Arachis oil
Introduction
Peanut oil or groundnut oil is pale yellow-colored,
mild-flavored vegetable oil that is extracted from seeds of Arachis hypogaea.
Arachis oil is used universally for food, medicines, and industry because of
its pleasant flavor, thermal stability, and nutrient value.
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| Arachis oil |
Chemical Composition
Arachis oil is
mostly composed of triglycerides, and it contains a lot of unsaturated fatty
acids. The approximate fatty acid composition is given below:
Oleic acid (monounsaturated): 40–60%
Linoleic acid (polyunsaturated): 20–30%
Palmitic acid (saturated): 8–12%
Stearic
acid (saturated): 2–5%
The oil also contains traces of vitamin E (tocopherols),
phytosterols, and natural antioxidants, which increase its stability and health
value.
Extraction
and Refining
Arachis oil can be
extracted by means of two broad methods:
Cold pressing: Peanuts are mechanically pressed to extract a
light-colored oil with an intense nutty aroma. Cold pressing preserves most of
the natural nutrients.
Solvent extraction: Hexane or other solvents are used to
extract a greater amount of oil, which is refined to remove impurities, odors,
and color.
Refined arachis oil has neutral flavor and higher smoke
point and is applied to deep frying and commercial food processing.
Uses of Arachis oil
1. Culinary Applications
Frying and cooking: It has a smoke point of around 230°C and
is thus ideal for deep frying, roasting, and sautéing.
Salad dressings and spreads: Cold-pressed peanut oil is used
in gourmet cooking recipes because it contains a nutty flavor.
Asian cooking: Used extensively in Chinese, Thai, and Indian
cuisine.
2. Pharmaceutical and Medicinal Uses
Used as a drug carrier and injection.
Used in topical creams and ointments since it possesses
emollient properties.
Applied as a mild laxative in traditional medicine.
3. Industrial Applications
Used in the production of soap, cosmetics, lubricants, and
bio-diesel.
Applied as a paint and varnish base since it is not drying.
Health Benefits of Arachis oil
Cardiac health: Monounsaturated fat rich, arachis oil lowers
bad cholesterol (LDL) without affecting good cholesterol (HDL).
Antioxidant protection: Vitamin E combats free radicals,
improving skin and cell health.
Control of blood sugar: Studies suggest moderate consumption
of peanut oil may help regulate blood sugar levels.
Moisturizing skin: Its moisturizing nature makes it beneficial
to dry or scaly skin.
Possible Risks and Allergies
While it has advantages, arachis oil is dangerous for
individuals with allergies to peanuts, which can cause adverse allergic
reactions. The refined peanut oil is usually said to be less allergenic, but
sensitized individuals should also take caution. Excessive intake can also
contribute to calorie overload.
Conclusion
Arachis oil is a healthy, nutrient-dense vegetable oil with
extensive applications in cooking, medicine, and the industry. It is an excellent
option for addition to one's healthy diet due to its great concentration of
healthy fats and antioxidants. Nevertheless, precautions should be observed to
prevent potential allergies and restrictions on usage for safe ingestion.
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