The Different Oils and Its Various Benefits

The heart-healthy reputation of olive oil is well known, but eating a variety of plant oils can give extra health—and flavor—benefits.

Plants Oils and Benefits

Avocado

Avocado is rich in vitamin E for healthy skin. Enjoy its subtle, nutty taste cold, or cook with it.

Flaxseed

Flaxseed is mild-flavored and full of essential omega-3 fatty acid that fight inflammatory disease. Omega-3s are destroyed by heat, so use cold in salads, smoothies and yoghurt.

Grapeseed

Grapeseed has a light flavor and high smoke point. It is good for salad dressings and for cooking at high temperatures.

Hemp Seed

Hemps seed is derived from cannabis, but it won’t get you high. It is a good source of omega-3 fatty acid and has a mild, sweet, and nutty flavor. It is preferably used cold.

Pumpkin Seed

Pumpkin seed has a toasted flavor. It may alleviate prostate and bladder problems. It is also high in omega-3 fatty acid, so use it cold.

Sesame Seed

Dark sesame oil adds strong flavor to Eastern-style cooking. It is high in vitamin E and may work to reduce blood pressure.

Walnut

Walnut is high in antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acid. It adds a nutty taste to baking and salad dressings.

Reference: Oil’s Essential, p. 138 Reader’s Digest July 2006