Benefits And Uses Of Grapeseed Oil
Grapeseed oil is extracted by crushing the seeds that are found in the fruit of the vine. We show you its composition, what it is used for and who should avoid it.
Thanks to its fruity aroma, grape seed oil is widely used in maceration of meats and in the preparation of salad dressings. It is also prized in cosmetology for its high levels of linoleic acid, an omega-6 fatty acid that can improve skin health.
Extracted from the seeds present in the fruit of the vine, this oil owes its popularity to the high concentrations of chemical compounds it contains. These include polyunsaturated fats and vitamin E.
How is grape seed oil extracted? What is its composition? What are its uses? Find out in detail.
How is the oil extracted?
Grapeseed oil is obtained from the seeds of these fruits, considered a by-product of winemaking. For thousands of years, winegrowers did not know what to do with it. However, technology has enabled them to develop a process in which the oil is extracted from the seeds.
To do this, the seeds are crushed and solvents are used. However, the use of these substances is of concern, as some, in this case hexane, are linked to harmful health effects.
However, solvents tend to disappear in the manufacturing process and there is no scientific evidence that hexane residue in the oil causes short or long term damage.
Of course, the environmental impact can be of concern. In this sense, make sure that the grape seed essential oil you buy indicates its processing process. Otherwise, you have to assume it was done with chemicals.
Composition of grape seed oil
According to research published in Nutrition and Metabolic Insights , grape seed oil contains phenolic compounds and unsaturated fatty acids that give it anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. In general, the fatty acids present in this oil are broken down like this:
- 10% saturated.
- 16% monounsaturated.
- 70% polyunsaturated.
Most of these polyunsaturated fats are made up of omega-6s. According to studies, they are linked to an increase in inflammation of the body compared to omega-3s. This is also reported in other research that links a high intake of omega-6 fatty acids with an increased risk of developing chronic diseases.
However, there is scientific evidence that linoleic acid does not alter blood levels of inflammatory markers. In this sense, it cannot be guaranteed that a diet rich in omega 6 acids is the cause of pathologies. Further research is still needed to obtain conclusive results.
On the other hand, grape seed oil is also a source of vitamin E. A single 3.9 milligram tablespoon is 19% of the recommended daily intake.
What are his others?
While grape seed oil is known to improve skin health by fighting acne, treating oily skin, and rejuvenating skin tissue, these are not its only uses. It can also be used in cooking and aromatherapy, so let’s see that in more detail below.
In the kitchen
Since it has a high smoke point, grape seed oil can be used for frying and pan-frying. However, this is not recommended as it is a source of polyunsaturated fat.
According to a study published in Vascular Pharmacology, these types of fats tend to react adversely to oxygen at high temperatures, creating harmful compounds and free radicals. Therefore, avoid using this oil for frying and instead use it for preparing salad dressings, add it in the preparation of mayonnaise and pastries or mixed meat.
In aromatherapy
Chronic stress can trigger a number of major skin problems, including acne, hair loss, dry skin, rashes, and even premature aging. Fortunately, aromatherapy is known to calm anxiety. Likewise, grape seed oil is believed to be able to serve as a carrier or base oil in this practice, as well as for sessions including massage.
Possible risks of grape seed oil
For those who are not allergic to this oil, the risks are low if it is applied to the skin. If you are unsure whether or not you have an allergy, a simple test is enough.
This involves applying a little oil to a part of the body, such as the wrists or ankles, and waiting 24 hours. If after this time there is no reaction (spots or rashes), it means that the skin can tolerate it.
Now, according to the National Center for Complementary and Comprehensive Health (NCCIH), grape seed oil may not be recommended for people with blood diseases, those going to have surgery, and taking blood thinners such as warfarin.
Additionally, research published in the Journal of the American Oil Chemists’ Society found that certain grape seed oils can exhibit harmful levels of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), a group of more than 100 chemicals known to be carcinogens in animals. So far, these effects have not been demonstrated in humans.
Not everyone can use grape seed oil
Grapeseed oil comes from the seeds of the fruits of the vine. They are by-products of winemaking, so to make the oil we grind them and use a solvent. For their part, there are those who do not agree with this process as they deem it unhealthy, although there is no conclusive evidence that solvents can cause harm to the body.
As for its benefits, it is linked to improving skin health, fighting acne and treating dry skin. But it also reduces dark circles and stimulates tissue rejuvenation. Its uses, beyond cosmetics, include the gastronomic field and aromatherapy.
However, not everyone can use this oil. If you are allergic, have a blood disorder, are going to have an operation, or are taking blood thinners, you should avoid their consumption and topical use.
