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Properties of Grape Seed Oil

Grape seed oil has risen from the depths of American consumer obscurity to a well-known and sought-after commodity for culinary uses and cosmetics. Its attractive physical properties lend to its pleasing taste. Its balanced combination of chemical properties including antioxidants, linoleic acid, oligomeric procyanidin compounds and flavonoids provides an abundance of restorative health benefits.

  1. Physical Properties

    • Grape seed oil is a polyunsaturated oil and is distinguished by its pale golden color and clean, subtly nutty flavor. The oil's lack of odor and relatively neutral flavor makes it ideal for baking and creating marinades and flavored oils. Its high smoke point defines it as an effective frying oil and its emulsifying properties destine it for smooth salad dressings.

    Antioxidants

    • Antioxidants are known for their ability to fight off the effects of free radicals in your body by inhibiting oxidation of other molecules. Grape seed oil harbors an abundance of antioxidants including the hard-to-get vitamin E. This means consuming grape seed oil may help slow down the aging process, lower high blood pressure and lower the risk of the spreading of cancerous cells in the lungs, breasts, colon, prostate and stomach.

    Linoleic Acid

    • Linoleic acid is one of the more notable of grape seed oil's menagerie of fatty acids. Linoleic acid is an unsaturated n-6 fatty omega-6 acid. The fact that grape seed oil contains linoleic acid means a lot of good things for your skin and hair. It contains astringent and antiseptic properties which help repair and soothe sun-damaged skin when you absorb it through grape seed oil-infused lip balms, facial and body creams, sunscreens, bath oils and soaps. The linoleic acid in shampoos, conditioners and other hair products containing grape seed oil also helps restore damaged hair.

    Oligomeric Procyanidin Compounds

    • Oligomeric procyanidin compounds, also known as condensed tannins and pychogenols, are polymer chains of flavonoids such as catechins. These compounds found in grape seed oil may help prevent damage to blood capillaries. Similar compounds may also reduce symptoms of chronic venous insufficiency, edema, allergies and asthma. They may also reduce blood sugar and improve blood circulation, joint flexibility and vision.

    Flavonoids

    • Flavonoids, also known as vitamin P and citrin, are organic compounds that form the yellow pigments of plants. The flavonoids found in grape seed oil can help reduce your bad LDL cholesterol, increase your good HDL cholesterol and prevent coronary heart disease. They also contribute to the healthful effectiveness of grape seed oil's rich source of antioxidants.

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