Lime Essential Oil

Lime--bannerAnyone for that matter would admire L…I…M…E as the fruit of Lasting Impression with Motherly Embrace. Undoubtedly Lime is such an adorable kitchen staple for more than thousands of years and its essential oil seldom falls short to heal our mind and body with its numinous aroma.

It can be named as an effective anti-blue fruit and oil for its ability to pacify your mood at times of depression and all kinds of blues including postpartum blues. Botanically named as Citrus aurantifolia, Lime is a limb of the citrus family Rutaceae.

Ayurveda uses Lime and its essential oil as a stimulant for treating skin problems, heart diseases, digestive disorders and mental mayhems. It has been used to boost brain power, purify the blood and aid in preventing memory loss. Certain other traditional medicines uses Lime as a remedy for treating gout, malignant tumors, throat infections and chronic skin diseases.

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Historical importance of Lime and its essential oil:

Lime has been a vital part of the folklore medicine for cleansing the system and revitalizing the mind. Aura is the life force or vital energy of any living thing and is called by different names in various healing systems. It is known as ‘prana’ in Ayurveda and ‘qi’ in Traditional Chinese Medicine. Lime is a powerful ancient remedy for cleansing the aura and restoring confidence.

Lime is indigenous to Asia and is now cultivated in numerous countries like America, West Indies and Italy. This evergreen tree bears white flowers and glittering green fruits. India is the largest Lime oil producing country in the world and Lime was introduced into Europe initially by the Moors and was then spread slowly to America. Lime essential oil is extracted by cold press method from the peel of the fruit.

Lime juice is widely known as a remedy for treating scurvy and it has been said that the ancient British sailors used it to prevent scurvy and other skin problems due to its rich Vitamin C content. Ships used for transporting Lime were adorably called as ‘lime juicers’.

The leaves of the Lime tree were used in the prehistoric period for treating poisonous bites and swellings. Apart from its medicinal uses Lime has been used in making pickles, sauces, desserts, jams, confectionaries, sorbets, marmalades, beverages, squashes, perfumes, household cleaners, detergents, soaps, cosmetics and other beauty products.

Chemical constituents or Gas Chromatography Report (GC) of Lime oil:

According to the Gas chromatography report, Lime oil constitutes of 13 chemical components that contribute to its fragrance, therapeutic attributes, consistency and quality of this oil. Of which, Limonene contributes to the highest proportion of Lime oil constituents with about 65.4% of its total composition.

Just click on:

I believe that this must certainly help you in getting to know the exclusive information about these prime chemical constituents of Lime oil.

The table crafted below clearly depicts the unique nature and contributions of these biochemical constituents to the healing magnificence of Lime essential oil.

lime-oil

Therapeutic properties of Lime essential oil:

A 2003 study on ‘Characterization of aroma volatiles in key lime essential oils (Citrus aurantifolia Swingle)’ state “Geranial, neral and linalool were found to dominate the lime oil aroma in both oils, which accounted for their fresh, floral citrus-like character.”

These components contribute to its remedial values like astringent, tonic, haemostatic, disinfectant, antiseptic, antimicrobial, antiviral, aperitif, restorative, stimulant and bactericidal.

Ayurvedic health benefits of Lime essential oil:

Nature is the best teacher and shows its love to everyone on Earth with maternal care and affection. That is why we call nature as ‘Mother Nature’. Ayurveda is a traditional medicinal system that trusts upon Nature for its healing methodologies. This ancient philosophy states that every human being is a part of nature and his/her health condition completely depends upon one’s balance with nature.

Man/woman is made up of the same 5 vital elements of nature namely water, earth, ether, air and fire. These elements combine together in making up the individual constitution of a human being. By this way every individual has a unique constitution identified with the combination of 3 vital bio-energies called as doshas. They are vata dosha that is made up of air and ether, pitta dosha that comprises of fire and water and kapha dosha that is a grouping of water and earth.

