Candlenuts are native to Malaysia, Indonesia, and some other tropical regions of South Asia.
They have lately gained popularity all over the world, and for good reason.
If consumed regularly, they can improve your health in numerous different ways.
Candlenuts come from the flowering tree in the genus Aleurites that belongs to the Euphorbiaceae family. These nuts have many other names like candleberries, kukui nuts, Indonesian walnuts, etc. in different regions of the world. They are round, having a hard shell that is usually green, brown, or yellow. The flesh is white, and it should be cooked properly before eating.
Candlenuts are considered among the healthiest nuts on earth. They contain huge amounts of fiber, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, saponin, flavonoid, polyphenol, folate, phytosterol, fatty acids, vitamin A, B vitamins, and more.
Without further ado, let's discuss some of the potential health benefits they have to offer.
May improve digestion
Being an excellent source of dietary fiber, candlenuts help stimulate the secretion of certain enzymes that support the process of digestion in your body. It also boosts the movement of food through the intestine, and further adds enough bulk to your bowel movement.
Candlenuts also contain huge amounts of laxative properties that help improve your digestion. Regular consumption may lower your risk of constipation and several other digestive issues.
May strengthen muscles and enhance bone health
Candlenuts contain several bone-healthy minerals including calcium, phosphorus, and potassium. These aid in the process of bone mineralization, which is essential for the maintenance of your overall bone health. The anti-inflammatory properties in candlenuts protect your bones (and joints) from damage.
This, in the long run, may reduce your risk of developing osteoporosis.
These nuts are a rich source of protein that helps strengthen your body's muscles.
May promote heart functions
The high fiber content of candlenuts helps increase HDL cholesterol levels and further decreases LDL cholesterol levels in your bloodstream.
These nuts are also rich in potassium which relaxes the walls of the blood vessels and boosts blood supply throughout the system. This, in turn, regulates the blood pressure levels in your body.
Both of these improve the overall functions of your heart.
Candlenuts are also loaded with essential fatty acids such as linolenic acid, oleic acid, palmitic acid, stearic acid, etc. These also reduce your risk of developing a variety of cardiovascular disorders.
Besides these, they may also treat sprue, improve sleep patterns, enhance oral health, boost hair growth, and prevent the risk of fungal infections.