The nuts of hickory trees have been a precious commodity since ancient times as they are rich in minerals, nutrients and organic compounds, which are very necessary for a healthy lifestyle.
What Is Hickory Nut Oil?
Hickories are giant trees with compound leaves and big nuts that are mainly cultivated in America, India, China and some regions of Mexico.
For many years hickory nut oil has been extracted by crushing the nuts to form a liquid paste. A small amount of water is added to the paste followed by heating the paste until boiled.
Once the water condenses, the nut oil is left behind, traditionally known as hickory milk. The floating oil that is extracted is pale, golden-yellow in color and has a nutty smell.
Uses of Hickory Nut Oil
Below are some important uses of hickory nut oil:
- In aromatherapy
- As a decongestant
- In hair loss and dandruff treatment
- In weight gain supplements
Benefits of Hickory Nut Oil
Besides its pleasant smell and delicious taste, hickory nut oil has some great health benefits:
1. Promotes weight gain
When it comes to bulking up and building muscle, hickory nut oil helps with a healthy weight gain by being high in calorie content.
This oil comes in handy when you are recovering from an injury or surgery and need to increase your calorie intake.
2. Boosts energy levels
The highly concentrated carbohydrates in the oil provide extra energy to the human body and also combat feelings of fatigue.
3. Aids proper growth and development
Hickory nut oil is rich in natural proteins that are required for proper growth and development, making this oil beneficial for vegetarians.
4. Improves metabolic function
The presence of vitamin B in hickory nut oil helps aid metabolic activities in our bodies. This essential oil also ensures that our other important organs are functioning properly such as the heart and nervous system.
5. Improves bone health
Hickory nut oil contains magnesium, which is an essential nutrient required for proper bone growth and development. It creates a balance of minerals by regulating the level of calcium in the body.
6. Helps regulate digestion
Hickory nut oil has digestive properties that stimulate the secretion of digestive juices and, therefore, aids digestion. For those suffering from gastritis and digestive disorders, hickory nut oil is an effective solution for your condition.
7. Produces healthy fats
The human body requires a fixed amount of healthy fats to work properly. Hickory nut oil is helpful in rebalancing the cholesterol and fatty acid balance in the body.
8. Promotes cardiovascular health
Hickory nut oil plays a significant role in maintaining cardiovascular health. It lowers blood pressure and reduces the incidences of a stroke and cardiac arrest. Hickory nut oil also ensures that the heart vessels are pumping the blood properly.
Side Effects of Hickory Nut Oil
Hickory nut oil has a few side effects that one must be cautious of. It is advised to consult a doctor before use.
- Pregnant women should avoid using the oil because it may affect their hormonal levels during pregnancy.
- Stop use if irritation on the skin occurs as it can cause allergies in some people.
- Excessive consumption results in the storage of fat.