Ayurvedic treatments differ from individual to individual even for the same health disorder. This is because every individual has a predominance of any one of the three doshas that determines their state of health, personality and behavior and balance between these doshas indicates hale and heartiness.

Ayurvedic texts prescribe natural remedies like essential oils, herbs, Ayurvedic routine, yoga, physical exercises and meditation for treating dosha imbalances, healing illnesses, preventing it in future and for healthy aging.

Lime is known for alleviating all the three doshas vata, pitta and kapha.

Let’s take a look at the Ayurvedic health benefits of Lime essential oil:

Lime-broucher1. Supports healthy hair:

Lime is one among the best essential oils for treating dull, oily, lifeless, rough, frizzy and greasy hair. This oil has a handful of essential nutrients that nourish the scalp and add natural shine to your hair.

Oily and greasy hair are the most prominent reasons for inviting dandruff as these types of hair attract dust and dirt very easily. LIme removes oil quickly and moisturizes the scalp from within, helping you to get rid of dandruff, dry and itchy scalp. Indian healthcare practitioners consider Lime oil as a traditional hair conditioner.

Add 2 drops of Lime essential oil along with your shampoo or conditioner before applying on hair. This aromatic bath assists in cleansing the hair, removing excessive oil, reducing dandruff and making the hair manageable.

You can also add 3 drops of Lime oil with 30 drops of sesame oil and heat it in medium flame. Gently massage this warm oil blend on to your scalp and part lines. This massage aids in enriching the scalp by helping it absorb this oil and nourish your hair from the roots. It also increases blood circulation and promotes the growth of healthy hair.

2. Clears acne and cures numerous skin problems:

Acne is a burning skin problem among teenagers all over the world and it is said that about 85% of the global populace are affected by acne at some point of their life. It occurs mainly due to the excess secretion of oil by the sebaceous glands rooted deeply in the skin surface.

This excess oil blocks the glands and cause bacterial growth and inflammation leading to boils, pimples, whiteheads, blackheads and pustules that are collectively known as acne.

Mayo clinic recommends the use of products that can control excess oil and treat inflammation. Lime and its essential oil is the best natural cure for clearing acne and the marks left over by acne as it has rich vitamin C and flavonoids acting as antioxidants, which detoxify and cleanse the skin. Applying 2 drops of Lime oil blended with 15 drops of jojoba oil can assist in washing out impurities from the skin and influence the growth of new skin cells.

Lime essential oil has antiseptic, bactericidal, disinfectant and astringent properties that fights against harmful bacteria causing skin infections, heals cuts, wounds, boils, cellulites, varicose veins, acne and other skin eruptions.

A 2006 study on ‘In vitro antibacterial activity of some plant essential oils’ published in PubMed evaluated the antibacterial activity of about 21 essential oils against 6 bacterial species including 2 gram-positive bacteria Staphylococcus aureus an  Bacillus subtilis and 4 gram-negative bacteria Proteus vulgaris, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa.

This study concluded stating that among the 21 essential oils tested “Cinnamon, clove and lime oils were found to be inhibiting both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria.

Blending 2 to 3 drops of Lime oil with 20 drops of Olive oil and massaging it on the affected areas can assist in treating eczema, cuts, psoriasis, carbuncles, sores, skin ulcers, rashes and gangrene. Founder of the Polarity therapy, Mr. Randolph Stone states that Lime oil blended with Olive oil is an excellent remedy for treating eczema.

3. Promotes digestion:

Dr. Lakshmi Senaratne, senior Ayurvedic scientist at Bandaranaike Memorial Ayurveda Research Institute says that Lime and its essential oil have stomachic properties, thus it naturally promotes the secretion of bile and other gastric juices.

This helps in supporting the regular digestion process and enhances your appetite. Being a good laxative, this oil is also effective in treating nausea, dyspepsia and flatulence.

