The name of the plant comes from the Latin word castanea, where casta means virgin and nea is the name of Diana's companion. In Roman mythology, Neya rejected the formidable Jupiter and was severely punished. God turned the girl into a tree that had a slender trunk, delicate leaves and tasty fruits hidden behind a thorny shell.
Chestnut will help with varicose veins and thrombophlebitis. The nut is also useful in cooking. More than a hundred types of dishes are prepared from the pulp, including tender puree and nutritious compote.
What does chestnut look like and where does it grow?
Chestnut trees are representatives of the deciduous type that can grow up to 50 m in height; the bark of the slender trunk has a brown tint. The leaves are lanceolate-shaped and are recognized by small serrations along the edges. The nuts begin to ripen in October or early November, and after full ripening they fall off and crack.
The territories where chestnuts are most often found are the countries of Europe, Asia Minor, and the southern regions of Russia. Chestnuts can coexist with fir, beech or hornbeam.
History of discovery, distribution
Found in the Mediterranean, USA (Atlantic coast), East Asia. Grows in a temperate climate zone on soils of average humidity in areas of mountain slopes. It has an impressive ability to grow. The trunk of the most famous large specimen has a circumference of 57 cm and is 3 thousand years old.
The first traces of the plant were discovered by scientists in Sarmatian deposits (Amur region, Black Sea region, Western Transcaucasia). The plant prefers warm regions of the Mediterranean. It grows well in the Balkans, southern Ukraine, Russia, Armenia and Transcaucasia. Main exporters: southern EU countries, Türkiye, China.
How is edible chestnut different from horse chestnut?
Chestnut trees belong to the beech genus. Famous varieties include beeches and oaks. This is a small family that is classified according to different characteristics.
Horse chestnut belongs to the horse chestnut family. Edible chestnut and horse chestnut are similar only in name. Horse fruits are not eaten. They are suitable for pet food. The nuts of both representatives are externally similar. They are placed in pluses, which burst when ripe. Trees are distinguished by the structure of the leaves and the quality of flowering:
- horse chestnut blooms profusely, the inflorescences are collected in a kind of vertical candle;
- The edible inflorescences resemble elongated earrings.
Tree is a traveler.
Just half a century ago, horse chestnut in central Russia was considered an accidental thermophilic guest. Indeed, then, it seems, like a bather, he only timidly tested the water with his foot. But at the same time, the capital of Ukraine, generously decorated with chestnuts, already considered him its own and composed songs about him.
Either it has really warmed up here, or the chestnut has acclimatized and hardened, but over the past decades it has become quite firmly established in territories that were previously forbidden to it. The flowering of chestnuts is now a familiar picture of spring in our country, although it still occurs, less abundantly than it happens in warmer regions. At the same time, it practically does not freeze and bears fruit every year, which gives real hope that further seed generations will make it possible to isolate even more winter-hardy plants. So it is not at all impossible that soon there will be reasons to compose songs about him, like we have about the cherry and apple tree, also, by the way, aliens.
Amazingly, the horse chestnut (Aesculus hippocastanum) is so widespread in cultivation that scientists have had great difficulty finding its original habitat. It turned out that the natural habitat of this tree is represented by only a small area of forested mountains in the Balkans. Meanwhile, this species is considered a local plant throughout almost all of Western and Central Europe. It is quite common here in the European part of Russia, especially in the center and south.
Chemical composition and calorie content of chestnut
The benefits of edible chestnut nuts depend on the chemical composition of the edible part. It contains:
- ash compounds;
- starch, glucose, sucrose;
- saponins, coumarins, bioflavonoids;
- B vitamins;
- carotene, vitamin K, vitamin C;
- tannins;
- organic acids (citric, lactic, malic).
The group of minerals is represented by compounds of calcium, iron, zinc, and barium.
Raw fruits contain:
- 1.63 g protein;
- 25.44 g fat;
- 17 g carbohydrates.
This composition has an energy value of 196 kcal.
