African Walnut:

Coula Edulis: is a tree in the genus Coula, native to tropical West Africa from Sierra Leone to Angola. It is plentiful in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Nigeria and Sierra Leone. It prefers tropical regions and it is tolerant of light shade. It can be found in the top canopy of forest as well as the lower story and has no special soil requirements. It is an evergreen tree growing to a height of 25-38 meters (approx. 82-125 ft.), and has a dense crown that can cast deep shade. It common names include Gabon Nut, African Walnut, Congo-wood and Tiger-wood. Every part of the tree is used in both raw and finished states. Its timber and nuts are used extensively. The bark is used locally to produce rinses or enemas for loin pains or kidney problems. The wood is used to make pilings for bridges and railway ties in addition to charcoal and standard construction. It is also used for furniture and cabinet work construction, decorative veneers, paneling, fixtures and joinery. Today the article is about it's health benefits on the human body.

1. Super Plant Source of Omega-3s: Walnuts are significantly higher in omega-3 fat than any other nut, providing 2.5 grams per 1-ounce (28-gram) serving. Omega-3 fat from plants, including walnuts, is called alpha-linolenic acid (ALA). It’s an essential fat which you get from your diet

2. May Decrease Inflammation: Black walnuts are also high in anti-inflammatory compounds, so supplement manufacturers sell the extract as a pill. Black walnuts contain three main components that make them beneficial when consumed – antioxidants, polyunsaturated fats, and phenolic compounds.

3. Promotes a Healthy Gut: A study published in The Journal of Nutrition suggests that eating walnuts daily as part of a healthy diet may increase certain bacteria in the gut that can help promote health. It's a natural remedy against parasitic infections. Some people use the extract as a gargle to kill bacteria in their mouth.

4. May Reduce Risk of Some Cancers: New research shows walnuts could help women who are dealing with breast cancer. The study, conducted at Marshall University, shows eating two ounces of walnuts a day for about two weeks slowed breast cancer growth or reduced the risk of developing the disease.

5. Supports Weight Control: Black walnuts are 75% higher in protein than English walnuts, which provide 4 grams of protein per 1-ounce (28-gram) serving. Protein is a nutrient that positively affects weight loss, blood sugar control, and feelings of fullness. A handful of walnuts everyday could help to stimulate fat loss and promote healthy body weight. Walnuts are also known for their amazing appetite-control power; thanks to the presence of omega-3 fatty acids, plant-sterols and vitamins that help suppress hunger, further helping in weight loss.

6. May Help Manage Type 2 Diabetes and Lower Your Risk: According to a review of clinical trials, consumption of 2–3 servings of walnuts per day has been found to consistently decrease total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol. Consumption of walnuts has also been shown to improve endothelial function (EF) in individuals with hypercholesterolemia and type 2 diabetes.

7. May Help Lower Blood Pressure: According to a review of clinical trials, consumption of 2–3 servings of walnuts per day has been found to consistently decrease total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol. Consumption of walnuts has also been shown to improve endothelial function (EF) in individuals with hypercholesterolemia and type 2 diabetes.

8. Rich in Antioxidants: Walnuts are an excellent source of antioxidants that can help fight oxidative damage in your body, including damage due to “bad” LDL cholesterol, which promotes atherosclerosis.