Chestnuts are the fruits of a tree from the beech family, and they sprout in the southern part of the Balkan Peninsula, and to be more precise, in southern Bulgaria and northern Greece. At the moment, this nut can be found in North America, Europe and Asia. Chestnut plantings prefer a subtropical climate, and if we talk specifically about the decorative form, then it can grow anywhere in the world. There are two types of chestnuts, one of which is horse or in other words stomach, and the other is real, noble and can be eaten. Chestnuts can be poisonous and unsuitable for food, and this is horse chestnut, but for medicinal purposes, it comes in handy.

Edible chestnuts: benefits and harms

Edible chestnuts can be eaten, and it is not at all difficult to distinguish them from poisonous fruits. The type of fruit-bearing boxes of a noble chestnut is densely covered with many small needles, and not infrequently resembles hedgehogs. Each box contains several small nuts, each of which has pointed tops.

The edible chestnut is very healthy and can be consumed as an ingredient in dishes such as:

• Salad;
• Cookie;
• Soups;
• Snacks;
• Flour, which is significantly superior to wheat.

Raw nuts can also be eaten with benefits. To taste, such fruits can resemble potatoes, and their usefulness lies in the fact that they contain vitamins such as A, C, B, and there are also components of starch, protein, sugar, enzymes and fats. The peculiarity of chestnuts is that they have a short shelf life, and if the conditions are not met, then such properties as benefits will be lost. It is best to use the fruits in autumn. It is the edible chestnut that is considered very favorable for the human body.

They are useful in that they:

• Accelerating the treatment of atherosclerosis;
• Increase the elasticity of blood vessels and improve blood circulation;
• Removal of thrombophlebitis;
• Removal of a trophic ulcer;
• Removal of hemorrhoidal inflammation.

Raw chestnuts are also good for health, and they are great for treating diarrhea as well as malarial fever. Roasted chestnuts are used to stop bleeding.

Benefits of chestnuts for pregnant women

Chestnuts are also useful during pregnancy, but on condition that they are cooked correctly.

They are used in medicine:

• People's;
• Scientific;
• As a component of various drugs.

The plant and its fruits have vitamins, minerals, fiber, proteins and carbohydrates. The product has a very high calorie content, and therefore it can be harmful to those who are obese. Ripe fruits are more beneficial than early nuts.

Chestnut leaves are considered no less useful, as they contain:

• Pectin;
• glycosides;
• Rutin;
• Flavonoid compounds;
• Tannins.

Proper preparation of chestnuts allows you to create an anti-cold infusion that perfectly copes with SARS of any complexity. Before use, both the foliage and the nuts themselves must be thoroughly dried. Fresh leaves are used to make a decoction against whooping cough, and if made from the bark of the tree, it will be an excellent helper for kidney and gastrointestinal problems. Including it is used to heal wounds and ulcers.

An edible chestnut, whether from a store or harvested directly from a tree, can overcome diseases such as dysentery and cystitis.

Each part of the tree is used in a special way and can be used to create: creams, ointments, lotions. Even the flowers of the plant are used in medicine, as they are an excellent antipyretic. You need to collect them at the very beginning, and then juice is squeezed out of them and diluted with water with a calculation of 30/1. This infusion is used to treat wounds and sore spots. Chestnuts are very useful for those who suffer from sick menstruation, and honey from this product has antimicrobial properties.

How to eat chestnuts

Most often, they use not boiled, but baked chestnuts cooked on coals. This recipe is far from the only one, since you can stuff a bird with chestnuts, diversify pilaf, soup, bread and even dessert. It is easy to prepare at home.

To make roasted chestnuts:

• Cut off the ends, and so that the fruits do not crack;
• Put them in a preheated oven;
• Peel off the shell before serving and pour over with butter.

To prepare a chestnut dessert, you need to: mix canned chestnuts and brandy until a puree is formed, add whipped cream and meringue, broken into pieces, pour over hot chocolate. Raw chestnuts can also be consumed as food, but are mainly used to create flour or a coffee drink. Harvesting of chestnuts is carried out in the spring, and it is dried in a ventilated room. If foliage is required, then it is better to choose a period from May, which will allow them to dry more thoroughly, but you will need to lay them out in a thin layer and in a well-ventilated area.

Flowers are harvested from May to June, and storage should be carried out in a closed container, but not more than a year. Walnut chestnuts should only be harvested in autumn, when they reach full maturity, and a cool place should be chosen for storage. Frozen chestnuts can be stored for up to six months, and they are packed in containers or plastic bags.

What chestnuts can be eaten by pregnant women

What chestnuts can pregnant women eat? As already mentioned, there are 2 types of chestnuts, and one can be eaten, and the second is strictly prohibited.

A noble nut has:

• Flattened round shape;
• flat shape;
• Dark brown shell;
• White and large core;
• Sweet pulp.

