Health Benefits Of Black Walnuts (Juglans nigra)
Health Benefits of Black Walnuts (Juglans nigra)
Black walnuts, scientifically known as Juglans nigra, are a type of deciduous tree native to eastern North America. They belong to the walnut family (Juglandaceae) and are also referred to as Eastern black walnut or American black walnut. Black walnuts have been an important food source for indigenous peoples and early settlers in North America for centuries.
Nutritional Profile: A Nutrient-Dense Food
Black walnuts are an excellent source of: protein, fiber, vitamin E, manganese, magnesium, copper, phosphorus, potassium.
With the highest protein of any tree nut, Black walnuts are also low in saturated fat, high in unsaturated fat, contain vitamin A, iron, minerals and fiber.
Black walnuts also contain a range of beneficial compounds, including:
- Polyphenols: Powerful antioxidants that protect against cell damage and oxidative stress.
- Flavonoids: Anti-inflammatory compounds that may help reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
In addition, black walnut hulls have unique antibacterial properties and are used in herbal medicine extracts and supplements.
Health Benefits of Black Walnuts (Juglans nigra)
1. Heart Health
The polyphenols and flavonoids in black walnuts may help lower cholesterol levels, improve blood lipid profiles, and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.
- Omega-3 fatty acids: May improve certain heart disease risk factors like high blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
- Tannins: Help lower blood pressure and decrease blood lipid levels, potentially improving heart health.
- Ellagic acid: May help prevent a narrowing of the arteries caused by plaque buildup that can lead to heart disease. (1)
2. Antibacterial properties
Black walnut hulls are high in tannins — compounds with antibacterial properties. (5) Tannins in black walnuts have antibacterial effects against Listeria, Salmonella, and E. coli — bacteria that commonly cause foodborne illnesses. (6)
A study found that black walnut hull extracts have antioxidant and antibacterial activities, preventing the growth of Staphylococcus aureus, a bacteria that can cause infections. (7)
3. Using Black Walnut Hull to Treat Parasites
Black walnut hull, specifically the hull of Juglans nigra, has been used for centuries as a natural remedy to treat various types of parasites, including:
- Tapeworms: The hull contains juglone, a compound that has been shown to be effective in expelling tapeworms from the body.
- Hookworms: Black walnut hull has been traditionally used to treat hookworm infections, which are caused by the presence of Ancylostoma duodenale and Necator americanus worms.
- Roundworms: The hull may also be effective in treating roundworms (Ascaris lumbricoides) and other types of intestinal parasites.
Used by the Indians of America as an anti-parasite, anti-bacterial, anti-viral and anti-fungal remedy. Its active ingredients are juglone, tannin and iodine.
4. Anti-Inflammatory Effects
Black walnut’s anti-inflammatory properties may help alleviate symptoms associated with conditions like arthritis, gout, and other inflammatory disorders.
5. Antioxidant Properties
The high antioxidant content in black walnuts can help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals, reducing the risk of chronic diseases such as cancer, Alzheimer’s disease, and Parkinson’s disease.
6. Neuroprotection
Black walnut’s polyphenols may have neuroprotective effects, potentially helping to prevent or slow the progression of neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.
7. Immune System Support
The antioxidants and polyphenols in black walnuts may help boost the immune system, reducing the risk of illnesses like the common cold and flu.
8. Digestive Health
According to scientific labs: “Black Walnut Hull is considered a tonic that aids digestion and the intestinal system. It helps to relieve colic, heartburn and flatulence. As a cholagogue, it stimulates the flow of bile into the intestines and is thought to ease bilious colic and pain in the spleen.”
9. Anti-Cancer Properties
Studies have shown that black walnut extract has anti-tumor compound called juglone. Test-tube studies have found this compound to significantly reduce tumor growth. (3) (4)
10. Skin and Hair Benefits
The antioxidants in black walnuts may help protect the skin from damage caused by UV rays and pollution, promoting healthy aging. Additionally, black walnut’s omega-3 fatty acids can nourish hair follicles, reducing the risk of dandruff and other scalp conditions.
How to Incorporate Black Walnuts into Your Diet
- Snack on Them: Enjoy black walnuts as a healthy snack, either plain or seasoned with herbs and spices.
- Add to Oatmeal or Yogurt: Mix chopped black walnuts into your oatmeal or yogurt for added crunch and nutrition.
- Use in Baking: Substitute black walnuts for other nuts in baked goods like muffins, cakes, and cookies.
- Make a Trail Mix: Combine black walnuts with other nuts, seeds, and dried fruits to create a nutritious trail mix.
How to Use Black Walnut Hull:
- Take as a tincture: Make your own tincture or buy pre-made at store.
- Take as a supplement: Purchase pre-made capsules containing black walnut hull extract or fill your own capsules with the ground hull.
- Black walnut hull may be more effective when combined with other natural remedies and supplements that target parasites. like wormwood and clove. You can read more here: Parasite cleanse – from “The Cure for All Diseases” by Dr. Hulda Clark
All herbs needed can be obtained from Dr. Clark Store or here.
Important Considerations:
- Consult a healthcare professional: Before using black walnut hull, consult with a holistic healthcare professional, especially if you have a weakened immune system or are taking medications.
- Monitor your body: Pay attention to any changes in your body, such as stomach upset or diarrhea, and adjust the dosage or discontinue use if necessary.
Precautions:
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding: The safety of using black walnut hull during pregnancy and breastfeeding is unclear. Consult a healthcare professional before using.
- Allergic reactions: Some individuals may be allergic to black walnut hull. Start with a small dose and monitor for any adverse reactions.
Signs You May Have Parasites and How to Get Rid of Them
Parasite cleanse – from “The Cure for All Diseases” by Dr. Hulda Clark
The information here is provided for informational purposes only. It is not presented with the intention of diagnosing or treating any disease or condition. It is in no way intended to substitute for the advice provided by your doctor or other health care professional. (Read more)
- https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/black-walnut#benefits
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15514264/
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22266044/
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19555768/
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19437486/
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18325686/
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30598739/
- “The Cure for All Diseases” by Dr. Hulda Clark
- Anthelmintic Activity of Wormwood (Artemisia absinthium L.) and Mallow (Malva sylvestris L.) against Haemonchus contortus in Sheep – https://ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7070545/
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