The anthelmintic properties of Lime essential oil treat diarrhea, vomiting, indigestion, exhaustion and abdominal pain. It also aids in controlling thirst. She also says that the ability of Lime to lessen pitta and vata energies makes it a powerful remedy for treating vomiting, anorexia, thirst and bleeding disorders.

All you need to do to improve your digestive process is to add 2 drops of Lime oil in 20 drops of sesame oil and gently massage on your abdomen. You can also use few drops of this oil in warm or cold compress to treat stomach pain and other discomforts.

3 to 4 drops of Lime oil added to warm bath is also effective in easing the process of digestion. Inhaling the refreshing citrus aroma by adding 2 drops to your burner or diffuser can help control nausea, morning sickness and improve your appetite.

4. Treats fever and respiratory infections:

Lime essential oil has febrifuge properties that assist in controlling your body temperature by reducing pitta dosha responsible for the temperature level of your body. Massaging your body or your foot soles with 3 drops of Lime oil blended with 20 to 25 drops of coconut oil or 3 drops added to cold compress can reduce your fever gradually by detoxifying your system and eliminating the harmful toxins and fever causing infections through sweat.

The antiviral, antibacterial, antimicrobial, immune stimulant and tonic properties of Lime oil aid in fighting against microbes causing cold and fever, strengthening the immune power, combating the growth of detrimental micro-organisms and making the body resistant against infections. 2 drops of Lime essential oil added to steam inhalation can help in treating cold, flu, sinusitis, bronchitis, cough, sore throat, asthma and other similar respiratory infections.

You can also mix 3 drops of Lime oil with 20 to 25 drops of coconut oil and apply it on your chest, neck and back for good relief. It helps loosen the phlegm deposits causing congestion in the bronchial passages. You can also add 1 drop of Lime oil to a cup of warm water and use it as a gargle for treating sore throat and for freshening your breath.

5. Acts as a tonic to the mind and body:

Lime has a divine aroma that is refreshing, rejuvenating, revitalizing, strengthening, uplifting and calming in nature. It helps in purifying the aura and strengthening the heart chakra responsible for love for others and self.

Adding 2 drops of Lime oil to your vaporizer, diffuser, burner or aromatic lamps can help in improving your concentration power and your immunity. This is mainly because of the tonic and restorative properties of Lime oil that helps you regain the lost energy of the mind and body due to diseases or emotional breakups.

Adding 3 to 4 drops of Lime essential oil in your bath tub can assist in relieving stress, depression, irritation, anxiety, muscular pain, tension, lack of self-confidence and negative feelings. Lime oil fortifies the mind and body by drawing the energies inward and helps an individual to focus without any distractions.

Disclaimer:

Never use essential oils internally. Do not go out in the sun immediately after using Lime essential oil on your skin as all citrus oils has phototoxic effect and can cause irritation when exposed to the harmful UV rays. Always remember to dilute essential oils before using them topically.

Consult your Ayurvedic practitioner before using the suitable essential oils for your individual constitution and state of health. This article is only for educational purpose and is not intended to replace any professional advice or prescribed medication.

The MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheet) of Lime oil is readily available for your enhanced safety and better usage.

Gas Chromatography Report (GC analysis) of Lime oil.

Lime Essential Oil Possible Skin Issues:

Greener Life Diamond – Bio-Healthy Score => 3 – Possible Skin Issues:

See => http://www.essentialdepot.com/GreenerLifeDiamond.html

Lime essential oil has photosensitizing effect that can end up in causing irritation of the skin, allergic reactions, burning sensation, phytophotodermatitis, hyperpigmentation (change of skin color, visible especially in people with white skin complexion) and certain other effects. This is said to happen mainly because of Lime oil’s potent to stimulate the skin photosensitivity, when it is exposed to observable sunlight up to 12 hours of use.

The underlying cause is the response of the photoactive chemical constituents that attracts UV light radiation and contributes to toxicity through molecular alterations in the surface of the skin.

The primary chemical constituent responsible for the photo-carcinogenic, skin sensitizing and other topical effects of the essential oil of Lime is Limonene and certain other furanocoumarins.

