Peanut oil is the oil from the seed, also called
the nut, of the peanut plant. Peanut oil is used to make medicine. Peanut oil is used
by mouth to lower cholesterol and prevent heart
disease and cancer. Peanut oil is sometimes applied directly to
the skin for arthritis, joint pain, dry skin, eczema, and
other skin conditions. But there is limited scientific evidence to support
these uses. Peanut oil is commonly used in cooking.
Pharmaceutical companies use peanut oil in
various products they prepare. Peanut oil is also used in skin care
products and baby care products.
How does it work?
Peanut oil is high in monounsaturated
"good" fat and low in saturated "bad" fat, which
is believed to help prevent heart disease and lower cholesterol. Most studies
in animals suggest that peanut oil might help to reduce fatty build up
in blood vessels. However, not all studies agree.