Swap Out Coconut Oil for Grapeseed Oil: Latest Trend in Health and Aesthetics Industry
Get ready to boost your health and beauty routine with grapeseed oil, the versatile powerhouse! Whether you're cooking or crafting home remedies, grapeseed oil has got you covered.
Plucked from the humble residue of grapes during winemaking, grapeseed oil is packed with antioxidants, antimicrobial properties, and anti-inflammatory agents. Here's the lowdown on why you'll be reaching for this amazing oil in no time.
Health Benefits Galore
Grapeseed oil's light, neutrally flavored profile makes it an ideal addition to your dishes, but its health advantages extend beyond the tastebuds.
Heart Health Hero
Grapeseed oil contains a heap of omega-6 fatty acids, making it a heart-friendly choice compared to saturated or trans fats. Although the jury's still out on whether omega-6s are really cardiovascular boosters, research shows potential benefits:
- A 2018 research review points to a decreased risk of heart attacks with omega-6 consumption[1]
- However, the same study found no association between omega-6s and overall heart health
- Older 2006 research suggests that consuming too many omega-6s in relation to omega-3s might trigger harmful inflammation[2]
So, does grapeseed oil get a heart approval? Perhaps in fatty acid land, maybe. But its vitamin E content might protect against heart-damaging blood clots. 🤷
Antioxidant Powerhouse
Grapeseed oil comes packing a punch as an antioxidant-rich oil, arming you against the ravages of free radical damage.
Why? Grapeseed oil is loaded with vitamin E, a fat-soluble antioxidant that safeguards you from those pesky free radicals. Typically, free radicals slowly damage your cells, possibly contributing to premature aging, disease, and cancer[1].
Inflammation Fighter
The antioxidants in grapeseed oil may also help tackle chronic inflammation[1]. Inflammation rears its ugly head in response to a wide variety of stimuli, including infection and autoimmune conditions. If your body's battling oxidative stress or obesity, the antioxidants in grapeseed oil may help improve inflammatory response.
Antimicrobial Marvel
While research is ongoing, a 2019 review of grapeseed extract (similar to grapeseed oil) concluded that it squashes bacteria, viruses, and fungi, thanks to its powerful antimicrobial properties[3]. Keep in mind that grapeseed extract is more potent than grapeseed oil and is available as a supplement.
Skin Care Savior
Even though grapeseed oil doesn't grace beauty store shelves, it's undoubtedly the next big thing in your skincare regimen. You'll be seriously tempted to keep it in your pantry, and your bathroom with these potential skincare perks:
Quench Thirsty Skin
Oils have been the OG moisturizers, and grapeseed oil is no exception. It undeniably helps keep your skin hydrated, leaving you soft and supple[2]. Whether you apply it directly or mix a few drops into your daily moisturizer or face cream, grapeseed oil won't leave your skin feeling greasy.
Wound Healing Champion
Although research on grapeseed oil for skin is limited, some studies suggest it speeds up the healing process, particularly for burns and scars[3]. But hold your horses: We need more human-focused studies to nail down the optimal dose and application method.
Acne Busters
Grapeseed oil's antimicrobial qualities might help fight off zit-causing bacteria on acne-prone skin. However, more research is required to confirm grapeseed oil's ability to vanquish blemishes for good.
UV Protection Warrior
Though results are preliminary, the antioxidants in grapeseed oil might help shield your skin from the skin-damaging effects of UV rays[4]. So, go ahead and give it a whirl as a potential bonus over your regular SPF.
Safety Considerations
Generally, grapeseed oil is considered to be safe for general consumption and topical application. As with any new skincare product, it's wise to perform a patch test before going all-in on grapeseed oil application on your face.
In the kitchen, grapeseed oil is great for cooking, but those with blood disorders, preparing for surgery, or taking blood thinners should consult a healthcare professional before regular use[5]. Pregnant people should also avoid ingesting grapeseed oil due to a lack of research.
Using Grapeseed Oil for Cooking and Skincare
Cooking
Cooking with grapeseed oil is simple, just like using olive oil. Grapeseed oil comes in handy for sautéing, grilling, baking, frying, and in salad dressings.
Skincare
Unlike essential oils, grapeseed oil doesn't require dilution before topical application. Here are some easy ways to add grapeseed oil to your DIY skincare routine:
- Apply it directly to dry areas as a serum
- Mix a drop or two into your moisturizer or face cream to boost hydration
- Use it for oil cleansing or double cleansing at the end of the day
- Treat yourself to a grapeseed oil massage (rub your hands together to warm the oil in your palms)
- Use it as a carrier oil for your favorite essential oils
Hair Care
Ready for hair oiling 101?
- Drizzle 1 teaspoon to 1 tablespoon of grapeseed oil onto your head
- Use your fingertips to gently massage it into your hair and scalp
- Cover your head with a shower cap or towel and let it sit overnight
- In the morning, apply shampoo directly onto your oily strands, then lather, rinse, and condition your hair
- Enjoy your soft, luscious locks!
tl;dr
Grapeseed oil, the natural byproduct of grape seeds, is a versatile powerhouse for cooking and DIY beauty. Though research is still emerging, grapeseed oil boasts numerous potential health and skincare advantages, including cardiovascular support, antioxidant properties, and moisturizing and healing properties for skin. Be sure to consult a healthcare professional if you have concerns about using grapeseed oil due to health conditions or pregnancy. Embrace this affordable, natural way to level up your kitchen and beauty routine!
[1] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6092498/[2] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4445703/[3] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6142920/[4] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4885403/[5] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6068096/
Grapeseed oil's antioxidant-rich properties make it perfect for not only cooking but also for skincare. You can apply it directly to your skin to quench thirsty skin, speed up the healing process of wounds, and potentially fight off acne-causing bacteria. Its antimicrobial qualities may also offer UV protection for your skin. When using grapeseed oil for cooking, it can be used for sautéing, grilling, baking, frying, and in salad dressings. For skincare, it doesn't require dilution, and you can use it as a serum, boost hydration in your moisturizer or face cream, or even treat yourself to a grapeseed oil massage. In hair care, you can use it for oiling, which involves massaging it into your hair and scalp, covering your head with a shower cap or towel, and washing it out in the morning. Although research is still emerging, grapeseed oil boasts numerous potential health and skincare advantages, making it an affordable, natural way to level up your kitchen and beauty routine.
