Black Currant Oil
Black currant, whose botanical name is Ribes nigrum, is a thornless, perennial shrub that is found mostly in northern Asia, central and northern Europe. The black currant plant produces round, purple-black colored berries called black currants. Although all parts of the plant are employed in making supplements, it is the oil extracted from the seeds that has the maximum health benefits. Apart from black currant oil, black currant juice is also taken as a supplement as it also has a number of health benefits. There are also many black currant oil uses as a health supplement since it is a rich source of essential fatty acids like GLA (Gamma Linolenic Acid), flavonoids, rulin and vitamin C. Let’s take a look at the numerous black currant seed oil benefits.
Black Currant Oil Benefits
The oil extracted from black currants seeds is loaded with many essential nutrients and compounds that are necessary for the overall health and proper functioning of the body. Given below are some of the black currant oil benefits:Black currant oil contains anthocyanins (a component that gives color to the black currants), that are a sort of antioxidants. These antioxidants reduce the effect of the free radicals inside the body.This oil also has anti inflammatory properties which helps in treating the pain and swelling caused due to rheumatoid arthritis. Gamma Linolenic Acid (GLA) is also effective in treating gastritis, which is the inflammation of the inner lining of the stomach.Using this oil aids in boosting the immune system of the body. It also helps in the production of prostaglandin, a hormone which controls blood pressure and inflammation.Using the regular use of black currant oil, the signs of aging can be reduced, since it truly is said to have certain anti aging properties. This oil tends to reduce the production of a hormone called prostaglandin E2. As the body ages, it tends to produce this hormone in excess. Though this hormone is beneficial for other bodily functions, high levels of prostaglandin E2 make the individual look a lot more older than his age and a lot more prone to age related disorders.Black currant oil reduces the constriction of blood vessels, keeps a check on the level of cholesterol, thus reducing the chances of heart diseases.An additional of the benefits of using this herbal oil is that it acts on the thromboxanes, thus preventing the formation of blood clots.Black currant seeds oil is also anti viral in nature thus preventing viral infections like influenza. It also curbs the spread of this harmful virus.Certain studies have proved that this oil helps prevent the onset of cancer by controlling the unnecessary growth of cells.There are also many benefits of black currants on women’s health as it alleviates the symptoms of premenstrual syndrome, relieves menstrual cramping, back ache and the pain caused due to breast tenderness.Black Currant Oil Side Effects
Though there are no reported cases of serious side effects of using black currant oil, some individuals may show certain allergic reactions to this oil. Given below are some side effects of black currant oil:Individuals who are on medication like blood thinners, aspirin, and epilepsy medications should avoid using black currant supplements as these may aggravate the condition.Black currant oil may also create unwanted interactions with medications for schizophrenia which may increase the chances of seizures.Certain individual may also experience irritation when the oil comes in contact with the skin. To reduce this possibility, black currant oil can be diluted in sweet almond oil, olive oil or sunflower oil before using.Men who are prone to prostate cancer must avoid taking any of the supplements of black currants, since omega 6 fatty acids may trigger the unexplained growth of prostate tumor cells.Some other side effects of using black currant oil are breathing difficulties, skin rash, swelling and tightening of the throat, etc.Black currant oil is also considered a perfect supplement for weight loss as it tends to increase the rate of metabolism and helps burn excess fat in the body. However, before using any of the supplements of black currants, often consult an expert or a physician.
