Grape seed oil, extracted as you might imagine, from the seeds of grapes, has many health benefits, ranging from anti-aging to antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. This versatile oil can also be used at home in many ways, from cooking to cosmetics. Read on to discover more about the properties of this fabulous gift of nature.

Grape seed oil is a monounsaturated fat, which means it is a healthier alternative for cooking compared with saturated, animal sourced fats and oils. It has half the saturated fat content of olive oil, itself regarded as a healthy oil. Grape seed oil has a high smoke point, so it is great for frying and roasting at high temperatures. It has a light, clean taste making it ideal for salad dressings and marinades. Due to its high viscosity, only a small amount of oil is required compared with the amount of other oils that would need to be used for the same purpose.

As a cosmetic, grape seed oil has wonderful regenerative properties, supporting damaged and stressed skin areas. As our skin is subject to various forms of oxidative stress, such as UV radiation, the application of grape seed oil to the skin, as well as adding it to the diet, can bring protective benefits. Grape seed oil is believed to reduce the appearance of stretch marks, and is great for the eye area. Oxidative stress is a major factor in the development of the signs of aging, so the anti-aging properties of grape seed oil can potentially slow the process of wrinkle formation.

Grape seed oil contains antioxidant compounds called polyphenols and procyanidins. Polyphenols are also found in tea, berries and chocolate. These compounds work by scavenging free radicals in the body. Free radicals are always present in the body but are particularly increased when the body is subjected to toxins such as alcohol and cigarette smoke, and can cause cell damage and possible cancers.

The antioxidant procyanidin is up to 50% more potent than vitamin E and 20% more potent than vitamin C. The antioxidants found in grape seed oil have also been claimed to reduce the incidence of heart disease and types of cancer. Though it is not known exactly how this occurs, it is believed to be related to the anti-inflammatory effect of ingesting the polyphenols contained in grape seed oil.

Grape seed oil contains high density lipoprotein, which assists in reducing high blood pressure, one of the key contributors to cardiovascular illness. High density lipoproteins are commonly referred to as 'good cholesterol', so in fact consuming grape seed oil can assist in reducing 'bad cholesterol' or low density lipoproteins in the body. The linoleic acid found in grape seed oil can also help guard against certain types of cancers and may help reduce body fat.

So there are plenty of reasons for including grape seed oil as part of a daily diet and skincare regime, and few reasons not to take advantage of this most beneficial natural oil.