Since time immemorial, Indian kitchens have been the focal point of rich tastes, nutritious food, and wellbeing. The core of these kitchens has one ingredient which defines taste and health, which is cooking oil. The decisions such as sunflower oils, refined oils, and even olive oils have become common over the years. But the tide of health-aware Indians is returning to their senses to use groundnut oil (peanut oil) again. This is not merely a throwback to the olden days, but a deliberate action towards healthier living.
We are convinced that at Prakrtika we should encourage the idea of natural, non-chemical alternatives that will contribute to wellness and sustainability. One of such eternal gems is groundnut oil, which is made of nutritious peanuts. That is why groundnut oil is becoming the must-have in Indian families and the strong health advantages it has.
A Return to Tradition: Why Groundnut Oil is Back in Indian Kitchens
Indian households have been using groundnut oil centuries ago, especially in the south and west parts of India. It was used as the default frying, sautéing, and even seasoning medium. With time, the refined and processed oils infiltrated the market, which was promising cheap and convenient oil. Nevertheless, the darker side of refined oils – chemical processing, nutrient loss as well as negative health consequences have led to people reconsidering their options.
However, this has changed now as more of them are more interested in natural foods, cold-pressed oils and living without chemicals, which is why groundnut oil is gaining popularity again. Such a move is not simply nostalgic, it is scientifically and health-consciously endorsed by the need to have cleaner nutrition.
Nutritional Richness of Groundnut Oil
The nutrients present in groundnut oil are what make it a special cooking oil over the other cooking oils. It comprises some of the following larger parts:
- Monounsaturated/Polyunsaturated Fats (MUFA/PUFA): These are the essential fats that ensure the heart is healthy in addition to reducing bad cholesterol.
- Vitamin E: A natural antioxidant that is free radical fighting, prevents skin aging and damage and helps in the wellbeing of the cells.
- Omega-6 Fatty Acids: Necessary fatty acids which play a role in the process of acting as well as developing the brain.
- Phytosterols: Plant materials which lower cholesterol levels in the body.
The content of the above nutrient is making the groundnut oil a good addition during cooking.
7 Health Benefits of Groundnut Oil
1. Heart-Friendly Oil
The protective effect of the groundnut oil on the heart has earned it one of the greatest reasons why the Indians are changing to the new oil. The MUFA and PUFA are present in groundnut oil as compared to refined oils which contain a lot of trans fats and whose impact is to lower LDL (bad cholesterol) and maintain HDL (good cholesterol). Heavy usage is able to lessen the risk of heart diseases and stroke.
2. Rich in Antioxidants
Another beneficial antioxidant is vitamin E, which is an antioxidant found in groundnuts in a natural form. Antioxidants can alleviate oxidative stress of the cells, slow aging and improve immunity. This implies that groundnut oil is not just healthy to the heart, but to the skin and the body in general.
3. Supports Weight Management
Groundnut oil is also an oil, yet once consumed with a sense of mind then it will ultimately enable one to control his or her weight. The high proportion of MUFA in it does not cause the feeling of hunger so easily and avoids the desire to snack unhealthily. In addition, MUFAs improve the metabolism which aids in fat burning.
4. Good for Diabetics
In India, the incidence of diabetes is increasing and hence the eating habits are more important. The oil of ground nuts does not have a high glycemic index and controls blood sugar level. They also research that the MUFAs in the groundnut oil increase the insulin sensitivity thus making it a superior cooking medium to diabetics.
5. High Smoke Point for Indian Cooking
Indian food is prepared in forms of frying, tadkas, and high heat. Groundnut oil contains a high smoke point (approximately 450 o C or 232 F) and is thus stable even at deep frying and free radical formation is not emitted. This renders it as a healthier option to most of the refined oils to the conventional recipes.
6. Boosts Skin & Hair Health
Vitamin E of the groundnut oil feeds the skin, retards wrinkles and maintains healthy hair. It is widely applied in massage treatment due to its moisturizing and anti-inflammatory effects. There are also those who rub cold-pressed groundnut oil on the hair and claim it makes it shiny and strong.
7. Enhances Immunity
Frequent usage of groundnut oil boosts the immunity system due to its antioxidants, healthy fats, and nutrients. This is particularly necessary in the current life era that is characterized by haste as immunity is critical in general well-being.
Why Cold-Pressed Groundnut Oil is Better
Although the groundnut oil itself is good, the extraction mode of the same is quite a difference. We specialise in cold-pressed groundnut oil that is not extracted using any heat or chemical. This does not alter the natural nutrients, aroma and flavor of the peanuts.
Refined oils on the other hand are refined, bleached, deodorized and then processed under different means of chemicals and thus loses all the goodness of nature. Cold-pressed groundnut oil is chemical-free and un-refined, and it is more natural; hence better than processed oil to use in the family of health-conscious individuals.
Groundnut Oil vs. Refined Oil: A Quick Comparison
| Feature | Groundnut Oil | Refined Oil |
| Extraction Method | Cold-pressed / natural | Chemically processed |
| Nutrient Retention | High | Low |
| Additives | None | Often contains preservatives |
| Health Benefits | Heart-healthy, antioxidant-rich | Linked to cholesterol imbalance, obesity |
| Taste & Aroma | Natural nutty flavor | Neutral, sometimes artificial |
Clearly, groundnut oil is a healthier, safer, and tastier option.
Everyday Uses of Groundnut Oil in Indian Cooking
Groundnut oil is extremely versatile and can be used in multiple ways:
- Deep Frying: For pakoras, samosas, bhajiyas, and traditional snacks.
- Tadkas: Perfect for dals, sabzis, and curries with a nutty aroma.
- Baking: A natural alternative to butter or vegetable oil in cakes and bread.
- Roasting: Ideal for roasting vegetables and nuts.
- Salads & Dressings: Cold-pressed groundnut oil can be drizzled over salads for added flavor.
Its subtle nutty taste blends beautifully with Indian flavors while enhancing nutrition.
Why Indians are Making the Switch
The shift toward groundnut oil is driven by several key reasons:
- Rising Health Awareness: More families are prioritizing long-term health over short-term convenience.
- Return to Natural Foods: Cold-pressed oils are free from chemicals, aligning with the movement toward organic and natural living.
- Better Value for Health: Though slightly costlier than refined oils, groundnut oil offers unmatched nutritional benefits.
- Cultural Connection: It reconnects people with the flavors and practices of traditional Indian cooking.
Final Thoughts: Choose Wellness with Prakrtika Groundnut Oil
Groundnut oil is one of the few naturally produced, healthy and tastier alternatives that are found in a world full of sophisticated and processed foods. It is the answer to the needs of a modern family in terms of heart health to immunity and cooking convenience to the benefits of the skin.
The Prakrtika ensures that it offers pure cold-pressed groundnut oil without the use of chemicals which will maintain the natural aroma. Each and every drop is full of the healthy goodness of peanuts so that you and your family get the original flavor and health throughout the years.