*Grapeseed oil, also called grape oil, is extracted from the seeds of grapes after extracting the fruits for wine, and is mostly made in Italy.

*It has a light color and a neutral taste, and does not impart any color or flavor the foods.

*Can be used as a salad oil, to infuse flavors of garlic, rosemary, etc into the oil, deep frying, and stir frying.

*Has high smoking point of 420 F, which makes it ideal for deep frying.

*Besides cooking, it is also used in cosmetic industry as a carrier oil.

*Has a very high polyunsaturated fat content, and so can get rancid very easily. It has to be stored away from light and heat, preferably in the refrigerator.

Is it raw?

Yes. Grapeseed oil is cold pressed mechanically under controlled conditions away from light and heat. Make sure you read the label.

Health Benefits

1. Grapeseed oil is low in saturated fats and high in unsaturated fats, 16% monounsaturated fats and 70% polyunsaturated fats.

2. Oleic acid, the monounsaturated fatty acid in grapeseed oil, is good for the heart as it lowers the LDL and total cholesterol content and maintains HDL cholesterol content in the blood.

3. The high polyunsaturated fats are also good for the heart. The essential fatty acids, alpha-linolenic acid (omega-3) and linoleic acid (omega-6), are the precursors of prostaglandins, the hormone like substances that have a variety of functions like contraction and relaxation of smooth muscles, control of blood pressure, pain and inflammatory response, etc in humans.

4. The omega-3 fatty acids also appear to be important for cognitive and behavioral function, as well as normal growth and development.

5. Grapeseed oil is used in cosmetic industry and in aromatherapy as a carrier oil, massage oil and in sunscreen lotions, moisturizers, etc.

6. It rejuvenates and reconditions the rough and damaged skin and gives a youthful and healthy look.

7. Very good source of useful antioxidants and plant sterols like vitamin E, tocopherols, reservatol and other phytosterols, which are healthy for the body.