Grape Seed Oil Health Benefits

Grape seed oil is extracted from the seeds of grapes, more commonly the grapes that are used for wine making. The seeds of wine grapes are usually discarded during wine making, which are then used for extracting its oil. However, the seeds of grapes contain a very small amount of oil, for which the oil is obtained with the help of chemical extraction. This oil is primarily used for cosmetic purposes and as a cooking oil. It is almost clear or slightly yellowish in color, and is known to possess a sweet and nutty aroma. It has been cherished for centuries for its medicinal properties. Modern studies have also revealed that this oil is very nutritious with a high content of essential fatty acids and many other important nutrients.

Advantages of Grape Seed Oil
It is a good source of essential fatty acids and vitamin E. The polyphenols and flavonoids found in this oil contain strong antioxidant compounds. These health benefits are enumerated below.

• The flavonoid 'oligomeric procyanidin', found in grape seed oil is an incredibly strong antioxidant, about 50 times stronger than antioxidants like, vitamin C and E. So, this compound can provide protection against cellular and tissue damage caused by free radicals.
• It can boost the health of the heart and the cardiovascular system by lowering the level of bad LDL cholesterol. This oil can increase the level of good HDL cholesterol, which can reduce the risk of coronary diseases.
• It contains linoleic acid, which is a polyunsaturated fatty acid that can prove beneficial for people having diabetes.
• It can help strengthen and repair damaged or broken capillaries and blood vessels. This in turn, can help to improve circulation and alleviate conditions like, varicose veins, spider veins and hemorrhoids.
• It has anti-inflammatory properties, for which it can provide relief against pain and swelling caused by arthritis. Even in conditions like, rheumatoid arthritis, this oil can provide great relief.
• It may help to inhibit the growth of cancerous cells. So, this oil may prove helpful in cancer prevention.
• It can also prove beneficial in conditions like, asthma, allergies, acne and dermatitis.

Grape Seed Oil for Skin Care
Many people use this oil topically, basically for its emollient properties. This oil can be found in a wide range of cosmetics like, lip balm, creams, moisturizers, sunblocks and lotions. Even many hair care products contain this oil. You can use it to promote hair growth, and make it smooth and soft. Due to its antioxidant properties, grape seed oil can delay skin aging by minimizing the damage caused by free radicals.

It can provide protection against sun damage as well. It has astringent properties and therefore, can tighten the skin. The linoleic acid found in it can be very beneficial in skin conditions like, acne, dermatitis and eczema. Linoleic acid can soothe and nourish the skin, and help it to repair. Vitamin E on the other hand, keeps the skin firm and smooth. It is easily absorbed by the body, and it can be used for reducing age spots, sun burn, wrinkles and stretch marks as well.

Due to its high smoke point, it is used by many as a cooking oil for stir frying, sautéing and deep frying. It can also be used for salad dressing and sauces. However, be sure to use only the food grade grape seed oil for cooking purposes. However, an overdose may cause headaches, nausea, diarrhea and abdominal pain. People allergic to grapes may not be able to use this oil, while those taking anticoagulant drugs and medications to lower cholesterol and blood pressure should better confirm with their physician before using any kind of grape seed extract including, grape seed oil for medicinal purposes.