A 2014 study published in the Journal of Community Hospital Internal Medicine Perspectives reveals about a skin condition called as phytophotodermatitis, induced by Lime, where a 24-year old nurse came up with red demarcated tender patches and crusted vesicles after squeezing fresh limes and going out in sun on a bright day.

Phytophotodermatitis is defined as a nonimmunologic eruption of the skin that occurs after its contact with phototoxic components in certain plant varieties and is then exposed to ultraviolet A (UVA) radiation through visible sunlight.

Few other studies also witness the effects of photosensitization of Lime and Lime-based products containing psoralens, paving way for burns, blisters, bullae, eruption, erythematous vesicles, rashes, inflammation and hyperpigmentation. It is also been said that in certain severe cases, systemic toxicity come with the rashes, which includes nausea, vomiting and fever.

Lime oil has also been reported to promote tumors, when tested on rats where most of the papillomas were benign and few were malignant.

The safe dilution level of Lime oil is 0.7%, which is 4.2 drops per ounce of any carrier oils as per the International Fragrance Association (IFRA). This safe dilution level applies only for products used topically to thwart photosensitivity and is not applicable for wash-away products like soaps, shampoos and other bathing products.

IFRA also suggests that Limonene rich essential oils should only be employed, provided the level of peroxides are set aside to the lowest realistic level, for example: by including antioxidants during production.

Lime oil has ‘Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS)’status by FDA (U.S. Food and Drug Administration). As per the European regulatory body, essential oils with furanocoumarins must be used in such a way that the level of bergapten should not go beyond 15ppm (parts per million) in ready to use cosmetic products after which the skin is subjected to exposure of direct sunlight and this does not apply for wash-off products. The level of bergapten should be1 ppm in bronzing and sun protection products.

For your information, Furocoumarins are also used in healing practices on par with the long-wave ultraviolet light therapy for treating vitiligo, psoriasis and mycosis fungoides.

Reference Links Substantiating the Possible Skin Issues of Lime Oil:

  1. Lime-induced Phytophotodermatitis by Dr. Andrew Hankinson, Dr. Benjamin Lloyd and Dr. Richard Alweis, published in the Journal of Community Hospital Internal Medicine Perspectives and PubMed
  2. Citrus aurantifolia, American Herbal Products Association’s Botanical Safety Handbook, Second Edition by Zoe Gardner, Michael McGuffin
  3. Essential Oil Safety: A Guide for Health Care Professionals By Robert Tisserand, Rodney Young
  4. Leung’s Encyclopedia of Common Natural Ingredients, used in Food, Drugs and Cosmetics by Ikhlas A. Khan and Ehab A. Abourashed.
  5. Safety Information on Essential Oils by the National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy
  6. Lime oil by Mercola.com
  7. A Topical Skin Eruption by Dr. Christina Greenaway, published in the Canadian Journal of Infectious Diseases and PubMed

Thought for the day:

It is written on the arched sky; it looks out from every star. It is the poetry of Nature; it is that which uplifts the spirit within us.          -John Ruskin

Suggested Reading:

  1. Citrus Oils: Composition, Advanced Analytical Techniques, Contaminants, and Biological Activity (Medicinal and Aromatic Plants – Industrial Profiles) From CRC Press
  2. Ayurveda & Aromatherapy: The Earth Essential Guide to Ancient Wisdom and Modern Healing by Dr. Light Miller, Dr. Bryan Miller
  3. Growing Citrus: The Essential Gardener’s Guide by Martin Page
  4. Save Your Life with the Phenomenal Lemon (& Lime!) (Save Your Life!) by Blythe Ayne
  5. The Lemon & Lime Cookbook by Rick Donker

Reference Links:

  1. Lime is Beneficial for Skin and Hair by Namini Wijedasa published in Infolanka.com
  2. Acne by the American Academy of Dermatology
  3. In vitro antibacterial activity of some plant essential oils by Seenivasan Prabuseenivasan, Manickkam Jayakumar, and Savarimuthu Ignacimuthupublished in BMC Complement Altern Med, PubMed
  4. Health Benefits of Lime Essential Oil by Organic Facts


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Grapeseed Oil

Grape-seed-oil--bannerWitnessed as one among the potential chemopreventive agent, Grape seed and its extracts are effective natural medications to support cancer treatment in all the three stages of carcinogenesis, including initiation, promotion and progression.

