Wheat Germ Oil for your health and natural beauty

Published: 05/29/2013 - Updated: 10/17/2018

Looking for healthy skin, shiny hair and a nutritional supplement? Then taking advantage of the many benefits of wheat germ oil could be the answer to your daily health and beauty routine.

Wheat germ is the part of the wheat kernel that actually germinates to form the wheat plant, so it is quite nutritious. However, it is often removed during the processing of wheat. Therefore, most wheat products we consume, like bread, do not contain it. Only foods that are made from wholegrains such as wholewheat bread have wheat germ and bran in them.

The germ contains a large amount of nutrients such as proteins, enzymes, antioxidants, essential fatty acids and minerals, which are phosphorus, iron, magnesium, calcium and zinc. Wheat germ also contains vitamins, such as E, F and B complex.

Wheat germ oil

The oil is the main product obtained from wheat germ, which is obtained by cold pressing wheat seeds. This oil is the natural oil extracted from wheat germ. It is used in many cosmetic products and has many health benefits. It can only be extracted from wheat germ and has a light yellow colour in liquid form.

This healthy oil is a rich source of vitamin E. The antioxidants in vitamin E can promote a healthy heart, as well as help lower bad cholesterol levels, improve circulation, improve inflammatory conditions such as arthritis, relieve PMS symptoms and even possibly delay signs of ageing.

Uses

Two tablespoons of oil each day can help aid the absorption of healthy fats, as well as help to lower bad cholesterol levels and even reduce triglycerides by up to 11%.

This oil is also recommended for diabetic patients, as three tablespoons a day can help lower blood glucose levels and reduce the need for insulin.

Wheat germ oil can be applied directly to the skin, as the topical use serves to soften the skin and provide an intense moisturiser. It can also prevent the formation of stretch marks, the appearance of fine lines and can help to address conditions such as psoriasis, eczema, skin ulcers, acne scars, dermatitis, dry skin and burns.

Another benefit of wheat germ oil is its nutritive properties for our hair. The emollient properties of wheat germ oil can benefit dry hair greatly, reducing frizz, smoothing the hair cuticle and reducing split ends. It is especially beneficial for chemically treated hair and hair that is subjected to frequent washing and exposed to heat, for example through blow drying and straightening.

Massage the scalp with a tablespoon of wheat germ oil before applying the shampoo. For a more intense moisturising treatment, saturate the hair with oil before bed, cover your head with a towel and leave to dry overnight. Wash your hair the next morning. Repeat this process once a week to keep your hair healthy, soft and manageable.

Doseage

Eat a tablespoon of wheat germ oil per day to maintain healthy skin, keep regular bowel movements, moisturise the skin and prevent vitamin E deficiencies. It is also often available as capsules which you can consume daily to supplement your diet.

About the author
  • Miriam Reyes

    Miriam Reyes is a professional expert in nutrition and dietetics. She has more than 12 years of experience in caring for patients with overweight and eating problems. She studied at the Universidad del Valle de Atemajac (UNIVA), where she obtained a degree in nutrition. Linkedin profile.