It is a gray tree of the walnut family, native exclusively to North America. Hickory is a large, strong tree, 18 to 24 m
(60 to 80 ft) high, with close, shaggy bark. It has large pinnately divided leaves, pistillate and staminate flowers and drooping aments.
The fruit is a thick-shelled nut in a tough, green husk. Various species are known: C. ovata, shagbark hickory, yielding sweeter and
better nuts; C. laciniosa, kingnut or shellbark; C. tomentosa, mockernut, having tough wood; and C. glabra, pignut, having bitter,
astringent nuts.
walnut oil is hydrating, toning, anti-inflammatory, nourishing, and emollient. Walnut oil can help maintain skin suppleness. Its constituents include vitamin e, oleic acid, linolenic acid, and a high percentage of linoleic acid (some sources cite up to 60 percent). Its application includes use in moisturizers, eye creams, and body oils.
