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Kukui nut oil, also known as candlenut oil, is made from the nuts of a flowering tree in the genus Aleurites belonging to the family Euphorbiaceous plant, which is cold-pressed to provide oil. According to Jasleen Kaur, a diet counsellor, and nutritionist, Just Diet Clinics, “These trees are grown largely in the tropical and subtropical regions of the world, such as Malaysia, Indonesia, Queensland as well as some parts of Australia.”
Adding that it has been extensively used in folk medicine for the treatment of ulcers, headaches, diarrhea, and hypercholesterolemia, the expert added that it is perhaps, one of the most versatile and healthy oils which is used for medicinal purposes, cooking, as well as skincare. “Native to the Indian sub-continent, it is known to be packed with omega-3 fats, protein, antioxidants, plant sterols, and a bunch of vitamins and minerals,” she told indianexpress.com.
Here are some of its benefits:
Improves hair health
It has been touted as a great oil for the hair and scalp owing to its anti-fungal properties which make it an ideal choice for relieving an irritated scalp and eliminating dandruff. Rich in omega-3 fats, which help prevent cell damage, kukui nut oil can also help fight hair loss, while the potassium in it helps accelerate hair growth.
However, the expert advised mixing the oil with coconut oil as it is more cooling for the Indian climate. “Kukui nut oil on its own is extremely warm for the hair and can cause greying,” she shared.
Protects eyes
A study found that kukui nut oil can heal ocular burns (eye trauma), regenerate corneal epithelium (a barrier to protect the cornea), and reduce inflammation. Some eye drops contain the oil and help with dry eyes, thus protecting them.
Fights ageing
It is rich in antioxidants, which help fight free radicals that cause cell damage and speed up the ageing process. Packed with vitamin B, it is also safe to use for premature ageing, and the vitamin E provides plump and supple skin. Kukui nut oil also boosts the collagen production, thus encouraging the formation of new skin cells, hence reducing fine lines, wrinkles, crow’s feet and stretch marks.
Helps in digestion
Excellent source of fibre, the nut oil’s inclusion in the diet is beneficial for the GI tract. “Using it regularly can help facilitate the digestive process and promote regular bowel movement as it serves as mild laxative,” said Kaur.
Boosts skin health
It can help moisturise dry skin and protect the skin’s barrier. It also creates a semi-permeable barrier to allow moisture to penetrate deeply into the skin, thus repairing the topmost layer of the skin, known as the stratum corneum.
Concluding, Kaur said, “Due to its bitterness, it can be mixed with other ingredients to provide relief from tooth decay, fungal infections, insect bites, constipation and heart diseases.” However, it should be avoided by people who have a warmer body temperature as this oil is extremely hot, especially women who have heavy bleeding during menstruation.
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