|  Grape oil (also grape seed oil) is a vegetable oil pressed from the seeds of various varieties of Vitis vinifera grapes, an abundant by-product of wine making. Although known to Europeans for centuries, grape seed oil was not produced or used on a large scale until the 20th century, largely due to the fact that grape seeds contain a lower percentage of oil as compared to other oil producing seeds, nuts, or beans.
It has a clean, light taste that has been describrd as 'nutty'.
Grape seed oil is reputed to contain plentiful antioxidants, as well as to lower cholesterol levels. In a large survey published in 1993 in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology, Dr. Nash showed in a sample group of 56 men and women using up to 1.5 ounces (43 g) per day, an amount that one can cook with, grape seed oil had the ability to raise HDL levels by 13% and reduce LDL levels by 7% in just three weeks. The total cholesterol/HDL ratio was reduced by 15.6% and the total LDL/HDL ratio was reduced by 15.3%, which could be significant for those at risk of heart attack.
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What is grape seed oil?
Grape seed, Vitis vinifera L. [Fam. Vitaceae], are rich in fatty acids. grape seed oil is rich in heart smart monosaturated fat (16%) polyunsaturated fat (69%) and very low in saturated fat (9%). Grape seed oil is particularly rich in linoleic acid (omega-6 Essential Fatty Acids (EFAs)- polyunsaturates), oleic acid (omega-9s monosaturates) and Vitamin E. New studies show that grape seed oil is excellent to use in creams and lotions for skin problems and scalp oils to prevent hair loss. It is best combined with essential oils and other plant extracts for these purposes. Grape seed oil is very low in omega-3 fatty acids known for their oxidation.
What is the history of grape seed oil?
The medicinal and nutritional value of grapes (Vitis vinifera) has been heralded for thousands of years. Egyptians consumed this fruit at least 6,000 years ago, and several ancient greek philosophers praised the healing power of grapes-- usually in the form of wine. European folk healers developed an ointment from the sap of grapevines to cure skin and eye diseases. Grape leaves were used to stop bleeding, inflammation, and pain,such as the skin brought on by hemorrhoids. Unripe grapes (raisin) were used to heal consumption, constipation, and thirst. The round, ripe, sweet grapes, were used to treat a range of health problems including cancer, cholera, smsallpox, nausea, eye infections, and skin, kidney, and liver diseases.
What is the chemical composition of grape seed oil?
Grape seed oil [Nutrient Units Value per 100 grams of edible portion: Total lipid (fat) 100.00g; Vitamin E (ATE) 29mg; Fatty acids, total saturated 9.6g; 16:0, 6.7g; 18:0, 14:0, 0.1g; Fatty acids, total monounsaturated (omega-9s) 16.1g; 16:1 undifferentiated 0.3g; 18.1 undifferentiated 15.8g; Fatty acids, total polyunsaturated 69.9g; 18.2 (omega-6s)undifferentiated 69.6g; 18:3 (omega-3s) undifferentiated 0.1g; Phytosterols, 180mg; Cholesterol 0.00 mg. [USDA Nutrient Database for Standard Reference, Release 16 (July 2003)].
What scientific research exists regarding grape seed oil?
Scientists have studied grape seed for the following health problems:
Antioxidant
Studies have found grape seed to be an antioxidant, which may help prevent or relieve symptoms of certain conditions, such as vision problems associated with diabetes and wound healing. The safety of long-term use of grape seed is unknown, and more studies are needed to provide definite answers.
Cardiovascular health
Studies suggest grape seed may help improve circulation, prevent atherosclerosis (clogging of the arteries), lower blood pressure and improve blood cholesterol levels. Some research shows that consumption of grape seed and grape skin in combination, such as in red wine, grape juice or a commercially available combination product, may be more beneficial than grape seed alone. Further research is needed.
Retinopathy
Several small studies suggest that grape seed may slow the progression of retinopathy (damage to the retina caused by diabetes or high blood pressure). Further research is needed in this area.
Swelling after surgery or after an injury
Some studies suggest that taking grape seed may dicrease swelling that occurs after surgery or after an injury. Further research is needed in this area.
Sun protection
A small study of health female volunteers suggests that Seresis, a pill containing grape seed extract in combination with other ingredients, may help to reduce the severity of sunburn. Seresis contains (beta-carotene and lycopene), vitamins C and E, selenium and proanthocyanidins, the proposed active ingredient in grape seed extract. Further research is needed to confirm these results.
Chloasma (melasma)
Chloasma (melasma), an acquired hypermelanosis, is often resistant to various treatments. grape seed extract was shown to be effective in reducing the hyperpigmentation in women with chloasma in one study. The beneficial effects of grape seed extract were maximally acheived after six months, and there was no further improvement after this period. The latter grape seed extract intake for five months may prevent chloasma from becoming worse prior to the summer season. Further research is needed to confirm these results.
Agitation in demented patients
One study found no support for the use grape seed oil aromatherapy to decrease agitation in severely demented patients.
How can grape seed oil improve health?
Among other beneficial effects, the active compounds in grape seed are believed to have antioxidant properties. In fact, a recent study of healthy volunteers found that suppplementation with grape seed extract substantially increased levels of antioxidants in the blood. Antioxidants are substances that scavenge free radicals -- damaging compounds in the body that alter cell membranes, tamper with DNA (genetic material), nd even cause cell death. Free radicals occur naturally in the body, but environmental toxins (including ultraviolet light, radiation, cigarette smoke, and air pollution) can also increase the number of these damaging particles. Free radicals are believed to contribute to the aging process as well as the development of a numberof health problems including heart disease cancer. Antioxidants found in grape seeds can neutralize free radicals and may reduce or even help prevent some of the damage they cause. The compounds found in grape seed oil, including OPCs, are powerful antioxidants that have been shown in research studies to promote cardiovascular, brain, skin and eye health; and antibacterial, anti-viral, and anti-inflamamtory activities.
How much grape seed oil should I take?
Recommended dosage is between 50 mg to 200 mg per day. A leading grape seed extract researcher, Debasis Bagchi recommends a daily dose of 50 mg for adults ages 30 years to 40 years, 100 mg for adults ages 40 years to 50 years, and 200 mg for adults older than 50 years. Prima Uva GSO has 34 mg catechins per 1000 mg capsule. children above 12 years old may take one capsule per day. Adults may take 2-3 capsules per day.
Pregnancy and breast feeding?
Grape seed use during pregnanc and breast feeding has not been studied and cannot be recommended.
Are there any potential side effects from taking grape seed oil?
Many experts consider grape seed to be safe, with few reports of side effects. The most common complaints include dry, itchy sclap; headache; diziness and nausea. In theory, grape seed may increase the risk of bleeding. You may need to stop taking grape seed before some surgeries; discuss this with a health care professional.
How about allergies?
Individuals allergic to grapes should not take grape seed. There are atleast two published cases of allergic reaction to the active compounds found in grape seed.
Can grape seed oil interfere with or react to medications?
No drug interactions have been reported with grape seed oil. However, always check with your health care professional before taking any nutrition supplement.
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