Benefits of Grape Seed Oil

Grape seed oil is a light, sweet and nutty flavored oil, extracted from the seeds of different varieties of the vitus vinifera grapes. The oil is obtained by pressing the seeds of the grapes, which are usually used in wine-making. It is mainly a byproduct that is discarded while making wines. Grapes are believed to have originated in Asia and introduced to Europe and North America around the 1600s. Italy is the main producer of grape seed oil. It is also produced in France, Spain and Argentina.

Grapes are known for their medicinal and nutritive properties and have been cherished for thousands of years. Folk healers of Europe were believed to have developed an ointment from the sap of grapevines, for curing diseases of the skin and the eye, while grapes were used in treating sore throats, constipation, cancer, cholera, nausea and kidney and liver diseases. Nowadays, many scientific researches have revealed that the oil derived from the seeds of the grapes have several health benefits.

Benefits of Grape Seed Oil

Many studies have been carried out to determine the benefits of using grape seed oil and today, it is used in controlling various health problems like heart diseases, cancer and for regulating the level of blood sugar. Grape seeds contain antioxidants, which protect the body from a number of health problems caused by the free radicals. Besides, this oil is rich in vitamin E, flavonoids, vitamin C and beta-carotene.

Grape seed oil presumably lowers cholesterol, especially the harmful LDL cholesterol. On the other hand, it has been found to increase HDL, a good cholesterol, which reduces risks of coronary diseases. Some studies have shown that grape seed extract may be helpful in checking the growth of cancerous cells in the stomach, colon, prostrate and lung. Certain compounds found in grape seed oil are believed to improve vision, flexibility of joints and blood circulation. Many are of the opinion that it can also be effective in reducing the symptoms associated with allergies and asthma, as it suppresses the production of histamine (an amine released by the immune system during allergic reactions).

Grape seed oil is usually colorless with a high smoke point and is widely used in cooking. It can be used in baking, frying, salad dressings, marinades and sauces. It can also be used as an ingredient in making mayonnaise. However, the oil available for cooking is different from the one used for external applications.

Today grape seed oil has found a wide range of applications in the cosmetic industry for its emollient property. It has an astringent property, i.e. it can tighten the skin, and so can be used in toning the skin. Besides this, It can also be used in treating acne and many other skin problems. Grape seed oil contain linoleic acid, an polyunsaturated fatty acid, which is an essential component of the cell membrane. It provides nourishment to the skin and aids in skin repair. It is an important ingredient in many hair care products, lip balms, creams and lotions. It protects the skin from the sun and is used in sunscreen lotions. Besides, grape seed oil has antiseptic and moisturizing properties and is particularly effective for the skin around the eyes. Due to its lightness, it is easily absorbed by the skin.

To sum up, you can use this oil in cooking various dishes or for enhancing your skin. Many researchers believe that most of the health benefits from grapes can be attributed to the seeds. No major side effects of using grape seed oil have been discovered so far. However, people allergic to grapes are advised to avoid any grape seed extract.