Benefits of Green Pistachio Kernel
Green pistachio kernel is a type of pistachio that is harvested before it is fully ripe. The harvesting time for this type of pistachio is often later than Kaal Pistachio. Approximately 90% of the production of green pistachio kernel is used for export, making them relatively high in price. The higher cost is due to the timing of the harvest, as they are picked when they are still light in color, which adds to the production cost.
Additionally, green pistachio kernel undergo a series of processes to achieve their final form. The quality is primarily determined by the color, with greener kernels indicating higher quality. Green pistachio kernel are primarily exported to countries such as France, Italy, and Germany.
One reason for the popularity of green pistachio kernel is their appealing green color and white skin. This vibrant color makes them attractive for use in confectionery and food decoration.
Factors Affecting Empty Pistachios
The phenomenon of annual alternation, where pistachio tree fruiting increases in one year and decreases in the next, leads to a significant drop in flower buds intended for the next year’s crop, resulting in many empty pistachios. The percentage of empty pistachios is usually higher in low-yield years compared to high-yield years.
Emptying occurs in two stages during the growth period:
- Fertilization Time: The pistachio kernel begins to form after fertilization. Incomplete insemination due to improper pollen tube fertilization leads to empty pistachios.
- Kernel Filling Time: During kernel development, embryos may not grow and fill the fruit, resulting in empty pistachios.
A primary cause of this phenomenon is the lack of the element “boron,” which is crucial for pollen tube growth. Studies show that if the boron level in pistachio leaves is less than 12 ppm (dry weight), the percentage of empty pistachio kernels increases.
Medicinal Benefits of Green Pistachio Kernel
Green pistachio kernels offer several medicinal properties that contribute to overall health and well-being:
- Warm and Dry Nature: Green pistachio kernels have a warm and dry nature, making them particularly beneficial for growing children.
- Rich in Antioxidants: Green pistachio kernels are a rich source of antioxidants, which include:
- Vitamin A
- Iron
- Fatty and unsaturated acids
- Vitamin E
- Potassium
- Protein
- Roy
- Selenium
- Phosphorus
- Folate
- Phytosterols
- Calcium
- Copper
- Fiber
- High in B Vitamins: These kernels contain high amounts of B vitamins, which are essential for red blood cell health and overall well-being:
- Vitamin B6 (20%)
- Thiamine (15%)
- Folate
- Biotin
- Riboflavin
- Niacin
- Pantothenic acid
- Amino Acids: Green pistachio kernels contain significant amounts of amino acids, which are effective in stimulating growth hormone secretion and insulin release from the pancreas. This makes them beneficial for improving children’s growth and combating anemia.
- Anti-Inflammatory and Heart Health: The vitamins A and E in green pistachio kernels play a role in lowering blood cholesterol and possess strong antioxidant properties, which may help reduce the risk of heart disease.
- Calming and Digestive Benefits: Green pistachio kernels are known to calm the heart and nerves, open liver ducts, strengthen the stomach, and alleviate coughing.
Other Benefits of Pistachios
- Neutralizing Effects: To counter the “hot” nature of pistachios, which may cause skin reactions, they are often consumed with apricot, peach, or sour pomegranate leaves.
- Essential Fatty Acids: Pistachio oil, derived from green pistachio kernel extract, is a yellow, transparent liquid with nutritional and therapeutic properties. It is known for:
- Strengthening the heart and memory
- Treating stomach issues and diarrhea
- Maintaining gum health
- Treating skin conditions like pimples
- Improving hair health and reducing hair loss
Conclusion
Consuming green pistachio kernels is highly beneficial for health. Their rich nutritional profile, antioxidant properties, and various vitamins make them an excellent addition to the diet.
