Pistachio is one of the most popular foods in the world. Iran is the largest exporter of pistachios in the world.Iranian pistachio dates back thousands of years(Four types of pistachios are produced in Iran: Akbari (Super Long), Fandoghi (Round), Ahmad Aghaei (long), Kale-Quchi (Jumbo)
Fandoghi Pistachio
Fandoghi is smaller in shape and appearance than other types of pistachios. They are slightly larger than hazelnuts. And because of the small size, they take more to become a kilogram; as a result, it is more economical and ranks the largest volume for export.
Akbari Pistachio
Akbari pistachio is a very elongated and large pistachio and is more elongated than Ahmad Aghaei type and is pricier among different types of pistachios. The hand-picked is well popular and pistachios are luxurious and majestic.
Ahmad Aghaei Pistachio
The best type of pistachio in terms of taste. They are more elongated and larger than Fandoghi pistachio and they are delicious. This type of pistachio is the most abundant type of pistachio due to its high-grade quality and is the most widely used type of pistachio around the world.
Kale-Quchi Pistachio
Kale-Quchi is a large and round pistachio and has its own special taste, and because it is large in size and the hand-picked are handsome, they have their own aficionados.Everything about Pistachios Growing pistachios is very valuable because it is considered to be among the most favorite foods for people all around the world. The interesting thing about pistachios is that eating too much of them would not cause illness and or threaten your health.The only significant point in growing pistachios is its long period of growth. When you start growing them you have to wait between five to eight years to get a good crop. But given the high value of pistachios and their export potential, it’s really worth the wait for a good product.
Where Is the Right Place to Plant Pistachios?
Suitable areas for pistachio cultivation are areas with cold (but not icy) winters. The area should also be warm in summers with a fair chance of precipitation. Semi-arid desert areas are ideal. Pistachios prefer temperatures above 37 degrees Celsius. Also, they do not like high altitudes because highlands are normally lower in temperature and pistachios do not survive at below 9 degrees Celsius. Wet areas are also not suitable for pistachio cultivation.
Planting (Plant in Pairs!)
To produce nuts, a female pistachio tree needs a male tree. Experimentally speaking, you need to plant one male tree among every 15 female trees. But the problem is that it is difficult to distinguish between male and female seedlings any time before seven years. Often, in order to make sure that a male sapling is among the trees, they plant several of the seemingly male seeds.
Pistachio Harvest
One of the signs to make sure your pistachios are ripe is that the color of the hull changes from green and yellow to red, and sometimes the shell cracks. Do not forget that pistachio trees are biennial trees. That is, they give a heavy harvest one year and less in the next.
Types of Pistachios
Four types of pistachios are produced in Iran: Akbari (Super Long), Fandoghi (Round), Ahmad Aghaei (long), Kale-Quchi (Jumbo)
Akbari Pistachio
Akbari pistachio is a very elongated and large pistachio and is more elongated than Ahmad Aghaei type and is pricier among different types of pistachios. The hand-picked is well popular and pistachios are luxurious and majestic.
Fandoghi Pistachio
Fandoghi is smaller in shape and appearance than other types of pistachios. They are slightly larger than hazelnuts. And because of the small size, they take more to become a kilogram; as a result, it is more economical and ranks the largest volume for export.
Ahmad Aghaei Pistachio
The best type of pistachio in terms of taste. They are more elongated and larger than Fandoghi pistachio and they are delicious. This type of pistachio is the most abundant type of pistachio due to its high-grade quality and is the most widely used type of pistachio around the world.
Kale-Quchi Pistachio
Kale-Quchi is a large and round pistachio and has its own special taste, and because it is large in size and the hand-picked are handsome, they have their own aficionados.
Nutritional Value of Pistachios
Containing nutrients such as carbohydrates, protein, amino acids, fats and dietary fiber. Pistachios are also rich in minerals such as potassium, iron, calcium, zinc, copper and sodium. This nut contains essential vitamins such as vitamin C, B6, A, K, thiamine, folate, choline, and betaine.
