What Is Grape Seed Oil?
Grape seed oil, also recognized as grape oil, is an oil produced from the seeds of grapes. It offers a light taste and withstands a moderately high smoke point. In the kitchen, it may be used to create salad dressings and mayonnaise or used in baked goods. Nutritionally, grape seed oil is rich in polyunsaturated fat, mostly linoleic acid (omega-6 fatty acid) with smaller amounts of oleic acid (omega-9 fatty acid). The oil also offers lesser amounts of saturated fat and omega-3 fatty acids. But most of its use stems from a cosmetic preference, especially when it comes to locks of hair!
Grape Seed Oil for Hair
Though generally self-proclaimed, grape seed oil continues to be an inexpensive hair-strengthening and restorative regimen. Despite sound evidence, the composition of grape seed oil seems to be appropriate for its claims. Grape seed oil may benefit hair in a number of ways including:
Offering Natural Shine
Natural shine from a natural oil! Grape seed oil can moisturize the scalp and help fight against frizz. And since grape seed oil is light in weight, especially compared to other oils, it moisturizes and conditions without totally weighing down hair strands.
Fighting Against Dandruff
While grape seed oil cannot cure dandruff, it can certainly fight against the pesky flakes. The natural oil of grape seed oil helps to combat against a dry scalp caused by skin conditions such as eczema and seborrhea, characterized by scaly, red patches of skin mainly on the scalp.
Growing Hair Faster
Though quicker hair growth is purely based on personal experiences, individuals stand by the claim. However, the vitamin E content in grape seed oil can certainly foster hair growth.
Using grape seed oil for hair benefits is a simple task! Grape seed oil handlers oftentimes use grape seed oil much like a hair treatment. Commonly, the users will gently warm the oil and massage it into the scalp – rubbing in a circular motion is said to improve head circulation. After rubbing the scalp, lightly cover the rest of the hair strands and cover with a warm towel. Leave on for as little as 30 minutes or even overnight. After setting, wash hair with a mild shampoo and reap the benefits!
Further Benefits of Grape Seed Oil
Skin Moisturizer
As previously mentioned, grape seed oil is light in weight. Like hair shine, grape seed oil can moisturize the skin without creating a heavy, oily result or clogging pores. Further claims suggest grape seed oil may reduce scar appearance, lighten dark eye circle, and treat acne.
Heart Health
Incorporating unsaturated fat into the diet has been said to reduce LDL or “bad” cholesterol while improving “good” or HDL cholesterol. A healthy lipid profile paired with strong antioxidants are suggested to promote a strong cardiovascular system.
Boost Immunity
Grape seed oil contains a strong antioxidant known as “oligomeric procyanidin,” even suggested to act more powerful than vitamins C and E. Antioxidants defend against cellular damage, ultimately boosting the immune system and offering protection against harmful invaders.
Arthritis Relief
The oil offers anti-inflammatory properties which may lessen the severity of arthritis, a condition in which joints become inflamed. The inflammation causes pain and stiffness and may affect quality of life. Grape seed oil may reduce inflammation, alleviating symptoms and providing relief.
Considering its high caloric density, and like any oil, it is imperative to keep servings moderated. Oils provide 9 calories per gram or on average, 120 calories per one tablespoon. The general American population may be consuming too much of omega-6 fatty acids (a type of polyunsaturated fat), that is now said to potentially create inflammation within the body. This occurrence is especially highlighted when the oil exceeds healthful omega-3 fatty acids that creates an imbalance. To reap the physiological benefits of grape seed oil, incorporate more omega-3 fatty acids within the diet (from nuts, seeds, fish) while keeping omega-6 fatty acids in check.
