Indications
Almond (the seed of Prunus dulcis, called badam) is used as a nutritious food and as an ingredient in Unani and Ayurvedic tonics. In traditional medicine it is used as a tonic for the brain and nerves, to support memory and concentration, for general weakness, and for dry cough and mild constipation. Almonds are a good source of healthy fats, protein, fibre, vitamin E and magnesium. Scientific evidence for the traditional brain-tonic uses is limited.
How It Works
Almonds supply energy and nutrients. Vitamin E acts as an antioxidant, and the unsaturated fats can help keep cholesterol levels healthy when almonds replace less healthy fats in the diet. The oil and fibre soften stools. Claims about memory improvement have not been well proven.
Dosage and Administration
For herbal preparations, take as directed on the label or by a registered Unani or Ayurvedic practitioner. As food, a small handful of almonds (about 20 to 25 g) a day is a common healthy amount.
Interactions
No important interactions are known with normal food amounts. The fibre in large amounts may slightly reduce absorption of some medicines taken at the same time, so leave about 2 hours between them. Tonics containing sugar may affect blood sugar control in diabetes.
Contraindications
- Allergy to almonds or other tree nuts.
- Do not give whole nuts to children under 5 years because of the risk of choking.
Side Effects
Usually well tolerated. Large amounts may cause bloating, gas or weight gain. People with nut allergy may have itching of the mouth, rash, swelling or stomach symptoms.
Get urgent medical help if you have signs of a serious allergic reaction (anaphylaxis), such as difficulty breathing, wheezing, swelling of the lips, tongue or throat, dizziness or fainting.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Almonds as food are safe and nutritious during pregnancy and breastfeeding. For herbal tonic products, ask a doctor before use.
Precautions and Warnings
- Only sweet almonds are used as food and medicine. Bitter almonds contain a substance that releases cyanide and are poisonous; do not eat them.
- Brain tonics are not a treatment for memory loss, learning difficulty or dementia. See a doctor for these problems.
- People with kidney stones (oxalate type) may need to limit almonds.
Overdose
Eating very large amounts may cause stomach upset and diarrhoea. Eating bitter almonds can cause cyanide poisoning (headache, vomiting, breathing trouble): get emergency help at once.
Therapeutic Class
Nutritional food / Unani herbal preparation (nervine tonic).
Storage
Store below 30°C in a cool, dry place in an airtight container, away from light. Keep out of the reach of children.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.