Almond (Prunus dulcis)—Morphology, Taxonomy, Composition and Health Benefits

Almonds, one of the earliest domesticated trees, although a nut is botanically categorized as drupes of the Rosaceae family and sub-genus amygdalus. The fruit is a major crop of the state of J&K. FDA have listed almonds as nutrient dense food because of its rich nutritive profile and are thus considered healthiest and most nutritious. They are devoid of cholesterol and saturated fatty acids but are packed with all essential amino acids, omega-3 fatty acids and essential phenolics. European regulation has also categorized almonds as high fibre food. The bioactive compound present in almonds, amygadlin, is known for its potential health implications such as cholesterol control and body weight regulation. In addition, almonds consumption is beneficial for patients suffering from hypercholesteremia because of its rich fatty acid profile. Moreover, American Heart Association shows positive implications of almonds on individuals which are at a risk of developing CVD’s due to presence of bioactive phytochemicals. In addition, almonds are effective against cardiovascular diseases, type 2 diabetes and certain carcinomas.