What are the benefits of grape seed oil?

benefits of grape seed oil

What are the Benefits of Grape Seed Oil?

Grape seed oil, obtained from the seeds of the grape fruit by cold pressing, offers beneficial effects on skin health, immune system and heart health thanks to the vitamin E, linoleic acid and polyphenols it contains. It can be used as a natural cosmetic in skin and hair care as well as in food form.

What is Grape Seed Oil?

Grape seed oil is a vegetable oil produced from grape seeds by cold pressing. It is widely used in health and cosmetics. Obtained from grape seeds of the Vitis vinifera species, this oil contains high levels of linoleic acid (65-75%) and oleic acid (15-20%) , which are especially valuable for skin health and cardiovascular support.

Grape seed oil also contains vitamin E, flavonoids, resveratrol, phenolic compounds, and phytochemicals with antioxidant properties . Thanks to these components, grape seed oil provides benefits such as reducing signs of aging, supporting skin elasticity, and fighting free radicals.

Study: Martin, ME, Grao-Cruces, E., Millan-Linares, MC, & Montserrat-De la Paz, S. (2020). Grape (Vitis vinifera L.) seed oil: A functional food from the winemaking industry.

Findings: This study describes the formation of grape seed oil. It also mentions the yield, quantity and quality of the methods for the formation of grape seed oil.

Source: Foods.

Benefits of Grape Seed Oil

  • It reduces insulin resistance.
  • It protects against heart diseases.
  • It prevents the risk of blood clotting.
  • It moisturizes the skin.
  • It delays the signs of aging.
  • It strengthens hair and nails.
  • It strengthens the immune system.
  • It helps to eliminate infections.
  • It protects stomach health.
  • It prevents the risk of vascular occlusion.
  • It balances cholesterol.
  • It supports blood circulation.
  • It can reduce the formation of acne and pimples.

May Reduce Insulin Resistance

Grape seed, especially with its high antioxidant capacity, can make cells more sensitive to insulin. This can reduce insulin resistance and reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

It is known that compounds called proanthocyanidins found in grape seed oil help regulate glucose metabolism and help more balanced insulin release. A study has revealed that proanthocyanidins can be effective in lowering high blood sugar levels and reducing insulin resistance.

Study: Montagut, G., Bladé, C., Blay, M., Fernández-Larrea, J., Pujadas, G., Salvadó, MJ, … & Ardévol, A. (2010). Effects of a grapeseed procyanidin extract (GSPE) on insulin resistance.

Results: This study first checked the efficacy of grape seed procyanidin extract (GSPE) in stimulating glucose uptake in insulin-resistant 3T3-L1 adipocytes. The results show that GSPE has a higher stimulatory capacity than insulin when resistance is induced by chronic insulin treatment.

Source: The Journal of nutritional biochemistry.

Protects Against Heart Diseases

Grape seed may have positive effects on heart health thanks to its high antioxidant content. It can prevent hardening of the arteries (atherosclerosis) by preventing the oxidation of LDL, known as bad cholesterol. Preserving the elasticity of the arteries can reduce the risk of high blood pressure and heart disease by improving blood circulation.

Study: Yousef, MI, Saad, AA, & El-Shennawy, LK (2009). Protective effect of grape seed proanthocyanidin extract against oxidative stress induced by cisplatin in rats.

Results: This study investigated the antioxidant potential of grape seed proanthocyanidin extract (GSPE) against cisplatin toxicity in male rats. In cisplatin-treated animals, plasma, cardiac thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) showed a significant increase, while antioxidant enzymes (GST, SOD, CAT and GSH-Px) activities and glutathione (GSH) levels decreased. The present results suggested that GSPE exerted a protective effect by antagonizing cisplatin toxicity.

Source: Food and Chemical Toxicology.

Prevents the Risk of Blood Clots

The components found in grape seeds can reduce the risk of clotting by increasing blood fluidity. Reducing blood clotting can help prevent serious health problems such as stroke and heart attack by preventing vascular occlusion. The basis of this effect is the properties of the flavonoids in grape seeds that prevent platelets from clumping together.

Study: Di Pietro Fernandes, C., Santana, LF, Dos Santos, JR, Fernandes, DS, Hiane, PA, Pott, A., … & Guimarães, RDCA (2023). Nutraceutical Potential of Grape (Vitis vinifera L.) Seed Oil in Oxidative Stress, Inflammation, Obesity and Metabolic Alterations.