Before use, it is advisable to boil or fry the fruits, but only by piercing the shell, otherwise they may explode. The taste of roasted chestnut can resemble the most common potato, and it can also be used raw, which is done in the confectionery industry. Finely chopped chestnuts are considered an excellent addition to coffee.

The use of chestnut-nut

Despite the fact that the noble chestnut has excellent taste properties, it is horse chestnuts that are used for medicinal purposes and in cosmetology. It is strictly forbidden to consume it in food, as it is poisonous, however, medicine is the area in which various methods of application have been found for it.

Horse chestnut was named so for a reason, namely because it has a beneficial effect on the health of the horse, which was noted at the beginning of the 16th century.

A little later, the component began to be used to treat a person, but only after consultation with a doctor and in a limited amount. The secret of the benefits of this product is in the presence of substances such as eculin and escin.

These substances contribute:

• Decreased blood clotting;
• Dissolution of formed blood clots;
• Removal of edema;
• Elimination of wounds and ulcers, as they have anti-inflammatory properties.

In the pharmacology of the 21st century, chestnut fruit extract is very often used to prepare anti-varicose ointment, and tablets, drops and injections are also made from it, which are used to treat problems of the cardiovascular system. In medicine, not only the fruit of the horse chestnut is used, but also the bark, foliage, and sometimes roots, but it is not easy to get them. The bark and foliage, or to be more precise, a decoction of them is used in the treatment of: bronchitis, pneumonia, anemia, any bleeding, diseases in the gallbladder cavity, liver problems, disorders of the spleen, in cases where an anti-inflammatory effect is required .

Roasted chestnuts: benefits and harms

The main benefit of chestnuts is in the foliage, which has a lot of useful substances. If you follow the recipe correctly and prepare a decoction from them, then you can make: wound healing, hemostatic, anti-burn. Fresh chestnuts are simply incredibly useful for cores and for those who have severe varicose veins, including during pregnancy.

Fruits and bark are used to treat the gastrointestinal tract, in particular with:

• constipation;
• diarrhea;
• heartburn;
• ulcer;
• Gastritis and more.

Decoctions from parts of a tree called chestnut can be used both internally and as compresses. If there is such a problem as boils, as well as similar inflammations, then this is a great option, but you should not overdo it so as not only not to cause the opposite effect, but also a strong allergic reaction in the form of Quincke's edema. Mainly in the form of side effects, reddening of the skin is noted when applied externally, as well as the manifestation of nausea, vomiting and diarrhea when taken orally. Since chestnut significantly increases the coagulability of the blood fluid, the remedy is used with caution and only after consulting with specialists.

Consuming an inedible chestnut can lead to poisoning and even death.

It is worth noting that roasted chestnuts do not lose their beneficial properties, but it is not advisable to store them for a long time, even in the refrigerator. It is better to prepare immediately such a portion that will definitely be consumed.

Is it possible for pregnant chestnuts: benefits and harms (video)

In general, chestnut is a fairly useful product that can be used by both children and adults, as well as the elderly, pregnant women and just all people, subject to consumption dosages.

Chestnuts are the fruit of a plant in the beech family and are low in calories as they contain less fat than other nuts.

But they are not only different, they are rich in essential nutrients.

They are very rich in starch, which makes them more similar to than other nuts. In addition, they contain a lot of fiber.

One hundred grams of chestnuts provide 165 kcal and only two grams of fat.

You will be amazed at the results if you include chestnuts in your diet, for good reason.

chestnuts during pregnancy

Benefit

Eating chestnuts is suitable for almost everyone, and especially recommended for people who suffer from stress or. It is also useful to eat chestnuts during lactation and pregnancy.

They are suitable for people with liver disease and those who suffer from high blood pressure and keep their salt intake low.

Chestnut is a very healthy food and is suitable for people of all ages, with the exception of people who suffer from diabetes.

The combination of trace elements makes this nut an ideal antidote to fatigue.

In particular, they improve blood circulation and regulate blood pressure.

Here are the benefits of eating chestnuts:

• thanks to vitamin B2 reduce the effects of skin aging;

• strengthen bones and teeth due to the high content of phosphorus;

• prevents due to the presence of an amino acid such as tryptophan;

• protect the nervous system with their high content of vitamin B and phosphorus;

• also vitamin B2 has a positive effect on eye health;

• high fiber content helps digestion;

• they are recommended for kidney diseases, due to the high content of potassium;

• help improve memory;

• good for hypertension and cardiovascular diseases.

Harm

Chestnuts are rich in carbohydrates, so they are not recommended for those suffering from. Also, they should be used with caution by overweight people.

Indications

Indications for eating chestnuts are:

• stress, depression;
• pregnancy, breastfeeding;
• cardiovascular problems;
• memory problems;
• physical fatigue;
• as an anti-inflammatory agent;
• as a tonic and restorative.

chestnuts are rich, which affects the increase in the amount of breast milk in a woman.

Chestnut contains a lot of protein, calcium, iron, phosphorus, and vitamins, which are able to regulate blood flow, stimulate the kidneys and provide the body with energy and nutrients.

Therefore, chestnuts can be considered as part of the diet during pregnancy and lactation.

Contraindications

Chestnut has not so many contraindications. Their Not recommended for people with diabetes, in this case, experts advise against eating chestnuts, as they are very rich in carbohydrates.

It should also avoid eating chestnuts in cases of indigestion because they can cause bloating, especially when eaten raw.

Methods of use

Chestnuts baked in the oven, charcoal or grilled. So that the chestnuts do not burst the shell, it must be cut. Chestnuts prepared in this way can replace part of the baking.

Boiled chestnuts. A great side dish for any type of red meat, poultry or roast beef.

For cooking, chestnuts are boiled in water with a little anise, or in milk with cinnamon or vanilla added to taste. Also boiled chestnuts can be served in the form of mashed potatoes.

raw chestnuts. Can only be consumed when fully ripe.

Candied fruit. They are used to make cakes and glazed candied chestnuts. To make this French dessert, chestnuts are peeled, soaked in sugar syrup, and covered with icing.

Chestnut flour used for baking.

Precautionary measures

Chestnuts should be used with caution, if your body is not used to such food, they can cause an allergic reaction.

In addition, eating a large amount of chestnuts can adversely affect the functions of the pancreas.

If you are obese, it should be borne in mind that chestnuts are rich in carbohydrates.

Be careful and do not confuse edible chestnut with horse chestnut. Eating horse chestnuts raw can lead to poisoning.

Chestnuts are a good product to include in your diet. They have many useful properties, and not so many contraindications. They can and should be consumed during pregnancy.

Surely in every city there are alleys decorated with chestnut trees. Few people know that chestnut is a nut with useful properties that are widely used in many areas of medicine, cosmetology, and cooking. For culinary purposes, only noble varieties of chestnut are used, and wild (horse) is used to create medicinal preparations.

Useful properties of a noble fruit

Chestnuts have been used for food since ancient times, their benefits and harms to the body are very great. Distinguishing the noble from the wild species is quite simple. In noble fruits, the box is covered with a dense layer of needles. Inside each box are several walnuts with a pointed top.

Noble varieties are used in cooking for the preparation of various dishes, flour. But not only is roasted chestnut popular, beneficial properties are observed even in raw fruits, which taste very similar to potatoes. Each of the fruits contains a lot of vitamins A, B, C, fats, sugar, starch. Chestnuts do not have a long shelf life. The best time to eat nuts is in the fall when they begin to ripen.

What is useful chestnut edible:

• used in the treatment of atherosclerosis;
• strengthens blood vessels, improves blood circulation;
• effective for thrombophlebitis, ulcers, inflammation of hemorrhoids;
• eating raw fruits can cure malaria, constipation, diarrhea;
• if you toast the nuts, they can stop the bleeding.

The benefits of wild chestnut

Wild chestnut, although not to be consumed due to its toxicity, bitter taste, it also has its own beneficial properties. Horse chestnut fruits got their name back in the 16th century, when the health-improving properties of the nut on horses were first noticed. A few years later, the nut began to be used for the manufacture of medicines, tinctures, decoctions. Thanks to the useful substances eculin, aescin, chestnut fruits have been used in some areas of medicine for:

• regulation of blood clotting;
• splitting of blood clots;
• removal of inflammatory processes, edema.

Horse chestnut is one of the main components for the manufacture of ointments, tablets, injections, drops used in the treatment of varicose veins, diseases of the cardiovascular system.

Almost every part of the chestnut (inflorescence, bark, nut) is used in the treatment of:

• inflammation, pulmonary edema;
• bronchitis;
• anemia;
• stop bleeding;
• diseases of the gallbladder;
• inflammatory processes of internal organs;

The use of chestnuts in folk medicine

The health benefits of chestnuts are very high, so it has been used in traditional medicine for many years.

Phlebeurysm

Compound

• 50 g flowers;
• 0.5 l of vodka.

Cooking

1. Place the chestnut flowers in a glass jar;
2. Fill with vodka.
3. Infuse for 2 weeks, shaking occasionally.
4. Strain the infusion.
5. Take 30 drops 3 times a day half an hour before meals.
6. The course of treatment is 1 month.

Thrombophlebitis

Compound

• 100 g of vodka;
• 10 g chopped chestnuts.

Cooking

1. Pour vodka over chestnut flour.
2. Remove in a dark place for 10 days.
3. Strain the infusion.
4. Use an infusion diluted with water 30 drops per 60 ml of water before each meal.

Joint pain

Compound

• 50 g of crushed fruits;
• 0.5 l of vodka.

Cooking

1. Mix chestnut with vodka.
2. Insist 3 weeks.
3. Take 20 ml 3 times a day before meals.
4. Rub into sore joints.
5. The course of treatment is 1 month.

Gastritis

Compound

• 0.5 st. l. chopped chestnut bark;
• 400 g of water.

Cooking

1. Place water with bark in a saucepan.
2. Set 8 hours.
3. Boil.
4. Strain.
5. Consume during the day 4 doses before meals.

chestnut oil

Compound

• 15 g of crushed fruits;
• 150 g olive oil (vegetable).

Cooking

1. Mix oil with chestnut powder.
2. Insist 14 days.
3. Simmer in a water bath for 3 hours.
4. Use 3 times a day, 10 ml diluted in 100 ml of warm water.
5. Lubricate the affected areas of the body.

Chestnut contraindications

Chestnut fruit medicinal properties and use are widespread, but they have a number of contraindications.

Although the chestnut nut is in demand, the use is not recommended for:

• hypertension;
• violation of the menstrual cycle;
• pregnancy;
• diabetes mellitus;
• internal bleeding.

Fruits, inflorescence, leaves, chestnut bark are not recommended to be collected near roads, in areas with poor ecology (factories, landfills), in the city center. Chestnut, like all representatives of the flora, absorbs harmful substances from the environment, the soil.

The use of nuts can cause serious damage to the body, because the benefits and harms of chestnut nuts are on a fine line. First of all, the nut will be harmful for overweight people. Chestnuts have a very high calorie content, so for weight loss, you need to use their fruits carefully. They contain a large amount of starch, carbohydrates, so the product contributes to obesity and seriously burdens the cardiovascular system.

Chestnut has medicinal properties and applications in many areas of medicine. Walnut is able to thin the blood, so it can be dangerous for diabetes and internal bleeding. With such ailments, it is necessary to use chestnut only after consultation and permission of the attending physician.

The walnut causes serious harm to the body when abused or misused. Misuse is when horse (wild) chestnut is used for cooking. Due to the high concentration of tannins, horse chestnut can cause serious poisoning.

Chestnut nut is useful for everyone to know, because this product is an excellent medicine and prevention of many serious diseases. Before starting treatment, it is recommended to consult a doctor, because chestnut has a number of contraindications, which must be taken into account.

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Horse chestnut is valued in traditional and folk medicine due to its beneficial properties. This tree has a wide distribution, grows in forests, park areas, on personal plots. It can reach 30 meters in height, bears fruit up to 30-40 years. In the preparation of various preparations, tinctures and other recipes, not only fruits are valued, but also other components of the plant - flowers, leaves, bark.

Chemical composition

Useful properties of fruits horse chestnut is represented by its chemical composition:

• saponins increase the tone of the veins, improve blood circulation, eliminate edema and activate adrenal hormones;
• glycoside reduces the risk of thrombosis, dilates blood vessels, stabilizes the central nervous system, liquefies and removes sputum from the respiratory tract;
• tannins have an astringent and protective effect;
• vitamin C strengthens the immune system, has an anti-inflammatory effect;
• vitamin K reduces bleeding, strengthens the walls of blood vessels;
• coumarin has a healing effect, increases blood clotting, prevents the development of tumor cells;
• pectin removes toxins and salts from the body, improves the intestinal microflora, prevents the development of atherosclerotic plaques, promotes regeneration;
• carotene protects the body from the effects of carcinogens, improves the state of the cardiovascular system;
• organic acids remove toxins and slags from the body, prevent the processes of fermentation and putrefaction in the intestines;
• fatty oils promote tissue regeneration, eliminate inflammation, regulate metabolism;
• flavonoids reduce blood pressure and heart rate, strengthen capillaries, increase bile formation;
• starch is converted into glucose and provides the body with energy.

In addition to fruits, similar beneficial properties have flowers plants. Horse chestnut bark rich in tannins, saponin escin, and glycoside (esculin). have:

• flavonoids - isoquercitrin, quercetin;
• tannins;
• routine;
• spireoside;
• astragalin;
• carotenoids.

From trace elements leaves, flowers and fruits of horse chestnut contain selenium, boron, calcium, chromium, barium, iodine, iron, zinc, nickel.

What are the benefits of horse chestnut?

The chemical composition of fruits and other components of horse chestnut in pharmacology is valued for the following effects:

• anti-inflammatory action;
• antimicrobial;
• bactericidal;
• venotonic;
• wound healing;
• regenerating;
• painkiller;
• astringent;
• diuretic;
• antioxidant;
• decongestant;
• antipyretic;
• antitumor;
• anti-sclerotic.

The pharmacological properties of horse chestnut make its use in demand in traditional and folk medicine. The components of the plant can act as both the main and complementary ingredient in the prevention and treatment of various diseases.

What diseases is it used for?

Due to the pharmacological properties of horse chestnut, its components are used in the solution of the following body problems:

• viscosity and increased blood clotting, thrombosis;
• increased permeability of the walls of blood vessels;
• blood flow disorders, including pathology of venous vessels;
• disturbed work of capillaries;
• decreased efficiency of the kidneys and liver;
• inflammatory processes and edema;
• disorders in digestion, production of gastric juice and gallbladder secretion;
• accumulation in the body of salts, toxins, radionuclides;

Preparations and prescriptions based on fruits and other components of horse chestnut are used in the prevention and treatment of the following diseases:

• hypertension, atherosclerosis, other diseases of the cardiovascular system;
• increased blood clotting, venous congestion, thrombophlebitis, thromboembolism;
• spasms, trophic ulcers and mechanical damage to blood vessels, endarteritis, anemia;
• hemorrhoids, bleeding of various origins, including uterine;
• pulmonary tuberculosis, bronchitis, bronchial asthma, whooping cough, pneumonia, shortness of breath, respiratory diseases;
• pathology of the genitourinary system, gallbladder, spleen;
• increased acidity and stomach ulcers, gastritis;
• rheumatoid arthritis, sciatica, joint pain, gout;
• neuralgia, diarrhea, leukemia, malaria, menopause, muscle inflammation, prostate adenoma, prostatitis.

Horse chestnut components are mainly used in the treatment of leg diseases, especially varicose veins. Often, these ingredients in various forms are used for hemorrhoids and other similar pathologies. However, the range of application of horse chestnut is much wider, which makes it a popular product in traditional and folk medicine.

Medications

Among traditional medicine preparations based on horse chestnut, there are:

• "Aescusan" - a group of angioprotectors, represented by tablets, dragees, drops, ointments and gels, is used to strengthen the walls of blood vessels in venous insufficiency, improves blood flow;
• creams based on horse chestnut or its extract - a large group of products intended for the treatment of varicose veins, reduces leg fatigue, swelling and pain;
• horse chestnut ointments are used to strengthen blood vessels in varicose veins, reduce swelling and inflammation, reduce fatigue and muscle cramps;
• the gel is used for the prevention and treatment of venous diseases of the legs, promotes recovery processes;
• gel-balm based on horse chestnut and leech extract - the remedy is also used for venous insufficiency, has a decongestant and anti-inflammatory effect, improves blood circulation.

In addition to traditional medicines, horse chestnut components are also used in folk recipes.

Application in traditional medicine

In folk medicine, horse chestnut is used mainly in the form of tinctures and decoctions. For their preparation, any components of the plant are used - fruits, their peel, flowers, tree bark, leaves.

Each ingredient is collected at the certain time when the concentration of nutrients in it reaches its highest value:

• horse chestnut bark is harvested in spring from trees that are three years old, dried and stored in a ventilated room for no longer than a year;
• tree flowers are harvested during the flowering period in May-June, after harvesting the inflorescences are laid out in the sun, then dried in the shade;
• leaves are harvested from May to September, they are also stored for no longer than a year;
• horse chestnut fruits ripen in August-September, for drying the kernels are separated from the peel, the latter can also be used in tinctures and other recipes.

The resulting raw materials can be further used for the preparation of preventive and therapeutic traditional medicine. During the collection process, attention is paid to the appearance and quality of the ingredients - they should not be affected by pests or diseases.

flower juice

In the treatment of varicose veins, juice from horse chestnut flowers is often used. For cooking, you need fresh inflorescences, they are crushed with a blender, and then the juice is squeezed out.

The agent is taken in 25-30 drops, diluted in 1 tbsp. l. water. The course of treatment is twice a day for 3-4 weeks. Internal use also helps with inflammation of hemorrhoids. External use relieves joint pain and gout.

Fresh juice of horse chestnut flowers is effective for varicose veins, regular use relieves symptoms within a month.

Ointment

To prepare the ointment, take 5 fruits of horse chestnut or 5 tbsp. l. dried flowers. Raw materials are poured with half a liter of vegetable oil and boiled in a water bath for an hour. After cooling, the product is filtered.

The tool is used for application to areas with inflamed vessels, used 2-3 times a day.

To prepare a special ointment for varicose veins, a similar recipe is used. 5 st. l. dried horse chestnut flowers mixed with 2 tbsp. l. sage, 4 tbsp. l. chamomile and 1 tbsp. l. potato starch.

200 g of chicken fat are added to the resulting mass, the mixture is heated for three hours in a water bath. After that, the mixture is infused for 12 hours, then boiled again. In the future, the ointment is filtered and used for application to problem areas.

Oil

As anti-cellulite agent many people use horse chestnut oil. For its preparation:

• 100 g of crushed horse chestnut and basil are poured into a glass of olive oil;
• means insist from 10 days;
• the resulting mixture is filtered, a few drops of grapefruit oil are added.

The tool can be used for manual and hardware anti-cellulite massage. It also helps with swelling and varicose veins. If necessary, an oil extract can also be made on the basis of other vegetable oils. The finished product can also be purchased at a pharmacy.

Alcohol tincture of flowers

To prepare an alcohol tincture from horse chestnut flowers, you will need 10 grams of crushed raw materials. They are poured with 100 ml of vodka and infused for a week in a dark place, shaking occasionally.

The resulting tincture is taken 15-30 drops three times a day. The tool is used as a medicine for hemorrhoids, thrombosis, varicose veins, prostatitis. When applied externally, the tincture helps with sciatica, gout, rheumatic and arthritic pains.

For treatment joints and myositis also use an alcohol tincture based on horse chestnut flowers. Preparation - 40 g of dried inflorescences are poured with a liter of medical alcohol. Keep sealed for a week, then filter. The tincture is used to rub the joints and muscles for pain.

Fruit tincture of alcohol

Horse chestnut tincture can be prepared according to the same recipe and proportions as the remedy using flowers. Another recipe suggests cutting the fruit into quarters and filling a glass container with them.

To obtain a tincture, the container is filled to the brim with vodka and tightly sealed. Insist in a dark place for three weeks. The tincture is used for compresses arthrosis, arthritis and rheumatism.

Another Alcohol Tincture Recipe Can Help for Healing prostatitis. To prepare the medicine, horse chestnut fruits and flowers are mixed in equal proportions. The resulting mixture is poured with vodka in a ratio of 1:10.

The tincture is corked in a glass jar, placed for a month in a dark place. Take 15 drops 4 times a day, the duration of the course is determined individually. From gout alcohol tincture helps according to the following recipe:

• 50 g of crushed horse chestnut flowers are poured into 800 ml of alcohol;
• the solution is placed in a dark place, insisted for 10 days;
• filter, moisten gauze and use as a compress, applying to the affected area.

Decoction of flowers

To prepare a decoction of horse chestnut flowers, mix 5 g of inflorescences and bark. Raw materials in an enamel bowl are poured with 200 ml of boiled water, then boiled over low heat for half an hour. Tsedat through a triple layer of gauze.

The resulting broth in the first two days take 1 tbsp. l. once a day, then gradually increase consumption to 2-3 tbsp. l. The course of treatment depends on the disease - with varicose veins, the decoction is taken up to 8 weeks, with hemorrhoids - up to a month.

A decoction can be used to relieve uterine bleeding, douching with whites and to relieve inflammation of the prostate.

At radiation sickness use a different recipe: 20 g of crushed flowers are poured into 300 ml of water and brought to a boil. After that, the broth is infused for 10 hours, filtered. It is necessary to take 100 ml three times a day.

Infusion of flowers

Making an infusion of horse chestnut flowers helps with blood disorders and brain tumors. The recipe is simple - 1 tbsp. l. dried inflorescences pour a glass of water and heat almost to a boil.

The product is left to infuse for 6 hours, then filtered and left in the refrigerator for storage. Take a quarter cup several times a day, but not more than a liter. The course of treatment is three weeks, followed by a two-week break.

Fruit decoction

Based on horse chestnut fruit decoctions are not prepared. The kernels are used mainly in tinctures and infusions. For decoction, the peel of ripe fruits is often used.

To prepare 15 grams of raw materials, pour a glass of water, boil for 15 minutes and insist for an hour and a half. The decoction obtained is used for menopause for morning and evening washing. The tool allows you to relieve itching and dryness.

Extract

Horse chestnut extract is rich in saponins, especially escin. The tool is used to eliminate venous stasis and inflammation. It also helps strengthen capillaries and protect them from damage.

Horse chestnut extract is also used in the treatment pathologies of the cardiovascular system. Helps to normalize blood pressure, is used in the treatment of hypertension and atherosclerosis, as well as in the treatment of thrombophlebitis.

At home, chestnut extract is not prepared; for use, it is bought in a pharmacy ready-made.

leaf application

Horse chestnut leaves are used:

• in the preparation of medicinal preparations for the normalization of water and salt balance, as well as for the treatment of rheumatism and gout;
• for the preparation of decoctions and infusions - the leaves help with colds, improve the condition of the respiratory tract, are used in the treatment of bronchitis and bronchial asthma, tracheitis, pneumonia and tuberculosis;
• as a prophylactic - the leaves calm the nervous system, normalize sleep, relieve stress and nervous tension.

Traditional medicine does not offer a clear recipe for making decoctions or infusions from horse chestnut leaves. The tool is used as needed at the rate of 1-2 tbsp. l. to a glass of water.

To prepare a decoction, the mixture is steamed in a water bath; for infusion, it is poured with boiling water and insisted for one to several hours. In the preparation of tincture, the period increases to several days, the raw material is poured with vodka and kept in a dark place.

Water infusion from the bark

For the preparation of water infusion, take the dried bark of horse chestnut. 1 tsp crushed raw materials are poured with two glasses of boiled cooled water, insisted for 8 hours. Strained means take 2 tbsp. l. 4 times a day.

An aqueous infusion of horse chestnut bark helps with diseases of the gallbladder, kidneys, intestines, as well as inflammation of the respiratory tract.

Contraindications for use

Horse chestnut has certain contraindications for use. plant components not used in the following cases:

• low blood clotting;
• severe pathologies of the kidneys and liver;
• hypotension;
• pregnancy;
• irregular menstruation;
• individual intolerance.

Among side effects allocate:

• allergic reaction;
• nausea, heartburn;
• constipation, flatulence.

When applied externally, irritation may occur. In this case, the use of horse chestnut and preparations based on it is stopped. When lactating about the use of horse chestnut, consult a doctor.

Chestnut-based medicines should also be carefully used for gastric ulcers and significant cardiac pathologies.

In addition to the above, there are contraindications to the use of alcohol tincture based on flowers and fruits of horse chestnut:

• pregnancy and lactation;
• age up to 16 years;
• atonic constipation;
• hypoacid acute gastritis.

In the matter of a long course of treatment with horse chestnut tincture, consultation with a specialist is necessary. It is also recommended to check the level of blood prothrombin during the use of this drug.

More recently, this fruit, which in some places replaces potatoes and corn for local residents, was completely alien to us. Today we are looking more and more at chestnuts- not only on European trips, but also in the menu of restaurants, in shops and in their own kitchens.

What are chestnuts

In the courtyard of my childhood, as in many other old Moscow courtyards, a luxurious chestnut tree grew. It can be said that it was an exemplary chestnut tree: it reached the height of the sixth floor, regularly bloomed with elegant candles in May and dropped weighty cones on an inappropriately installed bench in sunny October. Hard greenish pebbles were used for a variety of children's games, but if someone told us that somewhere they are fried, boiled and made into cakes with chocolate, we would laugh in his face. By the way, they would have done the right thing, because that chestnut, obviously, was horse- its leaves looked like figured star-shaped paws (in a tree with edible fruits, they are oblong and are attached to the branch stalk one by one).

Edible chestnuts do not grow in our latitudes. The nearest place on the map is the Caucasus, Armenia and Azerbaijan, but even there they somehow turn out small, like walnuts, while in Europe they are the size of a good tangerine. However, especially large ones are valued almost like truffles and are not even exported. You can meet them in southern France, in Spain and, of course, in Italy, where, of course, solid delicacies will be born.

The most selective - in Sicily, just good - in the north of the country. In Piedmont, in Lombardy, on the streets you can see signs warning of the seasonal fall of nuts (chestnuts are nuts). During this very fall, passers-by, without hesitation, pick up the crop, lay it out, satisfied, in their cases and bags from Furla - of course, you don’t have to pay three euros per kilo, like in a supermarket!

In the north of Italy, extremely rare for Europe wild chestnut forests, where whole companies go with baskets in September-October. And mothers of families remember dozens of recipes for preparing this autumn gift of nature. You need to hurry: chestnuts are poorly stored - after a couple of days they begin to dry out and deteriorate. True, if you freeze them baked or boiled, then you can then use the whole season, and the taste will not suffer.

However, where nature does not throw chestnuts. One of the varieties - fragrant chestnuts tamba- grows on the Japanese island of Honshu. In the Land of the Rising Sun, chestnuts are highly respected - among the poetic Japanese people they are considered the same symbol of autumn, as cherry blossoms are a symbol of spring. Fresh Tamba chestnuts are so sweet that no sugar is added to them when preparing kurimochi rice balls, an appetizer for amaguri beer, or filling for waffles sold at the bustling intersections of old cities.

How to eat chestnuts

We also gradually got acquainted with chestnuts. Sooner or later, each of us came to Europe for Christmas and was fascinated by its magic. Winter, perhaps, was warm and almost snowless - such that one wanted to walk and walk. In the old city, around the cathedral, a festive market bustled and offered all kinds of glittering and singing treasures. Fragrant corrugations were baked everywhere, punch and mulled wine were poured, warming up interest in life. And, of course, an integral part of this whole tale were the chestnut sellers, who theatrically ruled in the falling twilight with their antediluvian braziers. On the iron sheets, brown chestnuts bounced, crackled, and glowed to a noble golden hue. The bursting balls were poured into a paper bag - then they easily opened, showering the skin, and burned pleasantly. The taste was reminiscent of hazelnuts and at the same time boiled sweet potatoes, which are baked on the streets of Asian megacities. But it happened in Paris, or Rome, or Strasbourg, Cologne, Vienna ...

