Not everything you find in nature is healthy, but not everything is harmful either. Grape seed oil tends to fall in the in-between. So what is it? Read on to learn more!
What Is Grape Seed Oil?
As its name implies, this oil comes from grapes, often a by-product of the wine-making process. Grape seed oil has been around for over 6,000 years, with some sources claiming it was used to treat various diseases related to the skin and eyes. During the 20th century, it started catching the attention of the science industry.
Grape Seed Oil: Is it Healthy?
Grape seed oil is rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, but its exorbitant content of the latter can pose a problem.
Compared to some other vegetable oils, grape seed oil has the highest levels of omega-6 fatty acids. Consuming too much can cause conditions such as inflammation, obesity and high cholesterol.
The processing of this oil is also something worth considering, as the commercially-available oil is made using chemical solvents like hexane (a neurotoxin). This hexane can have a negative effect on the body when taken excessively.
Even though grape seeds are very rich in nutrients, studies suggest that these don’t translate to the oil. Most of the antioxidants, including the proanthocyanidins, aren’t found in the derivative.
Grape Seed Oil: Health Benefits of Grape Seed Oil
Here are some of the amazing health benefits grape seed oil offers:
Anti-inflammatory and general health. The oil is very rich in omega-6 fatty acids which might help inhibit ADHD, arthritis, allergies and breast cancer. It also improves inflammation in overweight women, while the linoleic acid has an overall protective effect.
Skin health. Grape seed oil is very rich in vitamins E, D and C – which is helpful in reducing the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines in the skin. It also helps tighten the pores.
Hair Health. Since grape seed oil is much lighter than coconut or olive oil, it is ideal for conditioning and moisturizing hair. It also helps reduce the appearance of dandruff and hair loss. Instead, grape seed oil strengthens the hair.
Look Younger with Grape Seed Oil
Helps improve the appearance of skin. Grape seed oil helps protect the skin from harmful UV rays, improving the overall appearance. It bonds with the collagen in the skin, which transforms it into a much healthier version.
Helps protect the skin. The antioxidants in grape seed oil help protect the cells from unhealthy molecules which may affect the skin’s function. Vitamins E and C are two of the most famous antioxidants, both of which are present in grape seed oil.
Helps treat chloasma. Melisma, or chloasma, is an illness wherein the pigmentation of the skin becomes brown and blotchy. Good thing grape seed oil can help relieve this type of illness, and in a safe manner.
Grape Seed Oil: Side Effects, Risks and Interactions
Side Effects. Generally, grape seed oil is considered safe. However, if you consume too much, it may cause dizziness, nausea and an itchy scalp.
Risks. Not all people like grapes, and some are even allergic to them. You shouldn’t use grape seed oil if you’re allergic, as it might cause some serious conditions. Furthermore, if you experience a bleeding disorder or high blood pressure, seek your doctor’s advice immediately.
Interactions. If you are taking other medications, discuss them with your doctor before consuming grape seed oil, as they may interact.
Conclusion
Truly, grape seed oil is beneficial for the health, making you look younger and healthier. So go on, give it a go!
