|
|
The famous scholar and physician Maimonides praised almonds, saying that they were the finest of fruits. Almonds are one of the most nutritious of all nuts. They are low in saturated fat and contain many other protective nutrients – calcium and magnesium, vitamin E and compounds called phytochemicals, which may help protect against cardiovascular disease and even cancer. Almonds are high in fat, but in the form of monounsaturated fats, which have been associated with reduced risk of heart disease. They have been linked in scientific studies with reduction of cholesterol levels in humans.
Top |
 |
The Atlantic pistacia is a major component of Israeli natural landscapes. It is one of the most drought-resistant of Israel’s native woodland trees. Atlantic pistacias grow in the eastern Upper Galilee, where many old, large trees can be found. They also grow in the desert, but mainly in soil pockets on large expanses of rock, where runoff accumulates, providing an excellent source of water for growth. Thanks to its status as a holy tree Atlantic pistacias have survived grazing and cutting for many years. They can attain great sizes, and some old trees have trunks with a diameter of 2 meters. Still the trees grow very slowly and it may take a tree 200 years to reach half this size. |
|
 |
Almonds are tasty on their own, raw or toasted, and also used widely in cooking. They are available whole, sliced and as almond butter, milk or oil. Marzipan, nougat and macaroons are only a few of the sweets prepared from almonds. In some parts of the Middle East young fruit before it ripens, while still green and fleshy, “green almonds”, are a popular snack.
Top |
 |
The almond is mentioned in the Bible and Talmud. When Jacob sent a gift to Joseph in Egypt he told his sons: “If it be so now, do this: take of the choice fruits of the land in your vessels, and carry down the man a present, a little balm, and a little honey, spicery and ladanum, nuts, and almonds.” Genesis 43, 11. When G-d wanted to show that he had chosen Aaron and the tribe of Levi to fulfill the priestly duties in the Tabernacle, he had each of the tribes bring a staff to the Tabernacle: “And it shall come to pass, that the man whom I shall choose, his rod shall bud; and I will make to cease from Me the murmurings of the children of Israel, which they murmur against you.” Moses did as he was told and “… behold, the rod of Aaron for the house of Levi was budded, and put forth buds, and bloomed blossoms, and bore ripe almonds” Numbers 17, 17-23.
Top |
