By Dr. med. Claudia Schmiemann
The almond tree (prunus amygdalus) is native to Iran and surrounding countries. Almonds are known to be one of the first domesticated fruit trees. It spread from South Eastern Asia to the North of Africa and later to California. This US State produces nowadays 50 % of the world harvest followed by Australia, Spain and Iran.
The almond is the seed of the tree that develops 7-8 months after blooming. It is used for baking (often blanched, as almond flower or split), for marzipan (a sweet almond paste that is often combined with chocolate), for almond butter or in snack blends.
Almonds are a multi-faceted food that provides us with lots of healthy nutrients. Moreover it helps to alkalize our body.
It is rich in fiber, protein, monosaturated fats and contains anti-oxidants. Vitamin E, Potassium and Magnesium can help to control blood sugar and blood pressure and therefore contribute to heart health. The content of linoleic acid helps to reduce inflammation – that is great if you deal with chronic inflammation like Lyme, Arthritis or other inflammatory processes in your body.
Try to find organically grown almonds – there is a whole discussion about how much water almond trees need and how to provide it as well as how to secure the pollination in times when honey bees are endangered.
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