As the most trusted carrier oil in aromatherapy, Grapeseed oil is often preferred as excellent massage oil for its light consistency and easy absorbent efficiency. It is often recommended for treating wrinkles, rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, cancer, hemorrhoids, stretch marks and high blood pressure.

Ayurveda honors Grapes as Drakshaa Phalottamaa,’ which means that Grapes is the best among all other fruits. Numerous Ayurvedic medications contain Grape and its other extracts in the treatment of urinary tract infections, tuberculosis, bloating, diarrhea, hypertension, obesity, gastritis, jaundice, depression, fatigue, anorexia, infertility, memory loss and indigestion.

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Chemical constituents and remedial properties of Grapeseed oil:

The major chemical constituents of Grape seed oil are alpha-linoleic acid, palmitic acid, oleic acid, stearic acid, palmitoleic acid, linoleic acid, phenols (tocopherols), steroids including stigmasterol, campesterol, beta-sitosterol, flavonoids and oligomeric proanthocyanidin complexes (OPCs – source of rich antioxidants).

The promising therapeutic properties of Grape seed oil are antioxidant, moisturizing, emollient, anticancer, cicatrisant, diuretic, cardio-tonic, anti-inflammatory, adaptogenic, anti-allergic, anti-histamine, anti-dandruff, immune stimulant, antimicrobial and anti-aging. It also contains Vitamin E, which is extremely beneficial for skin and hair.

Historical uses and importance of Grape seed and its oil:

Vitis vinifera is the scientific name of grapes. The Greeks were the first among the world populace to consume grapes for its varied health benefits. Grapes were found to relish the universe for more than 6,000 years.

The juice extracted from Grapes has been mentioned in the Bible and the Old Testament denotes that Prophet Daniel promoted the uses of Grape seed oil by using it in a culinary variety called as Pulse.

Indigenous to Asia, Grapes were later taken to Europe and North America. Many Greek philosophers wrote about various health benefits of Grapes in their medical writings.

The traditional European medical practitioners used sap of grapevines in making an ointment for treating eye problems and skin disorders.

Dried grapes or raisins are one among those best natural medications for treating constipation, liver problems and excessive thirst.

Ayurveda and certain other Complementary and alternative medicinal practices recommend grapes and its extracts in the treatment of cholera, cancer, sore throat, nausea, infections of the eye, small pox, heart conditions and skin problems.

The Ayurvedic text ‘Dhanvantari Nighantu’ indicates grapes as one among the Swadu Triphala along with dates and Kashmari fruit and with dates and pomegranate. Grapes are also classified as highly nutritious food, Santarpana foods.

Grapes and its various other natural extracts, including grape seed and its oil has been under the limelight of scientific research later, where various therapeutic values including the antioxidant and chemopreventive effects of Grape seed extracts have been proved with corresponding evidence.

Ayurvedic health benefits of Grape seed oil:

Grapes can never be neglected in any of our fruit list or nutritious diet curriculum. With all the other gifts of Mother Nature, Grapes are indeed a blessing on mankind with a bunch of remedial properties, just like the bunch of grapes on the grapevine.

‘The Fox and the Grapes’ story is still fresh in my mind and I remember the sight of grapes would influence our taste buds just like that in a jiffy.

Ayurveda beckons grapes with various Sanskrit names and the most interesting names are here for your reference. For its extremely appealing looks, it is called as Charuphala and Priyala; Nutritious values –Bruhmani; Aphrodisiac properties – Vrushya.

