All walnuts have amazing health benefits, but one in particular, that is, the black walnut, has remarkable healing power.
It’s been present in humans’ diets since ancient times from America to Asia. These walnuts were found in studies to possess a long list of healing compounds with anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, neuroprotective, and other properties.
The black walnut is also known as the American walnut. This large hardwood species is part of the Juglandaceae family and it’s native to the east of North America. This wood can grow up to 100 feet in height and its roots can go deep as 10 feet!
Historically, it’s been used to alleviate fever, kidney problems, gastrointestinal issues, ulcers, snake bites, toothache, etc.
Newer studies have found the husk to be rich in chemicals that impede the growth of fungus and bacteria and may be beneficial in relieving mucosal, oral, and dermal infections.
Below, learn the best benefits of black walnuts!
The Best Health Advantages of Consuming Black Walnuts
- Soothes the skin
Black walnuts have tannins that have astringent effects.
This tightens the epidermis and mucous membranes and reduces irritation.
Black walnut can be used to relieve acne, psoriasis, eczema, viral warts, xerosis, tinea pedis, and poison ivy.
- Has antifungal and antimicrobial power
Juice from unripe black walnut hulls has been used as a natural cure for topical and localized skin fungal infections like ringworm for a long time. The biological activity of the hull is believed to be due to the juglone found in it.
Juglone’s antifungal activity has been compared to other potent antifungal agents like clotrimazole and selenium sulfide. In a study, juglone had moderate antifungal activity.
When consumed, black walnut can be of aid for hemorrhoids, constipation, and more. What’s more, in another study, juglone impeded three major enzymes of H. pylori that are associated with gastrointestinal diseases.
- Offers protection from cancer
Juglone is a quinone present in the roots, leaves, and bark of the black walnut tree. And, quinones have been associated with anti-cancer properties.
Juglone blocks the potassium channels and promotes hydrogen peroxide and impedes cancer cell transcription.
One newer study found that black walnut helped encourage cell death in colorectal cells.
- Removes parasites
Juglone impedes enzymes for metabolic function and it’s toxic to some insect herbivores. This is why some gardeners use it as a natural pesticide.
But researchers have also found it beneficial for removing parasitic worms from humans. The Pharmaceutical Society of Australia notes that black walnut is beneficial for the treatment of tapeworm, ringworm, pin or threadworm, as well as other intestinal parasites.
Therefore, black walnut is a great addition to any cleansing of parasites.
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