20 Amazing Health Benefits of Apple Cider Vinegar You Should Know

 

Apple cider vinegar, commonly known as ACV, is a popular kitchen ingredient used for its acidic taste in salad dressings, sauces, and various recipes. Beyond its culinary uses, some advocate for its versatile health benefits, claiming it can address issues like digestion problems and obesity.

Studies suggest that consuming apple cider vinegar may contribute to weight management, help control diabetes, and support heart health. Additionally, applying it to the skin might assist in reducing the appearance of varicose veins.

However, it’s important to note that the research on the health benefits of apple cider vinegar is somewhat limited. Most studies have focused on animals and isolated cells rather than extensive human trials. While initial findings are promising, it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare professional before using apple cider vinegar to address any health concerns.

 

So, what exactly is apple cider vinegar?

Apple cider vinegar is made by fermenting apple juice. Initially, crushed apples are combined with yeast, sugar, or another carbohydrate. Over a few days, natural bacteria and yeasts ferment the juice, turning the carbohydrates into alcohol. In a subsequent fermentation process, the alcohol transforms into acetic acid.

When it comes to choosing apple cider vinegar for health purposes, you can find pasteurized or raw varieties in supermarkets, health food stores, and pharmacies. Raw apple cider vinegar is often preferred for its higher content of natural bacteria and yeast.

Here are the key health benefits associated with apple cider vinegar:

 

Lowering Blood Sugar

Apple cider vinegar has shown potential in reducing blood sugar levels. A 2021 meta-analysis of nine studies suggested that ACV consumption could be beneficial for adults with diabetes and high blood lipids.

However, it’s crucial to note that ACV is not a cure for diabetes, and it should not replace a healthy lifestyle or medical treatment. Always consult with your doctor before incorporating ACV into your routine, especially if you are on diabetes medications.

 

Lowering Blood Triglycerides

ACV may contribute to a decrease in serum triglyceride levels, which are a type of fat in the blood. However, it does not have a significant impact on LDL-C (bad cholesterol), total cholesterol, or HDL-C (good cholesterol).

 

Aiding Weight Loss

Studies on overweight or obese subjects have explored the potential weight management effects of apple cider vinegar. While evidence is not conclusive, some trials suggest that daily consumption of ACV may lead to weight loss, reduced body fat, and lower triglyceride levels.

It’s essential to emphasize that ACV is not a substitute for a healthy diet and regular exercise. Always consult with your healthcare provider before using ACV for weight management.

 

Appetite Suppression

Short-term studies indicate that vinegar, including apple cider vinegar, may suppress appetite. However, these findings have not been consistently replicated in long-term studies. More research is needed to determine if ACV can safely increase feelings of fullness, result in long-term appetite suppression, and reduce overall calorie intake.

 

Antibacterial Properties

Research has shown that a combination of vinegar and lemon juice can have positive effects on harmful bacteria, making ACV a potential food preservative. Studies highlight ACV’s antimicrobial effects against certain bacterial strains.

However, more research is necessary to understand the specific mechanisms and potential benefits of ACV supplementation.

 

Potential Blood Pressure Control

Small animal studies in rats suggest that vinegar, including ACV, may help reduce systolic blood pressure, blood triglycerides, and cholesterol. However, there is insufficient data from human studies to confirm these effects.

Further research is needed to determine if ACV can play a role in controlling high blood pressure in humans.

 

May Lower Risk of Cardiovascular Disease

Apple cider vinegar might play a role in reducing the risk of heart-related issues by helping lower blood cholesterol levels. This includes total cholesterol, LDL (bad cholesterol), and triglycerides, while increasing HDL (good cholesterol).

High blood cholesterol is a significant factor in heart attack, heart disease, and stroke risk. However, more research is needed to fully understand how apple cider vinegar contributes to heart health.

 

May Reduce Acid Reflux

Despite its seemingly counterintuitive nature, some claim that apple cider vinegar can alleviate symptoms of acid reflux or heartburn.

