Walnut (Akshota (Vatama))
About
Walnut, derived from the Juglans regia L. tree, is a widely consumed nut known for its nutritional value and potential health benefits. It has been used in traditional medicine for various purposes, and modern research supports its cardiovascular, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective properties.
Botanical name: Juglans regia. Also known as: Walnut, Akhrot, Akshota, Aksota, Pilu, Sailabhava, Karpala), Aksoda, Akshodaka, Akrot, Akroot, English Walnut, Persian Walnut, Akrotu, Akaroda pappu, Akrottu, Akhiru, Akhrotu, Akrod, Akroti, Akhrottu, Akshoda.
Properties
Antioxidant activity, Anti-inflammatory activity, Lipid-lowering effects, Urolithin A production
Dosage
2 to 4 kernels daily
Classical attributes
- Rasa: Madhura, Snigdha
- Virya: ["Ushna"]
- Vipaka: ["Madhura"]
Benefits
- Vrishya (aphrodisiac)
- Balya (tonic)
- Medhya (nootropic)
Traditional uses
- Kshaya (emaciation)
- Durbalya (weakness)
- Smriti hani (memory loss)
Dosha effects
- vata: balancing
- kapha: balancing
- pitta: balancing
Contraindications
- High Ama
- Diarrhea
- Obesity
Side effects
- Excessive body heat
- Weight gain
Interactions
- Blood thinners
Active compounds
- Phenolic acids
- Flavonoids
- Ellagitannins
- Phytosterols
- Tocopherols
- Unsaturated Fatty Acids
- Juglone
- Quercetin glycosides
Clinical evidence
Meta-analyses of up to 15 RCTs and databases tracking 20+ RCTs show that walnut consumption is associated with improved cardiovascular health, reduced inflammation, and potential benefits in managing diabetes and brain function. Clinical trials are ongoing to further investigate these effects.
Ayurvedic karmas
- Vrishya (aphrodisiac)
- Balya (tonic)
- Medhya (nootropic)
Classical clinical indications
- Kshaya (emaciation)
- Durbalya (weakness)
- Smriti hani (memory loss)
Frequently asked questions
What is Walnut?
Walnut, derived from the Juglans regia L. tree, is a widely consumed nut known for its nutritional value and potential health benefits. It has been used in traditional medicine for various purposes, and modern research supports its cardiovascular, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective properties.
What are the benefits of Walnut?
Vrishya (aphrodisiac). Balya (tonic). Medhya (nootropic)
How is Walnut used in Ayurveda?
Kshaya (emaciation)
Published by herbs.directory