8 Amazing Health Benefits of Groundnut Oil

Learn about the fantastic advantages of groundnut oil! It's nutritional benefits and rich flavour may improve your cooking and health.
Kanchan Dulhani
16 Oct, 2023
12 min read

Can you imagine your life, especially your kitchen, without the basics? Absolutely not. It is the hardest thing to imagine before stepping inside a kitchen.

One of those essential ingredients is oil. A world devoid of oils would be one in which flavour, aroma, and life would all be lost.

It will be a world without the heavenly sizzle of a pan, the soothing warmth of a scented massage, and the age-old wellness secrets passed down through the generations.

Yes, oils are the unsung heroes who give life flavour, healing, and beauty in their varied forms. Our bodies, our senses, and our kitchens are all transformed by these liquid alchemists.

And in the midst of all comes the groundnut oil. It is one of the most versatile and widely used oils in every culture and corner of the world.

But do you know, besides giving your dishes the flavour and aroma, what else is this fantastic oil great for? Its numerous health advantages.

So, let’s welcome you to the fascinating world of groundnut oil, where each drop celebrates the wonders of nature, culinary innovation, and the appeal of nutritious flavour.

Let’s get the oil ready to fry.

What is a Groundnut Oil?

The groundnut plant’s (Arachis hypogaea) edible seeds, from which groundnut oil—also called peanut oil—is derived. It is one of the most popular cooking oils in the world, particularly in American, Asian, and African cuisines.   

The high smoke point of this oil is one of its best qualities, making it suitable for deep-frying, sautéing, and frying. It can improve a range of recipes because of its mild flavour without overpowering the flavours of the natural ingredients.

Do you know there are many non-culinary uses for groundnut oil, including creating cosmetics and medications? It is commonly used in skincare products, including soaps and moisturizers, due to its mild aroma and skin-friendly qualities.

Nutritional Profile of Groundnut Oil

Peanut oil is a standard oil used in Indian cooking. Still, there is little awareness about its many health benefits. Below are the different nutritional elements you can get in 100 grams of peanut oil [1]:

ElementsAmount
Energy884 kcal
Total Lipid Fat100 grams
Iron0.03 mg
Zinc0.01 mg
Vitamin E15.7 mg
Tocopherol, gamma15.9 mg
Fatty Acids16.9 grams

Health Benefits of Groundnut Oil

Groundnut oil benefits infographic

Beyond its uses in food, peanut oil has several health advantages. There are numerous mono- and polyunsaturated fats in it.

When ingested in moderation, these are considered healthy fats that can aid in reducing the chances of disease and hazardous cholesterol levels.  

Vitamin E, an antioxidant that promotes general health and well-being, is also included in this oil. Let’s see the different health benefits:

1. Peanut Oil for Digestion

Many of us suffer from some or the other tummy or digestion-related issues. These issues prevent us from keeping our tummy happy and healthy.

While many food ingredients we have seen help solve these digestive issues, groundnut oil is also good for keeping your tummy happy [2].

This oil mainly contains monounsaturated and polyunsaturated lipids, better for you than saturated fats. These healthy fats are gentle on the digestive system and might enhance overall digestive health.

Moreover, most people tolerate peanut oil, which is typically simple to stomach. Unlike other cooking oils that could be heavy or greasy, this oil has a moderate and light texture that is comfortable on the stomach.     

One of this oil’s anti-inflammatory and antioxidant components, vitamin E, may help lessen gastrointestinal tract inflammation. The discomfort that digestive tract inflammation can cause may be lessened by eating foods or oils with anti-inflammatory effects.

When included in a balanced diet, this oil can lubricate the digestive tract, promoting regular bowel movements and preventing constipation.

To learn more about the condition of your digestive system, take the Digestive Quotient Test. Answer some simple questions to figure out how well your stomach is working.

2. Groundnut oil for Joint Pain

We have all heard some oils suit the heart and overall health. Have you heard of an oil that is great for your joint pains? Let’s welcome the peanut oil [3].

Just two of the anti-inflammatory components in this oil are resveratrol and vitamin E. Consuming foods or oils that have anti-inflammatory properties can aid in reducing joint inflammation, which could ease pain as inflammation plays a significant role in joint discomfort.

3. Peanut Oil full of Antioxidants

The amount of vitamin E in the form of alpha-tocopherol in this oil is incredibly high [4]. Vitamin E, a fat-soluble antioxidant, aids in protecting cells from the oxidative harm caused by free radicals.

Free radicals are unstable substances that can damage DNA, proteins, and cells, leading to several health problems, including ageing. Groundnut oil contains vitamin E, an antioxidant by scavenging free radicals.

It achieves this by providing unstable free radicals with electrons and stopping them from inflicting oxidative damage to cells and tissues. Your body needs adequate antioxidants to fight free radicals on a day-to-day basis.