Every 100 grams of pistachio kernels contain the following sources:
Fatty ingredients 54 g
Calcium 130 mg
Phosphorus 500 mg
Iron 7.5 mg
Starch-like matter 15 grams
Water 2.5 grams
Protein 20 g
Potassium 950 mg
Vitamin A 230 units
Vitamin B1 0.7 mg
Vitamin B3 1.5 mg
Benefits and Medicinal Properties of Pistachio
- Pistachio bark decoction is useful for relieving vaginal itching
- Decoction of pistachio bark and leaves is useful for relieving anal pain and itching.
- Those with anemia should eat some pistachios daily due to its hematopoietic iron content
- Eating pistachios strengthens sexual power.
- Strengthens the brain and mind.
- Pistachio strengthens the stomach.
- It is useful for relieving cough.
- It is useful for calming the heart and calming the nerves.
- Pistachios are recommended for opening the liver ducts.
- Treats common diarrhea and dysentery.The Most Important Properties and Benefits of Pistachios
- Antioxidant Properties:
Pistachio hull contains a lot of antioxidants. These antioxidants neutralize the free radicals that make up cellular metabolism. These radicals cause heart disease and cancer.
- Improve Heart Health:
Daily intake of LDL or bad cholesterol in the body reduces. These nuts are a rich source of amino acids, which prevent the blood vessels from tightening and forming blood clots.
- Weight Management:
For those on a diet, pistachios are a great choice. Pistachios are low in calories, high in protein, low in saturated and unsaturated fats. All of which are great for maintaining an ideal weight.
- Prevention of Macular Degeneration:
Pistachios contain carotenoid antioxidants, such as lutein and zeaxanthin. These antioxidants help reduce the risk of macular degeneration in the elderly.
- Help Improve Digestion:
Pistachio is an excellent source of dietary fiber that has a positive effect on the functioning of the digestive system.
- Help Absorb Iron:
Pistachios contain a lot of copper that helps the body absorb more iron from taken foods which in turn can increase the chances of fighting diseases such as anemia. Because it increases the number of hemoglobin and increases blood flow.
- Sexual Strength:
Pistachios strongly affect men’s sexual potency. Studies have shown that men can improve their erectile dysfunction by about 50 percent by consuming about 100 grams of pistachios daily for three weeks.
8.Diabetes Control:
Pistachios contain antioxidants, which help reduce the process of glycation (sugaring) and control diabetes, and can also balance blood sugar levels and blood pressure.
- Anti-inflammatory Properties:
Vitamin E content and anti-inflammatory agents in pistachios can help reduce inflammation in any part of the body.
- Protecting Neurons and Nerves:
Pistachios contain high amounts of vitamin B6. It helps make essential amino acids, which are very beneficial for the heart. That’s why this nut plays an important role in maintaining the body’s nervous system needs.
- Strengthen the Immune System:
Pistachios can improve the immune system because of their rich source of vitamin B6. They strengthen the immune system and are effective in preventing a variety of infections and cancers.Health Benefits of Pistachio
Hair:
Pistachios have many benefits for hair. Some of them are listed below:
Stimulates Hair Growth:
Pistachios stimulate the growth of healthy hair due to the effects of fatty acids Hair Strengthening:Pistachios are a great treatment for hair strengthening and healing.
Increase Hair Flexibility:
Using a pistachio hair mask can nourish the hair and moisturize the it. In general, it improves hair texture. It is also very suitable for damaged and dry hair.
Hair Loss Treatment:
Pistachios contain a lot of biotin. Daily consumption of this nut is effective against hair loss.Benefits of Pistachios for Skin:Pistachios are also very good for skin; some are as below:
Natural Moisturizer:
It works as a natural moisturizer. You can use pistachio oil instead of your daily moisturizer to have a smoother skin.
Antiaging:
Did you know that pistachios are very useful in reducing the signs of aging? It also includes several powerful antioxidants that help neutralize free radicals and eliminate foot and skin cracks.
