Kukui nut oil benefits are said to improve skin’s appearance, promote hair growth, improve digestion, relieve fungal infections, help your heart and thyroid, protect against illnesses, and even help you lose weight (1). Kukui nut oil has been extensively used in folk medicine for the treatment of ulcers, headache, fevers, diarrhea, and hypercholesterolemia.
The kukui nut is probably one of the most versatile and healthy nuts out there, having been used for medicinal purposes, cooking as well as skincare for centuries. It is native to the Indian sub-continent and some other regions of South East Asia. It is known to be packed with omega-3 fats, protein, antioxidants, plant sterols, magnesium, copper, Vitamins A, and D (2).
What makes kukui nut oil benefits special over other nuts is its high content of essential fatty acids. The kukui nut has an ideal ratio of Omega 6 and Omega 3 fatty acids. While both Omega 6 and Omega 3 have health benefits, it has been noted that the typical diet includes too much Omega 6 fatty acids in comparison to Omega 3 fatty acids. This can lead to chronic inflammation in the body.
The recommended ratio of Omega 6 to Omega 3 of anywhere between 1:1 and 4:1. Kukui nut has a ratio of Omega 3 and 6 of about 1.7:1, which is considered in the ideal range (3).
There are two types of Kukui nut oil that are commercially available, cold-pressed and refined. Cold-pressed organic Kukui nut oil consists of most of the nutrients that are important for our health and is hence more expensive. The refined oil, on the other hand, is low in essential nutrients and usually used in beauty and art. Kukui nut oil benefits include several health-boosting qualities due to its minerals and nutrients.
Learn more about this amazing nut in the video and below and continue reading to learn it’s benefits.
Kukui Nut Oil Benefits
1. Fights Against Fungal Infections
Kukui nut oil can be used to treat fungal infections like candida, jock itch, and athlete’s foot (4). Cold-pressed Kukui nut oil can be applied on the affected area or mixed with other anti-fungal items like garlic. The infections can also be treated by adding a few drops of tea tree oil to Kukui nut oil. To prevent infections from recurring, these remedies should be regularly applied. The anti-fungal properties of the nut help in fighting against acne as well.
2. Can Boost Skin Health
Kukui nut oil provides hefty levels of vitamins B-1, B-2, and B-3, coupled with vitamin-E and niacin. Certain phytonutrients and fatty acids in Kukui nut oil can contribute to enhancing the texture and quality of the skin. Kukui nuts are rich in unsaturated fatty acids, including the omega-3 ALA and the omega-6 LA, both of which are essential for healthy skin (5).
All its minerals and nutrients take care of all kinds of scars and marks on our skin. It can also be mixed with yogurt, honey and oatmeal powder to make a face pack. This keeps the skin radiant and soft.
Both Omega-3 and 6 as well as natural anti-microbial properties make it suitable for all skin types, ranging from dry to oily, including sensitive and acne-prone skin.
3. Fights Signs of Aging
Kukui nut oil is rich in antioxidants and is among the best sources among tree nuts (6). Antioxidants are substances that counter the effects of free radicals that cause cell damage and accelerate the aging process. Its vitamin B content keeps us safe from premature aging. The vitamin E ensures firmer and youthful skin, being an extremely effective antioxidant.
4. Decreases Inflammation
Kukui nut oil is also rich in polyphenols called ellagitannins, which your gut bacteria convert into other beneficial compounds. These compounds may have anti-inflammatory properties and act as antioxidants that fight cell damage caused by molecules called free radicals (7).
Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease, which causes patchy abnormal skin. It is a genetically programmed inflammatory condition that is triggered by cold, infections, and stress. Eczema is a condition where patches of skin become inflamed, itchy, red, cracked, and rough. Skin rashes are also caused by inflammation. Adding Kukui nut oil to the affected area helps soothe the inflammation caused by psoriasis, eczema, and other rashes (8).
It can either be directly applied on the spot or mixed with the water while having a bath.
5. Improved Digestive System
Adding Kukui nut oil in your diet can be very beneficial for the GI tract. Regular use can help facilitate the digestive process. Consuming them on a regular basis also helps promote regular bowel movement because the oil serves as mild laxatives (9).
6. Improves Sleep
Insomnia is a sleep disorder that can be caused by stress, depression, a lot of thinking, or a fear of something. It is rich in melatonin, a hormone that aids in the regulation of the body’s internal clock (10). Kukui nut oil has been deemed as a remedy to make you relax and quickly fall asleep.
7. Improves Hair Health
From eliminating dandruff to highlighting and adding shine to hair color, this oil has been touted as a great oil for hair and scalp (11). With its anti-fungal properties, Kukui nut oil is a viable option for scalp health and relieving an irritated or infected scalp. Conditions like eczema and psoriasis are often hard to manage, but Kukui nut oil can help relieve the discomfort.
Since Omega-3s help with preventing cell damage, some use Kukui nut oil either alone or in a concoction to fight hair loss. The potassium in Kukui nut oil helps in the regeneration of those cells and may accelerate hair growth.
How To Use Kukui Nut Oil Benefits
Used as a cure for fevers, headaches, and joint pain In certain countries like Malaysia, the kernels are beaten to a pulp and the leaves are boiled to be used to cure fevers, headaches, swollen joints, flu, ulcers, and gonorrhea.
Kukui nut oil benefits have never featured in beauty books, not like coconut, olive, and almond oil. However, it is making up for the lost time and is increasingly used in beauty care.
- Using Kukui nut oil is an excellent natural remedy to fight skin problems.
- Use it regularly to fight acne, dark circles, rashes, and wrinkles.
- Use it in foods to experience internal benefits as well
Kukui nut oil has a limited shelf life, about 6-12 months. Once opened, all nut oils should be kept in a cool place out of the light or refrigerated to prevent them from becoming rancid.