Acharya Charaka, the most renowned Ayurvedic philosopher and the creator of Charaka Samhita, the ground-breaking Ayurvedic encyclopedia has classified grapes as Kanthya, meaning herbs that help in soothing throat and enhancing voice; Shramahara, which means herbs that alleviate fatigue and drowsiness; Kashara, meaning cough suppressant herbs.

The 6,000 years history of Grapes is richer than the 5,000 years old Ayurvedic healing, which is more than a valid proof for the presence of Grapes and its various extracts in Ayurvedic medications.

The philosophy of Ayurveda believes that everything on earth along with human beings is made up of the five fundamental elements called as Devanagari or Panchamaha boothas.

These five elements, namely fire (metabolism, intellect, vision and body temperature), water (blood, salivary glands and digestive juices), air (respiration, cardiac, muscular and nervous functions), earth (bones, muscles, hair, skin and nails) and space (lungs, abdomen, thorax and mouth) join together to form the unique individual constitution or Prakriti of a person, which is a combination of 3 biological energies called as doshas.

Doshas are a combination of five vital elements, kapha (earth + water), vata (space + air) and pitta (fire + water).

The physique, emotional traits, spiritual connectedness and behavioral attributes of a person is based upon the predominant dosha. Absolute balance between doshas according to nature’s law indicates perfect health and unevenness leads to diseases.

Ayurvedic treatment starts with the individual as a whole and not just as an attempt to treat their health conditions. Swasthya is the aim of Ayurvedic healing, which means a healthy state of the body, mind and spirit.

For attaining longevity through hale and hearty lifestyle practices, impediment of diseases and understanding self, Ayurveda recommends herbal medicines, Ayurvedic essential oils, Dinacharya or Ayurvedic routine, yoga, simple physical exercises, Pranayama or mindful breathing, Panchakarma or cleansing technique, prayers, and meditation.

Grape seed oil has been recommended in Ayurveda for pacifying kapha and vata and for enhancing pitta dosha.

According to Annaswaroopa Vijnaneeya Adhyaya, the sixth chapter of Astanga Hridaya, one among the three Ayurvedic encyclopedia, Grapes is quoted as “Draksa is best among fruits, is aphrodisiac, good for the eyes, helps elimination of urine and faeces, sweet in taste and the end of digestion, unctuous, slightly astringent, cold potency, hard to digest, cures diseases of vata, pitta and rakta; better taste in the mouth, intoxication, thirst, cough, fever, respiratory conditions, hoarseness, injury to the lungs and chronic respiratory diseases.”

The Ayurvedic health benefits of Grape seed oil are:Grape-seed -broucher1. Excellent benefits for skin and hair:

Grape seed oil is a light and easily absorbing oil with many benefits for the skin and hair with the presence of linoleic acid, the most banked upon essential fatty acid for boosting the health of skin cells (Twachya) and hair follicles (Keshya).

With its mild astringent, antioxidant and anti-aging qualities, Grape seed oil supports in fighting against free radicals that contribute to aging symptoms like wrinkles, fine lines, blemishes and saggy skin. It protects the skin from sun damages.

Massaging your skin with 5 drops of Grape seed oil blended with 1 drop of Bergamot oil and 1 drop of Lavender oil can help in toning and tightening the skin cells. Being emollient and regenerative oil, it assists in moisturizing the skin surface and nourishing the skin cells from within.

A 2002 study on “Dermal wound healing properties of redox-active grape seed proanthocyanidins” by The Ohio State University Medical Center and Creighton University Medical Center witnessed the effectiveness of Grapeseed extracts in healing dermal wounds quickly.

This study quotes, “GSPE treatment was associated with a more well-defined hyper proliferative epithelial region, higher cell density, enhanced deposition of connective tissue, and improved histological architecture.”