Findings: This study states that the benefits of consuming grape seed oil include modulating the expression of antioxidant enzymes, exhibiting anti-atherosclerotic and anti-inflammatory effects, reducing clotting, and protecting against oxidative cell damage and some types of cancer.

Source: Molecules.

Moisturizes the skin

Grape seed oil can be used as a natural moisturizer for the skin. Thanks to its components such as linoleic acid and vitamin E , it can help the skin maintain its elasticity and achieve a healthier appearance. With its antioxidant properties, it can delay the signs of aging by protecting the skin against environmental factors.

Study: Mohiuddin, AK (2019). Skin care creams: formulation and usage.

Findings: This study suggests that most of the benefits of grape seed oil for the skin are due to its omega-6 fatty acid content. In addition, vitamin E, which helps with tissue formation and is found in abundance in grape seed oil, may be beneficial due to the presence of lineolic acid, a fatty acid that supports the skin.

Source: Dermatol Clin Res.

Delays Signs of Aging

Grape seed oil can delay the signs of aging on the skin and reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. Components such as vitamin E and linoleic acid, which increase skin elasticity, can make grape seed oil effective in anti-aging care.

Study: Kamienik, A., Wojtyła, P., Wargala, E., & Walasek-Janusz, M. Grape seed oil (Vitis vinifera seed oil) as a beneficial cosmetic raw material.

Findings: This study mentions that grape seed oil has anti-oxidant and anti-aging properties due to the vitamin E it contains; therefore, it is frequently added to products for mature skin.

Source: Wybrane zagadnienia z zakresu produkcji surowców, żywności i kosmetyków.

Strengthens Hair and Nails

The benefits of grape seed oil are very important on hair and nails and contribute to the structure of the tissues with the compounds it contains. Vitamin E and fatty acids found in the oil can nourish the hair follicles and make the hair stronger and healthier. It can also protect nails from breaking and increase their durability.

Study: Kumar, S., Yadav, D.K., Samota, M.K., Sasi, M., & Das, C. (2024). Grape seed as a reservoir of high-quality oil with important biological activities. In Valorization of Fruit Seed Waste from the Food Processing Industry (pp. 135-156).

Findings: The aim of this study is to provide a different perspective on the main nutrients and phytochemicals abundant in grape seed oil. It further examines the processing of the oil to isolate bioactive substances. It also details the different properties of grape seed oil added to hair care products, such as shine.

Source: Academic Press.

Strengthens the Immune System

Grape seed oil contains components that strengthen the immune system. Especially polyphenols and flavonoids can play a protective role against diseases by increasing body resistance. Grape seed oil can protect the body against infections and other diseases by supporting the healthy functioning of the immune system.

Study: Garavaglia, J., Markoski, M.M., Oliveira, A., & Marcadenti, A. (2016). Grape seed oil compounds: Biological and chemical actions for health.

Findings: This study states that grape seed oil is rich in phenolic compounds, fatty acids and vitamins and has economic importance in the pharmaceutical, cosmetic and food industries. It is mentioned that phenolic compounds are produced to serve as signal molecules that help the immune system and homeostasis regulation.

Source: Nutrition and metabolic insights.

Helps Eliminate Infections

The antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties of grape seed oil make it effective in treating skin infections. This oil can help eliminate fungal and bacterial infections on the skin.

Study: Memar, MY, Adibkia, K., Farajnia, S., Kafil, HS, Yekani, M., Alizadeh, N., & Ghotaslou, R. (2019). The grape seed extract: a natural antimicrobial agent against different pathogens.

Results: Antimicrobial effects of grape seed oil (GSE) have been reported against a wide range of microbes. This study provides an updated overview of the antimicrobial activity of GSE against different pathogens.

Source: Reviews and Research in Medical Microbiology.

Protects Stomach Health

The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of grape seed oil can support the healing of wounds such as ulcers that may occur in the stomach and intestines. Its polyphenol content can accelerate cell renewal and create a protective barrier in the stomach mucosa .

Study: Kim, TH, Jeon, EJ, Cheung, DY, Kim, CW, Kim, SS, Park, SH, … & Kim, JI (2013). Gastroprotective effects of grape seed proanthocyanidin extracts against nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug-induced gastric injury in rats.

Findings: This study investigates the gastroprotective effects of grape seed proanthocyanidin oil (GSPEs) against nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID)-induced gastric mucosal injury in rats.

Source: Gut and liver.

