Forest-based edible seeds and nuts for health care and disease control

Since the world's demand for inexpensive natural food and medicine is extensively increasing, thus, emphasis should be given to enhance the usage of underutilized forest-based products, such as seeds and nuts for health care and disease prevention. Forest-based edible seeds and nuts are those forest products that can be used as a staple or main dish, minor food supplements, thickening agents, condiments, and food flavors. They are a rich source of phytoconstituents, macronutrients, and micronutrients, such as protein, fatty acid, polyphenol, carbohydrate, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. These seeds and nuts are part of the cultural and genetic heritage of different regions of the world taken either directly or after processing. They are capable of reducing the risk of different ailments and help to reduce oxidative stress. Thus, they prevent the development of chronic diseases, including diabetes, cancer, cardiovascular disease, neurogenesis, and inflammation. This book chapter aims to discuss some edible forest-based seeds and nuts, their nutrient (micro and macromolecules), phytochemical composition, their biological activities, and their roles in health care and disease prevention.