However, there’s no scientific evidence to support this, and it’s important to note that drinking apple cider vinegar could potentially worsen heartburn by irritating the esophagus.

 

May Control Varicose Veins

Applying apple cider vinegar externally on varicose veins may improve symptoms like swelling, cramps, and pain. However, the study’s results are inconclusive, and elevating the legs during the application may have influenced the outcomes.

While applying ACV on the legs may not be harmful, be cautious as it can cause skin burn and irritation.

 

May Whiten Teeth

Apple cider vinegar’s antibacterial and bleaching effects may help reduce plaque and stains on teeth. However, the acidic nature of ACV can erode tooth enamel, posing a risk of serious damage that outweighs the benefits of using it as a teeth whitening agent.

 

May Treat Dandruff

Lab experiments suggest that apple cider vinegar’s antifungal properties could help reduce dandruff by preventing fungal growth on the scalp, balancing pH, and promoting the shedding of dead skin cells.

 

May Treat Acne

ACV’s antibacterial properties may kill acne-causing bacteria when applied externally. However, soaking the skin in apple cider vinegar may not improve skin barrier function and can cause irritation in many individuals.

 

May Boost Energy

Daily intake of 750 mg or more of acetic acid supplements, found in some apple cider vinegar supplements, could offer various health benefits, including stabilized blood glucose levels. This stability may help prevent energy slumps and crashes.

Note that not all apple cider vinegar supplements contain the recommended amount of acetic acid.

 

May Improve Gut Health

Raw apple cider vinegar contains gut-friendly bacteria and is considered a natural probiotic that may enhance gut health. However, there is currently no strong evidence supporting ACV’s role as a probiotic for digestive health.

 

May Prevent the Growth of Candida

Candida albicans, a fungus that can lead to yeast infections, may be inhibited by apple cider vinegar’s antifungal properties observed in lab settings.

However, it’s unclear if this effect translates to the human body, and there is currently no specific research endorsing the use of apple cider vinegar for conditions like toenail fungus, oral thrush, or vaginal yeast infections.

 

May Treat Denture Stomatitis

Due to its antifungal properties against Candida, apple cider vinegar might be considered as a treatment for denture stomatitis, a condition common in denture wearers causing mouth redness, swelling, and pain.

Nevertheless, the acidic nature of ACV raises concerns about its impact on tooth enamel, potentially limiting its use for this health condition.

 

May Eliminate Head Lice

Some anecdotal reports suggest that apple cider vinegar could help eliminate head lice. However, scientific studies indicate that vinegar is among the less effective home remedies for lice.

 

May Burn Warts

Apple cider vinegar may be employed to remove warts, similar to salicylic acid. However, caution is crucial when applying ACV directly to the skin, as it has the potential to cause chemical burns.

 

May Provide Eczema Relief

The slightly acidic nature of healthy skin is believed to be beneficial, but individuals with eczema may lack this natural acidity. Some think that applying apple cider vinegar could restore a balanced pH and offer relief for eczema.

However, a 2019 study found no improvement in skin health among participants with eczema and noted skin irritation. It’s advisable to consult with a dermatologist before using ACV to avoid potential skin burn and irritation.

 

May Treat Kidney Stones

Claims suggest that apple cider vinegar, containing potassium, could help prevent kidney stone formation. However, there is no scientific evidence supporting ACV’s role in kidney stone prevention.

Furthermore, for individuals with kidney disease, excessive acid accumulation could occur due to impaired kidney function, emphasizing the need for caution when considering ACV. Always consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice.

6 Surprising Health Benefits of Castor Oil for Body and Skin

 

For centuries, both healthcare professionals and traditional healers have turned to castor oil for its numerous benefits. It’s believed that the ancient Egyptians were among the first to discover and utilize the various uses and advantages of castor oil.

 

One notable belief is that Cleopatra used this pale yellow liquid to enhance the whiteness of her eyes. The beauty of castor oil lies in its simplicity of use and its gentle nature on the skin, making it a versatile remedy for a wide range of health issues.