It concludes stating, “Topical application of Grape Seed Proanthocyanidins Extracts represents a feasible and productive approach to support dermal wound healing.” This contributes to the cicatrisant or wound healing properties of Grape seed oil.

The presence of Vitamin E makes it a vital ingredient in moisturizing creams, lip balms, sunscreen lotions, shampoos, conditioners and few other ranges of cosmetics. The most interesting fact is that Grapeseed oil has double the times of vitamin E in Olive oil.

Gently massaging your scalp with 10 drops of Grape seed oil with 2 drops of Lime oil can help in treating dry scalp conditions, itchy and flaky scalp, dandruff, hair loss and frizzy hair. This oil spreads evenly and dampens the dry conditions of your hair, leaving it soft, smooth and silky.

2. Promising chemopreventive agent for combating cancer:

Grape seed is a potent antioxidant with the presence of oligomeric proanthocyanidin complexes (OPCs), which can prevent cellular tissue damage by the invasion of free radicals and resveratrol, a natural phenol that protects the cells from the attack of pathogens.

A 2009 study on ‘Anticancer and Cancer Chemopreventive Potential of Grape Seed Extract and Other Grape-Based Products, published in the Journal of Nutrition and in PubMed,’ proves the efficacy and mechanisms of action on various epithelial cancer models.

This includes the potential chemopreventive effects of Grape seed extracts on skin cancer, prostate cancer, colorectal cancer and breast cancer. The findings of various studies listed in this analysis firmly suggest that “grapes and grape-based products are the sources of many potential anticancer and cancer chemopreventive agents.”

Melanoma or skin cancer is often caused by the adverse effects of ultra violet radiation on human skin. The presence of proanthocyanidins in Grape seed is an excellent source for preventing and fighting against the development of skin cancer.

A 2008 study on ‘Grape seed proanthocyanidins and skin cancer prevention: Inhibition of oxidative stress and protection of immune system’ concludes “Grape seed proanthocyanidins could be useful in the attenuation of the adverse UV-induced health effects in human skin.”

3. Relieves rheumatic conditions and assists in the treatment of varicose veins:

Grape seed oil has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, circulatory and diuretic properties that help in promoting normal blood circulation, arrest the growth of free radicals, reduce swelling or inflammation, soothe inflamed nerves and discard toxic remains and water retention in the system through urine, sweat and faeces (for which it is called as Mutrala and Malakrut in Ayurveda).

The presence of oligomeric proanthocyanidin complexes (OPCs), flavonoids and other vital nutrients in Grape seed oil does all these magic and makes it a promising natural aid in treating rheumatism, arthritis, varicose veins, chronic venous insufficiency, edema and stiff muscles.

Massaging the affected parts with 10 drops of Grapeseed oil with 2 drops of Petitgrain oil can help in fortifying and repairing broken capillaries and blood vessels, enhancing blood circulation in case of spider veins, hemorrhoids and varicose veins, reducing swelling and inflammation in rheumatoid arthritis, supporting recovery from an injury and post-surgery conditions.

The University of Maryland Medical Center quotes studies where patients who used Grapeseed extract after breast cancer surgery and sports injury had less edema and swelling than others who used placebo.

4. Supports cognitive functions and enhances memory:

Strengthening cognitive power and the functions of the brain is another adorable attribute of Grape seed oil and is one among those brain tonic or Medhya herbs in Ayurveda.

A 2011 study on ‘Grape seed proanthocyanidin lowers brain oxidative stress in adult and middle-aged rats by the Bangalore University, published in PubMed concludes “Grape Seed proanthocyanidin extracts as a neuroprotectant in the hippocampus and in preventing cognitive loss with aging.”

“It lowered blood glucose, lipid peroxidation, hydrogen peroxide level, and increased protein sulphydryl (P-SH) content in the hippocampus and significantly improved cognitive performance,” witnesses this analysis.

Using 3 ounce of Grape seed oil with 7 drops of Rosemary oil and 3 drops of Ashwagandha oil in a massage blend, can support effectively in enhancing the functions of hippocampus, part of the brain and is the center of memory, emotions and the autonomic nervous system.

