Benefits of Green Kernel Pistachio
Green Kernel Pistachio is another type of pistachio kernel that is not fully ripe when harvested. The picking time for this type of pistachio is often later than Kaal Pistachio. Approximately 90% of this type of kernel’s production is used for export, making Green Kernel Pistachio relatively high in price. The higher cost of Green Kernel Pistachio is due to farmers picking the pistachios when they are not fully ripe. The pistachios are still light in color when picked and dried, as they are harvested lighter than when fully ripe, thus raising the cost of Green Kernel Pistachio.
Furthermore, this type of kernel undergoes a series of processes to achieve its final form. The quality of this product is determined based on its color, with greener pistachios indicating higher quality. Green Kernel Pistachio is primarily exported to France, Italy, and Germany.
One of the reasons for the popularity of Green Kernel Pistachio is its very fleshy green color while its skin remains white. The green color is more appealing than other nuts and is often used in confectionery and for food decoration.
Factors Affecting Empty Pistachios
The phenomenon of annual alternation, where the fruiting of pistachio trees increases in one year and decreases in the next, leads to a large number of flower buds intended for next year’s crop to fall. This often results in the production of empty pistachios. The percentage of empty pistachios is usually higher in low-yield years compared to high-yield years.
Emptying of pistachios occurs in two stages during the growth period:
- Fertilization Time: This is when the pistachio kernel begins to form after fertilization. The pollen tube lacks proper fertilization due to incomplete insemination, leading to empty pistachios.
- Pistachio Kernel Filling Time: During the kernel’s development, the embryos cannot grow and fill the fruit, resulting in the production of empty pistachios.
One of the main causes of this phenomenon, which peaks in late April, is the lack of the element “boron.” This element plays a crucial role in completing the growth of the pollen tube. Studies have shown that if the amount of boron in pistachio leaves is less than 12 ppm (dry weight), the percentage of empty pistachio kernels will increase.
Medicinal Benefits of Green Kernel Pistachio
Green Kernel Pistachio offers several medicinal properties:
- Warm and Dry Nature: Pistachio kernels have a warm and dry nature. Consuming pistachios is beneficial for growing children.
- Rich in Antioxidants: Pistachio kernels are a rich source of antioxidants, including:
- Vitamin A
- Iron
- Fatty and unsaturated acids
- Vitamin E
- Potassium
- Protein
- Roy
- Selenium
- Phosphorus
- Folate
- Phytosterols
- Calcium
- Copper
- Fiber
Pistachios also contain high amounts of B vitamins, including:
-
- Vitamin B6 (20%)
- Thiamine (15%)
- Folate
- Biotin
- Riboflavin
- Niacin
- Pantothenic acid
These nutrients are beneficial for red blood cell health and overall well-being.
- Amino Acids: Pistachios contain significant amounts of amino acids, which are effective in growth hormone secretion and insulin release from the pancreas. Consuming pistachios has been traditionally used to improve children’s growth and combat anemia.
- Anti-Inflammatory and Heart Health: The vitamins A and E in Green Kernel Pistachio play a role in lowering blood cholesterol and have strong antioxidant properties, which may help reduce the risk of heart disease.
- Calming and Digestive Benefits: Pistachios are known to be useful for calming the heart, nerves, and opening the liver ducts. They also 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 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
In conclusion, consuming Green Kernel Pistachio is highly beneficial for health. Its rich nutritional profile, antioxidant properties, and various vitamins make it an excellent addition to the diet.