Black walnuts come from the black walnut tree (Juglans nigra), which is native to North America.
Black walnut (not the same thing as Englishwalnuts) has long been used in complementary and alternative medicine.
The kernels of the nuts are thought to have anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antioxidant properties.
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Yet research is lacking to support health claims for black walnut.
That means some supplement products may not contain what the label says.
Here is a look at some of the research on black walnuts.
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Inflammation
Black walnut has been examined for its role in treating and preventing inflammation.
One lab study looked into black walnut extracts and their effects oninflammation in the body.
Researchers found that compounds in black walnut inhibit the secretion of pro-inflammatory compounds in the body.
Verywell / Anastasia Tretiak
Other research has shown that the intake of nuts may improve inflammation.
However, large-scale studies to confirm these effects have not been performed.
Research has shown that these phenolic compounds may disrupt the membrane structures of bacteria and inhibit theirDNAsynthesis.
One study investigated which components of black walnut may possess antibacterial properties.
However, other cultivars were found to have no effects againstS.
Heart Health
Highernutconsumption has been inversely associated with heart (cardiovascular) disease.
Eating tree nuts two times per week has been linked to a lower risk ofheart disease.
A small study compared the cardiovascular effects of black walnuts to those of English walnuts.
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Nutritional Benefits of Black Walnuts
Black walnuts contain protein and healthy fats.
Black walnuts may also lose flavor and some nutritional value as they reach and pass theirexpirationdate.
What Are the Side Effects of Black Walnut?
Black walnuts are generally considered safe.
Consuming black walnuts in reasonable food amounts is thought to pose little risk.
However, these and other possible side effects are not documented in studies or reviews.
Only use black walnut supplements as directed to prevent potential adverse events.
Precautions
Black walnut supplements are not appropriate for everyone.
Certain people must take extra precautions, while others should avoid taking black walnut altogether.
It’s best to play it safe and avoid black walnut supplements during these life stages.
However, black walnut is likely safe when consumed in amounts normally found in foods.
Safety tests for black walnut supplements have not yet been performed on children.
Additionally, evidence is lacking regarding the safety of black walnut supplements for people with various health conditions.
Finally, anyone with a tree nutallergyshould avoid using black walnut.
If you’re considering using black walnut for a health condition, consult a healthcare provider first.
And remember that supplements should not replace standard medical care.
Currently, there are no recommended dosage guidelines for black walnut supplements.
If you decide to use black walnut supplements, follow the dosing recommendations as listed on the product label.
Or, consult a healthcare provider regarding proper dosing for you.
When consumed as food or in supplement form, black walnut is not considered toxic to humans.
It is thought that juglone may produce reactive oxygen species, which are unstable molecules that may be harmful.
Interestingly, though, juglone may also act as an antioxidant.
More safety studies are needed on black walnut, but black walnut has not been reported as toxic.
Interactions
Black walnut may interact with various medications, herbs, and supplements.
It should be noted that there are no documented interactions for black walnut.
More research is needed.
They should also be stored in their original container and kept out of direct sunlight.
Black walnut supplements and extracts typically do not require refrigeration.
Be sure to follow storage instructions as written on the product label.
Some people recommend refrigerating whole black walnuts.
Keep black walnut supplements out of reach of small children and pets.
Discard black walnuts and black walnut supplements once they reach their expiration date.
Similar Supplements
Black walnut has been researched for various health benefits.
These potential health benefits are similar to those of many other herbs and supplements.
This means eating whole black walnuts is recommended over black walnut supplements.
Whole foods tend to contain more nutrients and benefits than dietary supplements.
you’re free to find black walnuts in their raw, whole form and still in the shell.
Chopped and shelled black walnuts are also available.
Black walnuts can be eaten alone or added to variouscookingandbakingrecipes.
Black Walnut Supplements
Black walnut supplements are often in the form of tinctures and essential oils.
You may also find black walnut supplements in capsule form.
Often, black walnuts are paired with other ingredients and nutrients when sold as a dietary supplement.
Read the full ingredients list on the supplement label before choosing a brand.
Vegan, gluten-free, and/ororganicblack walnut supplements are available.
These and other details should be listed on the supplement’s nutrition label or product packaging.
A typical serving of nuts is about 1 ounce (or 1/4 cup).
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