Walnut leaves have been used in traditional Iranian and global medicine since ancient times as a medicinal substance with many properties. This leaf is rich in useful compounds such as flavonoids, tannins, antioxidants and various vitamins, which are not only effective in treating many diseases, but also play a role in improving the overall health of the body. Walnut leaf is obtained from a valuable tree, which, in addition to its nutritious fruit, also has many uses in the fields of medicine, beauty and health. In this article, we will review the properties of walnut leaves and how to use them.
Properties of walnut leaves
Anti-inflammatory properties of walnut leaves
One of the most prominent properties of walnut leaves is its ability to reduce body inflammations. The anti-inflammatory compounds in this leaf help to reduce the symptoms of diseases such as arthritis, rheumatism and skin inflammations. A decoction of walnut leaves is especially recommended to reduce swelling and pain in the joints. Using walnut leaf poultice is also used to reduce local inflammations and relieve pain caused by minor injuries.
Strengthen the immune system
Walnut leaves are rich in powerful antioxidants that help fight free radicals and prevent cell damage. Regular consumption of decoction or extract of walnut leaves can help strengthen the immune system. The active compounds in this leaf protect the body against infections and viral diseases and increase the body’s resistance.
Help improve skin health
Due to its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, walnut leaves are very effective in improving skin health. Using a mask made from the extract of this leaf can help treat acne, pimples and skin inflammation. Also, this leaf is useful for brightening skin color and treating sunburn spots. The natural compounds in walnut leaves help to clean the skin and increase its freshness.
Treatment of digestive problems with walnut leaves
Another main use of walnut leaves is in the treatment of digestive problems. Due to its antiseptic properties, walnut leaf decoction helps reduce stomach and intestinal inflammations. This combination is also very effective for treating diarrhea and indigestion. Consuming this decoction not only helps to improve the functioning of the digestive system, but is also effective in reducing bloating and abdominal cramps.
The effect of walnut leaves on diabetes control
Walnut leaves are used in traditional medicine to reduce blood sugar. Studies have shown that compounds in walnut leaves can increase the body’s sensitivity to insulin and help control blood sugar levels. Consuming walnut leaf tea is useful for people with type 2 diabetes and helps regulate blood sugar better.
Helping to grow and strengthen hair
Walnut leaves are also very useful for hair health and beauty. Washing hair with a decoction of walnut leaves can help reduce hair loss and strengthen the roots. This leaf is rich in minerals that are effective in increasing hair thickness and preventing dryness and dandruff. Also, the use of this leaf in natural hair coloring is also common, because it gives a natural brown color to the hair.
Detoxifying properties of walnut leaves
Walnut leaves are one of the best natural substances for detoxifying the body. Consuming the extract or decoction of this leaf can help remove toxins from the liver and kidneys. This property of walnut leaves helps to improve the functioning of the body’s vital organs and increase general energy. Regular detoxification of the body with walnut leaves can have positive effects on overall health.
Help heal wounds and infections
The antibacterial properties of walnut leaves have made it an effective agent in the treatment of wounds and surface infections. Washing wounds with a decoction of this leaf can prevent infection and accelerate the healing process. Local use of walnut leaf poultice is also useful for treating fungal and bacterial skin infections.
Cardiovascular protection with walnut leaves
Regular consumption of walnut leaves can help cardiovascular health. The active ingredients in this leaf help to reduce the level of bad cholesterol in the blood and regulate blood pressure. These properties help prevent cardiovascular diseases such as arteriosclerosis and heart attack. Walnut leaf tea is a great choice for people looking to maintain their heart health.
Harms of walnut leaves
causing skin sensitivities
One of the most common side effects of walnut leaves is skin irritation in some people. The compounds in this leaf, especially tannins and mazo essence, may cause allergic reactions in some people. This sensitivity can appear as redness, itching, inflammation or even burning. For this reason, people with sensitive skin or a history of plant allergies should test it on a small area of the body before using walnut leaves on the skin.
Risk of poisoning due to overdose
Excessive consumption of walnut leaves, especially in the form of tea or boiled, can cause poisoning. Active compounds such as Juglone, which are present in walnut leaves, may be harmful to the body in high doses. These compounds can have a negative effect on the nervous and digestive system and in some cases cause symptoms such as nausea, dizziness and headache. For this reason, it is recommended to use the amount of walnut leaves carefully and under the supervision of a doctor.
causing digestive problems in some people
Walnut leaves may cause problems for people with sensitive digestive system. The tannins in walnut leaves can irritate the stomach and intestines and cause symptoms such as stomach pain, nausea or diarrhea. Especially if walnut leaves are consumed fasting or in high doses, the possibility of these problems increases. It is better for people with chronic digestive problems to avoid excessive consumption of walnut leaves.
Interference with chemical drugs
Another disadvantage of walnut leaves is that it may interact with some medications. For example, walnut leaves can reduce the effect of anticoagulants or enhance the effect of diuretics. These drug interactions may cause serious problems in the body, and for this reason, people who use certain medications should consult a doctor before consuming walnut leaves.
Possibility of kidney problems
Excessive consumption of walnut leaves can put a lot of pressure on the kidneys. The active compounds in this leaf may disrupt the normal function of the kidneys and cause damage to the kidney tissue over time. For this reason, it is recommended that people suffering from kidney problems should avoid or consume walnut leaves with caution.
Reduced absorption of some nutrients
Due to the high amount of tannins, walnut leaves may reduce the absorption of minerals such as iron and calcium. Continuous or excessive consumption of this leaf can cause a deficiency of these minerals in the body. Especially people who suffer from anemia or osteoporosis should be careful in consuming walnut leaves so as not to suffer from a lack of essential substances in the body.
Negative effects on pregnancy and lactation
Consumption of walnut leaves during pregnancy and breastfeeding may cause problems. The compounds in this leaf can stimulate the uterus and increase the possibility of miscarriage. Also, the effects of walnut leaves on the health of the baby during breastfeeding have not been fully determined and may have side effects. Therefore, pregnant and lactating women should avoid consuming walnut leaves or consult a doctor.
The possibility of toxicity in long-term use
Continuous and long-term consumption of walnut leaves may cause the accumulation of toxic compounds such as juglone in the body. These compounds can have a negative effect on the liver, kidneys and nervous system in the long run. Also, they may weaken the immune system and cause health problems. Therefore, it is recommended to consume walnut leaves with periods of rest and to avoid continuous and unplanned consumption.
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