Grape seed oil, although known for a very long time (it has been used since antiquity), has only recently become a real hit - used in cooking, medicine and cosmetics. What distinguishes grape seed oil from other fats is the amount (the highest) of linoleic acid, which is categorised as an exogenous fatty acid - it removes saturated fats from the veins.
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Grape seed oil is very similar to sunflower oil in terms of the proportion of fatty acids it contains. It is one of the fats of plant origin with the highest proportion of omega - 6 polyunsaturated fatty acids.
Important! Grape seed oil should not be used for frying. The high content of linoleic acid (from the omega - 6 group), is easily oxidised by heat.
Grape seed oil - characteristics
The oil is extracted from the seeds of the grape vine (very often also from the seeds of the fruit used to make wine).
The grapevine is one of the oldest cultivated plants - it is a climber, characterised by its green leaves and longevity (it lives up to 100 years). It bears fruit (clustered in clusters) of green or red colour. The fruit contains seeds from which the oil is extracted by pressing.
The seeds are called "health capsules" because of the many beneficial elements they contain.
The oil is light green in colour, almost odourless and has a mild taste. The healthiest oil is cold-pressed, as this method of extraction preserves all the nutrients.
Health and care properties
Grape seed oil is primarily high in antioxidants, which fight free radicals and thus have an anti-cancer effect.
Important! Oil in the daily diet will result in a strengthened heart and also immunity.
It is effective in reducing "bad" cholesterol, limiting the risk of atherosclerosis, heart attacks, in addition to strengthening the vascular system. All this is due to the low content of harmful saturated fats and the high amount of unsaturated fats (which are extremely necessary for the body).
The lecithin contained in the oil has a beneficial effect on the nervous system, the mind and the production of red blood cells.
Grape seed oil contains a considerable amount of porocyanides (potent antioxidants), which fight free radicals. Porocyanides are more than 20 times more potent than vitamin C and about 50 times more potent than vitamin E.
Oil, photo: panthermedia
In addition, vitamins can be found in the oil: A, C, E, K, B6, as well as essential elements for the proper functioning of the body:
- calcium,
- iron,
- zinc,
- phosphorus,
- potassium.
Important! High content of vitamin K, involved in the blood clotting process - not only prevents haemorrhages, but also seals blood vessels (e.g. reduces redness, reduces negative effects of excessive sunbathing).
The oil is also characterised by a high content of vitamin E (known as the vitamin of youth), which is one of the most powerful antioxidants - it has a beneficial effect on the condition of the skin:
- neutralises free radicals (protects against damage to the lipid layer of the epidermis),
- counteracts skin dryness,
- protects against inflammation,
- promotes the formation of collagen (improves elasticity, smoothing),
- protects against discolouration.
The presence of vitamin A influences:
- epidermal regeneration,
- improvement of the horny structure of the skin (protects against water loss),
- regulates epidermal keratinisation processes,
- helps in the treatment of acne lesions.
Vitamin C, also present in grape seed oil, influences, among other things:
- positively influences collagen synthesis (elasticity, skin elasticity),
- protects fragile and breaking blood vessels,
- important in the metabolic process of the epidermis,
- protects against free radicals.
Important! Grape seed oil regulates sebum secretion (sebum being a natural lubricant produced by the sebaceous glands - forming a protective antibacterial and antifungal layer on the skin).
The omega-6 acids present in the oil, mentioned earlier, counteract the process of capillary breakage, reducing unsightly 'spider veins'.
Natural skin care product
Due to the presence of vitamins, minerals, as well as linoleic acid (responsible for sealing the lipid mantle, whose task is to protect against excessive water loss), the oil is excellent as a natural cosmetic.
Important! Grape seed oil is characterised by strong soothing and calming properties. As a result, it accelerates the healing process of the epidermis, as well as its regeneration.
Another advantage is its toning ability, thanks to which the oil counteracts the formation of various types of inflammation, as well as the formation of blackheads. In addition, the 'spec' is worth using to improve the firmness of the skin - as a substitute for body oil. And also:
- for baths,
- as a base for fragrance oils for massage (among other things, it has an anti-cellulite effect).
Important! The oil is well absorbed without leaving an oily film on the skin and without clogging pores.
It is worth using it occasionally as a 'replacement' for cream:
- dry skin (moisturising),
- oily skin (acne control),
- mature skin (anti-ageing effect),
- vascular skin (protection against the formation of "spider veins").
Grape seed oil accelerates nail and hair growth (prevents breakage). In order to improve the condition of the hair, it is worth taking advantage of the properties of the oil: linoleic acid (reduces brittleness), vitamin E (moisturises, smoothens and gives shine).
Important! The oil does not weigh hair down, is light and highly moisturising.
It is used in hair oiling products (combining grape seed oil with argon oil).
How to store it?
Grape seed oil is best stored in a dark glass bottle, in a cool place (such as a fridge). Ideally, it should be used within six months of opening.
