Peanut Oil Benefits

Peanut Oil is also known as groundnut oil, this is a vegetable oil extracted from the seeds of the peanut plant.

There are two types of Peanut oil:

  • Refined Peanut oil - This oil is refined, bleached and deodorized. This process removes allergens in the oil and makes it safe for people with peanut allergies.
  • Unrefined/Cold Pressed Peanut oil - This oil is where the peanuts are crushed as raw and the oil is extracted. It retains the natural flavor and nutrients.

Peanut Oil

Since peanut oil is a great source of vitamin E content, an antioxidant proven to reduce free radical damage and lower cholesterol and prevent heart disease and cancer. It can be sometimes applied directly to the skin for arthritis, joint pain, dry skin, eczema and other skin conditions. Peanut oil can be used in cooking since it is low in saturated fats and rich in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats. This is why it is ideal for cooking. When you use this in everyday cooking it can plays good benefits for your health.

Health benefits of Peanut Oil:

  • Peanut Oil Boosts Heart Health: We already saw how the vitamin E in the oil could protect the heart. It fights free radicals, which can otherwise cause heart disease. The oil is also rich in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats that are linked to a lowered risk of heart disease. As per the American Heart Association, these types of fats can reduce heart disease risk by as much as 30% .Some research also throws light on the ability of peanut oil to lower bad cholesterol levels.
  • Helps Fight Cancer: The polyphenol antioxidants in peanut oil fight free radicals, and this can contribute to cancer prevention. In fact, peanut oil is a natural tonic that boosts immune levels.
  • Enhances Cognitive Health: The vitamin E in peanut oil, as per studies, can prevent age-related mental decline. Because of its antioxidant properties, the oil enhances cognitive health, especially in older individuals.
  • Can Improve Insulin Sensitivity:  Studies show that a combination of monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats (as present in peanut oil) can enhance insulin sensitivity in diabetics. In another study, replacing dietary saturated fat with polyunsaturated fat improved insulin secretion in diabetes patients.
  • Peanut Oil Might Relieve Joint Pains: Some research says how peanut oil is used to relieve debilitating joint pains. The oil is applied to the skin directly and massaged well, and this can offer some relief. However, there is insufficient research on this. So, please consult your doctor before you use the oil for this purpose.

 Peanut Oil as Beauty Care:

  • Delays Signs of Aging:  Applying peanut oil topically can offer anti-aging benefits. And this is where we talk about vitamin E once again. The antioxidant fights free radicals, which otherwise might accelerate aging signs like wrinkles and fine lines.
  • Treats Dry Skin: Topical application of peanut oil also helps treat dry skin, thanks to its moisturizing properties. You can apply the oil to your face and other affected areas and leave it on for about 20 minutes. Then, take a bath as usual.
  • Boosts Hair Growth: The vitamin E and other fats in the oil benefit your hair in more ways than one. The oil reduces protein loss from the hair and even thickens your tresses. It also moisturizes your split ends and regenerates damaged hair.
  • Helps Treat Scalp Psoriasis: The antioxidants in peanut oil treat dandruff, and in some cases, can even aid the treatment of scalp psoriasis. This can also be attributed to the moisturizing properties of peanut oil. In case you are pregnant or breastfeeding, stick to normal amounts of peanut oil. Don’t consume excess of it. Also, avoid the oil if you are allergic to peanuts, soybeans, and other related plants (members from the Fabaceae plant family).

References

  1. ‘The role of vitamin E’ and ‘Free radicals, antioxidants in disease’ - US National Library of Medicine.
  2. ‘Dietary fats and cardiovascular disease’ - American Heart Association.
  3. ‘Effects of saturated fat’ - PLOS Journals.

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