Eat Me: Great for men, reduces insomnia… Five reasons African walnut is for you

African walnut is an edible single seeded stone fruit mostly cultivated for its nuts which can be cooked or consumed as snacks.

In the Yoruba language, it is called Asala; Okwe in Edo and Ukpa by the Igbo.

The African walnut is a rich source of vitamins E, B6, B7, thiamin, folate, magnesium, proteins, fibre, healthy fats, and antioxidants.

Here are some of its amazing health benefits.

Aids weight management

It is rich in omega 3 fatty acids and fibre that creates satiety and makes you eat less,

Reduces insomnia

It contains melatonin, a hormone that induces and regulates sleep.

Fights stress

Walnut is a rich source of antioxidants and unsaturated fatty acids, particularly alpha linolenic acid, and omega-3 fatty acid that serve as stress relieving agents.

Reduces inflammation

The African walnut contains many plant chemicals, including tannin which helps to fight inflammation. Researchers have suggested that these chemicals may put the nut in position to help combat asthma and rheumatoid arthritis.

Immunity

African walnut is also said to have the “potential of combating nutritional insecurity in rural communities”. According to researchers from the Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Nigeria, it can be used to prevent viral infections and diseases.

Great for men

Two studies assert that the African walnut improves the mood of young men and makes men more fertile.

A study conducted at the University of Delaware found that the consumption of walnut will ultimately improve sperm quality while a controlled randomised trial at the University of Mexico suggests that constant intake makes young men more gleeful.