Walnut Oil (Juglans Regia)
Walnut Oil (Juglans Regia)
Buy Walnut Oil (Juglans regia)Walnut oil is a premium edible oil extracted from the kernels of the walnut tree (Juglans regia), a deciduous species native to temperate regions and known for its rich, nutty flavor and health-promoting properties. The oil is typically golden and clear, with a characteristic nutty and woody aroma.
Extraction Methods
Walnut oil is commonly obtained through:
Cold Pressing: Preserves the oil’s delicate flavor, nutritional profile, and bioactive compounds. Cold-pressed walnut oil is considered the highest quality, with low acidity and high antioxidant content23.
Hydraulic Pressing: Often used with roasted kernels to enhance the nutty aroma.
Solvent Extraction (e.g., Soxhlet, Ultrasonic): Yields more oil but may alter the sensory and nutritional qualities234.
Physical and Chemical Properties
| Property | Value/Description |
|---|---|
| Color | Golden, clear |
| Aroma | Nutty, woody |
| Acid Value | Less than 2% (cold-pressed: ~0.76%) |
| Peroxide Value | Typically >5 mEq/kg |
| Refractive Index | 1.4696 |
| Saponification Value | ~194 mg KOH/g oil |
| Specific Gravity | 0.925 |
| Smoke Point | ~160°C |
Chemical Composition
Walnut oil is rich in unsaturated fatty acids and bioactive compounds:
Polyunsaturated fatty acids:
Linoleic acid (omega-6): ~58–62%
Alpha-linolenic acid (omega-3): ~14%
Monounsaturated fatty acids:
Oleic acid (omega-9): ~13%
Saturated fatty acids:
Palmitic, stearic, lauric, myristic, arachidic, behenic acids (minor amounts)
Phytosterols: β-sitosterol (dominant), campesterol, stigmasterol
Tocopherols: High in γ-tocopherol (vitamin E)
Phenolic Compounds: Ellagic acid, tannins, flavonoids
Other Nutrients: Squalene, melatonin, vitamins, and minerals1234
Health Benefits and Uses
Cardiovascular Support:
Rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, walnut oil helps maintain arterial flexibility, supports healthy blood flow, and is associated with reduced risk of hypertension and heart disease14.Skin Health:
Contains vitamin E, B vitamins, and niacin, supporting skin hydration, elasticity, and repair. Used topically for fungal infections, redness, eczema, and as a natural moisturizer with anti-aging effects.Antioxidant Activity:
High levels of tocopherols and phenolics provide strong antioxidant protection against free radical damage, supporting cellular health and slowing aging14.Culinary Uses:
Walnut oil’s delicate, nutty flavor makes it ideal for salad dressings, drizzling over cold dishes, or as a finishing oil for pastries and baked goods. It is not recommended for high-heat cooking, as heat can degrade its flavor and nutritional value1.Other Benefits:
May have anti-inflammatory, cholesterol-lowering, neuroprotective, and immunomodulatory properties4.
Summary Table
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Extraction | Cold-pressed, hydraulic, solvent |
| Major Fatty Acids | Linoleic, alpha-linolenic, oleic |
| Bioactive Compounds | Tocopherols, phytosterols, phenolics |
| Health Benefits | Heart health, skin care, antioxidants |
| Culinary Uses | Dressings, cold dishes, baking |
| Cosmetic Uses | Moisturizers, anti-aging, soothing |
Walnut oil is a versatile, nutrient-rich oil valued for both its culinary and therapeutic applications. Its high content of polyunsaturated fatty acids, antioxidants, and bioactive compounds makes it a premium choice for heart health, skin nourishment, and gourmet cuisin