WALNUT OIL
Oil extraction by hot and cold pressingction
Walnut oil is obtained from walnut kernels, which have a fat content of over 60% after drying, by cold or hot pressing or chemical extraction.
However, cold-pressed walnut oil with subsequent filtering is of the best quality. In the case of simpler qualities (oil from extraction or hot pressing), the oil is often refined afterwards to reduce bitter substances. First, the outer shells are removed from the nuts and they are dried. In order to obtain a more aromatic and flavorful oil later, the walnuts are sometimes roasted briefly before pressing.
During cold pressing, the walnut kernels are gently added to a screw press and de-oiled without the addition of heat. The oil is then filtered in several stages to remove the lees and clouding substances from the walnut oil.
Hot pressing of walnut kernels
With hot pressing, the oil is only extracted by applying a relatively high amount of heat. Hot pressing is also carried out purely mechanically using a screw press. It can then be refined to remove unwanted substances. The end result is an oil that is relatively odorless and tasteless but has a long shelf life. With the help of organic solvents, the oil can also be chemically extracted from the walnuts. The solvent is then removed by reheating and finally the oil is refined.
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Properties and shelf life
Walnut oil comes in various colors ranging from light yellow to greenish yellow to light brown. It smells pleasant and light and also has a walnut note.
Its taste is described as pleasant, intense and nutty. This oil is relatively liquid. Its boiling point is only around -29° to -28° C and its smoke point is around (120°C -) 160°C. The flash point of refined oil is very high at around 326°C. Walnut oil is characterized by a very high content of unsaturated fatty acids. It contains about 20% monounsaturated, about 62% diunsaturated and about 9% triply unsaturated fatty acids. This makes walnut oil a good source of essential fatty acids for human nutrition due to its high content of omega-6 fatty acids γ-linoleic acid and omega-3 fatty acid α-linolenic acid. Another positive aspect is that only a small proportion of saturated fatty acids are present. In addition, lecithin, vitamin B (supports important brain functions, protects nerve cells and prevents irritability and poor concentration) and a lot of vitamin E can be found in this oil. It also contains polyphenols, selenium, copper, zinc, magnesium and provitamin A. The latter is important for proper growth and healthy eyesight.
Walnut oil has a shelf life of around 9 to 12 months if kept sealed, refrigerated and in a dark place.
Discover the many uses of walnut oil!
Walnut oil In pharmacy and medicine – should not be underestimated!
This oil can be regarded as a dietary edible oil. According to the “Lexicon of Vegetable Fats and Oils”, this oil can lower both triglyceride and cholesterol levels, reduce the risk of arteriosclerosis and also have a positive effect on lipid metabolism.
Walnut oil has other positive properties, such as a very thorough disinfectant (important for skin care, for example) and fungicidal (i.e. anti-fungal) effect. Due to these properties, this oil forms an ideal basis for healing ointments. In the case of fungal infections, pressure sores or other open wounds, it can support the actual active ingredient and thus also contribute to successful healing. Further positive effects of walnut oil are cited by Günter A. Ulmer in his book “Healing Oils”. This oil is said to promote fat metabolism, lower cholesterol levels, stimulate the metabolism, activate the hormone balance and support skin regeneration.
In folk medicine – a miracle cure
Walnut oil is also used here, which is probably due to its fungicidal, disinfectant effect. For example, it is used to treat liver and gallbladder complaints, metabolic disorders, bee stings and athlete’s foot. It is also used to treat respiratory diseases, cold sores, corns and skin irritations.
Walnut oil in cosmetics – so versatile and healthy!
A real insider tip for radiant skin! Although walnut oil is a very greasy oil, it is quickly absorbed by the skin. This is why it is often used in cosmetic products. For example, in hair shampoos, in moisturizing shower gels and as a base for ointments and creams. It is said to help against skin irritation and also promote skin regeneration.
Walnut oil In technology – environmentally friendly lubricant
Due to its lubricating properties, the oil is often used as an environmentally friendly lubricant. A sustainable alternative to conventional lubricants that also extends the service life of machines. There are even some known technical uses for this oil. It is used to impregnate wood and for the production of soaps. It can also be used as a dispersing agent for artists’ paints and is primarily used in oil paints.
Walnut oil is a true all-rounder in the kitchen
Enhance salads, pestos or soups with the nutty aroma of walnut oil and add a special touch to your dishes. A real treat for the palate! Among the various nut oils, walnut oil is a high-quality oil, as it is the only one with a very high proportion of polyunsaturated fatty acids. It is also often prized as a delicacy, especially in French cuisine. For example, it is used to refine dips, sauces, salads, cooked vegetables, as well as in desserts, fruit salads or with vanilla ice cream.
In addition to their own knowledge acquired through press trials, the following sources were used to create the article:
- Öle, natürlich kaltgepresst, Basiswissen & Rezepte, Marcus Hartmann, Hädecke, 2008
- Heilende Öle, Pflanzenöle als Nahrungs- und Heilmittel, Neue Erkenntnisse, Günter Albert Ulmer Verlag Tuningen
- Lexikon der pflanzlichen Fette und Öle, Krist, Buchbauer, Klausberger, SpringerWienNewYork, 2008
- www.wikipedia.de
- en.wikipedia.org
