A Review on the Potential Human Health Benefits of the Black Walnut: A Comparison with the English Walnuts and Other Tree Nuts

Abstract

The aim of this review was to evaluate the potential human health benefits of the Black walnut by comparing its compositional similarities and differences with other nuts, particularly the English walnut. The Black walnut contains higher levels of monounsaturated fatty acids and antioxidants, such as the polyphenols and γ-tocopherol, compared to English walnut. These components have been correlated with the prevention and/or attenuation of several types of diseases, including cancer, diabetes, and neurodegenerative conditions. Other nutrients that are also present in the Black walnut include dietary fiber, folate, phytosterols, protein, melatonin, etc., which have been linked with multiple human health promoting properties. Based primarily on its phytochemical composition, the Black walnut is a potentially potent, yet critically understudied, dietary system for promoting human health.