How Does This Ayurvedic Food Improve Wellness?

CLINICAL AYURVEDIC REVIEW

Strength & Energy Building Tonic

Long before the agricultural revolution, humans feasted off nuts. This ancestral food is still one of the best ways to strengthen your body. Warm and creamy almonds contain more protein per serving than any other nut (20% by weight). That makes them an important protein source for vegetarians and those wishing to build muscle mass. Their calcium and magnesium content supports smooth muscle function, including the heart. Their rich nutritional profile makes both serves as a blood tonic for anemia and to nourish the bones.

Unlike chilis that ignite a short-lived metabolic flare-up, almonds nourish a deep, slow burning metabolic fire that simmers with lasting warmth. Almond's hearty fuel will sustain you through a long workday. Their mild stimulating qualities keep you warm even as the thermometer starts to dip in Autumn.

Calm Your Nerves

Most of us feel a little frazzled these days. We live demanding lives, we're on the go, and some of us struggle with an over-active nervous system. Ayurveda has some unique tips to ground your nerves. Every nerve in your body is coated in fats, called the myelin sheath, that insulates, protects, and guides the electric impulses of your neurons. Without this protective fatty barrier, your signals will go haywire, and be scattered. Nourishing this fatty layer of the nervous system is key to settling your mind.

Almonds are rich in natural oils and fatty acids, from 36 to 60% by weight. Almonds and sunflower seed are also the top two whole food sources of fat soluble vitamin E. By adding almonds to your diet, you will feel calmer and more at ease, and improve your ability to think a little clearer. Almond also contains minerals like magnesium that support muscle relaxation. In the ancient science of Ayurveda, almonds have been used to preserve intelligence for thousands of years. To receive the brain building benefits of almonds, simply soak, peel and enjoy 10 almonds daily. Note: Despite their oily nature, they are generally good for those with high cholesterol. So don't shy away from healthy fats - you need them!

Sexy Nuts?

When it comes to its aphrodisiac and reproductive support qualities, almonds are second to none. Don't you find its sweet flavor and aroma arousing? There's probably a reason so many beauty products contain almond oil. Celibate men beware - eating almonds encourages a build-up of "vigor" or Ojas (the vital nectar of life). If this vigor remains "pent-up" it may cause great discomfort in the prostate and testicles. Almonds are also symbols of male fertility and its high zinc content aids in sexual potency. Sexually active men should drink a glass of Almond Milk with Saffron (homemade) after ejaculation to rebuild fluids and vitality.

The Beauty of Almonds

Looking for soft, firm, supple skin? Adding almonds into your diet will nourish you from within. Topical uses are also very popular, as the rich almond oil adds luster, promotes hair growth and reduces breakage. Almond oil provides moisture to dry skin, helping to reduce the signs of aging. You will notice a youthful glow to your skin, and who doesn't want that?

Nutritional Information & Other

Almonds are high in oil, fatty acids, protein, calcium, magnesium, potassium, copper, iron, phosphorous, zinc & vitamins B1 and E. Like most tonics, almonds are heavy & concentrated, and may provoke stagnation in the upper GI. Soaking almonds, then preparing them with cinnamon and other spices is a great way to improve their digestibility. Almonds oily nature lubricates the intestines. Together with it's high fiber, almonds are a general laxative encouraging regular elimination.

The skins of almonds provoke pitta dosha due to high tannic acid content. Due to their energizing nature, do not consume almonds if you have high pitta in the blood. Peeled almonds are sattvic.

Almonds contain goitogens, which may inhibit thyroid function, so we suggest cooked almonds (cooking neutralizes the goitogens) for those concerned with thyroid issues. Since almonds also contain zinc, roasted almonds may improve thyroid function. In chinese medicine, almonds are used to move stagnant lung qi.

Buying & Preparation

Almonds are frequently shelled, but are also sold with the beige, hard outer shell in many mixed nut preparations. Almonds with the seed coat are brown whereas once blanched and peeled they are white. They may be purchased raw, pasteurized or roasted. They may be purchased slivered, ground into a flour, mashed into a paste, or as almond butter. You may also purchase in the form of almond oil, almond extract and almond milk.

If desired, soak almonds for thirty six hours before eating to help activate the seed. We also recommend peel the skin; it contains tannic acids that are stimulating and irritating. After soaking, a few minutes in hot water makes the skins easy to peel. Pinch the butt of the almond to make the seed pop out of the skin.