The Nut for Looking Good.

"A Plant a Day"- Pistachio (Pistacia vera)-

A native from West Asia, the Pistachio is a long-lived small tree that grows best in hot dry desert conditions, and can tolerate very salty soils. The Pistachio “nut” is actually a seed in the botanical sense, and is produced from female trees in panicles. The fruit produced is a drupe and the Pistachio seed is produced inside as an elongated seed. The hard shell of the fruit changes from green to a yellow/reddish color as it matures, splitting open as it matures making a popping sound.  The leading producers of Pistachio are Iran, the US and China. Pistachios are a rich source of protein, dietary fiber, the B vitamins, thiamin and vitamin B6 and several minerals. Compared to other tree nuts, Pistachios have lower amounts of fat and calories, and are richer in certain healthy phytochemicals. In a couple clinical studies, Pistachio nuts have been associated with weight loss. Pistachio nuts are enjoyed raw or cooked and often included in many cuisines both sweet and savory. An edible oil can be derived from the seed, and the fruit portion used in making a marmalade.

Pistachios are not only thought of as a healthy food, but they have a long use in traditional medicine.  In TCM Pistachios are thought to tonify the qi (chi) and yang, and in traditional Iranian medicine for heart, stomach, liver and brain health.  Through scientific investigation, Pistachio and its various plant parts have been found to exhibit, wound healing, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, anticancer, antiangiogenic, and antilipid activity. As Pistachios contain high amounts of the carotenoids lutein and zeaxanthin—the highest among nuts—they are beneficial for prevention of age-related macular degeneration, as well as cataracts. As Pistachios are high in arginine, Pistachios are beneficial for promoting sexual health. In a clinical study of men with erectile dysfunction, beneficial results were found with the consumption of Pistachio nuts. Pistachio nuts are also good for promoting cardiovascular health and lower cholesterol.  In a clinical study involving adults with high cholesterol, eating pistachio nuts two times a day lowered LDL levels. Pistachios are also good for diabetics due to their beneficial effects on blood lipid levels, inflammation and content of fiber and antioxidants.

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**This content is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to provide medical advice or to take the place of such advice or treatment from a personal physician.

By Stan Shebs- Pistachio Nuts