Groundnut, also known as the Peanut, Goober(US),Monkey Nut(UK),and taxonomically classified as Archis hypogaea,is a legume Crop grown mainly for its edible seeds.
What is Wood pressed oil?
Wood Pressed oils are extracted from Wooden Ghana by crushing the groundnut seeds. In this wood press process oil doesn’t get heated up. Hence, Groundnut Oil retains the freshness, flavours, essential nutrients, vitamins and minerals intact.
This process is called Maraghanada Enne in Kannada,Marachekka nune in Telugu,Marachekku Ennai in Tamil and Kachi Ghani tel in Hindi. , this oil oozes great flavour and adds extra taste to the dishes.
Groundnut Oil Nutrients
Groundnut oil is one of the Traditional and Healthiest Oils in the world. It is a Vegetable oil that is naturally Trans-fat-Free, Cholesterol-Free and low in saturated fats, High in Monounsaturated fat (MUFA) and Polyunsaturated fat(PUFA).
It is also a rich source of Antioxidant, Vitamin E, Vitamin B6 and Phytosterols, Resveratrols, Niacin, Iron, Magnesium, Copper, Potassium, Zinc and calcium.
The American Heart Association says,
“Most of the fats you eat should be the ‘better’ fats–monounsaturated or polyunsaturated fats.” Vegetable oils (canola oil, olive oil, peanut oil, and sunflower oil), avocados, nuts and seeds, and seafood are recommended sources of these fats.
Groundnut Oil is perfect for Deep – Frying
Groundnut oil has a pleasing and sometimes light, nutty flavor. In addition to its great taste and aroma, Groundnut oil is perfect for deep-frying because it has a unique property. It does not absorb the flavor of other foods cooked in the oil. Therefore, you can cook several different items together and each will maintain their own great taste.
Groundnut oil is also one of the world’s traditional and healthiest deep-frying oils because it can reach a high temperature at 450°F that keeps the outside of food crispy and the inside very moist. Groundnut oil works well with all types of recipes and has been the oil of choice for frying by numerous restaurants for many years because it tastes great.
Health Benefits
1. Reduces risk of Heart diseases
Groundnut oil is naturally 100% Trans-fat-Free, and it also contains low Saturated fat, but high in healthy Monounsaturated (MUFA) and Polyunsaturated (PUFA) fats, which increases the levels of “Good Cholesterol”(HDL) in the blood and it reduces both “Bad Cholesterol(LDL)” and “Triglyceride” levels. It reduces the risk of heart diseases by 50% and occurrence of Strokes.
The presence of Monounsaturated (MUFA) and Polyunsaturated (PUFA) fats improves the blood flow to the brain and eases the blood flow in the blood vessels also.
2. Boosts Immune System
A teaspoon of cold pressed groundnut oil contains 11 % of vitamin E. The fat-soluble compounds present in the oil play the role of powerful antioxidants by protecting the body cells from everyday damage caused due to free radicals. It is essential for red blood cell formation, cell signaling and preventing blood clots. It also prevents risk of cataracts and provides good vision. It fights against viral and fungal infections.
Groundnuts are rich in vitamin E and zinc content, both of which help to maintain the immune system and metabolism.
3. Prevents Cancer
Phytosterols and Resveratrols are the compounds found in groundnut oil that have anti-cancer Properties that act as Antioxidants; it blocks the blood flow to cancer cells and prevents the spread and growth of cancerous cells.
4. Controls Blood Pressure
Resveratrol has another important function in the body. It interacts with various hormones that affect blood vessels, like angiotensin, which constricts vessels and arteries. By neutralizing the effects of that hormone, resveratrol helps to decrease blood pressure, which reduces stress on the cardiovascular system.
5. Controls Blood Sugar
Groundnut oil contains high Monounsaturated (MUFA) and Polyunsaturated (PUFA) fats, which boosts insulin sensitivity and keeps blood sugar levels under control,”
Monounsaturated fats (MUFA) slows down the absorption of sugars into the digestive tract and avert sudden spikes in sugars. Polyunsaturated (PUFA) fats stimulate insulin secretion in the pancreas.
6. Relieve Joint Pain / Arthritis
Groundnut oil is loaded with anti-inflammatory properties. Its usage can be beneficial for arthritis patients. It not only helps to reduce the pain but also strengthens joints.
7. Helps in Healthy Weight Loss
There are many of us who try to pull every string possible but are unable to lose weight because our metabolism isn’t all that great. Turns out, consuming Groundnut oil can help you boost your metabolism and contribute to weight loss.
In fact, a study conducted by Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health and published in the current online issue of the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition claims that those who ate peanuts or peanut oil had a two times higher likelihood of reversing their metabolic syndrome.
8. Improves Blood Flow
Monounsaturated (MUFA) and Polyunsaturated (PUFA) fats, which are present in the groundnut increases the levels of “Good Cholesterol” (HDL) and reduces “Bad Cholesterol(LDL)”in the blood, due to which there is improved blood flow to heart, brain and in the blood vessels .
9. Prevents Alzheimer’s Disease
Groundnuts bestowed with vital nutrients like niacin, vitamin E, protein and healthy fatty acids are well-known to prevent Alzheimer’s disease and age-related cognitive decline. Groundnuts abound in brain-friendly nutrients comprise functional compounds that are beneficial in boosting memory; strengthen cognition and wards off signs of dementia.
10. Skin Care
Groundnut oil is rich in Vitamin E, which is an essential vitamin for human beings. It is particularly important for the maintenance and health of the skin, protecting it from the effects of free radicals that cause wrinkles, blemishes, and other signs of premature aging. Vitamin E present in the groundnut oil keeps your skin looking young and healthy as you get older.
11. Hair Care
Groundnut oil is rich in vitamin E, which is a potent antioxidant, helps in undoing hair damage and treat split ends while the oil locks in moisture as a result, you will have softer and smoother hair.