Grapeseed Oil: Find out how to use this oil without any side-effects

Home » Nutrition » Grapeseed Oil: Find out how to use this oil without any side-effects

Last Updated December 20th, 2021

Grapeseed oil: What is it?

The oil is obtained from the grape seeds. The pulp of the grape is utilized for the production of wine whereas the seeds are left over and later utilized to produce oil. The oil is extracted using a chemical called hexane. Hexane is considered to be neurotoxic. The production includes heating the oil and during the heating process, there is a possibility that the oil may lose its benefits.

There are several health benefits associated with this oil, but there is speculation associated with the safety of consuming grapeseed oil. It is important to choose the right type of grapeseed oil that is produced without the use of chemicals and is not heated during the extraction process. grapeseed oil healthy

This type of healthy oil is known to have benefits similar to olive oil and it also contains polyunsaturated fatty acids such as omega-6 and omega-3. It contains powerful anti-inflammatory effects. It is helpful in lowering cholesterol levels. Reduced cholesterol levels naturally reduce the risk factors associated with heart disease. Grapes are known to be highly nutritional and also are helpful in various health benefits including antioxidant effects.

A tablespoon full of grapeseed oil contains

120 kcal.
14 grams of fat (10% saturated fat, 16% monounsaturated fat, and 70% polyunsaturated fat).
It contains high amounts of vitamin E.

Grapeseed oil: The long list of health benefits

Treat and prevent hypertension

Hypertension is a medical condition where there is increased pressure in the arteries. Abnormal diet can lead to plaque formation in the blood vessels which narrows the walls of the blood vessels. This reduces the blood flow and exerts pressure on the heart causing hypertension. Grapeseed oil is effective in reducing the blood pressure because of the antioxidant properties. Flavonoids and linoleic acid present in the oil are helpful in protecting the blood vessels from being damaged and aid in adequate blood flow through the vessels.

Promotes a healthy and active immune system

A healthy and active immune system can fight off the pathogens which are known to cause several infections and allergies to the human body. Gapeseed oil is helpful in improving the immune system due to the presence of high levels of vitamin E. This is useful in the production of killer cells that are capable of killing the cancer cells because of the antioxidant effect. Vitamin E promotes the production of B-cells that are known as immune cells and is useful in improving the immune system.

Reduce inflammation

Inflammation is referred to as a process where certain chemicals are released from the white blood cells to protect the affected tissue. An increased flow of blood to the affected area leads to inflammation. Grapeseed oil is well known for its anti-inflammatory properties. This helps to reduce the inflammation surrounding the organs and the tissues. Studies have also indicated that oil can delay the formation of plaque surrounding the brain. Plaque formation surrounding the brain is considered to be the main risk factor associated with Alzheimer disease.

Fight cancer

Grapeseed oil contains proanhocyanidins (pigments that reduce the cancer cells). They are effective in preventing the occurrence of cancer forming cells in the skin. Vitamin E is also found abundant in this oil. Vitamin E is helpful in the production of immune cells that are capable of killing the cancer cells.

Faster wound healing

Wound healing is considered to be a complicated process and can cause several issues. If the wound is not treated properly, there are chances that the wound might get infected and cause further problems. Studies have indicated that grapeseed oil is known to heal the blood vessels that are damaged. Due to the presence of powerful antioxidants, it promotes the production of healthy cells, which aid in re-growth of tissues and help in faster wound healing. Studies have indicated that topical use of this oil promotes faster wound healing as compared to the regular wound healing process.

Reduce your cholesterol levels

Cholesterol is known to have a waxy structure and hence if there are increased levels of cholesterol accumulated in the body, it is known to form plaques and result in hypertension. Grapeseed oil is known to contain proanthocyanidins (polyphenols). As discussed earlier, proanthocyanidins are known to reduce cholesterol levels and prevent plaque formation.

Get strong and shiny hair

There are several products available in the market that claim to promote hair growth as well as aid in moisturizing and keeping the hair shiny. Generally, these products tend to contain harmful chemicals, which seem to cause more side effects than benefits. Studies have indicated that grapeseed oil is effective in moisturizing as well as conditioning the hair. Vitamin E present in the oil promotes hair growth that is thicker as well as stronger and naturally provides the shine and smoothness to the hair.

Get that glowing and beautiful skin

Grapeseed oil contains several compounds in it which are helpful in promoting healthy skin. Antioxidant effect of the oil helps to reduce the wrinkles on the skin by promoting healthy skin cells. Linoleic acid helps to protect the skin from harmful rays of the sun. Vitamin E helps to keep the skin smooth as well as provide moisture to the skin.

Are there any side-effects?

Grapeseed oil is known to aid in several health benefits, but there are also numerous side effects associated with it. It is generally useful when used in moderation, but if there is excess consumption, it can cause the right opposite to what benefits it has. Some of the side effects associated with excess consumption of oil are discussed below:

Inflammation: Grapeseed oil is known to contain omega-6 fatty acids. Increased consumption may cause the opposite of its benefits, which means it causes an increase in inflammation and leads to several health problems including heart disease, brain damage, etc. Increased inflammation in the body may also lead to the early aging process.

Increase in cholesterol levels: The oil is known to contain a high amount of PUFAs (polyunsaturated fatty acids) and increased intake of PUFAs may increase the production of cholesterol and may lead to plaque formation in the blood vessels.

Hormonal imbalance: One of the most important side effects of oil is related to hormonal imbalance. Hormonal imbalance may be caused because of the increase in inflammation and exerting stress on the internal organs. Increased intake of PUFAs reduces the production of testosterone and may cause several problems associated with the reproductive organ. Thyroid levels may also be altered and lead to thyroid disorder, which is known to affect the overall functioning of the body.

Weight gain: Weight gain again is linked to an increase in inflammation. Due to the presence of omega-6 fatty acids in the grapeseed oil, increased consumption may cause inflammation. There are high chances that the metabolism of the body is altered, which may also lead to a change in thyroid levels and cause weight gain.

Allergic reactions: There are few people who may be allergic to this oil. Some of the common side effects include dry mouth, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, headache, sore throat, cough, as well as muscle pain.

The bottom line is that it is important to choose the right type of oil, which is extracted without the use of chemicals and does not involve heating process and secondly it is important to consume the oil in moderation and not to increase the consumption above the recommended dosage. The oil is more suitable for topical use such as skin care and hair care and provides much higher benefits as compared to ingesting them.

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