Groundnut oil, more commonly known as peanut oil, is very popular among users due to its innumerable health benefits. This particular oil has been in use by the Ayurvedic system of medicine for decades because of its great medicinal properties. Though cold-pressed oils have become fashionable mainly in the case of cold-pressed groundnut oil due to nutrient retention, let’s understand how groundnut oil has been valued in Ayurveda and its possible health benefits.
Ancient Uses of Groundnut Oil in Ayurveda
Ayurveda uses oils as a primary medium to balance doshas in the body. The groundnut oil, which has antioxidants, has been used since ancient times for a variety of medicinal purposes. Therefore, it is said to affect the vata and pitta doshas, which have a connection with movement and digestion in the body. Its warm property calms the muscles and helps improve the flow of blood.
Moreover, Ayurvedic massage uses groundnut oil to moisturize the skin. It contained high vitamin E, making it an ideal treatment for skin disorders. It was applied topically to heal wounds, treat eczema, and reduce inflammation of the skin. Ayurvedic treatments were also given for hair, as it was supposed to strengthen hair and reduce dandruff.
Health Benefits of Cold Pressed Groundnut Oil
This is a cold-pressed groundnut oil. This oil does not use any form of heating while extracting; it is all-natural. Such oils retain nutrients that are often destroyed in refining. Some of the health benefits include the following:
1. Rich in healthy fats
Cold pressed groundnut oil has a high monounsaturated content. Monounsaturated fats work by reducing levels of bad cholesterol, which indirectly helps reduce heart disease. Additionally, these fats improve brain and cellular functions.
2. Promotes Skin Health
Because it moisturizes the skin, it is perfect for healthy, glowing skin. The groundnut oil contains vitamin E, which is an antioxidant. Vitamin E is protective against the ultraviolet rays and reduces the effect of ageing on the skin. The groundnut oil makes the skin’s texture smooth, soft, and supple, making the skin shine by regular application.
3. Maintains Healthy Digestive System
Groundnut oil is also associated with positive effects on the digestive system; it stimulates the secretion of bile, which helps in breaking down fats. Further, the oil has anti-inflammatory properties that calm down the stomach and intestines and stops severe symptoms such as bloating and indigestion.
Ayurveda and the Healing Power of Oils
Ayurvedic texts have focused much on the use of oils for maintaining balance in the body. Cold pressed groundnut oil is considered to nourish the tissues, rejuvenate, and heal the body. In Ayurveda, it is said that one should choose the oil according to an individual’s constitution (prakriti) and imbalances (vikriti).
Ayurveda further advises using oils for daily activities. Cold-pressed oil massages are great for enhancing blood flow, reducing muscular tension, and improving flexibility. Then, there’s oil pulling: swishing around oil in the mouth, removing harmful toxins that also boosts oral health.
Modern Use of Groundnut Oil
Today, cold-pressed groundnut oil is used as the most popular oil for cooking because of its mild flavor and high smoking point. This oil is excellent for frying and sautéing because it does not lose its nutritional value even at high temperatures. It is also a healthier option compared to refined oils, which may contain harmful additives.
Besides being used in most food products and cosmetics, its use in the skincare industry cannot be overlooked either. Groundnut oil has recently gained popularity not only for hydrating and providing protection to the skin but also for being incorporated into many different natural skin lotions and creams. It can also be included as a nourishing hair-care product.
How to Incorporate Groundnut Oil into Your Routine?
Groundnut oil has several health benefits, which one can gain access to through a variety of its uses. The oil can be used as an everyday cooking substitute that is much healthier than most of the other oils. Nonetheless, it should always be cold-pressed groundnut oil since that retains most nutrients and flavour that refined oils will not have.
Moreover, you can use it for skin and hair care. Massage oil on your scalp or apply it to dry patches of skin to hydrate it. You can also use it as a base oil in your Ayurvedic massage essential oil blends.
Conclusion
Groundnut oil is one of the oldest usages in Ayurveda and can be medicinally as well as cosmetically beneficial. Because of this versatility, groundnut oil plays an important role in Ayurvedic healing practice. Whether used cold pressed in a massage or applied to skin, or while cooking, this oil is something undeniable. Additionally, add it to your daily routine to keep your health well-balanced and thriving naturally.
Incorporating cold pressed oil into one’s lifestyle can be a very good way of enjoying its health benefits. Furthermore, groundnut oil has continued to feature prominently in modern and ancient applications towards better health and wellness.