4. Groundnut Oil for Body Massage

Didn’t we say this oil is not just used for cooking [5]? It can be used for your body massage and give you many health benefits.

Regular groundnut oil smells light and unremarkable. Because it won’t overshadow the aroma of essential oils that may be added for fragrance or therapeutic purposes, it is an excellent carrier oil for massage.

Moreover, peanut oil’s smooth and light texture makes it simple to apply and glide during massage. This texture can improve the whole massage experience and make it more relaxing and enjoyable.

The copious monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats in this oil may also aid in moisturizing and nourishing the skin. During a massage, the oil can moisturize the skin, making it feel supple and silky.

So, next time you give your body a rejuvenating experience, try peanut oil for a next-level experience.

5. Peanut Oil for Skin

Now comes the most exciting part. How can peanut oil help you benefit your skin [6]? Can this oil heal skin problems? Let’s investigate.

As you read above, applying moisturizer will maintain your skin soft and smooth. That is just one of the features of this excellent oil on the skin. The list is long for you.

Vitamin E, an antioxidant that helps shield the skin from oxidative damage from free radicals, may be abundant in this oil. It might promote skin regrowth and maintain the skin’s youthful appearance.

Additionally, we informed you that resveratrol, one of peanut oil’s components, has anti-inflammatory properties. These characteristics could benefit people with skin problems like eczema and soothe itchy or irritated skin.  

Furthermore, the natural skin barrier function can be supported by the fatty acids in this marvellous oil. For the skin to be shielded from infections, irritants, and pollutants from the outside, you will need a sound skin barrier.

Also, the regular application of groundnut oil may help to lessen the visibility of wrinkles and fine lines. The oil’s hydrating and anti-oxidant qualities can help maintain smooth, young-looking skin.

There is more. For people with stretch marks and scars, this oil is your friend. You can massage your scars with groundnut oil, and over time, the massaging motion and moisturizing qualities of the oil may aid in reducing the prominence of scars and stretch marks.

And for all those party lovers, always keep peanut oil in a small compact bottle with you. It is a natural and gentle makeup remover that will keep your skin moisturized and clean while effectively breaking down makeup, even waterproof cosmetics.

6. Peanut Oil for Weight Management

With so many beautiful benefits of this oil, how can it not support healthy weight management [7]? So, in actuality, it can aid in weight management.

This excellent oil contains beneficial monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats. By keeping you content and complete, these fats can reduce your tendency to overeat or reach for less nutritious snacks.  

Additionally, adding moderate amounts of peanut oil to your meals can give them more taste and richness, increasing their satisfaction. You are less likely to need to overeat when your meals are flavourful and pleasurable.

7. Groundnut Oil for Hair

How can hair left behind when skin is taken care of? Yes, your hair can also significantly benefit from using a lot of peanut oil [8].

Just like for body massage, you can use this oil for hair and head massage. It can be used to hydrate and condition your hair. It can act as a natural conditioner so you won’t need other hair care products.

Additionally, the moisture will be sealed inside the hair shaft as it enters, preventing frizz and dryness.  Groundnut oil’s proteins can also aid in fortifying your hair strands and ensure lessen breakage.

It may further result in your hair that is stronger and healthier. This oil also includes biotin, encouraging hair growth and lessening hair loss. Biotin helps to promote the development of robust, healthy hair by replenishing the hair follicles.    

Your hair might appear glossier and glossier by using this oil. Groundnut oil’s hydrating qualities can help prevent scalp dryness and lower the likelihood of flakiness and dandruff.

8. A Quick Recap

In conclusion, this oil is shown as a helpful addition to our culinary, skincare, and haircare routines due to its adaptable and nutrient-rich features.

This modest oil continues to show its value, whether enhancing the flavours of our favourite recipes, caring for our skin and hair, or offering several health benefits.

One thing becomes abundantly evident as we explore the many facets of groundnut oil: its ability to enhance both the inside and outside of our lives, making it a crucial ally in our pursuit of better vitality and well-being.

Therefore, you can consider the natural benefits of peanut oil and the different ways it may help you become healthier and more vibrant as you enjoy a delicious meal or take care of your skin and hair.

FAQs

1. What negative impacts does peanut oil have?

You should include everything in moderation in your diet, including peanut oil. Using excess peanut oil can increase omega-6 fatty acids. Moreover, people with peanut allergies should also avoid this oil.

2. Can you use peanut oil every day?

Groundnut oil is rich in antioxidants and many vitamins, especially E. Therefore, using it daily will offer many health advantages. However, remember to use it in moderation.

3. Can peanut oil be used for cooking?

Yes, you can use this oil for cooking purposes. You can cook both veg and non-veg dishes in this oil.

4. Can you use groundnut oil for frying purposes?

Yes, peanut or groundnut oil can be easily used for frying purposes.

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