Using Groundnut Oil in Summer – Does It Overheat the Body?

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By Varun BansalMay 19, 2025

Introduction

Summer is that time of the year when we naturally start paying more attention to our diets. As the temperatures soar, we become more cautious about what we eat, drink, and even cook with. One of the most debated kitchen staples during the warmer months is groundnut oil. While it’s widely known for its nutritional goodness and rich flavour, some people wonder—does using groundnut oil in summer overheat the body?

In this blog, we’ll explore this concern in detail. We'll talk about the nutritional profile of groundnut oil, what Ayurveda says about its heating or cooling effects, and how to wisely use cold-pressed groundnut oil during summer. If you're planning to buy groundnut oil or looking for where to buy groundnut oil online, keep reading till the end—we'll also recommend a trusted brand for your summer cooking needs.

What Is Groundnut Oil?

Groundnut oil, also known as peanut oil, is extracted from the seeds of the groundnut plant. It's a popular choice in Indian households for its pleasant nutty flavour and high smoke point, which makes it suitable for both deep frying and everyday sautéing.

There are different types of groundnut oil available—refined, unrefined, and cold-pressed. Among them, cold-pressed groundnut oil is the most natural and least processed form. It is made by pressing the groundnuts without using any heat or chemicals, thus preserving most of its nutrients.

Nutritional Profile of Groundnut Oil

Before we dive into the summer-related concerns, let's take a quick look at the groundnut oil nutrition profile. Groundnut oil is rich in:

Monounsaturated fats (MUFA) – Good for heart health
Polyunsaturated fats (PUFA) – Support healthy brain function
Vitamin E – A powerful antioxidant
Plant sterols – Help lower bad cholesterol

It contains almost zero trans fats and minimal saturated fats compared to other oils, making it a relatively healthy fat choice when used in moderation.

All of these components play important roles in our body’s health, especially in terms of heart function, skin glow, and anti-inflammatory effects.

Groundnut Oil and Body Heat: A Concern?

Now let’s address the burning question—does groundnut oil increase body heat during summer?

The short answer: Not necessarily.

The belief that oils like groundnut can “overheat” the body is mostly anecdotal and not strongly backed by modern science. However, in traditional systems like Ayurveda, some oils are classified as heating and others as cooling based on how they affect your body’s metabolism and internal temperature.

In reality, how your body reacts to a particular oil depends on several factors:

The quantity you use
Your existing body constitution (according to Ayurveda)
The method of cooking
Whether the oil is cold-pressed or refined

When consumed in moderation and especially in its cold-pressed form, groundnut oil is unlikely to cause any harm—even during the hottest months.

Ayurvedic Perspective: Cooling vs. Heating Oils

According to Ayurveda, each food item has either a heating (ushna) or cooling (shita) effect on the body. This classification is based on how the food interacts with your doshas (Vata, Pitta, and Kapha).

Groundnut oil is generally considered to have a neutral to mildly heating effect. That means it could mildly increase the Pitta dosha, which is already dominant in summer. However, this doesn't mean you need to avoid it altogether.

Here’s how Ayurveda suggests balancing it:

Use it with cooling ingredients like bottle gourd, mint, cucumber, or coriander
Avoid excessive spicy foods with groundnut oil
Prefer cold-pressed groundnut oil over refined oil

When consumed mindfully and balanced with the right foods, groundnut oil can be part of a healthy summer diet.

How to Use Groundnut Oil Wisely in Summer

If you're still unsure about using groundnut oil during summer, here are some practical tips to make the most of its benefits without any adverse effects:

1. Use in Small Quantities

Groundnut oil is calorie-dense. A little goes a long way. Use 1-2 tablespoons for cooking meals, and avoid deep frying in peak summer heat.

2. Pair It with Cooling Foods

Balance the mild heating effect of groundnut oil by cooking it with summer-friendly vegetables like:

Lauki (bottle gourd)
Tori (ridge gourd)
Palak (spinach)
Mint and coriander chutneys

3. Avoid Overheating the Oil

Groundnut oil has a high smoke point, but repeatedly overheating it can degrade its quality and produce harmful compounds. Always cook on medium heat, and don’t reuse oil multiple times.

4. Cold Dishes? Try Cold-Pressed Oil

Use cold-pressed groundnut oil as a finishing touch for salads, dips, or chutneys. Its nutty aroma can elevate the flavour without any heating concerns.

Where to Buy Groundnut Oil Online?

For those who are looking to make a switch to a better, more authentic version of groundnut oil, you can buy cold-pressed oil from trusted organic brands like Two Brothers Organic Farms.

Check out their Wood-Pressed Organic Groundnut Oil, which is:

100% wood-pressed
Sourced directly from farmers
Available in 1-litre bottles
Ideal for daily cooking in all seasons

When you buy groundnut oil online, make sure it’s free from additives, preservatives, and refined processing.

FAQs

Q1. Is groundnut oil safe to use in hot weather?

Yes, when used in moderation and especially in its cold-pressed form, groundnut oil is safe for summer cooking.

Q2. Can groundnut oil cause acne or heat boils in summer?

Excessive oil consumption can trigger skin issues, especially in heat-prone individuals. But using small amounts of cold-pressed groundnut oil usually doesn't cause such problems.

Q3. Which is better in summer: groundnut oil or coconut oil?

Coconut oil is considered more cooling in Ayurveda, but groundnut oil is nutritionally richer in some aspects. Both can be used based on your body's needs and food choices.

Q4. Can I use groundnut oil to fry in summer?

Yes, but avoid deep-frying every day. Try shallow frying or sautéing instead to keep meals light and healthy.

Q5. Where can I buy high-quality cold-pressed groundnut oil?

You can buy cold-pressed oil from Two Brothers India Shop—they offer pure, chemical-free cold-pressed oils.

Conclusion

The idea that groundnut oil overheats the body in summer is largely based on perception rather than scientific fact. When consumed in its cold-pressed form, groundnut oil is a nutrient-rich, heart-friendly option that supports overall health, even during the hottest months.

Remember, it’s not just what you eat, but how you eat it that matters. Pair your oil with cooling foods, cook wisely, and choose organic, minimally processed options.

So this summer, don’t be afraid to enjoy the flavour and health benefits of cold-pressed groundnut oil. Just keep it balanced, and your body will thank you.