Chestnuts

Chestnuts, or Castanea, are a group of approximately eight or nine trees and shrubs that belong to the same family as oak and beech trees. These chestnut trees produce an edible nut, commonly referred to as the chestnut, which is consumed around the world. Chestnuts are a starchy type of nut, which departs them from the norm for culinary nuts in that they have very little protein or fats and their calories coming chiefly from carbohydrates. They are rich in antioxidants, Manganese, vitamin C and several B vitamins including thiamine, vitamin B6, riboflavin and folate. Chestnuts are related to the holiday season and they are warm, sweet and nourishing in their nature. It is best to consume them in the winter, which is the season for strengthening your body since your body responds better to building tonics throughout the winter. Chestnuts nourish the kidneys and improve digestion, They are astringent, which can help tone the bowels, but in excess can also cause constipation.

Digestive support

Chestnuts are high in fiber and when you eat fiber, it moves through your body undigested. This can help add bulk to stool and ease its passage through the body to fight off constipation. Dietary fiber resists digestion as it passes through the gastrointestinal tract, which aids in the movement of foods through your digestive tract. Fiber can also promote satiety, stabilize blood sugar and help nourish the beneficial bacteria found in your gut.

Heart health

Interestingly enough, certain types of chestnuts have actually been shown to have a protective effect on the heart. This is partially because chestnuts contain antioxidants, which can reduce inflammation and improve heart health. Chestnuts also contain potassium, an important mineral that could decrease some of the risk factors associated with heart disease. 

Properties

Type: Nut

Element: Earth

Color: Brown

Taste:  Sweet, Astringent

Natural Attributes: Slightly oily, Heavy

Dosha impact: Kapha 0, Pitta +, Vata 0

Tissue impact (Vipak): Nourishing

Thermal impact (Virya): Heating

Digestive impact (Agni): Relatively hard to digest

Moves energy: 

Channels (Srotas): Blocks

Strength (Bala): Improves strength and immunity

Sturdiness (Ojas): +

Mind (Manas): 

Feces: blocks

Urine: 

Occasion: Fall, Winter

Nutrient: Antioxidants, Manganese

Chinese medicine syndromes: Kidney Yang Deficiency

Medicinal properties 

• Nourishment (rasa): Weight gain, Nutritive
• Blood-circulation-liver:Cardiotonic
• Vital essence and strength: Builds stamina
• Digestive system: Digestive, Laxative

Harmful for: May cause distension and flatulence