For a long time, many consumers have struggled to choose the right cooking oil for their families. Soybean oil, peanut oil, and tea seed oil each have their own pros and cons, and without proper care, people might end up buying "gutter oil." However, this issue is about to change. A breakthrough has been made by a Chinese research team who successfully developed "peony seed oil," derived from the flowers of the peony plant. This innovation not only solves consumer concerns but also promises to revolutionize the food industry. The CCTV Agriculture Channel's "Do You Know?" program recently took a special trip to Heze, where they explored the secrets of the peony and will reveal more about it at the end of June.
Peony: Beautiful and Delicious
In traditional Chinese culture, the peony is a well-known ornamental flower, symbolizing wealth and prosperity. It is commonly planted in gardens and admired for its beauty. However, in Heze, Shandong, a different kind of peony is being cultivated—known as "oil peony"—used as a raw material for producing "peony seed oil."
The CCTV program team visited the fields in Heze and witnessed the stunning sight of peonies blooming among the hills and farmlands. Local farmers were working in the fields with smiles on their faces. Could this really be a peony that can be eaten?
According to local scientists, the peony grown in these fields is specifically the "oil peony" used for oil extraction. The seeds of this peony are the main source of the oil. According to current production data, one acre of land can yield around 400 kg of peony seeds, which can produce 90 kg of oil. Among all oil crops, this yield is remarkably high.
"Peony Seed Oil" is Reserved for High-End Dishes
Now that we've seen how the peony can be pressed into oil, what makes "peony seed oil" so special? Researchers revealed that it’s the first time in China that oil has been extracted directly from the flower itself. They were surprised by the high quality of the oil, which is considered an exceptional edible oil.
First, this oil contains over 40% alpha-linolenic acid, significantly higher than other common cooking oils. Alpha-linolenic acid is a vital fatty acid for the human body, often referred to as "blood nutrients" or "botanical brain gold." It plays a crucial role in children's cognitive development and supports health in the elderly.
Secondly, "peony seed oil" is essentially a flower product, as it comes from the essence of the flower. This gives it unique benefits such as promoting beauty, improving skin health, reducing signs of aging, and even helping with mood improvement. For women, it’s an ideal ingredient for skincare and wellness.
Currently, "peony seed oil" is produced in limited quantities and mainly supplied to high-end restaurants for use in premium dishes. Chefs say that dishes cooked with it have a rich aroma and a fresh, delicate taste, making them a favorite among food enthusiasts. As the planting of oil peonies expands, this oil is expected to bring a major transformation to the agricultural and food industries in the near future.
"Oil Peony" Holds Great Value
The reporter noticed that in Heze, the large-scale cultivation of oil peonies has turned "flower farmers" into a romantic and rewarding career.
Every day, farmers work in the fields surrounded by blooming flowers, creating a peaceful and joyful atmosphere. The process is not tiring but rather uplifting, as the beauty of the flowers brings a sense of calm and happiness.
Beyond oil extraction, the "oil peony" has many other uses. It is a treasure in every part of the plant. Researchers noted that the petals contain essential oils and can be used to make dried flowers, teas, or even bath products. The stems and flowers are also used as medicinal herbs, while the petals are valuable ingredients in cosmetics.
Experts believe that this type of peony is easy to grow and adaptable. Even city dwellers can grow a few pots on their balconies, enjoying both its beauty and its utility. After a little processing, the flowers can even be eaten, offering a unique and healthy addition to the diet.
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