Pine nuts in folk medicine
Nuts are a popular addition to ordinary dishes because they improve texture and flavor, but how often does one consider the health benefits of nuts, particularly pine nuts? There are many herbal remedies derived from pine nuts, which may stimulate memory, treat herpes, and improve heart health and lower cholesterol. Pine nuts, often considered exotic, are more readily available than ever in mainstream supermarkets as well as specialty health food stores. The pine nut, as the name implies, comes from the pine tree, where the nuts are nestled within the hard scales of the pine cone. Pine nuts have a mild, creamy flavor and are fragrant. They are a staple ingredient for pesto, an Italian pasta sauce, and many other dishes from Southern Europe.
Among other homeopathic uses of pine nuts is to increase energy. Pine nuts are high in protein and monosaturated fats, which provide enough energy and stamina for athletic events. They’re also great for dealing with pressure, like that of an exam or important interview. Monosaturated fats can stimulate brain activity, and like fish and fish oils, can be considered brain food for their benefits to the brain.
While there is no cure for herpes, a diet high in the amino acid lysine has shown to inhibit herpes outbreaks substantially. Pine nuts are considered a herbal medicine in preventing herpes outbreaks just by adding nuts to meals or snacks. Experts say that, just a small amount will substantially increase one’s intake of lysine, which prevents the replication of the herpes simplex virus. One should avoid foods high in arginine because this amino acid can encourage herpes outbreaks. Therefore, while increasing one’s intake of pine nuts, one should avoid peanuts, a fact which proves that not all nuts are created equal.
Homeopathic uses of pine nuts also include promoting heart health, lower cholesterol and weight loss which in turn reduces acid indegestion. Since pine nuts, like all other nuts, have a relatively high fat content, this tip may seem surprising. However, nuts are high in monosaturated fats, which have been shown to lower cholesterol in some studies. Perhaps one reason is that one’s natural craving for fats is satisfied by eating healthy, low cholesterol nuts rather than chips, cookies and snacks which contain unhealthy fats. While there are many factors involved, studies have shown that monosaturated fats can lower unhealthy cholesterol levels in the blood.
Monosaturated fats are not the sole agents in promoting heart health; pine nuts also contain fiber, Vitamin E, alpha-linolenic acid, oleic acid, magnesium, potassium and arginine, which all promote heart health. Replacing eggs and cheese with nuts can prevent a heart attack, obesity and slow the destructive effects of heart disease. Unfortunately, many people who have already been diagnosed with heart disease often give up hope and decide not to make positive changes in their diet. Pine nuts contain agents which not only prevent heart disease, but can keep the disease from developing further. While the effects of the disease are unlikely to be reversed, they can be halted or at least slowed by the consumption of foods high in fiber, minerals and monosaturated fats, such as pine nuts.
Disclaimer
The sole purpose of this article is to provide information about the tradition of ayurveda. This information is not intended for use in the diagnosis, prevention or cure of any disease. If you have any serious, acute or chronic health concern, please consult a trained health professional who can fully assess your needs and address them effectively.
