Medicinal Wonders of Palm Kernel Oil

By Dayo Adesulu July 10, 2023Last Updated: July 11, 2023

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Palm kernel oil, derived from the seeds of the oil palm tree (Elaeis guineensis), has several potential medicinal properties. However, it’s important to note that further scientific research is needed to fully understand and validate these potential benefits.

Palm kernel oil is an edible oil extracted from the seed of the oil palm fruit. It has several medicinal values that can improve your health and well-being. Some of the benefits of palm kernel oil are:

Palm kernel oil contains essential fatty acids and vitamins A, E, and K, which help promote heart, bone, and eye health.
It has antioxidants like beta carotene that prevent free radical damage and improve vision.
It moisturizes the skin without being greasy and provides relief to itchy skin and ragged cuticles.
It makes the hair soft, glossy, and strong and prevents hair loss and dandruff.
It boosts the immune system and helps fight infections.
It reduces inflammation and pain in conditions like arthritis and rheumatism.
Palm kernel oil lowers cholesterol levels and blood pressure and prevents atherosclerosis and stroke.
It enhances brain function and memory and prevents Alzheimer’s disease.
kernel oil regulates hormones and improves fertility and libido.
It aids digestion and prevents constipation, ulcers, and irritable bowel syndrome.

Palm kernel oil is a versatile oil used for cooking, baking, frying, or salad dressing. It has a high smoke point of 450°F (232°C) and remains stable under high heat. It also has a savoury and earthy flavour that complements many dishes.

However, kernel oil should not be confused with palm oil extracted from the fruit’s flesh. Palm oil has a different nutritional composition and health effects than palm kernel oil. Palm oil is also more controversial due to its environmental impact.

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Palm kernel oil is a natural and organic product that can provide you with many health benefits. However, like any other oil, it should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. You can find kernel oil in many health food stores or online.

Difference Between Palm Kernel Oil and Palm Oil

Although both palm kernel oil and palm oil are obtained from the oil palm tree, their origins and qualities vary. While palm oil is extracted from the fruit’s pulp, kernel oil is found in the fruit’s seed.

Palm kernel oil is more solid at room temperature than palm oil because it contains more saturated fat. Furthermore, lauric acid, a medium-chain fatty acid with antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, is more prevalent in palm kernel oil.

In contrast, palm oil is more liquid at room temperature because it contains more monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats than palm kernel oil. Moreover, compared to kernel oil, palm oil has higher beta carotene, a precursor to vitamin A.

Both palm oil and kernel oil have uses and health advantages. As palm kernel oil moisturises skin and hair, strengthens the immune system, lowers cholesterol levels, and improves brain function, it is mostly utilised in cosmetic and pharmaceutical products.

Because it has a high smoke point, a bland flavour, and a longer shelf life, palm oil is frequently used in cooking and food production. It also safeguards against free radical damage, regulates hormones, and supports heart, bone, and eye health.

However, because of its adverse effects on the environment, including deforestation, habitat loss, and greenhouse gas emissions, palm oil is also a contentious topic.

Both palm kernel oil and palm oil are beneficial fats that can be consumed in moderation as part of a healthy diet.

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