Cashew Nut (Kaju)

Cashew Nut

Cashews are super nuts belonging to the family of Anacardiaceae, which includes mangoes and pistachios. They are originally native to the coastal areas of north-eastern Brazil. They are kidney-shaped seeds and are widely cultivated in places that have tropical climates. Cashews are grown in countries like India, Sri Lanka, Kenya, and Tanzania. The nuts stick to the bottom of the fruit, known as a cashew apple, and have diverse uses particularly in Brazil, Asia, and Africa. Either it is having them as a snack or using it in pureed form for the thickening of gravies, it is liked and consumed in various ways.

Cashews are very nutritious and are a powerhouse of proteins and essential minerals including copper, calcium, magnesium, iron, phosphorus, potassium, and zinc. Sodium is also present in very small quantities. Cashews also contain vitamins such as vitamin C, vitamin B1 (thiamin), vitamin B2(riboflavin), vitamin B3 (niacin), vitamin B6, folate, vitamin E (alpha-tocopherol), and vitamin K (phylloquinone). They are a source of oleic acid and provide a good quantity of monounsaturated fat and low amounts of polyunsaturated fats with no harmful cholesterol if consumed appropriately.

The health benefits of cashews include,

• A healthy heart

• Strong nerve and muscle function

• Aid in the formation of red blood cells

• an improved bone and oral health.

• Provide a relief from diabetes, anemia, and gallstones.

• By offering an antioxidant defense, they also encourage a better immune system.