Brazil nuts are actually seeds from the Brazil nut tree (Bertholletiaexcelsa), one of the largest trees growing upward of 200 feet found in the Amazon. These trees are incredibly large and may live for 500 years or more. The nuts are heavily protected and cherished for their delicious flavor and high nutritional content, as well as the oil extracted from them for beauty products and more.
High in Selenium
Brazil nuts are high in protein, fiber, thiamine, copper and magnesium and contain the highest levels of selenium found naturally in any plant, fruit or nut. An individual can obtain all of the selenium they need for the day by consuming just one or two nuts a day.
Selenium (Se) is a mineral known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, shielding our body from the harmful effects of free radicals, thus protecting us against many cardiovascular diseases. It has also been scientifically proven to lift mood and prevent depression.
Thyroid health
Brazil nuts have received recent popularity for their ability to stimulate the thyroid. Your thyroid helps control your metabolism, heart rate and body temperature. The thyroid gland has more selenium content per gram of tissue than any other organ in your body. Selenium is a key component of the molecules that are necessary for your body to be able to create and use thyroid hormones. By eating brazil nut you can keep your thyroid in overall good health as the selenium regulates the production of reactive oxygen within the gland, and it protects the body from antibodies that can create thyroid disease.
Brazil nuts can be helpful in conditions of underweight and overall weakness and lack of strength, for these nuts contain healthy fats that nourish and protect the system from dryness and fatigue.
Due to its high selenium content it’s important not to overdo Brazil nuts since it can lead to selenium toxicity.
Properties
Type: Nuts
Element: Earth
Color: Brown
Taste: Sweet
Natural Attributes:Â Oily, Heavy
Dosha impact: Kapha +, Pitta +, Vata —
Tissue impact (Vipak): Nourishing
Thermal impact (Virya): Heating
Digestive impact (Agni):Â Hard to digest
Moves energy: Downwards
Channels (Srotas): Blocks
Strength (Bala): Improves strength and immunity
Sturdiness (Ojas): +
Mind (Manas):Â
Feces: Laxative
Urine:Â
Occasion: Winter
Nutrient: Selenium
Chinese medicine syndromes: Nourishes the yang and the blood
Medicinal propertiesÂ
- Nourishment (rasa): Nutritive tonic
- Reproductive and hormonal systems: Supports thyroid health
- Vital essence and strength: Builds stamina
Harmful for: