hazelnut trees |
Hazelnut, the nut of the hazel belongs to Fagales order and Betulaceae family. Angiosperm and deciduous tree, native to Europe and West Asia. In Greece, we find 3 species, Corylus avellana, Corylus colurna and Corylus maxima, which is a bushy plant and is found in the mountainous regions of Macedonia and Thrace.
Theophrastus refers to it as “καρύα η Ηρακλεωτική” (Heraklion hazelnut), while Dioskourides called hazelnuts "ποντιακά κάρυα” (Pontian hazelnuts), as the oldest center of hazelnut cultivation is the area of Pontus. The etymology of the word Coryllus is derived from the ancient Greek word "κορύς" which means helmet, because the fresh fruit with the cortical shell resembles a military helmet.
75% of world production today belongs to our neighhbour, Turkey.
hazelnut seeds |
Hazelnuts are high in vitamins B1, B2 and B6 (ideal for the nervous system and mental health), are rich in oleic and linoleic acid (useful for the heart), have folic acid (essential for pregnancy), also rich dietary fiber, manganese, potassium, calcium, saccharine, zinc, phosphorus and magnesium. They are also known for their antioxidant effect since they contain tannins, phenolic acids and vitamin E.
hazelnut oil |
Hazelnut oil promises sure tightening and softness to your skin. Particularly astringent oil, ideal for acne, ideal massage oil, absorbed by the skin directly, without leaving greasiness, protects the tissues from free radicals, tightens the pores and protects the skin. In recent years I have used it very much in anti-cellulite products.
homemade hazelnut milk |
Have you ever tried hazelnut milk?
Stella Crown©