Natural Lightening of Skin:
Pistachios contain essential fatty acids, which are useful for maintaining skin radiance. Green apples have similar effects.
Maintaining Healthy Skin:
Pistachios are a rich source of vitamin A, which is an antioxidant absorbable in fats. This nut plays an important role in maintaining a healthy skin. It can also protect the skin from sun damage and reduce the risk of skin cancer.
Improving Eyesight:
Pistachios help a lot with your eyesight and related issues.Benefits of Pistachios during Pregnancy:A Rich Source of ProteinPistachios are high in protein. Protein is also an essential nutrient during pregnancy and can affect a child’s muscle and tissue growth.
Containing Unsaturated Fatty Acids:
Which can help lower bad cholesterol levels and increase good cholesterol in the blood. It can also help balance fat levels during pregnancy.Reducing the Risk of Infection:Vitamins A and E have antioxidant properties to eliminate and even prevent infection problems.
Preventing Constipation:
Pistachios are a rich source of fiber, which can help prevent constipation, which is a common problem during pregnancy.Rich in Omega-3 Fatty Acids:These acids help the baby’s brain grow.
Properties of Pistachio Shell
Pistachio shell is useful for hemorrhoids and anal protrusion. To treat this disease, you need to boil the hull of pistachio in water and pour it into the pelvis, let it remain for a few minutes and it will relieve the pain and alleviate the disease.
Properties of Pistachio hull
- Is the best medicine to eliminate bad breath.
- Chewing it heals wounds inside the mouth.
- To strengthen the gums, apply it on the gums or chew.
- Green pistachio concoction hull eliminates heartburn and vomiting.
- Brewing it is useful for relieving diarrhea.
- To get rid of hiccups, brew pistachio hull and drink a cup of it.
Benefits of Pistachio Oil
Pistachio oil is a desirable moisturizer which quickly absorbs without creating a sticky sensation, and is a good option for face and body massage. Omega-6 fatty acids eliminate the effects of surgical wounds, prevent wrinkles around the eyes and face, and, most importantly, make hair shinier. Oral consumption of this oil has a therapeutic aspect and its phosphorus increases intelligence and memory and its folic acid helps the growth and development of the fetal nervous system.
Detriments of Pistachios
Pistachio kernels are a rich source of beneficial fatty acids, but they are not recommended for people with high blood triglycerides, and they are not good for the stomach because of their difficult digestion. Eating too much pistachios would cause body heat and hives and red spots in the skin. To relieve heat and dryness, you should use vinegar, sour pomegranate or sour apricot leaf. Eating pistachios for people with liver failure and those with Gout, diabetes and kidney disease are harmful. Also, pistachio kernels are of hot and dry nature according to ancient Iranian medicine knowledge and are not suitable for hot-tempered people.How to Store PistachiosKeep peeled pistachios in a cool, dry place.
How to Use Pistachios?
Eat it as a snack, in a salad, with fish or with your breakfast, or sprinkle on dessert.You can include pistachios in simple or mixed ingredients in your favorite recipe.Also, add pistachios to frozen yogurt, cereals and oatmeal to have a healthy breakfast.
What Is the Pistachio Ounce?
Pistachio ounce is a criterion for measuring the size of pistachios, which has been common since ancient times and is as follows:The ounce is measured by a scale and by placing 142 grams of stone in one side and 142 grams of pistachios on the other. Normally, the number of nuts then is divided by 5. Generally every 5 pistachios become one ounce. And the less the ounce be, the bigger and heavier the pistachio is.For example, if the number of pistachios is 22*5, it will be in the range of 22-24 ounces, and so will increase the rate in paired numbers.Each type of pistachio has its own special flavor. The following types of pistachio flavors are:Ahmad Aghaei pistachio usually starts from ounces 22-24, which is usually rare.Akbari pistachio is spread from 20-22 ounces, the lower ounces are hand-picked and pricier.Fandoghi pistachios are in lower ounces 30-28 because it is smaller.Kale-Quchi is ranged from 20-22 ounces.