Empress Dowager Cixi (1835 – 1908), initially a favored concubine of the Qing Emperor Xianfeng, rose to the pinnacle of power following the emperor’s demise in 1861. As the regent, she held sway over three imperial reigns – those of the Tongzhi Emperor, Guangxu Emperor, and Xuantong Emperor – becoming the most influential woman in the history of the Qing Dynasty.
History records that Empress Dowager Cixi was not only renowned for her statesmanship but also for her dedication to her beauty and health regimen. According to the book “Royal Fragrance,” penned by Yu Deling, a lady-in-waiting close to the dowager: “Even in her 60s, the dowager’s skin remained smooth like a maiden’s, her graceful countenance and enchanting smile drawing admiration from all.”
Additionally, American female painter Katharine Augusta Carl, who once painted the dowager’s portrait, also marveled at her youthful appearance. Ms. Carl recalled: “At the age of 70, she [the dowager] looked only like a woman of 30. Her youthfulness was astonishing, as if the bloom of her prime still lingered on her face.”
History records that Empress Dowager Cixi was renowned for her statesmanship and attention to her beauty and health.
Empress Dowager Cixi relied on walnuts as a “miracle food” to maintain her youthful complexion and combat aging.
Upon examining the beauty and health secrets of Empress Dowager Cixi, experts discovered her penchant for walnuts, which she consumed daily. Not only did they help slow down the aging process, but walnuts were also considered a precious tonic for the body.
Historical records show that Empress Dowager Cixi loved walnuts to such an extent that she demanded they be placed everywhere in the palace, from her tea room and bedroom to her workspace.
She once confided to her trusted court physician: “Despite my advanced age, my hair remains black, my eyes bright, my skin smooth, and my health robust. All of this is thanks to the wondrous properties of walnuts.”
In traditional Chinese medicine, walnuts are esteemed as a nutrient-rich food. They are considered warm in nature, sweet in taste, and beneficial to the kidneys, lungs, and large intestine. Walnuts are believed to tonify the kidneys, strengthen the spleen, warm the lungs, alleviate asthma, moisturize the skin, and promote bowel regularity.
The Compendium of Materia Medica, a renowned Chinese herbal encyclopedia, describes walnuts as possessing the ability to tonify qi and nourish the blood, eliminate phlegm, warm the lungs, moisturize the intestines, aid in the treatment of asthma and coughs caused by yin deficiency, and bolster cardiovascular health. With these remarkable benefits, it’s no wonder that walnuts were Empress Dowager Cixi’s favorite snack.
With these remarkable benefits, it’s no surprise that walnuts were Empress Dowager Cixi’s favorite food.
Noteworthy Health Benefits of Walnuts
Modern scientific research has affirmed that walnuts are not just a delicious treat but also offer a plethora of health advantages. Here are some of the most notable effects of incorporating walnuts into your diet:
Cardiovascular Health
According to the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), walnuts are recognized as a heart-healthy food. Rich in fiber and omega-3 fatty acids, walnuts help lower levels of LDL (“bad”) cholesterol while raising HDL (“good”) cholesterol. This contributes to preventing blood clot formation and reducing the risk of conditions such as high cholesterol, atherosclerosis, and cardiovascular issues.
Enhanced Brain Function
The nutrients in walnuts, such as omega-3 fatty acids, polyphenols, and vitamin E, possess neuroprotective properties and shield the brain from oxidative damage and inflammation. Regular walnut consumption can lead to improved cognition, enhanced memory, and increased focus.
Cancer Risk Reduction
Walnuts contain the polyphenol compound ellagitannin, a potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant. This substance helps lower the risk of certain cancers, particularly colorectal cancer.
Delayed Skin Aging
The linoleic and oleic acids in walnuts provide essential moisture and nutrients to the skin, making it softer and smoother. Additionally, the antioxidants and vitamin E in walnuts protect the skin from free radical damage, thus slowing down premature aging.
Linoleic and oleic acids in walnuts provide the skin with essential moisture and nutrients, promoting softness and smoothness.
Weight Management Support
Walnuts are high in protein and fiber, inducing a feeling of fullness and helping to curb appetite. They are thus a valuable aid in weight loss endeavors.
Bone Health
Walnuts are rich in essential minerals like calcium and magnesium, which play a pivotal role in maintaining bone health. These nutrients not only help maintain strong bone density but also actively prevent the risk of osteoporosis.
Blood Sugar Control
The healthy fats in walnuts can improve glucose metabolism and aid in better blood sugar management. This benefit is especially significant for individuals with type 2 diabetes.
Walnuts – A Natural Gift Easily Accessible in Vietnam
Walnuts are not only popular worldwide, but they are also familiar to the people of Vietnam. In this country, walnuts are predominantly cultivated in the northern mountainous provinces, such as Sa Pa (Lao Cai), Ha Giang, and Cao Bang. Owing to their availability and exceptional nutritional value, walnuts are an ideal choice to incorporate into your daily diet, enabling you to reap their myriad health benefits.
The Dangers of Cassava Powder: 7 Groups Who Should Take Extra Care
Kudzu root starch is a familiar beverage with a myriad of known health benefits. However, this powder is not for everyone.
The Ultimate Energy Boost: 5 Delicacies That Are ‘Better Than Ginseng’
Here are 5 traditional dishes that are likened to “better than ginseng” that you should add to your menu.
7 Amazing Benefits of Drinking Goji Berry Juice Daily
Goji berries are a treasure trove of health benefits. Let’s uncover the wonders of this superfruit.
The Ultimate Guide to Pesticide-Free Produce: Unveiling the Top 2 Vegetables with the Least Pesticide Residue.
It’s alarming how much contaminated food is out there, severely impacting human health. However, experts have revealed two types of vegetables that contain the least amount of pesticides. These veggies are a must-buy and should be a staple in your diet.
The Ultimate Spice to Prevent Cancer: Grow This, Stay Healthy
Cinnamon basil is a beloved herb in Vietnamese cuisine, adding a delightful kick of flavor to any dish. But beyond its culinary uses, this herb is also revered for its medicinal properties, particularly its potential in cancer prevention.