 

Nutritional Content of Castor Oil

While not intended for consumption due to its unpleasant taste, some individuals ingest small amounts of castor oil for medicinal purposes. According to MyFitnessPal, one tablespoon of castor oil contains:

• Calories: 120
• Protein: 0 grams
• Fat: 14 grams
• Carbohydrates: 0 grams
• Fiber: 0 grams
• Sugar: 0 grams

Additionally, castor oil provides essential nutrients such as Vitamin E, Omega-9 fatty acids, and Omega-6 fatty acids.

Castor oil, derived from the seeds of the castor oil plant, is a pale yellow vegetable oil. Its unique chemical composition contributes to the many benefits it offers. Ricinoleic acid, an unsaturated omega-9 fatty acid, makes up almost 90% of its fatty acid content.

 

1. Relief from Constipation

The primary FDA-approved use of castor oil is as a natural laxative to alleviate temporary constipation. Its active component, ricinoleic acid, binds to receptors in the intestines, causing muscle contractions that facilitate the movement of stool through the colon.

It is also occasionally employed for colon cleansing before medical procedures like a colonoscopy. However, alternative prescribed laxatives may yield better results, and extended use of castor oil for constipation may lead to side effects such as cramps and bloating.

 

2. Inducing Labor

Castor oil has a historical application in aiding labor and delivery, with a 1999 survey revealing that 93% of midwives in the U.S. utilized it for labor induction. While some studies suggest its effectiveness, others have not confirmed these findings. If you are pregnant, it’s crucial to consult your doctor before considering the use of castor oil to induce labor, as its safety and efficacy may vary from person to person.

 

3. Anti-Inflammatory Effects

Research in animals suggests that ricinoleic acid, found in castor oil, may have anti-inflammatory properties when applied to the skin, offering relief from swelling and pain caused by inflammation.

 

3. Wound Healing Potential

Castor oil possesses antibacterial and antimicrobial properties that could accelerate the healing of wounds, particularly when combined with other ingredients. An ointment called Venelex, which contains castor oil and balsam Peru, is utilized for treating skin and pressure wounds. The oil may aid in preventing infection by maintaining a moist environment for the wounds, while the ricinoleic acid works to reduce inflammation.

It’s important to note that the application of castor oil for wound care is recommended in professional medical settings, such as doctor’s offices and hospitals, and not for minor cuts or burns at home.

 

4. Castor Oil Benefits for Skin

Due to its abundance of fatty acids, castor oil is known for its moisturizing effects and is commonly found in various commercial beauty products. It can also be used in its natural form, devoid of perfumes and dyes. However, as castor oil may be irritating to the skin, it’s advisable to dilute it with another neutral oil.

Some individuals believe that the oil’s antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and moisturizing properties could aid in combating acne, but it’s essential to note that there is currently no scientific evidence supporting this claim.

 

5. Hair Growth and Scalp Treatment

Castor oil is sometimes promoted as a remedy for dry scalp, hair growth, and dandruff. While it may provide moisture to your scalp and hair, there is no scientific evidence supporting claims that it effectively treats dandruff or promotes hair growth. In fact, using castor oil on your hair without proper care may lead to a rare condition called felting, resulting in tangled hair that may need to be cut.

 

6. Belly Button Application

There is a notion based on Ayurvedic practices that applying castor oil to the belly button can have benefits, as it is believed that a Pechoti gland near the navel can absorb substances like essential oils. However, there is no scientific evidence confirming the existence of this gland, so there is likely no advantage to putting castor oil in your belly button, although it is unlikely to cause harm.

 

Castor Oil Packs

Some people use castor oil packs for various purposes such as relieving constipation, addressing dry skin, managing arthritis, or alleviating period cramps. These packs consist of fabric soaked in castor oil, applied to the skin, with or without a heating pad. While a heating pad might feel soothing, there is limited scientific research to support the claimed benefits of castor oil packs.