In general, our memories of the day when we first tasted chestnuts are not without sentimentality. However, leaving sentiment aside, cook exotic nuts obtained in an ordinary market or in an expensive gastroboutique, and in your own kitchen. The easiest recipe fry them in the same primitive way: make an incision (otherwise they will explode) on the flat side, put them in a frying pan (not Teflon, of course), cover with a lid and listen to how they jump there, ready to burst and show the world a tender, crumbly inside. However, the most delicious chestnuts are not those that have already burst, but those that are about to burst, “on the verge” ... But defining this “just about” is almost an art. Only professionals own it. For example, the Japanese who roast their Tamba chestnuts in drums filled with hot river sand without leaving the temperature control unattended.

Chestnuts are delicious exceptionally hot, just from a brazier or pan. If you are aiming not for a fleeting connection (student dinner: chestnuts and new wine), but for a serious relationship, this stage of roasting can be the beginning of what is called a beautiful friendship. With a spoon, carefully remove the warm pulp from the cracked skin and cook in one of dozens of ways.

How to cook chestnuts

Let's say chestnuts can be served as garnish for roast- instead of the usual potatoes. Or add to pilaf. Or, as in the Caucasus, put them with a lot of onions in a bowl, where cooking meat, and leave for ten to fifteen minutes: the chestnuts will have a completely different flavor. And they will need to be served separately, generously sprinkled with pomegranate seeds.

Good for a suburban lunch combination with apples and: first, by pouring water, bring the chestnuts to a pleasant softness, then, draining the water, add chopped apples and butter and simmer until the fruits become soft. Prunes and nuts will add piquancy to the dish.

Chestnuts are baked, fried, boiled, they are also stuffed with poultry: in America - for Thanksgiving Day, in Europe - for Christmas. We are not bound by age-old traditions and can stuff a rooster or a turkey right now. By the way, capon stuffed with chestnuts and armagnac is sold in gastronomic boutiques for incredible sums.

Chestnut is generally a favorite of haute cuisine masters. And those who like to create unusual flavor combinations. By the way, in such combinations, it is perfect as a souvenir: they just brought me jam from Paris, it's called "chestnuts and Chinese smoked tea." It is almost unsweetened, you can't eat it with cookies or pancakes - just an artifact.

Friends who are interested in gastronomy will appreciate the beauty of the game if you cook for them chestnut soup. It does not require special knowledge or effort: to meat broth seasoned with onions, garlic, celery and parsley, after chestnuts, you need to add a spoonful of butter, a glass of cream and a little alcohol like brandy.

When there is no time to mess around with roasting and peeling nuts, you can use canned chestnut puree. It forms the basis for dozens of interesting and easy-to-make dishes. Mostly, of course, sweet. The simplest cake that does not even need to be baked: mix well a couple of glasses of puree with 175 grams of butter, 300 grams of dark chocolate and a few tablespoons of rum, put in a mold and keep overnight in the refrigerator. Or just whip the puree with the cream.

From chestnut flour fragrant cookies(mm, with pine nuts and raisins), but probably most of us, especially children, love whole chestnuts: nibbling on a nut large like an egg, besides with such an unusual taste - who doesn’t like it? Our weakness is indulged primarily by manufacturers marron glaces- glazed chestnuts, which can be found in any French, Spanish or Italian supermarket.

Chestnuts aged in sugar syrup and hidden in a thick chocolate or white icing shell are easy to prepare on your own. Even easier - "drunk" chestnuts: pour one hundred grams of sugar into a glass of red wine, put boiled chestnuts and simmer for a while over medium heat until a syrup is formed. Then, while still hot, put whipped cream on the featherbed, sprinkle with vanilla and garnish with mint and candied fruits.

We sell edible chestnuts in three types: fresh unpeeled, fresh-frozen peeled and pickled. The latter are a ready-made product, without additional processing they can be added to a salad, for example, in combination with an orange or smoked duck breast fillet. Freshly frozen chestnuts must first be roasted and then used, say, in soup with porcini mushrooms. And fresh, unpeeled nuts should be cut, covered with foil and baked in the oven for about 20 minutes, then salted and eaten just like seeds or corn are eaten.
Another unusual “chestnut” product, directly related to nuts, however, has nothing to do with it, is honey. Pleasantly liquid (does not crystallize until spring, and maybe longer, it just didn’t stay with us longer), dark brown - exactly chestnut! - colors with a light aroma and an amazing bitter taste. It is useful in kidney and stomach diseases, kills microbes. One hundred percent chestnut honey does not exist - it would be too bitter, bees collect pollen from other plants. And the more clearly bitterness is felt in honey, the more chestnut itself is in it.