Grape seed oil is a sweet, light, and nutty flavored oil, which is, extracted from the vitus vinifera grapes. The seeds of the grapes are pressed, while the grapes themselves are used to make wines. Grape seed oil has its highest production in Italy, and it is also produced in Spain, Argentina and France. Grape seed oil has always been valued for its medicinal purposes since the days of the ancient Egyptians. In our day, there are many studies that have been carried out in order to see how many benefits we can derive from the use of grape seed oil. It has been found that it is very effective in regulating blood sugar, preventing cancer and heart diseases. Also, it is great for overall health, since it is rich in flavonoids, beta-carotene and Vitamins C and E. Read on the following pointers to know the benefits of grape seed oil.
Health Benefits Of Grape Seed Oil
Benefits To Skin And Hair
Grape seed oil is being used widely in the cosmetic industry, because it has been found to have a soothing effect on skin and hair. This oil contains linoleic acid, which is essential to skin repair. There are many lip balms, lotions, and creams that contain grape seed oil. As far as the effect on the skin goes, it tightens skin and can therefore be used as an astringent or for toning the skin. It is also beneficial in treating acne, besides other skin problems. Many sunscreen lotions use grape seed oil as a part of their formula and it is also used to benefit the skin around the eyes. As this oil is very light, it is absorbed very easily by the skin, Apart from being a home remedy for dry skin, grape seed oil is also used to moisturize hair and is used in numerous hair care products.
Cardiovascular Benefits
It is believed that grape seed oil helps reduce the harmful LDL cholesterol and increases the good HDL cholesterol. It is said to prevent coronary heart disease due to the fact that it is rich in flavonoids, which have chemical compounds that fight coronary heart disease. Increase of HDL cholesterol also reduces the risk of coronary artery disease.
Antioxidants
The harmful effects of free radicals in the body can be fought with the help of grape seed oil, as it has antioxidant properties. This causes the ageing process to be slowed down, and there are many diseases that can be fought. Various studies have shown that grape seed oil is useful in putting a stop to the spread of cancerous cells in the lungs, colon, prostrate as well as the stomach.
Blood Tonic
There are powerful compounds known as oligomeric procyanidins in grape seed oil. These compounds correct damages to blood capillaries and help prevent further damage as well. There are some other compounds in grape seed oil that are believed to improve blood circulation, improve vision and the flexibility of joints. Some people also say that grape seed oil is associated with the reduction of some allergic symptoms and asthma, since it causes the suppression of an amine (histamine) released by the immune system when there is an allergic reaction. Grape seed oil is also beneficial in reducing blood sugar.
Reduces Blood Pressure
Those who suffer from high blood pressure can benefit from using grape seed oil since it reduces blood pressure. Apart from this, it also keeps the arteries open and pliable, thus avoiding the formation of blood clots.
Cooking Ingredient
Grape seed oil is used widely in cooking – baking, frying, marinades, sauces, and salad dressings. However, a point to be noted is that the grape seed oil that is used in cooking is different to that which is used for external applications.