The description of Hazelnuts
Hazel tree bears attractive inflorescence during spring season and matures cluster which becomes fruits by autumn. Each nut is held in a short leafy involucre. The nut has yellow-brown colour and oval shape, it is about 1.5-2 cm long and 1.2-2 cm broad. 100 g hazelnuts provide 628 calories.
The health benefits of Hazelnuts
Hazelnuts are a rich source of mono-unsaturated fatty acids (oleic, linoleic acid), vitamin E and monounsaturates, vitamin-B (biotin, riboflavin, niacin, thiamin, pantothenic acid, pyridoxine (vitamin B-6), and folates), which promotes healthy skin and hair, they have exceptional concentration of copper as well. Cooper is the main component in the intracellular form of antioxidant superoxide dismutase, which disarms free radicals. Like other types of nuts, hazelnuts lower high cholesterol, protect from diseases and cancers. Hazels are exceptionally rich in foliate (100 g. contain 113 µg.), which help prevent megaloblastic anemia and neural tube defects in the newborn. It is also a source of manganese, potassium, calcium, copper, iron, magnesium, zinc, and selenium.
More about Hazelnuts
Hazelnut oil is used in medicine and aromatherapy it has nutty aroma and excellent astringent properties. It protects skin from dryness. Like almonds, hazelnuts are gluten free.