Brain food: walnut

The walnut has traditionally been documented as a good source of energy in times of need. Today, it is thought to give the brain an energy boost. This finding has been taken up again by modern science and studies have been initiated on possible cures for dementia and Alzheimer's disease. However, the validity thereof is limited because experiments were conducted on laboratory animals. Nevertheless, it has given us the knowledge that "cracking nuts" means much more for our system of thought than childhood memories of St Nicholas' Day.

The sun's inspiring energy is missing during the winter period. As a sun-ripened fruit, the walnut provides it in a compact, edible form. The knowledge of herbalists, who make us aware of the walnut's nourishing properties, is also «compact». They say that the walnut tree gives us a level of consciousness which lets us identify the fundamentals behind the facade.

Of all nuts, the walnut has the highest alpha-linolenic acid content, an Omega-3 fatty acid which prophylactically keeps the heart and blood vessels healthy. Its most important ingredients also include the amino acid arginine, vitamins E, B1, B2 and B3 as well as the minerals zinc, magnesium and potassium. They all help to ensure that our brain gets the food it needs for us to be able to think and act clearly. The aromatically scented walnut tree leaves contain tannins with astringent properties leading to contraction and in this way protect the surface of the skin and mucous membrane.

They alleviate infections, stop itching, heal wounds, kill germs, strengthen the veins and increase the flow of lymph. They are also an effective remedy for heavy sweating. They help both internally and externally: against eczema, acne, vein problems or haemorrhoids, for example. The leaves are applied externally in the form of compresses, partial baths or creams. Internally, they are taken as tea or tinctures. The Bach flower Walnut is said to help when a significant new beginning is about to happen in your life. It helps you to overcome mental blocks where your mood is concerned and thus contributes to the success of the new stage of life.

The history of the walnut tree goes back a long way: 65 million years ago, it was brought from Persia to Greece via Central Asia, and later it was taken to the Roman Empire. There are many legends surrounding its creation. In Greek mythology, it was as follows: "Karya, one of King Dion's three daughters, was blessed with the gift of clairvoyance. When she died, the god Dionysos transformed her into a walnut tree which was therefore often called 'Karya'." From the same stem of the word comes "Cara", which means "head" or "treetop" in English. The Romans derived the Latin "cerebellum" from it, which is translated as "small brain". The walnut's shape is indeed reminiscent of a miniature brain. Analogously, it is described as "brain food" which improves concentration and has a positive impact on our psyche.