Thursday, 25 April 2013

BENEFITS OF GRAPE SEED OIL


Grapes are fruits commonly grown in the Mediterranean, Europe and North America. They are found in a variety of forms such as juice, dried as raisins, fermented as wine and pressed to make grape seed oil. Grape seed oil contains many different properties that are healthy for the body. According to The University of Maryland Medical Center, these properties aid in treating health problems such as cancer, heart disease, skin damage and diabetes. Grape seed oil is most effective when purchased unprocessed and unrefined.

Linoleic acid
Grape seed oil is rich in omega-6s otherwise known as linoleic acid. These are considered essential fats because the body cannot make them and so you must rely on grape seed oil or other food sources. Linoleic acid is a polyunsaturated fat which can help lower cholesterol, maintain healthy skin, and protect the brain and nervous system. Other sources of linoleic acid include soybean, corn and safflower oil.

Vitamin E
Grape seed oil offers a variety of nutrients including vitamin E. Vitamin E acts as an antioxidant and helps lower the risk of high cholesterol, heart disease,certain cancers and stroke. As an antioxidant, it also helps protect and absorb essential fatty acids such as omega-6 fats. For alternative sources of vitamin E, look to sunflower seeds, almonds, wheat germ, spinach and turnip greens.

Antioxidants
Resveratrol, a compound found in grapes and grape seed oil, is a powerful antioxidant which helps to protect cells against damaging free radicals. A high intake of resveratrol may be associated with a reduced risk of cancer and cardiovascular disease. According to scientists at the Illinois College of Pharmacy in Chicago, resveratrol acts as an antimutagen which prevents the formation of tumors. Another grape-related source of the antioxidant resveratrol is red wine.

Source: http://www.livestrong.com/article/275785-benefits-of-grape-seed-oil/

TOMATO SEED OIL BENEFITS


Tomato seed oil is used as a treatment aid for mild to severe skin conditions, ranging from eczema to psoriasis. Its high antioxidant content also makes it a celebrated remedy for wrinkles, age spots and sun damage. Natural Sourcing, a global supplier of natural ingredients to the cosmeceutical, fragrance, aromatherapy and massage industries, states that tomato seed oil may also be utilized to treat dry, damaged hair. While the oil may be added to topical solutions, such as lotion or shampoo products, it is also edible. Consult with your health care adviser prior to applying or ingesting tomato seed oil.

Antioxidants
A study published in the July 2010 edition of "Journal of the American Oil Chemists' Society" discovered that oil extracted from tomato seeds contains the antioxidants beta-carotene, phystosterols and lycopene. Natural Source adds to the list tocopherols, carotenoids and flavonoids. According to the National Cancer Institute, antioxidants may prevent the occurrence of certain cancers by neutralizing the harmful free radicals and prohibiting them from causing cellular damage.

Minerals
Tomato seed oil is rich in copper, iron, manganese and zinc. Health Supplements Nutrition Guide, a site dedicated to providing consumers with reliable information regarding minerals, vitamins and supplements, states that copper and iron are essential in the formation of red blood cells and hemoglobin. Copper sustains bone and immunity health, as well as preserving the health of nerves and blood vessels. Manganese helps with metabolic functions and promotes the growth and development of the brain and bones. Zinc helps to maintain healthy skin and prevents against illnesses, such as the flu, colds and infections.

Vitamins
Tomato seed oil contains a significant amount of vitamin E. According to MedlinePlus, vitamin E is crucial for the formation of red blood cells and assists the body with the absorption of vitamin K. Vitamin K is responsible for the coagulation of blood and bone health.

Additional Benefits
Additional components of tomato seed oil include the fatty acids, omega 3-6-9, as well as the essential amino acid, lysine. The University of Maryland Medical Center reports that lysine sustains growth and helps the body to convert fatty acids into energy. By eliminating a build-up of fatty acids, the body is able to regulate cholesterol levels. Furthermore, lysine helps the body to absorb calcium, thereby preventing osteoporosis, and is responsible for the formation of collagen. According to Women to Women, a medical clinic devoted to women's health care, Omega 3-6-9 promote a healthy heart and have anti-inflammatory properties, ideal for treating arthritis or symptoms of skin inflammation.