Prevents the Risk of Vascular Occlusion

Cold pressed grape seed oil benefits include a protective effect against vascular occlusion. Grape seed oil contains vitamin E and linoleic acid, which have a positive effect on vascular health. These fatty acids can support the circulatory system by providing a protective effect against arteriosclerosis.

Study: Huang, L.L., Pan, C., Wang, L., Ding, L., Guo, K., Wang, HZ, … & Gao, S. (2015). Protective effects of grape seed proanthocyanidins on cardiovascular remodeling in DOCA-salt hypertension rats.

Findings: This study reports a wide range of pharmacological and therapeutic benefits of grape seed proanthocyanidins (GSP) against cardiovascular diseases.

Source: The Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry.

Balances Cholesterol

Grape seed oil may help control cholesterol by reducing bad cholesterol (LDL) levels. Omega-6 fatty acids and antioxidant compounds can prevent the oxidation of LDL, which can lead to atherosclerosis, thus protecting heart health.

Study: Jabeen, A., Baig, MT, Shaikh, S., Sarosh, N., Kashif, SS, Shahid, U., … & Pirzada, QA (2021). Review on Pharmacological Effects of Grape Seed Oil.

Results: The main objective of this study was to analyze the pharmacological activities of grape seed oil (GSE) such as anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, anti-hyperlipidemic, anti-hepatotoxic, wound healing effect, antioxidant, radioprotective, cholesterol regulating and hepatotoxic effects.

Source: RADS Journal of Biological Research & Applied Sciences.

Supports Blood Circulation

Grape seed oil can help support blood circulation thanks to its rich antioxidant content. In particular, the proanthocyanidin components it contains have a positive effect on vascular health. These components can regulate blood flow, increase vascular elasticity, and thus contribute to cardiovascular health.

Study: Arora, P., Ansari, S.H., & Nazish, I. (2010). Bio-functional aspects of grape seeds-a review.

Findings: This study mentions that procyanidins in grape seeds have anti-inflammatory, anti-arthritic, anti-allergic, blood circulation enhancing effects and prevent heart attacks.

Source: International Journal of Phytomedicine.

May Reduce Acne and Pimple Formation

Grape seed oil is a natural oil that can be used in the treatment of acne and pimples thanks to its light texture and structure that does not clog pores. Since it is rich in essential fatty acids such as linoleic acid, it can regulate excess oil production in the skin and reduce acne formation.

Study: Sotiropoulou, E.I., Varelas, V., Liouni, M., & Nerantzis, ET (2012). Grape seed oil: From a winery waste to a value added cosmetic product-a review.

Findings: This study mentions that grape seed oil has a significant antioxidant capacity that prevents pores from clogging. It also mentions that its anti-inflammatory properties can prevent acne from occurring and help with existing acne problems.

Source: Edible Med. Non-Med. Plants

Some people may be sensitive to grape seed oil or its ingredients.

Consult a healthcare professional before use.

Grape Seed Oil Benefits for Hair

Grape seed oil, which helps hair look stronger, shinier and healthier, draws attention with its effects such as reducing hair loss and strengthening hair roots. Here are the benefits of grape seed oil for hair and the features that make this oil effective in hair care:

  • It Can Nourish and Strengthen Hair Roots: Grape seed oil can penetrate into the hair roots, nourish them and make hair follicles stronger. The vitamin E in the oil can accelerate blood circulation in the scalp and provide nutrition to the roots. This can reduce the rate of hair loss.
  • It can moisturize and give shine to hair: Linoleic acid found in grape seed oil moisturizes the hair strands and can eliminate dryness of the hair caused by external factors. Linoleic acid prevents moisture loss by wrapping the hair strands and can keep the hair moist for a longer time.
  • May Reduce Scalp Irritation: The anti-inflammatory properties of grape seed oil can help relieve problems such as scalp irritation and redness.

Study: Demir, E., & Acaralı, N. (2023). Comparison on Quality Performance of Human Hair Types with Herbal Oils (Grape Seed/Safflower Seed/Rosehip) by Analysis Techniques.

Findings: In this study, the effects of vegetable oils on hair were investigated by comparing their properties with measurements. Grape seed oil is one of them.

Source: ACS omega.

Grape Seed Oil Benefits for Skin

Grape seed oil is a plant oil that has become increasingly popular in skin care and is known for its high antioxidant content and various benefits. The benefits of grape seed oil for the skin are mainly due to the fact that it provides a healthier and younger appearance to the skin. This vitamin can support cell renewal in the skin and protect the skin against sun damage.