Among the vitamins, the content of vitamin C, PP and vitamin B 1 is increased. In the group of mineral substances, potassium takes precedence, phosphorus is in second place, then magnesium.
The caloric content of edible chestnut fruits depends on the method of preparation and the amount of consumption. In European cuisine, it is customary to prepare pluski by baking or frying them. The number of elements in the chemical composition of edible chestnut is directly dependent on the ripening conditions. Dry periods contribute to the formation of nuts, which have a reduced amount of water and an increased content of dietary fiber and sugar.
Excellent source of antioxidants
Chestnuts contain many antioxidants that are important for your health.
These antioxidants include:
- vitamin C
- gallic acid
- ellagic acid
- tannins
- alkaloids
- various polyphenols
- lutein
- zeaxanthin
The latter two antioxidants accumulate in the retina of your eyes and protect it from damage from blue light (, ).
Antioxidants are compounds that help protect your cells from damage from unstable molecules called free radicals.
High levels of free radicals can cause a condition called oxidative stress. This may increase your risk of developing chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and cancer (,).
Additionally, studies have shown that various antioxidants found in chestnuts, such as gallic acid and ellagic acid, may help reduce the risk of heart disease, reduce insulin resistance, and suppress the growth and spread of tumors (, , ).
Summary:
Chestnuts contain many antioxidants such as vitamin C, gallic acid, ellagic acid, tannins and others. These antioxidants help protect your cells from free radical damage, which is linked to numerous chronic diseases.
What are the benefits of edible chestnuts?
Edible chestnut fruits are used for cooking in the north and east of Europe; the population of other European countries also appreciates the benefits they bring.
A fashionable trend is gaining momentum, which includes the inclusion of edible chestnuts in healthy diets.
Due to their chemical composition, breadfruit nuts have a number of beneficial properties that affect the human body:
- dietary fiber content helps improve digestion;
- pectins tend to reduce the acidity of gastric juice (this is useful for people suffering from pancreatic diseases);
- amino acids, flavonoids, minerals and vitamins impart the ability to have a bactericidal effect (these mechanisms help inhibit the activity of fungal bacteria and reduce the risk of viral development);
- vitamins, unsaturated fatty acids have a beneficial effect on intestinal motility;
- the combination of minerals and ascorbic acid makes the product useful for people with diseases affecting the condition of the blood vessels of the brain;
- Eating nuts reduces the risk of developing atherosclerotic plaques and improves blood flow.
The beneficial properties of the tree are also used for preparing external remedies: decoction lotions are suitable for healing ulcers, relieving swelling in thrombophlebitis or varicose veins.
The content of various microelements makes the product useful as a general strengthening and tonic.
The increased vitamin C content increases the health benefits of consuming edible chestnuts. They are recommended for use for colds, as well as inflammatory conditions of the upper respiratory tract.
For men
The increased content of fiber and protein in edible seeds, as well as the presence of pectin substances, make them useful for consumption by men.
Saponins influence the synthesis of male hormones, which helps normalize the functioning of the reproductive system.
Edible nuts are useful for men after 40 years of age as a safe means to improve potency. Tinctures of the tree's fruits are used in complex therapy of prostate adenoma.
For women
The beneficial properties of edible nuts for women are:
- relief of conditions during menstrual cycles;
- strengthening blood vessels and preventing the development of varicose veins;
- normalization of blood flow;
- reducing the risk of developing cancer.
For the elderly
The medicinal properties of edible chestnut are useful for older people; their use is justified in cases where it is necessary:
- prevent the formation of atherosclerotic plaques and narrowing of cerebral vessels;
- saturate the brain with oxygen.
These mechanisms of action are the prevention of strokes and heart attacks. Similar beneficial effects can be achieved through the systematic consumption of chestnut nuts. The benefits increase if chestnuts are chosen correctly and cooked well.
For children
In Europe, chestnut is often called an “energy bar.” Despite the numerous beneficial properties of edible chestnut, it has contraindications when used in baby food. It is not recommended to be given to children unless they are 5-6 years old.
