Black Currant Oil Aspect Consequences
A number of essential oils, extracted from seeds or roots of plants have a number of beneficial uses in terms of the physical and physiological aspect of an individual. One such oil is the black currant oil, which is extracted from the seeds of Ribes nigrum or the black currant. Black currants are round, blackish purple colored berries that grow on thornless shrubs. Eating black currants or including their extract is known to have a number of beneficial effects on the overall health of a person. Being a rich source of gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), which is a kind of omega 6 essential fatty acid, it really is recommended by doctors since it relieves ailments. However, there are also a few cases of black currant oil side effects, owing to excess usage of this oil. Let us see about the side effects, along with the benefits of this therapeutic oil.
Side Effects of Black Currant Oil
Taking black currant oil above the recommended dosage can have some negative effects on the body. Though mild in nature, these side effects should not be overlooked as something minor. Any change observed inside the body must be reported to a health care provider. Here are some of the black currant oil side effects, caused due to indiscriminate use of this therapeutic oil.The most common side effect of black currant seed oil that can be seen in most individuals is the appearance of skin rashes caused due to allergy. This allergic reaction to black currant oil can also give rise to hives, swollen lips and face, itching etc. Conditions like difficulty in breathing, chest pain, a feeling of tightness within the chest region and scratchy throat may also be noticed.A direct contact of black currant oil with the skin can give rise to irritation and burning sensation. In order to avoid this, diluting a few drops of this oil with either olive oil, sunflower seed oil or sweet almond oil, will make black currant seed oil usable.Since this medicinal oil is a rich source of GLA (gamma-linolenic acid), an overuse can have some unpleasant effects on the gastrointestinal system. The affected individuals may experience an upset stomach, accompanied by abdominal cramping, diarrhea or loose stools and nausea induced vomiting.Taking high doses of black currant seed oil (above the recommended 3,000 mg) can lead to the inflammation of muscles. It also inhibits the formation of blood clots at the site injury and exacerbate the risk of abnormal bleeding. Hence, individuals who are on prescription anticoagulants and have complaint of blood disorders are advised to stay away from black currant oil, lest it results in medical emergency.A few cases of epilepsy have also been reported, which has resulted from the indiscriminate use of this essential oil. The omega 6 essential fatty acid can increase the chance of seizures, making individual more susceptible to this disorder. Those who are about to undergo surgery, are advised to stop using black currant oil or its extract at least three weeks prior to surgery.Certain health care professionals dissuade, men especially who are above 50 years of age, from taking any extract of black currants. This is because the omega 6 fatty acids can trigger the unhealthy growth of prostate cells, putting them at a higher risk of contracting prostate cancer.Pregnant women are also recommended to stay away from this oil. This can cause harm to the fetus and result in miscarriage or preterm labor, both of which are dangerous to the mother as well as the child.After an awareness regarding the side effects of black currant oil, it is also needed to know some of the positive effects it has on the human body system. Here are some of the black currant oil benefits which you may choose to skip.Prevents cardiovascular diseasesCuts down cholesterol and high blood pressure (hypertension)Keeps away rheumatoid arthritis and other joint disordersBoosts the immune systemAssists in healthy weight lossAlleviates symptoms of premenstrual syndrome and menopauseReduces the signs of agingCurbs the unhealthy growth and development of cellsHere were some of the black currant oil side effects and a brief list of benefits. Judicial use of any oil is recommended in order to avoid unnecessary health complications. Getting in touch having a health care provider or herbalist is constantly advisable in case of experiencing side effects.
