruff.• Crushed walnut treats cough, asthma attacks, pleurisy.

benefits of almonds for women
benefits of almonds for women

In addition, bitter almond extract copes with stretch marks and cellulite. A few nut kernels a day will make hair thick, eyelashes - fluffy, teeth and nails -strong. Bitter almonds will prolong and preserve beauty and youth for many years.

Women who consume several almond kernels during menopause easily and painlessly endure this unpleasant condition.

Bitter Almond Oil gently and effectively removes make-up, and during a massage makes the skin of the body velvety and smooth.

Contraindications

Like everything that nature gives us, bitter almonds also have a ban on their use.

• It is strictly forbidden to consume a large number of nut kernels. 2-3 pieces per day is enough to cover the daily requirement.

• Almonds are also a strong allergen. People suffering from allergic reactions should not eat it.

• Almonds are high in calories. Excessive consumption can lead to the appearance of extra pounds.

• It is forbidden to eat unripe nuts, this leads to severe food poisoning.

• Pregnant women should be very careful about bitter almonds.• Children should be especially carefully monitored, a dose of more than 10 pieces is fatal.

bitter almond oil
bitter almond oil

But despite the list of contraindications, the benefits of almonds for a woman are obvious. Therefore, it is simply necessary to use funds from it and eat several cores a day.

Not to mention the almond blossom. It is surprisingly touching and pure. Pink, white and deep pink flowers bloom in early spring. The buds open before the leaves appear. Therefore, spring frosts often destroy the entireovaries on trees.

almond tree
almond tree

Almond blossom is amazing and lasts for several weeks. The trees are strewn with pale pink flowers, which, with their spicy smell, attract swarms of hungry bees after hibernation. A little more, and the petals will swirl in a pink blizzard, lying under the feet of a delicate silk tablecloth.

This plant is very unpretentious, grows anywhere. The main thing is to have a lot of light and heat. The almond tree is a long-liver. 130-150 years - this is the period of his life. And this is not the limit.

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