The digestive system of children is not fully formed, so fruits can become heavy, poorly digestible food for it. To eliminate the risk of harm to the child’s body, you should consult with your pediatrician about eating nuts.
One of the conditions for use is proper preparation and gradual introduction into the children's diet.
For weight loss
The characteristics of chestnut fruits are used when planning dietary programs. The high content of carbohydrates gives them the ability to quickly saturate the body and replenish reserves of proteins, carbohydrates and nutrients.
Varieties
During antiquity, chestnuts spread to Europe. They were grown by the ancient Greeks and Romans. More than once these nuts saved the poor from hunger. They were also used as money in ancient times.
Chestnut is a deciduous tree, reaching a height of up to 30 m. The young tree has a smooth bark of red-brown tones. It gradually becomes dark gray, covered with deep longitudinal grooves.
The tree alternately produces petiolate, leathery leaves up to 15 cm long. They have an oblong-lanceolate shape, with a spiny sawtooth edge. The upper side of the leaves is shiny, dark green, the lower side is lighter.
This is a monoecious tree with unisexual flowers of pale green color. Flowering period – June-July. Male flowers produce rich, usually straight catkins. Female flowers grow on the base, directly in the calyx. During ripening, they turn into a prickly shell with 2-3 fruits - shiny dark brown seeds. Ripening time is September-October, when the prickly bowl opens into 4 doors.
The chestnut genus includes about 8-12 species (the number depends on the taxonomic concept). The tree is distributed in the Mediterranean, Asia, and North America. The only original European species is the chestnut (Castanea sativa), which grows in the Mediterranean. In some countries of southern Europe (Italy, Spain, Portugal), the Japanese species Castanea crenata grows wild.
Asian species:
- Crested chestnut (Castanea crenata). Comes from Japan, China, Korea. Found in Western Europe and North America. The tree reaches a height of up to 15 m. The fruits contain 3 nuts, 2-3 cm in diameter.
- Softest chestnut (C. mollissima). Distributed in China, Korea, Vietnam. It is often found in the mountains of North America, where it even forms small forests. The fruit is surrounded by a strip with a diameter of 5-6 cm and has soft thorns. Number of nuts – 2-3 pieces, up to 3 cm in diameter.
- Segu chestnut (C. seguinii). Originates from eastern and central China. The fruit is surrounded by a needle-like shell, the nuts are small, up to 1.5 cm in diameter, dark brown in color.
- Henry's chestnut (C. henryi). Distributed in central and western regions of China. Tree height is up to 25-30 m.
North American species:
- Chestnut (C. dentata). Naturally distributed in North America. The fruits are combined into 2-3 pieces and have a diameter of 1-2.5 cm.
- Low growing chestnut (C. pumila). Distributed in North America. In Western Europe, it has been cultivated in decorative form since 1699. The fruit is surrounded by an ovoid shell with several spines. The nuts are up to 1 cm in diameter, usually grouped in groups of 2.
Hybrid species:
- C. fleetii is a hybrid of a low-growing and crenate species;
- C. neglecta is a hybrid of the stunted and toothed species;
- C. ozarkensis – Ozark chestnut.
The use of chestnuts in folk medicine
The properties of edible chestnut are widely used in traditional medicine recipes: it is used to prepare tinctures, external remedies, added to food, and independent dishes are prepared based on it.
For colds, swelling and inflammation of the larynx, decoctions of the fruit are used, which tend to increase mucus production and relieve spasms that provoke coughing.
Decoction and baked fruits are used as a remedy:
- regulation of capillary strengthening;
- control the level of bad cholesterol;
- activation of metabolic processes.
May promote heart health
Chestnuts are a good source of heart-healthy nutrients.
First, they contain antioxidants such as gallic and ellagic acids. Research has shown that these antioxidants may help protect the heart from oxidative stress, a condition that can increase the risk of stroke and heart disease (,).
Chestnuts are also a good source of potassium, providing 11% of the RDI. Potassium is important for heart health and helps regulate blood pressure (, ).
