Walnut Oil Health Benefits

Walnut oil has been the subject of numerous studies testing it's effects on heart health, cancer and other diseases. Walnut oil is available in most grocery or health food stores and can easily be substituted for other cooking oils to increase daily consumption and reap its healthful benefits. The oil has a shorter shelf life than some other oils, and should be used within six months.

Skin Care Benefits

Walnut oil contains linoleic acid which is good for dry skin, including for eczema and dandruff problems. It is a non-comedogenic oil, meaning that is does not clog pores, so it is appropriate for use even on facial skin and as a massage oil.

Sleep Benefits

Walnut oil contains melatonin, a hormone that helps promote natural sleep cycles. In turn, regulating the sleep cycle may reduce depression and enhance the immune system in some people.

Heart Disease Benefits

The omega-3 fatty acids in walnut oil help to reduce cholesterol levels and improve the function of blood vessels. Lower cholesterol and healthy blood vessels reduce the risk of coronary heart disease. Walnut oil should be consumed daily to reap its full benefit on heart health.

Other Benefits

Walnut oil contains ellagic, gallic and malic acids. All are antioxidants which have anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties. The American Cancer Society reports that promising but inconclusive studies on cell cultures have shown ellagic acid to slow the growth of certain tumors in laboratory animals.

Tips

Walnut oil is delicate in nature and it's efficacy does up high temperatures, so it is best used on foods after cooking (as a salad oil, for example). It imparts a rich, nutty flavor to foods and can easily replace olive oil in everyday use.