Omega-6 fatty acids, such as linoleic acid, contained in the oil can strengthen the skin’s natural lipid barrier and provide significant benefits for dry or sensitive skin types. Thanks to the properties of linoleic acid that prevent moisture loss, the skin can achieve a healthier structure. The restorative effect of linoleic acid on the skin barrier is also beneficial in reducing sensitivities such as redness and irritation on the skin.

Grape seed oil may have supportive properties in preventing the formation of spots on the skin. Proanthocyanidins may help reduce hyperpigmentation in the skin by reducing melanin synthesis.

Study: Avota, M. (2023). Effects of Grape Seed Oil on Human Health.

Findings: This study discusses the benefits of grape seed oil for the skin.

Source: Dspace

How to Use Grape Seed Oil?

Grape seed oil can be applied directly to the skin, hair or other care areas or diluted in mixtures thanks to its light texture and versatile properties. The most common feature of this oil is its rich antioxidant content.

  • Usage on Skin: Grape seed oil is suitable for many skin types due to its light structure and rapid absorption. It can be applied directly to the skin or used instead of a moisturizer or serum, especially in night care routines. When a few drops of grape seed oil are applied to cleansed skin by massaging, it is quickly absorbed by the skin and can provide moisture balance. The oil’s softening effect on the skin without clogging the pores can also make it suitable for oily skin.
  • Use on Hair: Grape seed oil can be used as a mask on the hair or directly on the hair roots. A few drops of grape seed oil can be warmed in the palm of your hand and applied to the ends of your hair. It can add shine and softness to especially dry or processed hair. Grape seed oil can also be used as a weekly hair mask; massaging it into the scalp can help strengthen hair and help it grow healthier.
  • Massage and Aromatherapy: Grape seed oil is a base oil frequently used in massage therapies. Its light texture allows it to glide easily during massage and can nourish the skin. It can be used by mixing with essential oils. When mixed with essential oils such as lavender or tea tree oil, it can have a relaxing effect and be absorbed by the skin.

Frequently Asked Questions About Grape Seed Oil

Can Grape Seed Oil Be Applied to Eyebrows?

Grape seed oil can help eyebrows look fuller and healthier. The antioxidants and beneficial fatty acids it contains, such as linoleic acid, can help reduce hair loss by nourishing the eyebrow hair follicles. To apply to eyebrows, a few drops of grape seed oil can be gently warmed in the palm of your hand and massaged into the eyebrows with your fingertips.

Does Grape Seed Oil Grow Eyelashes?

Although grape seed oil provides a moisturizing effect on eyelashes, there is no scientific evidence that it directly promotes eyelash growth. When applying to eyelashes, avoid contact with the eyes and apply carefully with a clean mascara wand.

Is Grape Seed Oil Good for Wrinkles?

Grape seed oil can delay the formation of wrinkles. After this oil affects the skin, it helps support the collagen or elastin structure, thus minimizing the appearance of aging marks, fine lines and wrinkles in certain parts of the body.

Can Grape Seed Oil Be Applied to the Face Every Day?

Grape seed oil is a light oil suitable for daily use. It can be incorporated into the skin care routine, especially as a moisturizer or as the last step of skin care after serum.

What Diseases Is Grape Seed Oil Good For?

Grape seed extract may reduce the risk of heart disease by supporting cardiovascular health, and may also have a positive effect on joint health thanks to its anti-inflammatory effect.

Should I Wash My Skin After Applying Grape Seed Oil?

Grape seed oil is a light oil that is quickly absorbed by the skin, so there is usually no need to wash it off after application. When used as a moisturizer or serum in skin care, a few drops of oil are massaged into the skin and allowed to absorb completely.

Can You Apply Grape Seed Oil and Go Out in the Sun?

Grape seed oil does not provide direct sunscreen protection. Therefore, it is recommended that you apply sunscreen to your skin after applying grape seed oil, especially if you plan to stay in the sun for a long time.

For the most accurate information and healthy results, get support from a specialist doctor. The information in our content is not a prescription. We wish you healthy days…

Abbas Jahangir

I am a researcher and writer with a background in food and nutritional science. I am the founder of Foodstrend.com, our reputable online platform offering scientifically-backed articles on health, food, nutrition, kitchen tips, recipes, diet, and fitness. With a commitment to providing accurate and reliable information, we strive to empower our readers to make informed decisions about their health and lifestyle choices. Join us on Foodstrend.com's journey toward a healthier and happier lifestyle.

You may also like...