Oil is an essential ingredient in Indian cooking. It adds flavour and nutrition to the food, especially when used in its organic form. However, the increased use of refined oil has reduced the nutritive value of this key ingredient in our food; now, it is little more than a source of fat. The best solution is to opt for a chemical and preservative-free oil type. One of the best choices is organic cold-pressed groundnut oil. Cold-pressed peanut oil has a high smoking point, doesn’t convert to trans-fat at cooking temperature, and is safe to cook with. Before you head to the grocery store to try cold-pressed oils, here’s a look at the concept and the benefits of peanut oil.

What are cold-pressed oils?

Traditional oil producers use an oil-extracting apparatus made of wood and stone. This is a long, cylindrical pressing device attached to a lever and harness usually operated by oxen. Local names of this machinery include ‘Ghani’, ‘Chekku’, and ‘Kolhu’. Organic peanut seeds are added to the machine resembling a mortar and pestle, and the animal perambulates around the machinery to press the seeds until they release oil. This organic peanut oil is closer to its natural form and, thus, retains nutritive value.

Even though industrially produced refined oil has the consistency of taste, colour, and fragrance, it has low nutritional content. Modern oil producers use mechanised versions of the same machinery, adding heat and chemical solvents to increase oil yield. They also add preservatives to the final product to stabilise the oil and increase its shelf life.

What are the nutritional values of peanut oil?

Organic groundnut oil is rich in nutrition. Here is a breakdown of the quantities of different nutrients present in one teaspoon of peanut oil:

Surprising benefits of groundnut oil/peanut oil

We have put together a list of the health benefits of peanut oil. And some of them may amaze you!

1. Peanut oil aids in weight loss

Among the different foods to lose weight, peanut oil is one of the most effective. It improves metabolism and boosts your efforts to lose excess weight.

2. Improves sensitivity to insulin

Peanut oil can help manage blood sugar levels for those who have diabetes or are pre-diabetic. It slows down fat absorption and improves your natural response to insulin.

3. Helps hair grow better

Peanut oil is rich in Vitamin E and can help improve hair growth if you apply it regularly. Take a few drops and massage them into your scalp to reduce damage and promote hair growth.

4. Slows down the effects of ageing

Peanut oil is known for its properties that lessen the effects of ageing on your skin. The high vitamin E content and good moisturising consistency make peanut oil an essential ingredient in anti-ageing products.

5. Helps to reduce arthritis pain

Arthritis is a result of inflammation of the bones that causes severe joint pain. Peanut oil can help reduce swelling and pain while strengthening joints and bones.

6. Enhances cognitive health

Organic peanut oil has therapeutic properties for those with neuronal degeneration. Several researchers are engaged in finding out more about using peanut oil to treat Alzheimer’s disease and other neuronal disorders.

7. Boosts skin health

Peanut oil can help improve your skin health. It has anti-inflammatory properties that combat acne infections. Using peanut oil in the winter will nourish your skin and reduce acne.

8. Rich in antioxidants

Peanut oil is a rich source of antioxidants. Groundnut oil contains phytochemicals and vitamin E, which are natural antioxidants and help reduce inflammation. Eating food that supplies your body with antioxidants can protect you from free radicals and toxins.

9. Lowers the risk of heart disease

Groundnut oil is excellent for managing cholesterol levels. It has vitamin E, monounsaturated, and polyunsaturated fats in good quantity. Peanut oil reduces the load on your heart and reduces the risk of heart disease. It protects your heart against free radicals and cholesterol build-up in your arteries and is helpful in reducing blood pressure.

Organically extracted oil can be a game-changer for your health and fitness. Consuming peanut oil in moderate quantities can help you improve heart health, lower your blood sugar levels, lower your blood pressure, and aid in weight loss. Groundnut oil is one of those food items that are exceptionally healthy and readily available. And yet, people lack awareness of the benefits of peanut oil.

About The Author

Kunal Tambe is part of the content marketing team at Two Brothers Organic Farms. With his team, he works tirelessly to create awareness about organic farming, food sovereignty, sustainable practices, nutrition, climate change, and a myriad of issues that surround these topics.

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