Obtained from peanut kernels, this tangy organic edible oil has numerous health benefits. Peanuts can be eaten fresh or roasted and are used in cooking, in making confectionery items besides being pressed for edible oil. Peanuts are believed to have originated in the Central American region from where the Spanish explorers are said to have spread them to the rest of the world. Currently, peanuts are cultivated as oil seeds and form the prime commercial crop in China, India, Africa and the United States.
The plant, a low growing annual variety, belongs to the family of fabaceae (Leguminosae) of the genus Arachis. Going by the botanical name Arachis hypogaea, it is commonly known as groundnut, earthnut, goober, pinder and ground pea.