I bet you all know the brain-shaped nut –walnuts. Walnut oil is an edible oil extracted from the nuts of the tree, scientifically known as Juglans regia. It is a popular culinary oil, valued for its distinctive nutty flavour and various health benefits. The oil is typically obtained through cold pressing or expeller pressing the nuts, which helps preserve its nutritional content.
Walnut oil is often used as a finishing oil in salads, pasta, and other cold dishes to preserve its flavour profile. Its colour can vary from pale yellow to amber, depending on factors such as the extraction method and the maturity of the walnuts. Even though it is not often used as a cooking oil, it does have a high smoke point which makes it more suitable for sautéing and low-heat cooking.
This incredible oil is associated with several health benefits, including heart health, brain function, anti-inflammatory effects, and more. And, this article is to talk about all those benefits.
Walnut oil plays different roles in,
Skin Health
Walnut oil is rich in vitamins B1, B2, B3, and E, as well as zinc and manganese. These nutrients, along with their anti-inflammatory properties, can contribute to healthier skin. Abundant in essential fatty acids, especially omega-3, walnut oil deeply moisturizes and nourishes the skin. When applied topically, it penetrates the skin, preventing dryness, flakiness, ulcers, and itching. Loaded with antioxidants like vitamins A and E, walnut oil combats free radicals, effectively addressing premature ageing. Regular application aids in reducing fine lines, wrinkles, and age spots, contributing to a more youthful appearance. High levels of essential fatty acids, particularly linoleic and linolenic acids, improve skin health and complexion. It also helps diminish blemishes, redness, and irritation, leaving the skin radiant and youthful. The anti-inflammatory properties of walnut oil make it effective in soothing skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, and dermatitis, offering relief whether applied topically or added to bathwater.
Hair Care
Applying walnut oil to the hair and scalp can help moisturize and nourish the hair, potentially promoting overall hair health. Thanks to its antifungal properties, walnut oil becomes a potent remedy for dandruff and dry scalp. Regular use soothes and hydrates the scalp, diminishing dandruff flakes and blisters. The Omega-3 fatty acids in walnut oil help prevent hair loss by preventing cell damage. High potassium content in walnut oil accelerates cell regeneration, facilitating hair growth and strengthening existing strands.
Digestive Health
Being gentle on the digestive system, walnut oil aids in preventing constipation. Oleic acid in walnut oil can also promote healthy digestion, alleviating digestive issues. But you have to be cautious as excessive consumption may lead to an omega-3 fatty acid overdose, causing issues in the digestive system itself.
Cancer Prevention
The antioxidants and polyphenols in walnut oil may have protective effects against certain types of cancer. Even though the evidence is limited in this area, the potential anti-cancer properties are promising.
Brain Health
Essential fatty acids in walnut oil are crucial for brain health and cognitive function. Omega-3 fatty acids, including ALA found in walnut oil, are crucial for brain health and cognitive function. Regular consumption may contribute to improved memory, and concentration, and reduce the risk of cognitive decline. Frequent attacks of migraine have a detrimental effect on the brain, but thanks to the high magnesium content in walnut oil, walnut oil consumers are safe from this. Walnut oil consumption and application are found to reduce the frequency and severity of migraines compared to those with magnesium deficiency.
Weight Management
The healthy fats in walnut oil can contribute to a feeling of satiety, helping to control appetite. Thus, it can slow down calorie intake. Incorporating walnut oil into the diet also helps by cutting down belly fat, thus making you less overweight.
Heart Health
Consuming omega-3 fatty acids is associated with a reduced risk of cardiovascular diseases, and walnuts are rich in alpha-linolenic acid. This omega-3 fatty acid may help lower LDL or bad cholesterol levels while increasing HDL or good cholesterol levels, contributing to overall heart health. Regular consumption of walnut oil supports improved functioning of blood vessels, enhancing overall circulatory health. A diet rich in walnut oil can effectively help the body combat stress and reduce stress-induced blood pressure.
Sleep Regulation
Walnut oil contains melatonin, promoting better sleep and regulating sleep patterns, making it beneficial for those with irregular sleeping habits.
Male Fertility
This oil is also found to be associated with improved sperm count, shape, and motility, along with enhancing blood flow to the testes, contributing to better male fertility.
Sunburn Relief
It brings relief to sunburned skin through its anti-inflammatory and moisturizing properties. These attributes soothe sun-damaged skin, reduce redness, and prevent peeling, showcasing its efficacy in alleviating sunburn.
Now you need to know how you can get these benefits from Walnut oil. To nourish your hair and skin, you can apply walnut oil directly on the skin and scalp. But, you will love the flavour when you add it to your favourite dishes. As was mentioned at the beginning of the video, walnut oil is often used as a finishing oil in salads. You can mix it with balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper for a simple and flavorful salad dressing. It is also great when you use walnut oil in desserts like ice cream, and chocolate sauces, or as a finishing touch on desserts like fruit salads or panna cotta.
So, tell us about your experience with Walnut oil and how you like to add it to your diet.
