Cashew, aka Indian walnut, is a fruitful tree native to Brazil. Cashew fruits consist of two parts - a pear-shaped stalk (also called an apple-I think) and a nut itself, twisted in the form of a comma. Cashews are the only nut in the world that ripens outside, not inside the fruit.
The most unusual nut in the world
In countries where cashews are cultivated, juices, jellies, jams, chutney seasoning and alcoholic beverages are prepared from their stalks. Unfortunately, residents of all other countries do not have the opportunity to taste these amazing fruits, since they deteriorate within a day and, naturally, cannot be transported. But cashew nuts are widespread and recognized. They are especially loved in Asian cuisine.
In the countries of Southeast Asia, cashews produce butter that vaguely resembles peanut butter.
Cashews are not sold in shells anywhere. Between the nut itself and the shell there is an oily film containing caustic substances that cause burns when in contact with the skin. Therefore, after collecting and cleaning, which is carried out by special workers, the cashews are calcined, after which they go on sale.
The benefits and medicinal properties of cashews
Although they taste buttery and tender, cashews don't have as much fat as they might seem at first glance. Moreover, there is much less of it than in almonds, peanuts or walnuts. But there are more useful microelements. Cashews contain unsaturated fatty acids Omega-3, vitamins of group B, E, PP, they are extremely rich in such vital minerals as selenium, zinc, calcium, magnesium, potassium, zinc, etc. It is noteworthy that in comparison with other nuts, cashews much less likely to cause an allergic reaction.
Cashews have long been renowned for their antibacterial, antiseptic and tonic properties.
Regular consumption of cashews in small quantities will have a beneficial effect on the cardiovascular system, help strengthen immunity, and lower blood cholesterol levels. Cashews are recommended to use for dystrophy, anemia, as well as metabolic disorders in the body. Their caloric content is 643 kcal per 100 g of product.
In different countries, these nuts are used for different purposes. At home, in Brazil, it is considered an aphrodisiac, and they also drink a decoction of cashews for respiratory diseases, in Africa this nut is used as an aid for tattooing, in Mexico freckles and age spots discolor them.
Japanese scientists have come to the conclusion that there is a substance in cashew kernels that effectively fights bacteria that destroy tooth enamel. The significant benefits of cashews have also been proven in the treatment and prevention of skin diseases: eczema, dermatitis, psoriasis.