Additionally, studies have shown that a diet rich in potassium can reduce the risk of heart disease by as much as 27%, and the risk of strokes may be reduced by 24% (, ,).
Summary:
Chestnuts contain gallic and ellagic acids, which may help protect heart cells from oxidative stress. They are also a good source of potassium, which is good for heart health.
How to use chestnut in cosmetology
The female part of the Russian population and residents of European countries use edible nuts in home cosmetology.
The benefits of using edible chestnut for preparing external cosmetics are hard to miss. It is recommended to add its pharmaceutical extracts or flour to the product.
Extracts of edible fruits are added to creams and face masks, hair shampoos, hand balms, bath foams, and anti-cellulite products.
The properties of edible chestnut to relieve inflammation and irritation of the skin, improve color, cleanse, and rejuvenate are used in face masks.
To relieve inflammation, reduce the fragility of capillary vessels and normalize the functioning of the sebaceous glands, prepare a chestnut-honey mask that is suitable for all skin types.
Shampoos containing healthy edible chestnut restore the structure of the hair, making it strong and strong.
With the help of body lotions, the effect of enhancing microcirculation in the skin, toning the skin, smoothing, lifting, and getting rid of the “orange peel” is obtained.
Bath foams have good relaxing properties and the ability to soften the skin.
Tannins have properties that are indispensable in cosmetology. Compounds of substances, flavonoids and essential oils in a complex:
- saturate the skin with oxygen;
- contribute to the restoration of the upper layer of the epidermis;
- act as a filler: fill facial wrinkles and smooth them out.
Due to the property of edible chestnut to neutralize the damage of ultraviolet rays, it is added to tanning products.
Using tree oil, you can take care of aging and dry skin. And the ability of foot cream with edible chestnut to relieve swelling and fatigue is used in the prevention of varicose veins.
Stagnation of blood harms the body; this mechanism provokes the formation of cellulite and reduces the overall tone of the skin. Peeling from edible chestnut prevents stagnation of blood flow and activates hematopoietic processes.
Tree near the house.
Chestnut tolerates the urban environment very well, purifies the air from sulfur dioxide, and traps dust. We only have to regret that it is still not very common in urban landscaping. It is especially good at lining wide city and park alleys and boulevards. Its presence is desirable in the landscaping of schools, universities, and highways. And, of course, its resistance to smoke and gases makes it a welcome guest in landscaping factories, industrial zones, energy facilities, etc.
Despite its impressive size, the chestnut tree is also interesting in private gardens. Of course, on six acres it’s quite cramped for him, but a rural estate, a country house, a city mansion would only benefit from his presence. A chestnut tree planted near a house will eventually become a local landmark and become a noticeable part of the surrounding landscape. With its beauty it will attract attention both in winter and summer, and in spring it will be everyone’s favorite and decoration of the estate.
Categories
All_articles, Trees, Beautifully flowering, Medicinal
Edible chestnut in cooking
Properly prepared chestnuts have not only beneficial properties, but also bright taste. The chestnut tree has long been called “bread tree”. This is due to the fact that the powder of ground nuts was used for baking bread. Modern chefs use the nut as an ingredient for salads, soups, and serve it as a side dish combined with vegetables. This addition enriches the dish and increases its benefits.
We recommend reading: What are the benefits of yeast-free bread and how to bake it
Roasted chestnuts
To roast chestnuts yourself, you need to follow some rules. The peculiarity of the nuts is that the plyus, or the shell that covers the nuts, becomes dense and taut after ripening. If you don't cut it, it will start to burst and bounce off.
Immediately before roasting, chestnuts are washed, the shell is pierced or slightly cut. Fry over low heat for about 20 minutes, readiness is determined by cracking of the cover and softness of the contents.
Information! If you overcook nuts, the pulp becomes hard and tasteless.
After frying, the peel is removed and the pulp is pureed or added to other dishes.
Chestnut soup
Chestnut soup is a French dish that is prepared with the addition of a variety of ingredients. The classic recipe involves the use of nuts and meat broth.
