First, What are Pili Nuts?

Pili nuts are the fruit of an evergreen tree, also commonly called pili, that bear the scientific name Canaruim Ovatum.1 These “pili” trees grow in many parts of Southeast Asia and Northern Australia. Pili nuts range in size from 1-3 inches long and 0.5-1.5 inches across, typically in a teardrop shape. These nuts are protected by a hard shell and a fibrous seed coat that tends to stick to the outside of the shell. These nuts are hardy and can remain edible for long periods of time, which makes them an important source of nutrients in these areas of the world. Their unique nutritional composition2 is also a prime reason why people tend to add pili nuts to their diet. Pili nuts are a rich buttery tasting nut that are high in protein, calcium and potassium, as such they are a healthy snack with a delicious flavor.

Pili-Nut Health Benefits:

Nutrient Dense

The nutrient value alone is reason enough to consider these nuts one of the healthiest nuts in the world. Pili-nuts contain all amino acids and function as a complete protein and if you combine that with the fact that these incredible nuts have the highest magnesium content3 of any nut, you have something rare. A single serving can also satisfy the daily requirements for copper and manganese3 and will add a healthy dose of beneficial fats to your diet.

Natural Fiber Content

As with many nuts and seeds, pili nuts can be effective for improving your digestion and improving gastrointestinal health. The natural fiber found in pili nuts can help stimulate peristaltic motion and prevent constipation and hemorrhoids,4 but be aware fiber may not be beneficial for your gastrointestinal health as everyone’s guts are unique, this is especially true if you have SIBO.5

Antioxidants

Pili nuts are natural anti-inflammatory substances6 because they contain such rich amounts of antioxidants. Antioxidants primarily eliminate free radicals, which can cause oxidative stress and increase inflammation throughout the body. By adding pili nuts to your diet, you can increase your antioxidant intake, which will have beneficial effects on inflammatory conditions like arthritis and gout, among many others. Inflammation is also associated with nearly, if not every chronic disease7 from Inflammatory bowel disease to cancer. Thus, it’s quite possible if you are able to fight inflammation via antioxidants you would also be helping your body fight against chronic disease.

Blood Glucose Regulation

The fact that pili nuts contain all eight amino acids makes them particularly beneficial for those suffering from diabetes, or those at high risk for developing the condition. These nuts can help balance blood glucose levels and ensure that the body is releasing insulin at appropriate times and in appropriate amounts. This can help prevent the dangerous peaks and plunges of diabetic patients.

  1. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Canarium_ovatum
  2. http://scinet.dost.gov.ph/union/Downloads/35-42_66331.pdf
  3. http://nutritiondata.self.com/facts/nut-and-seed-products/3132/2
  4. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3544045/
  5. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2890937/
  6. http://web.a.ebscohost.com/abstract?direct=true&profile
  7. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3601794/