A research study was undertaken in 2020 to compare the effects of grape seed oil and sweet almond oil on leg edema.
“Leg edema is a prevalent problem in pregnancy causing activity restrictions for pregnant women. This study was performed to compare the effect of foot massage using grape seed oil and sweet almond oil on physiological leg edema.”
“The impressive issue in this study was a very good effect of both grape seed and sweet almond oils on reducing edema. Sweet almond oil and grape seed oil are rich in vitamin E, vitamin B, amino acids, and flavonoids which with their strong antioxidant properties result in repairing damaged vessels and improving environmental blood flow. The mean reduction of edema in the sweet almond oil group (except right and left ankles) was slightly greater than that in the grape seed oil group.”
From Comparing the effect of foot massage with grape seed oil and sweet almond oil on physiological leg edema in primigravidae: A randomized clinical trial
Grape Seed Oil
When producers make wine by pressing grapes, they leave grape seeds behind. Grapeseed oil can be extracted from the leftover seeds. Many use grapeseed oil as a natural beauty product, and companies market it as a healthy alternative to vegetable oil.
Grapeseed oil is high is vitamin E and omega-6 fatty acids, and this may contribute to the beauty benefits of grapeseed oil. Free radicals and environmental factors such as sun, wind, and pollution affect the skin, increasing the signs of aging and causing dryness and discoloration. Vitamin E helps eliminate free radicals, so it may help improve the skin and reduce ultraviolet damage. Omega-6 fatty acids are also necessary for skin barrier functioning. Linolenic acid is the primary polyunsaturated fatty acid in grapeseed oil, and this may help reduce inflammation in the skin’s middle and outer layers.
Grapeseed oil penetrates skin quickly and does not leave it feeling oily. It does not clog pores and is ideal for all skin types, including oily skin that needs moisturizing.
Some natural oils, including olive oil and coconut oil, are good for the hair but leave it feeling greasy and weighed down. Grapeseed oil is lightweight and does not have that effect. Some feel that grapeseed oil adds moisture, strength, and shine to hair, and a few tablespoons of grapeseed oil may be massaged into the hair and scalp prior to shampooing. Others use grapeseed oil as a natural remedy for baldness. The oil contains flavonoids called procyanidin oligomers, which are powerful antioxidants. Studies show that procyanidin oligomers may induce hair growth.
As the skin is porous, it can absorb many things that come into contact with it. For that reason, grape seed oil is possibly unsafe for those with bleeding disorders or for those patients who are having surgery. It is also potentially unsafe for those taking anticoagulants (blood thinners), such as warfarin or aspirin.
Sweet Almond Oil
Ancient Chinese and Ayurvedic practices have used almond oil for centuries to help soothe, soften, and repair the skin. Due to its anti-inflammatory and emollient properties, as well as its high nutrient content, it is still a popular skin care ingredient today.
There are two types of almond oil: sweet and bitter. Sweet almond oil is considered anti-inflammatory and contains the following nutrients:
Vitamin A — The retinol in vitamin A has the ability to stimulate the production of new skin cells and smooth fine lines.
Vitamin E — This nutrient has antioxidant properties that may help prevent cell damage and help reduce ultraviolet damage to the skin caused by the sun.
Omega-3 fatty acids — These nutrients may help prevent premature aging and safeguard against sun damage.
Zinc — This is an essential nutrient for healing acne or other facial scars but more effective when taken orally.
Applying almond oil to the skin may have the following benefits:
— Reducing puffiness and under-eye circles
— Improving complexion and skin tone
— Treating dry skin
— Improving acne
— Helping reverse sun damage
— Reducing the appearance of scars
— Reducing the appearance of stretch marks
Almond oil is generally considered safe to use on the skin. However, there are some safety precautions to keep in mind. Do a small patch test before applying fully to rule out an allergy. Patch test by dabbing a small amount of almond oil on the inside of the wrist or elbow — if there are no signs of redness, itching, burning, or swelling within a few hours, the oil is likely safe to use. If allergic to nuts, avoid using almond oil.
How to use almond oil?
There are a few different ways to use almond oil on the face. Some like to use it as a makeup remover. Almond oil can also be used in a cleanser or moisturizer.
As a makeup remover
To use as a makeup remover, apply a small amount — about the size of an M&M — into th palm. Gently apply the oil with the fingertips. Use cotton balls or warm water to remove the oil. Follow by washing with a favorite cleanser.
As a carrier oil
Almond oil is known as a carrier oil, which means it has the ability to carry other essential oils more deeply into the skin. Add a few drops of the essential oil to an ounce of almond oil and mix well. Be sure to patch test the essential oil on the inside of the elbow or wrist before applying.
As a moisturizer
You can also use almond oil as a moisturizing oil. Gently pat a small amount of almond oil — about half the size of a dime — with fingertips onto the face and allow it to absorb into the skin. There is no need to rinse if you are using it as a moisturizer.