Walnut is known to be packed with omega-3 fats, protein, antioxidants, plant sterols, magnesium, copper, Vitamins A, D, etc.
The surface structure of a walnut is similar to that of a brain, which has earned it the name “brain food”, also because it is good for boosting brain health.
It is widely used in cooking to make a range of delicious treats such as breakfast cereals, salads, pastas, desserts, energy bars, etc. Walnut oil is the oil extracted from walnuts and is used for various purposes.
There are two types of walnut oil that are commercially available, cold-pressed and refined. Cold-pressed organic walnut oil consists of most of the nutrients that are important for our health and is hence more expensive.
The refined oil, on the other hand, is low in essential nutrients and usually used in beauty and art.
Here are 5 health benefits of walnut oil for health and beauty:
1. Fights against fungal infections
Walnut oil can be used to treat fungal infections like candida, jock itch and athlete’s foot. Cold-pressed walnut oil can be applied on the affected area or mixed with other anti-fungal items like garlic. The infections can also be treated by adding a few drops of tea tree oil to walnut oil. To prevent the infections from recurring, these remedies should be regularly applied. The anti-fungal properties of the nut help in fighting against acne as well.
2. Reduces signs of ageing
Walnut oil fights and delays ageing by helping to reduce or prevent wrinkles, fine lines, etc. from occurring. Its vitamin B contents keep us safe from premature ageing. It manages to lower stress levels and frees us from stress-causing radicals. The vitamin E ensures firmer and youthful skin, being an extremely effective antioxidant. All its minerals and nutrients take care of all kinds of scars and marks on our skin. It can also be mixed with yogurt, honey and oatmeal powder to make a face pack. This keeps the skin radiant and soft.
3. Remedy for psoriasis
Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease, which causes patchy abnormal skin. It is a genetically programmed inflammatory condition that is triggered by cold, infections and stress. It can be diagnosed by skin rashes or rashes on the scalp or nails of an individual. Adding walnut oil to the affected area helps soothe the inflammation. It can either be directly applied on the spot or mixed with the water while having a bath.
4. Reduces dark circles
Sleep deprivation, stress and eczema cause dark circles and bags under our eyes. Application of warm walnut oil can be very useful in fading them and soothing the sensitive skin around your eyes. Massaging lukewarm oil regularly lightens the skin, makes it healthier and restores its natural glow. The puffiness and dullness of the eyes is done away with and one appears to be a lot brighter and fresher.
5. Cures inflammatory diseases and digestive problems
Diseases like asthma, eczema and arthritis can be cured by the application of walnut oil on the problem-causing area. The high levels of fatty acids help treat these issues. Walnuts have a high fiber content and this helps benefit our digestive system. It improves the movement of the bowel and keeps most digestive discomforts away.
