Hazel Nut Oil (Corylus Avellana)

Hazel Nut Oil (Corylus Avellana)
Buy Hazelnut Oil (Corylus avellana)

Hazelnut oil, derived from the nuts of Corylus avellana—also known as filbert or cobnut—is a premium, versatile oil native to Europe and Asia Minor. The shrub or small tree thrives in regions with moist winters and cool summers, producing nutrient-rich nuts that are cold-pressed to extract this highly valued oil234.

Extraction Process

Hazelnut oil is most commonly obtained through cold pressing of cleaned and dried hazelnut kernels. This gentle, mechanical method preserves the oil’s natural flavor, aroma, and nutritional properties, resulting in a clear, pale yellow liquid. The oil is then filtered and vacuum bottled to ensure purity and freshness234. Alternative methods include solvent extraction, but cold pressing is preferred for food and cosmetic use due to its ability to retain bioactive compounds and avoid solvent residues5.

Composition

• Oleic acid (omega-9): 66–83% (monounsaturated, heart-healthy)

• Linoleic acid (omega-6): 8–25%

• Palmitic acid: 5–9%

• Stearic acid: 4%

• Palmitoleic acid: 0.5%

• Linolenic acid: 0.6%

• Vitamin E (tocopherol): High content, powerful antioxidant

• Phytosterols, proteins, and minerals: Present in smaller amounts34.

Uses and Benefits

Skin and Hair Care:

• Hazelnut oil is lightweight, non-greasy, and quickly absorbed, making it ideal for all skin types, especially oily and acne-prone skin14.

• Rich in vitamin E and essential fatty acids, it acts as a natural moisturizer, helps balance sebum production, and soothes inflammation and redness123.

• Its astringent properties (due to catechins and tannins) make it suitable for sensitive and combination skin, leaving a matte, soft finish34.

• Used as a carrier oil in aromatherapy and massage, it provides a calming experience and is often included in lotions, creams, and soaps14.

• Helps regenerate damaged skin cells and provides antioxidant protection against free radicals13.

Hair Care:

• Hazelnut oil can be applied to hair before coloring or shampooing to protect and nourish, offsetting the effects of regular hair treatments1.

Culinary:

• With its delicate, nutty flavor, hazelnut oil is prized for salad dressings, drizzling over vegetables, and enhancing a variety of dishes25.

• It is rich in monounsaturated fats, making it a heart-healthy option for cooking and baking235.

Other Applications:

• Used in the pharmaceutical industry and as a base for emollient and moisturizer creams due to its high linoleic acid content35.

Summary Table

Hazelnut oil is a light, nourishing oil with a subtle nutty aroma, ideal for skincare, massage, hair care, and gourmet culinary uses. Its high content of oleic acid and vitamin E makes it both a heart-healthy cooking oil and a rejuvenating ingredient in natural beauty routines12345