Arachis oil is a type of vegetable oil extracted from peanuts. The correct spelling of this word may be challenging for those who aren't familiar with its pronunciation. The word "Arachis" is pronounced as /əˈrækɪs/ (uh-rak-is) with the stress on the second syllable. The IPA or International Phonetic Alphabet transcription helps in understanding the spelling of a word by indicating the exact sound of each letter. Hence, spelling it as "Arachis oil" helps emphasize the correct way to pronounce this term.
Arachis oil, also known as peanut oil, is a type of vegetable oil derived from peanuts (Arachis hypogaea). It is commonly used for cooking, as a flavor enhancer, and in various industrial applications. The oil is extracted from the seeds of the peanut plant through a process called cold pressing. It is light yellow in color with a mild, nutty aroma and flavor.
In culinary uses, arachis oil is prized for its high smoke point, making it suitable for deep-frying and sautéing. Its neutral taste does not overpower the natural flavors of the dish, making it a popular choice for cooking a wide range of cuisines. Due to its stability, it is often used in commercial food production, including salad dressings, baked goods, and snack foods.
Apart from its culinary uses, arachis oil is utilized in cosmetic products, such as soaps, lotions, and creams, due to its moisturizing and emollient properties. It is also used in pharmaceutical and medicinal formulations, including ointments and liniments.
Arachis oil is rich in heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, which can help lower bad cholesterol levels, reducing the risk of heart disease. It also contains vitamin E, an antioxidant that promotes skin health and helps protect cells from damage caused by free radicals.
However, it is important to note that individuals with peanut allergies should avoid consuming or using products containing arachis oil to prevent potentially severe allergic reactions.
Peanut-oil, used as a substitute for or adulterant of olive-oil.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "Arachis oil" has its etymology derived from the scientific name of the plant from which it is primarily extracted, Arachis hypogaea, commonly known as the peanut.
The genus name "Arachis" comes from the Greek word "aráchis" (ἀράχις), which refers to the peanut plant. This word, in turn, is believed to have originated from the Persian word "aragsh" or "aragash", indicating a kind of legume. Over time, it was transferred to Greek and Latin, eventually becoming "Arachis" in modern taxonomy.
The term "oil" signifies the lipid or fatty substance extracted from the peanut or the process of extracting oil from the plant's seeds. Peanut oil has been used for various purposes, including cooking, as a base oil in pharmaceuticals, and in skincare products.