This is how Grape seed oil aids in improving cognitive abilities, elevating memory power and in treating Alzheimer’s disease and memory loss.

5. Controls high cholesterol and high pressure:

Grape seed oil acts like a cardiac tonic that reinforces the functions of the cardiovascular system by reducing the level of LDL (low density lipoproteins) or bad cholesterol and augmenting the level of HDL (high density lipoproteins) or good cholesterol.

As a natural aid with mild blood-thinning properties, Grape seed oil can be of great help in removing blocks or clots in the blood vessels and treating coronary diseases. It supports the functions of the heart and is called as Hrudaya in Ayurvedic healing.

Grape seeds can support in controlling high blood pressure and other conditions associated with metabolic syndrome. A study with four weeks of Grape seed extracts proved it’s potent in reducing diastolic as well as systolic blood pressure.

The rich presence of gamma-linoleic acid in Grape seed helps significantly in lowering cholesterol levels in the system. A study published in the International Journal of Food Science and Nutrition witnesses’ insulin resistance in obese or overweight females.

Other health benefits:

Grapeseed oil and other extracts assist in the treatment of tooth decay, low night vision, diabetic retinopathy and diabetes.

  • Stick to a healthy and wholesome diet.
  • Simple physical exercises every day might sound simple but has immense benefits on your health regimen.
  • Connecting with the Divine Force either through prayer or meditation for about 10 – 15 minutes a day can help in self-realization and immense self-belief.
  • Chuck out about 70 per cent of toxins in your system daily by extended exhalation during Pranayama or the art of balanced breathing.
  • Think positive and accomplish your duties for eternal satisfaction.
  • Enrich your body with the habit of drinking ample water.

Hmmm…. I’m done for the day and it’s your turn now…..

Disclaimer:

Use essential oils only for topical application as 100 per cent organic and pure oils are highly concentrated liquids and might cause allergic reactions, if taken internally. Do a patch test with Grape seed oil before using it on your skin.

This article is only for the purpose of education and is not meant to diagnose, substitute any prescription medicines or the advice of your healthcare professional. We are not medical experts and this info is shared only on the basis of enlightening Ayurvedic healing, the pioneer of all medical sciences on earth.

Consult your Ayurvedic expert or medical professional before choosing the appropriate oils for your unique individual constitution or Prakriti and state of health or Vikruti. Take special care before using Grapeseed oil on pregnant women or nursing mother or on children.

Thought for the day:

If you truly love Nature, you’ll find beauty everywhere.

-Wan Cogh

Suggested Reading:

  1. Grapeseed oil: An alternative to conventional edible vegetable oils by Manuela Rubio García, José Emilio Pardo González, Manuel Alvarez-Ortí
  2. The Modern Ayurveda: Milestones Beyond the Classical Age from Brand: CRC Press
  3. The Comprehensive Guide to Skin Care: From Acne to Wrinkles, What to Do (And Not Do) to Stay Healthy and Look Your Best by Rebecca B. Campen M.D.
  4. The Massage Therapist’s Guide to Pain Management with CD-ROM, 1e (A Massage Therapist’s Guide To) by Sandy Fritz, Leon Chaitow

Reference Links:

  1. Grape seed by University Of Maryland Medical Center
  2. Grape seed oil by Wikipedia
  3. What is grape seed extract? What are the benefits of grape seed extract? By Medical News Today
  4. Anticancer and Cancer Chemopreventive Potential of Grape Seed Extract and Other Grape-Based Products by Manjinder Kaur, Chapla Agarwal, and Rajesh Agarwal, published in the Journal of Nutrition and in PubMed
  5. Grape seed proanthocyanidins and skin cancer prevention: Inhibition of oxidative stress and protection of immune system by Santosh K. Katiyar, University of Alabama, Birmingham Veterans Affairs Medical Center, published in PubMed