Grape Seed Oil Benefits

As grape seeds are a by-product of the wine making industry, harvesting grape seeds and producing the oil requires no additional farmland or natural resources. Grape seed oil offers health benefits that range from improving the look of the skin to lowering cholesterol levels and grape seed oil is a nutritious alternative to many other types of oils.

Nutrients

Containing high levels of essential fatty acids, grape seed oil is among the highest in heart-healthy linoleic acid and among the lowest in saturated fats. These high levels of linoleic acid are useful in lowering blood cholesterol levels. Containing no cholesterol and no sodium, grape seed oil has a light, nutty taste which brings out the flavor in many foods. Proanthocyanidins found in grape seed oil contain a higher level of antioxidants than either vitamins C or E.

Consuming Grape Seed Oil

Grape seed oil can easily be substituted for olive oil. Ideal for sautéing and frying, grape seed oil can also be used in making dressings for salads and breads. Since grape seed oil is becoming more widely-known, blends are being sold which offer flavors like roasted garlic, lemon, jalapeno and butter.

Properties

Unlike most other oils, grape seed oil can be heated to a temperature as high as 485 degrees without producing any carcinogenic free radicals. Although this makes grape seed oil ideal for cooking, its cost which is considerably higher than most other oils, may stop many restaurants from using it on a large-scale basis. Grape seed oil that is cold-pressed and free of preservatives offers the best health benefits, according to "Prescription for Nutritional Healing."

For the Body

Grape seed oil has a stimulating effect on the circulatory system and may also be useful in treating and preventing varicose veins. Consuming grape seed oil helps to protect the cells of the body from damage and disease. A natural anti-inflammatory agent, grape seed oil may be used to treat wounds and sunburn.

For the Skin

Applying a few drops of grape seed oil to the face provides protection from premature aging and may actually help acne, because of its powerful antioxidant properties. Flavonoids which are found in grape seed oil may assist the skin in stabilizing collagen and maintaining elasticity. Its light and easily-absorbed texture makes grape seed oil ideal for cosmetic purposes as well as being useful as carrier oil in massage therapy.

References

• Prescription for Nutritional Healing; Phyllis Balch; 2000
• Viva Woman.net
• Grape seed oil boasts loads of health benefits; Rachel Whitener; June 21, 2009