Macadamia Nut Oil

Macadamia nut oil is an oil derived from the hard, woody fruit of the Macadamia tree. The tree is named after John Macadam, a friend of the botanist who first discovered the plant during the 19th century. Only two varieties of macadamia are used to make macadamia nut oil, since all other forms are typically poisonous. The two edible forms include Macadamia integrifolia and Macadamia tetraphylla. With this said, the poisonous varieties of macadamia can be made edible by removing the cyanogenic glycosides through the process of leaching. For this reason, macadamia nut oil is often made of these less desirable varieties. Native to Australia, the first commercial orchard was planted in the late 19th century in New South Whales. Soon, the macadamia tree was brought to Hawaii, where it remains a staple crop to this day. Other areas of growth include South Africa, Brazil, California, Costa Rica, Israel, Kenya and Malawi. However, since it is rather expensive to produce macadamia nuts, the cost of the oil can be quite high.

Key Nutrients

Macadamia nut oil contains a high amount of vitamin K, vitamin E and omega fatty acids, namely linoleic (omega 6) and linolenic acid (omega 3). While high in fat content, macadamia nut oil has a very low amount of saturated fatty acids.

Health Benefits

Vitamin E – Research has shown that vitamin E possesses anti-inflammatory effects that can combat arthritis, rheumatism, asthma, and other inflammatory disorders linked to chronic inflammation. Vitamin E also improves the body’s metabolic function.

Vitamin K – Vitamin-K plays an important role in bone metabolism by promoting osteotrophic activity in bone cells. Vitamin K also acts to clot open wounds and prevent excessive bleeding. Healthy vitamin K levels lower the release of the glycoprotein interleukin-6, a marker of inflammation within the body.

Omega Fatty Acids – Omega fatty acids are unsaturated fatty acids which help reduce the risk of stroke and promote healthy heart and circulatory functions.

Season

Macadamia Nut Oil can be found in any supermarket or food retail store year round.

Nutrition Information

Per 1 Tablespoon (13.5 grams):

Calories (cKal): 119
Protein (grams): 0
Total Fat (grams): 13.5
Carbohydrates (grams): 0
Fiber (grams): 0

Buying and Storing

When buying macadamia nut oil, make the sure oil is made from 100% macadamia nuts. Being a shelf stable oil, store macadamia nut oil for up to six months in your kitchen.