Walnut oil

Technical Data Sheets :

Botanical Name: Juglans Regia

Common Method of Extraction: Cold press method.

Parts Used: The oil is most often extracted from the kernel of the walnut. Sometimes the leaves are also used.

Note Classification: Nutty

Aroma: Walnut oil has a delicate and soft aroma and also has the  nutty smell.

Largest Producing Countries: France is the largest producer of walnut oil. Other countries that produce walnut oil are New Zealand, Australia and California in the US

Traditional Use: For ages people in Europe have been using walnuts for treating various disorders. It has been even found in the prehistoric sites in Europe. The Romans and the Greeks considered walnut as a mark of fertility. It has been mentioned in the Old Testament. The reference is about walnuts in King Solomon’s garden. The people of the Middle Ages believed it kept off evil spirits. It was used as a tonic and as disinfectant for many skin related problems.

Properties:

Pale brown to pale yellow walnut oil is seen and this depends on the nut. Walnut oil contains linoleic acid, omega 3, omega 6 and omega 9 fatty acids and linolenic. Walnuts are rich on phytonutrients. It is a very good source of magnesium, iron, calcium, selenieum, zinc and phosphorous. It has anti-oxidant, anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory and antiseptic and anti-viral properties. There is a variety of uses of this oil. It is used as a nutritious food, as diet supplements, as medicines, in aroma therapy, as a flavouring agent and the most unique is use in painting. With regard to the health benefits, it is used in treating dandruff, acne, inflammation and eczema.

It is said to be effective in treating urinary stones, constipation, weak knees, lumbar pains, respiratory problems and diarrhea. As a part of aroma therapy it is said to relax and used for body massage. It gives a refreshed feel. The aromatherapy is said to have cured chronic constipation problems. Though it is used in cooking it cannot be treated to high temperature as it turns bitter when heated.  It is most often used in salad dressings or in cold dishes. Walnut oil is used as thinner and to remove paints from the tools of the artists. Walnut oil prevents the yellowing of the painting for a longer period of time. Walnut oil dries faster than most of the other oils used for painting. It gives a glossy look to the painting.

Blends Well With: It blends well with some oils like sweet almond oil and grape seed oil.

Of Interest: Walnut oil can turn bitter when heated.  Walnut oil can go rancid very quickly.

Safety Data: Walnut is safe to be used internally but most often it is used as an additive in the preparation of food and not used directly. However it is said that pregnant woman should avoid it. Many are allergic to nuts, so it is always better to check on your allergies before suing walnut oil. Walnut is said to interfere with iron absorption.