Candlenuts are one of the spices with unique taste. It even has distinctive aroma that make people able to identify it quite easily. Although many people are more familiar with candlenut as ingredients of various recipes, actually it has more attractive things that many people may not know. Thus, you can check some facts about the candlenut below.
Things You Should Know About Candlenuts
Candlenuts have various names. For example in Indonesia as one of its main sources, candlenut is called as kemiri. However, other people also call it Indian walnut and even candleberry. As for the other facts, you can check these points.
- Its origin
Scientifically, candlenut is named as Aleurites Moluccanus. The name has shown its origin, and it is the Maluku Island in Indonesia. It started to get known broadly after the voyagers from the Europe came to Indonesia and brought back the spices. As for its tree, the height can reach 25 meters so it requires extra efforts to harvest. However, local farmers have their own methods to harvest and process the candlenut until it is ready to sell.
- Poisonous nut
Candlenuts are poisonous. The nuts cannot be eaten raw. It should be cooked properly to remove the poisonous substances in the nut. The effect is not only limited to digestive issues but it can be deadly because cyanide is one of its substances when it is eaten raw or undercooked. That is why people should be careful and it is always processed and cooked properly, and it cannot be eaten as how people eat other nuts.
- Good for digestive system
Although it is dangerous when it is eaten raw, it will be beneficial for digestive system when cooked properly. Candlenuts are rich of fiber so it helps the absorption process and help the bowel movement. Even, it has natural oils that can help people who have issues of constipation.
- Promote the health of heart
Candlenut can promote the level of HDL. It is often called as good cholesterol. In addition, the spice has high level of potassium that will be necessary to lower the blood pressure. Thus, the nut is very beneficial for those who want to maintain the health of their heart.
- Good for bones and joints
In addition, candlenut can become source of phosphorus. This is one of the substances that maintain the health of your bones and joints. Some people may only have concerns on calcium, but actually phosphorus is also necessary to maintain the strength and density of bones.
Many facts about candlenuts may not be known by many people. Including its poisonous characteristic, people should be aware so they will not get poisoned when eating the raw candlenut. Regardless, it has plenty of benefits because of its great natural compounds. There are even many products of candlenut oils. The use is for hair treatment because it can promote the hair growth. Then, the essence of roasted candlenut can strengthen the hair and its root. Many other benefits are still under researches and surely there can be much good news in the future regarding the candlenut.
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