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 drupes. Almonds are valued for the nutritious kernel that is in it.
Basically, two types of almonds are known - bitter and sweet. If everything is known about the first, then the second always remains in the shadows. So the conversation will be about bitter almonds.
A bit of history
Ancient Egypt knew about the healing properties of almonds. In addition, the Egyptians revered him as a symbol of the spring revival of all nature. In the Persian state, almonds were considered the food of extremely wealthy residents and served as an exquisite delicacy. And in the Bible it is a sign of approval of the actions and actions of Aaron.
The legendary Silk Road has helped almonds reach the Mediterranean coast. And in the XVIII century, thanks to the Franciscans, an exotic product came to the USA. California is currently the main supplier of quality almonds.
Modernity
During the Great Patriotic War, this plant became the embodiment of resistance. On the Malakhov Hill, where there was not even a meter of unexploded land, the almonds survived. The tree, the only one that remained intact, was cut with bullets and fragments, with broken branches and barely kept on the vine. And still survived. For many decades, every spring, it blooms lushly, giving a bountiful harvest.
Currently, almonds have chosen the mountains of the Tien Shan, Kazakhstan, Afghanistan, Turkmenistan, northern Iran. In Crimea, mainly sweet varieties of walnut are grown. In Slovakia, it is planted mixed with grapes. Both grapes and almonds benefit from this neighborhood . The tree protects the vine from the winds and the hot sun.
Where applicable
Bitter varieties of almonds are widely used in perfumes. Various perfumes for eau de toilette and perfumes are made from oil. From it make high-quality toilet soap, therapeutic creams.
Bitter almonds are part of expensive alcohol. In production is not only the core, but also the shell. It aromatizes and improves the taste of liquors. For example, almonds are added to Amaretto liquor, which gives this drink an exquisite and rich taste.
In medicine, the infusion of bitter almonds is known as a sedative (sedative) remedy. Fatty oil is used for injection, it dissolves camphor well. It is considered a mild laxative. Scientists recommend it for patients with radiation sickness.
In the confectionery industry, the nut kernel is used as a flavoring in cakes, pastries, various desserts, muffins. The smell of bitter almonds cannot be confused with any other aroma. Such it is fragrant, thin and tasty!
Walnut composition
The main difference between bitter almonds and sweet almonds is in the composition of the nut. The kernels of bitter walnut are rich in glycoside, which, in turn, quickly decomposes into sugars, benzaldehydes and hydrogen cyanide or hydrocyanic acid. It is a strong toxic substance, leading to death.
The lethal dose for a child is 10 pieces, for an adult - 50 pieces. That is why without preliminary heat treatment, walnut kernels should not be consumed.
What are the benefits of almonds for women
But despite the fact that almonds in large quantities are harmful, do not be biased towards it. It has many useful qualities:
• Almond milk smoothes facial wrinkles, making it smooth and supple.
• Selective high-quality fat (almond oil) is used for massage.
• Infusion of bitter almond kernels effectively removes freckles, age spots.
• The kernel of a nut contains a lot of protein, carbohydrates, vitamins of groups B, E and PP.
• Contains potassium, sodium, iron, magnesium.
• Bitter almonds are an excellent cancer preventative.
• Raw nuts improve the digestive tract and strengthen the circulatory system.
• Almonds relieve the condition of migraine, tachycardia, and fight insomnia.
• Almonds together with wine will relieve scalp from dandruff.
• Crushed nut treats cough, asthma attacks, pleurisy.
In addition, bitter almond extract copes with stretch marks and cellulite. A few walnut kernels a day will make hair thick, eyelashes fluffy, teeth and nails strong. Bitter almonds will prolong and preserve the beauty and youth for many years.
Women who use several almond kernels during menopause easily and painlessly endure this unpleasant condition.
Bitter almond oil gently and well removes makeup, and during a massage session makes the skin of the body velvety and smooth.
Contraindications
Like everything that nature gives us, bitter almonds have a ban on use.
• It is strictly forbidden to use a large number of walnut kernels. 2-3 pieces per day is enough to cover the daily allowance.
• Almonds are also a strong allergen. People suffering from allergic reactions should not eat it.
• Almonds are a high-calorie product. 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.
• Particular care must be taken to monitor children; a dose of more than 10 pieces is fatal.
But despite the list of contraindications, the benefits of almonds are obvious for a woman. Therefore, it is simply necessary to use funds from it and have several cores per day.
It is impossible not to mention the flowering of almonds. It is surprisingly touching and clean. Pink, white and deep pink flowers bloom in early spring. The buds bloom before the leaves appear. Therefore, spring frosts often destroy the entire ovary on the trees.
Almond blossom is amazing and lasts for several weeks. Trees are strewn with delicate pink flowers, which attract a swarm of hungry bees after hibernation with a spicy smell. A little more, and the petals will spin in a pink blizzard, laying under the feet with a delicate silk tablecloth.
This plant is very unpretentious, grows anywhere. The main thing is that there is a lot of light and heat. Almond tree is a long-liver. 130-150 years - such is the term of his life. And this is not the limit.