Grapeseed oil is derived from grape seeds and so most of their valuable qualities pass to the oil. It has a very light “nutty” flavor, fine texture, rich nutritious content, high smoke point. All of these define versatile uses for grapeseed oil from cooking and treating to skin and hair care.
Grapeseed oil uses in cooking
Grapeseed oil properties make it possible to use it no matter what and how you want to cook. The major features, which influence various grapeseed oil uses in the kitchen are the following, as Wikipedia states:
- High smoke point of minimum 385 F. So grapeseed oil is used for deep-frying, sautéing and baking without the danger of releasing free radicals.
- Mild neutral flavor. It makes grapeseed oil a good choice for baking and salad dressing use as the natural flavor of other ingredients and herbs can come through. That is not easy with extra verging olive oil, for example.
- Rich healthy content. Grapeseed oil is welcomed by any diet. It has been shown to raise good cholesterol (HDL) and lower bad cholesterol (LDL).
SEE ALSO: A Guide to Healthy Frying: Can I Fry with Canola Oil?
Grapeseed oil uses in skin and hair care
Grapeseed oil contains a large amount of Omega-6 fatty acid, natural antioxidants and Vitamin E. These compounds are useful not only for inside consumption, but no less for external skin and hair applications. Mathilde Thomas, founder of a skin-care brand Caudalie praised the moisturizing and antioxidant powers of grapeseed oil a lot.
The oil benefits from the following activities (“International Journal of Molecular Sciences”, 2010)
- anti-inflammatory;
- anti-bacterial;
- deeply moisturizing and nourishing;
- anti-aging.
Grapeseed oil can be used even for oily skin and hair as it does not clog pores and it is also easily absorbed by the skin. It is recommended adding grapeseed oil to creams and shampoo or to apply the plain oil once or twice a day. The oil is an excellent base for homemade cosmetology remedies (exfoliates, masks, soups, moisturizes, cleanses).
INTERESTING! Grapeseed Oil for Hair – Surprising Benefits and Treatment Recipes for Hair Growth and Conditioning
Grapeseed oil for massage
Grapeseed oil is one of the most beneficial products for massage as it possesses the following features (by WikiHow, LiveStrong):
- it gives a good glide, but it is not too slippery;
- it is of medium weight so can be use for relaxing or deep massage;
- it is easily absorbed by the skin; it does not leave the skin sticky or greasy;
- it has high nutrient value what makes the skin healthy and clean;
- does not cause allergic reactions so massage therapists recommend parents use grape seed oil when massaging their infants.
Grapeseed oil can be used as lubricant not only while massaging, but also while shaving and even having sex. Natural Remedies for Skin Care claims that grapeseed oil can be used instead of a shaving cream or an aftershave product. The oil will calm and soothe irritated and dry skin.
According to the researchers at Indiana University’s Center for Sexual Health Promotion, about a third of young women experience vaginal dryness. Grapeseed oil is as personal lubricant is a good choice. It won’t irritate sensitive skin and will give just enough moisture. But note that it does not come together with condoms since the oil can erode latex quickly.