Learn about the benefits of walnut oil and how it transforms our skin and hair. There is also a selection of effective oil recipes. Walnut oil has no competitors among vegetable oils in terms of the combination of useful properties. It is considered one of the most aromatic and palatable. The oil can be eaten, but it is widely used in medicine and cosmetology.
A little history of the appearance of walnut oil
The walnut was first mentioned in the 6th century BC. It is believed that the birthplace of this plant is not Greece at all, as many believe, but Iran. Currently, walnuts can be found along the entire coast of the Mediterranean and Black Seas, in the south of Ukraine, in the Crimea, on the Balkan Peninsula. Meanwhile, walnut oil is not made everywhere where it grows. That is why this product remains expensive.
What and how is walnut oil obtained from?
Only kernels are needed for the production of butter. As a rule, the product is obtained by the method of cold pressing in order to preserve all the benefits of the walnut in it to the maximum. For this, the kernels are thoroughly crushed and pressed at a low temperature.
What does walnut oil taste like?
Walnut kernel oil has a beautiful amber hue and an original, very rich nutty taste and aroma. Due to its pronounced odor, this oil should not be used in the creation of sophisticated aromas. But it is just perfect for making salad dressings and sauces. It is not recommended to use it in hot sauces, because when heated, the oil begins to burn a little.
Walnut oil composition
In terms of taste, nutritional and healing criteria, oil is a favorite. All thanks to the unique composition, which includes:
- polyunsaturated fatty acids (linolenic, linoleic, Omega-3, Omega-6, Omega-9);
- vitamins A, B1, B2, PP, B6, B9, C, E, K, P, etc.;
- trace elements (calcium, iodine, iron, magnesium, cobalt, phosphorus, copper, selenium, zinc);
- saturated fatty acids (stearic and palmitic);
- beta sitosterols;
- phospholipids;
- phytosterols;
- retinol and carotenoids;
- coenzyme Q10.
The product is considered the record holder for the amount of "rejuvenating" vitamin E, as well as omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids.
Health Benefits of Walnut Oil
The rich composition of the oil makes it possible to use it as an aid in the treatment of the following ailments:
- oncological diseases;
- mucous membrane;
- tuberculosis;
- chronic colitis;
- otitis;
- chronic arthritis;
- diabetes;
- ulcers of the intestines and stomach;
- constipation.
Walnut oil is also a good prophylactic agent for people with a predisposition to cardiovascular diseases, atherosclerosis, liver disease and metabolic disorders. Doctors recommend using it during the recovery period after a serious illness or surgery. The product is also effective against varicose veins.
It is also useful for pregnant women due to the abundance of vitamin E, which plays an important role in the proper formation of the fetus and reduces the manifestations of toxicosis. Thanks to the special plant enzyme that is part of the oil, it can also be considered a kind of aphrodisiac. This enzyme stimulates blood circulation in the genitals, causing increased sperm production in men.
This oil should be taken 2-3 times a day. Reception should be carried out half an hour before a meal, in a dosage of 1 tsp. Reception can be single, but in this case it is necessary to drink oil in the morning on an empty stomach. Never drink oil with water or other liquids, otherwise you will nullify all its benefits. Taking walnut oil inside helps to cleanse the liver, bile ducts, and restore the gastric mucosa.
It can be given to children from one year old. You should start with five drops, gradually increasing the dosage by 10 years to 1 tsp. Children are advised to add oil to salads, cereals, vinaigrette as a flavoring and vitamin supplement. The product will also be useful for pregnant women. They should take 1 tsp. butter 1-2 times a day, adding it to salads and other dishes.
Oil will help out and with otitis media. It will be enough to put 3-5 drops in the ear to feel relief.
Nutritionists have great reverence for nut oil. A few years ago, American scientists conducted a series of experiments, according to which, after a month of taking walnut oil inside, the level of cholesterol in the blood returned to normal and did not increase for several months.
How to use walnut oil for beauty?
Face and body skin care
The oil has a tonic, regenerating, rejuvenating effect on the dermis. Due to the large amount of minerals and vitamins, it perfectly moisturizes and nourishes any type of skin. It is not surprising that this oil is found in many masks and creams. Especially relevant is "nut care" during cold weather, when the skin is in dire need of improved nutrition and reliable protection.
