CHILGOZA/NEJA (PINE NUTS)

Description

Pinus gerardiana, known as the chilgoza pine or neja is a pine native to the north western Himalayas in northern Pakistan, Waziristan and north western India, growing at elevations between 1800 and 3350 metres. The seeds (pine nuts) are 17–23 mm long and 5–7 mm broad, with a thin shell and a rudimentary wing. Chilgoza pine is well known for its edible pine nuts, rich in carbohydrates and proteins. The seeds are locally called and marketed as “chilgoza”, “neja” (singular) or “neje” (plural). Chilgoza is one of the most important cash crops of Kinnaur tribal district of Himachal Pradesh. Kinnaur has the largest Chilgoza forests, covering an area of around 2,000 hectares. The slender Chilgoza seeds are highly nutritious. Chilgoza is loaded with a dense nutrient profile such as mono unsaturated fatty acids, proteins and antioxidants. The wealth of nutrients in chilgoza also includes essential vitamins B1, B2, C and minerals potassium, magnesium, phosphorus and a moderate amount of iron, calcium, zinc and manganese.

Use & Benefits: Adequate amount of zinc in Chilgoza improves the sperm count, strengthen the immune system, helps in faster healing. Adequate Magnesium in it adds in healthy structural development of bones. Best to consume by pregnant & older women who require high bone density. Prevents joint pains and other body aches related to old age. Enhance the performance of the Insulin. The strong antioxidant properties in chilgoza nuts are beneficial in scavenging free radical damage of cells and combat oxidative stress. Daily dose of Chilgoza promotes healthy heart.