WHEATGERM OIL

WHEATGERM OIL

What is Wheat Germ Oil:

Wheat germ oil is extracted from the germ of the wheat kernel, which makes up only 2.5% by weight of the kernel Wheat germ oil is particularly high in octacosanol - a 28-carbon long-chain saturated primary alcohol found in a number of different vegetable waxes

Potential Uses of Wheat Germ Oil for Overall Health:

1. Potential use of wheat germ oil for bacterial infections 

Wheat germ oil may possess antibacterial properties. It may inhibit the growth of bacteria. Wheat germ oil may be more sensitive to gram-positive bacteria as compared to gram-negative bacteria (categories based on bacteria that take up staining under the microscope).¹ However, further studies are yet to be done to check the effect of wheat germ oil on bacterial infections. If you suspect any symptoms of bacterial infection, you must immediately consult your doctor. 

2. Potential use of wheat germ oil for inflammation 

Intake of wheat germ oil may be used to reduce swelling. A study conducted by Harrabi et al. in 2021 showed that bioactive compounds like octacosanol, β-sitosterol and α-linolenic acid might be responsible for the anti-inflammatory property of wheat germ oil. Wheat germ oil may inhibit cyclo-oxygenase (an enzyme that causes swelling).² However, more studies are required to confirm if wheat germ oil can be used to reduce inflammation. You must consult your doctor if you experience any symptoms of inflammatory diseases. 

 3. Potential use of wheat germ oil for hair 

Consumption of wheat germ oil may increase blood flow due to the presence of vitamin E. Increased blood flow in the scalp may help repair the cells in the hair bulb. Additionally, it may help reduce hair fall.⁵ However, more studies are needed to check if wheat germ oil is good for hair. You should consult a doctor for proper treatment if you are facing hair related issues. 

4. Potential use of wheat germ oil for skin 

Consumption of wheat germ oil may increase the blood flow in the skin, resulting in better supply of nutrients to the skin. This may be attributed to its high vitamin E content. It may also have an anti-ageing effect on the skin due to the presence of a bioactive compound, ceramide. Vitamin E and ceramides may have a moisturising and soothing effect on the skin. In addition, wheat germ oil may cause skin thickening, which may further help decrease water loss from the skin.⁵ However, more studies are yet to be done to check whether wheat germ oil may benefit the skin. You must consult your doctor if you see any abnormalities in your skin. 

5. Potential use of wheat germ oil for cancer 

A study conducted by Emam et al. in 2022 on rats showed that wheat germ oil might be beneficial for breast cancer due to the presence of vitamin E and its ability to reduce oxidative stress.⁴ Oxidative stress is caused by harmful free radicals (molecular particles that harm the body). In addition, wheat germ oil may reduce tumour size.⁶ However, this study was conducted on animals. Therefore, further studies are required to check the effect of wheat germ oil on cancer in the human body. Cancer is a dangerous disease; hence you must consult your doctor if you have been diagnosed with cancer instead of self-medicating. 

6. Potential use of wheat germ oil for wound healing 

Wheat germ oil may help to heal wounds. A study conducted by G.C. Türkoglu et al. in 2021 showed that wheat germ oil might have bioactive compounds that may have properties to work on the skin cells and enhance the wound healing process. Wheat germ oil may heal burns and wounds due to its high cellular activity and high fluid handling capacity.⁷ However, further studies are yet to be done to check if wheat germ oil may be used to heal wounds. Therefore, you must consult your doctor if you have a severe wound instead of self-medicating. 

7. Potential use of wheat germ oil for lowering cholesterol levels 

Antioxidants in wheat germ oil like phenolic acids, flavonoids, tocopherols and carotenoids may help reduce cholesterol levels. A study by Chadha et al. in 2015 showed that wheat germ oil might lower the bad cholesterol levels- total cholesterol and low-density lipoproteins (LDL).⁸ However, further studies are yet to be done to check if wheat germ oil may be beneficial for lowering cholesterol levels. Therefore, you must check your cholesterol levels regularly and consult your doctor in case of high cholesterol levels. 

Though there are studies that show the benefits of wheat germ oil in various conditions, these are insufficient, and there is a need for further studies to establish the true extent of the benefits of wheat germ oil on human health

How to Use Wheat Germ Oil? 

Wheat germ oil can be added to various food items in the following way: 

• Wheat germ oil may be added to smoothies, yoghurt, ice cream and cereals. 
• Wheat germ oil capsules are available in a fixed dose. 
• It can be added to pasta or salad as a flavouring agent. 

You must consult a qualified doctor before taking any herbal supplements. Likewise, do not discontinue or replace an ongoing modern medical treatment with an ayurvedic/herbal preparation without consulting a qualified doctor. 

USES OF WHEAT GERM CARRIER OIL

There are abundant uses for Wheat Germ Carrier Oil, ranging from medicinal to cosmetic. Its many forms include but are not limited to massage oil, cream, and conditioners.

Used topically, Wheat Germ Carrier Oil makes an enriching emollient. It can be applied directly to the skin as an anti-aging agent and moisturizer that encourages skin moisture absorption and promotes skin repair while preventing visible signs of aging such as wrinkles. Additionally, it can be applied to improve blood circulation and assist in rejuvenating the skin, leaving it feeling fresh and moisturized.

Wheat Germ Carrier Oil is often combined with other Essential Oils to make a relaxing and soothing massage oil or cream. When mixed with Base Oils such as Jojoba and Carrot or Essential Oils such as Fennel, Lavender, or Sandalwood, soothing effects can be experienced on the skin. To provide your hair with deep conditioning care, gently massage Wheat Germ Carrier Oil with Coconut oil or Castor Oil into the scalp and hair, leave it overnight, and then wash it off the next morning.

Used topically, Wheat Germ Carrier Oil works to protect and moisturize the skin, while softening and promoting skin flexibility. The Oil has anti-aging properties that allow the skin to reduce visible signs of aging such as wrinkles. The Oil contains many emollient properties that aid in soothing dry skin.

For topical applications, you can dilute and combine one or more carrier oils with Wheat Germ Carrier Oil. This blend will aid in rejuvenating the skin after a long tiring day. You can make your own blend of your favorite scents and oils to use as an effective moisturizer. For example, into a 50 ml bottle, fill ¼ of the bottle with Wheat Germ Carrier Oil, ½ with Jojoba oil, one drop of Geranium Essential Oil, and two drops of Lavender or Patchouli Essential Oil. Once every day, apply a few drops of this mixture onto your skin and let it absorb for healthy-looking skin.

When used in an Oil blend, the Oil feels thinner in consistency, making it beneficial to use on acne-prone skin. The Oil acts as an effective emulsifier in quick-drying oils and soap formulations.

Wheat Germ Carrier Oil is rich in Unsaturated Fatty Acids thus preventing dryness while softening, and moisturizing the hair.