Boiled chestnuts are peeled, poured into a pan with meat broth, and boiled for half an hour. At the last stage, vegetables sautéed in butter are added and served with fried bread. Many people prefer to blend the contents with a blender and serve it as a puree soup. The classic recipe does not exclude serving with pieces of boiled vegetables and chestnut pulp.
Recommended reading: Benefits of boiled beets for the body
Chestnut flour pancakes with ricotta
Everyone loves pancakes, but chestnut pancakes are exotic for most. But what prevents you from appreciating their delicate nutty taste?
Prepare a dough from 2 eggs, 230 ml of milk and 100 g of chestnut flour, which you can add a little more if the eggs are large. The dough should be homogeneous, without lumps. Leave it on for 15 minutes.
Prepare the filling from ricotta and honey - the amount of ingredients to your taste. Some people like it sweeter, while others can add a little salt and herbs instead of honey.
Fry the pancakes in olive oil, place 2 tbsp on each. l. ricotta, fold in half and place on a plate. Top them with yoghurt, honey or any sauce you like. Chestnut pastries have a pleasant color and delicate texture, and certainly will not disappoint you when tasting.
Harm of chestnuts and contraindications
One of the nuances of using chestnut fruits for food can be the wrong choice. Horse chestnut fruits are poisonous and unsuitable for consumption. In some cases, they are confused and attempts are made to prepare a delicious dish from horse chestnut.
Eating nuts may be harmful to people who have allergic reactions to food. Chestnut fruits are a specific product, so they can cause non-standard reactions in the body.
They are not recommended for people suffering from kidney failure. Taking may harm the genitourinary system.
Nuts are also contraindicated for people who suffer from diabetes. The carbohydrate content can be harmful and provoke an exacerbation of diabetic conditions.
Storage
Fresh chestnut fruits do not last long. In an airtight container and at a low temperature, it remains useful for no more than two weeks. Then its shell bursts, its appearance and composition deteriorate. Freezing is suitable for long-term storage. Fresh, unpeeled fruits in the freezer retain their benefits for about six months. Boiled or fried – up to one year.
Storing chestnuts
How to select and store chestnuts
To minimize the risk of harm to the body and increase the benefits of consumption, it is necessary to choose chestnuts correctly.
The period when nuts fully ripen is from September to February. External signs by which edible chestnuts that can be beneficial should be distinguished:
- hard smooth shell;
- absence of stains, damage, plaque;
- glossy brown shine;
- feeling of heaviness;
- round shape;
- absence of a green layer between the core and shell.
Storage is complicated by the fact that the fruits tend to spoil quickly. If storage rules are violated, such nuts can be harmful.
In order to prevent the formation of unhealthy compounds in the composition, they are stored at a temperature not exceeding +20 °C in a dry, dark place for about 5 days.
Store in the refrigerator for about 2 weeks, wrapped in food paper to avoid mold. It is also recommended to store the fruits frozen.
Advice! If freezing rules are followed, they do not lose their properties and can be beneficial when added to food in the same way as a fresh product.
Potential antitumor properties
Test-tube studies suggest that chestnuts may have anti-tumor properties.
Specifically, these studies show that the antioxidants found in chestnuts may help suppress the growth and spread of cancer cells and promote the death of cancer cells.
Test-tube studies have shown that chestnut extracts inhibit the growth and spread of various types of cancer cells, such as prostate, breast and colon cancers (, , , ).
Other test-tube and animal studies of chestnut antioxidants, such as ellagic acid, have shown that they can also suppress the spread of tumor cells and stimulate tumor cell death (, , ).
Specifically, ellagic acid targets the PI3K signaling pathway, which regulates cell growth and survival ().
However, to understand how the compounds found in chestnuts may affect human cancer cells, scientists need to conduct more studies in humans.
Summary:
Test tube and animal studies of chestnut antioxidants such as ellagic acid have shown that they can inhibit the growth and spread of tumor cells. However, human studies are needed to examine this potential effect.
