Peanuts are actually a type of bean!

People who say they have a nut allergy when they’re allergic to peanuts are wrong. Peanuts are technically a legume that originated in Paraguay. Peanuts go by many other local names like pig nuts, monkey nuts, goober peas, and pygmy nuts. 

Peanuts are used as a popular snack food. Boiled peanuts are popular in the southern U.S., India, China, and West Africa. Peanut oil is used in cooking and is healthier than saturated oils. It adds a mild flavor and high smoke point to the food. Peanut flour is used as a gluten-free solution. 

Peanuts are used to help fight malnutrition. Peanut based pastes have been created to aid in famine relief. Organizations like the World Health Organization and UNICEF have used the paste to help save malnourished children in developing nations. 

Peanuts are also used to make lactose-free milk. Peanut plan tops are used as hay, too. Peanuts have industrial uses, too, from paint and nitroglycerin to plastic and wallboard. 

(Source)