Walnut oil is absorbed almost instantly, leaving the skin silky smooth. It has the ability to cool and soothe irritated and inflamed skin. Also, the oil promotes the early healing of cuts, wounds, cracks.
It will become a real salvation for those with dry skin. However, this oil will also help with oily skin type, as it perfectly tightens pores and removes inflammation.
You can simply apply the oil neat to the skin after each wash or just before bed, but it is much more effective to use it in tandem with other vegetable oils. So, it can be mixed with olive, almond, peach or apricot oils in equal amounts. The result is an effective moisturizing, nourishing and rejuvenating product that is ideal for aging skin. With regular use, it will help remove fine lines of wrinkles, make the skin firmer and softer.
Walnut oil is a natural tanning agent. It can be used in place of commercial tanning products. However, remember that it does not protect your skin from the negative effects of the sun's rays. The product only contributes to the early obtaining of a chocolate skin tone. It must be applied 15–20 minutes before taking solar treatments. In addition, the oil can be taken orally. Such use will also have a beneficial effect on the condition of the skin, hair and nails.
Masks
Try a walnut oil mask for problem skin. You will need:
- 4-5 drops of walnut oil;
- 2 tbsp. l. chamomile broth;
- colorless henna.
Mix all the ingredients until thick sour cream, apply the resulting composition to the skin, hold for 10 minutes, and then remove with warm water.
An oil-clay mask has proven itself well, for which you will need:
- 1 tbsp. l. walnut oils;
- a pinch of green clay;
- 3 drops of lemon oil.
Combine all ingredients to create a thick, lump-free mass. Apply it to your skin, hold it for at least 20 minutes and rinse it off with lukewarm water.
The oil has proven itself to be an after-shave emollient. Just one drop quickly soothes and moisturizes irritated skin.
It can also be used to combat cellulite. Try wrapping. Just apply the product to the problem area, wrap with plastic and warm with a blanket. Keep the oil wrap on for an hour and then rinse off with a contrast shower. The product will increase skin elasticity and remove excess fluid from cellulite cells.
Nail care
Walnut oil has a beneficial effect on the condition of the nails. Try to care for them with the following ingredients:
- 2 tsp walnut oils;
- 1 tsp lemon oil.
Stir the ingredients and rub the mixture into the nail plate and cuticle every day. Very soon, the nails will stop flaking and will be stronger.
Hair care
Walnut oil perfectly strengthens the hair. Good results are obtained both internally and externally. This oil has a pleasant enough taste and aroma that it is easy to get carried away with it. Don't forget that everything is good in moderation. Also know that 100 ml of walnut oil contains a whopping 884 calories!
The easiest way to use it is to apply it neat to your hair. You can do this both before and after washing. In any case, the oil will saturate the hair well with moisture.
You can make a mask that includes:
- egg;
- 2 tbsp. l. walnut oils;
- 1 tsp liquid honey.
Mix the ingredients until smooth, rub into the roots, wrap your head with cling film and a terry towel. For better results, you can heat your head with a hairdryer. Wait half an hour, and then wash off the composition using shampoo.
On the basis of walnut oil, you can prepare a mask for hair growth. For her you will need:
- dry yeast bag;
- 100 ml of kefir;
- egg yolk;
- 2 tbsp. l. walnut oils;
- 1 tsp mustard powder.
Pre-heat the kefir slightly and dilute the yeast in it. Let the mixture expand. Then add the rest of the ingredients and mix well. Rub the mask into the roots, wrap your head with plastic wrap and a towel. Wash your hair after 30-40 minutes. Shampoo can be skipped. Regular use of this mask will wake up the hair follicles and help increase hair growth.
Contraindications to the use of walnut oil
This oil is hypoallergenic, but it can cause individual intolerance, even if used externally. You will also have to postpone it further in case of exacerbation of duodenal and stomach ulcers, erosive gastritis. The oil should not be taken orally in case of nausea, poisoning, high temperature, vomiting.
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