Essential oils are extracted for their extensive list of medicinal value that they provide to the mind and body. Cranberry seed oil, an essential oil extracted from cranberries, is an example of an oil that has proved to be extremely helpful in promoting overall well-being.
What Is Cranberry Seed Oil?
Cranberries are grown on a green shrub and have been used since ancient times to cure urinary tract infections (UTIs). The most nutritious part of the cranberry plant is the seed from which cranberry juice is prepared.
Another byproduct of the cranberry seed is the extremely useful essential oil that is extracted through the cold pressed technique.
Due to its light texture and consistency, cranberry oil absorbs into the skin quickly when used topically. Cranberry essential oil is yellow or golden in color with a fruity aroma.
Uses of Cranberry Seed Oil
Cranberry seed oil blends well with lavender, rosemary, bergamot, sandalwood, lemon and jasmine essential oil. Due to its medicinal properties, cranberry seed oil is being used worldwide.
Cranberry seed oil is used in the following ways:
- As a massage oil
- As a skin moisturizer
- In perfumes and soaps
- In acne scar treatments
- As a hair conditioner
Cranberry seed oil is rich in nutrients that are beneficial for overall health. It is an excellent source of carotenoids, antioxidants and vitamins. The polyphenols present in cranberry oil enhances cell health.
Benefits of Cranberry Seed Oil
Listed below are some health benefits of cranberry seed oil:
1. Treats urinary tract infections
Urinary tract infections can be painful and uncomfortable to bear, especially when out in public. Similar to cranberry juice, the seed oil also helps cure UTIs.
Rich in proanthocyanins, cranberry seed oil helps to stop the binding of bacteria to urinary bladder walls and removes any bacteria from the urinary tract to give you relief from the discomfort associated with UTIs.
2. Lowers triglycerides
If the body’s triglyceride content is high, then you are at risk of developing cardiovascular diseases.
Cranberry seed oil is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which lower the triglycerides and promote heart health. It also assists brain function and supports other growth processes in the body.
3. Eliminates toxins
Toxins from foods and the environment accumulate in the body and cause harmful infections. Cranberry seed oil is rich in quininic acid, which possesses nutraceutical properties that help eliminate toxins from the prostate, kidneys, testicles and bladder.
4. Improves heart health
Cranberry seed oil is considered to be an excellent aid to promote heart health. It contains flavonoids that are heart friendly and help to reduce heart problems. It also contains salicylic acid, which prevents the clotting of blood.
5. Prevents oral infections
Cranberry seed oil possesses antibacterial properties that prevent oral infections. It eliminates mouth bacteria and prevents tooth decay. Regular use of cranberry seed oil can also prevent gum infections.
6. Maintains a healthy digestive system
Most stomach infections are caused due to Helicobacter pylori bacteria. Cranberry seed oil is rich in antibacterial properties that inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria and help to maintain a healthy digestive system.
7. Acts as an antioxidant
Cranberries are rich in antioxidants that help fight the aging process. It slows down the degeneration of skin cells, organ tissue and brain cells. The antioxidants in cranberry seed oil also fight oxidation and stop the free radical damage.
8. Improves immunity
Cranberry seed oil is an excellent tonic to improve immunity. It contains vitamin C, which acts as a natural antioxidant in the body. It is also rich in antibacterial properties that prevent infections and help strengthen the body’s immune system.
Side Effects of Cranberry Seed Oil
When used in the right quantities, cranberry seed oil seems to pose no side effects.
- Those consuming more than the recommended dosage of this essential oil suffer from side effects like diarrhea and stomach infections.
- Pregnant and breastfeeding women must avoid using cranberry seed oil.