 

Potential Side Effects and Risks

• Allergic Reactions: If allergic to the castor plant, applying castor oil may lead to itching, swelling, or rashes. It’s advisable to test a small spot before widespread use.
• Gastrointestinal Discomfort: Castor oil can relieve constipation but may cause nausea, abdominal cramping, vomiting, bloating, and dizziness if taken excessively. Consult your doctor before use.
• Pregnancy Concerns: Pregnant individuals should avoid castor oil due to potential labor induction. Safety during pregnancy, breastfeeding, or for infants and children is uncertain.
• Medication Interactions: Use caution with castor oil and other medications; take it several hours before or after other drugs to avoid interactions.
• Overdose: Excessive intake of castor oil can lead to symptoms such as abdominal cramps, chest pain, diarrhea, dizziness, rash, and shortness of breath. Seek medical attention if experiencing these symptoms.
• Toxic to Pets: While less toxic than raw castor beans, excessive consumption of castor oil by pets may require emergency treatment. Contact your vet if your pet ingests a significant amount.

 

Conclusion

Castor oil has a historical use for constipation and may serve as a natural moisturizer. However, scientific evidence for other health claims is limited. Always consult with your doctor before using castor oil, especially considering potential side effects and individual health conditions.

The Ultimate Guide to Cleaning Windows Like a Pro

 

If you’ve been avoiding window cleaning because it feels like a time-consuming chore, worry not! There are quicker and more efficient ways to achieve spotless windows.

Are you tired of peering through windows covered in smudges and streaks? Getting that flawless, streak-free finish might seem like a challenge, especially for hard-to-reach windows. However, with the right tools and techniques, it becomes a much simpler task. Before you push window cleaning to the bottom of your to-do list, remember that clean windows aren’t just about looks—they also impact your home’s energy efficiency.

Dirty windows block sunlight, affecting how much natural light enters your home. Regular window cleaning, including the sills, screens, tracks, and hinges, not only maintains a polished appearance but also ensures smooth window operation and can even improve indoor air quality.

To make your window cleaning a breeze and keep your windows crystal clear, try these practical tips:

 

Choose a cloudy day

Cleaning windows in direct sunlight can be counterproductive. Sunlight causes the cleaning solution to evaporate too quickly, leaving streaks that are challenging to remove. Cloudy days are ideal as they prevent glare on the glass, making it easier to spot streaks.

 

Start with the frame

Window tracks and frames often harbor a lot of grime. When combined with window cleaner, this dirt can turn into an unsightly sludge that drips onto the glass during cleaning.

Begin by using a toothbrush and a mixture of baking soda and vinegar to scrub inside the tracks. Then, get wet rag and wipe away any remaining residue. This ensures a thorough cleaning process from the start.

 

Create Your Own Cleaning Solution

Forget about fancy products—mix water with dish soap to make your own effective cleaning solution. This blend is powerful enough to tackle stubborn grime on kitchen windows but won’t leave any unwanted residue. If you prefer a different option, vinegar can also serve as a DIY window cleaner.

 

Say No to Paper Towels

While paper towels and newspapers are commonly used for cleaning glass, they tend to break down and leave lint. Opt for a microfiber cloth instead. It not only does the job effectively but also grabs dirt and dust, leaving your windows spotless.

 

Invest in a Squeegee

Achieve a streak-free shine by ensuring all water and soap are completely removed from the window. Use a rubber-bladed squeegee, such as Ettore’s 6-inch squeegee (a top recommendation in our best window squeegees guide), to scrape away excess water. Run the squeegee from top to bottom for best results.

 

Reach High Places with a Mop

For tall windows, hiring a professional cleaner is an option, but if you prefer a DIY approach, ditch the teetering on a telescoping ladder. Instead, use a telescoping sponge mop with soapy water to clean.

Rinse the windows with a garden hose, and then use a dry mop or a squeegee attached to an adjustable pole to remove water, preventing unsightly water spots from drying on the glass surface.

 

Screen Cleaning Made Easy

To give your window screens a thorough cleaning, remove them from the windows and wash with soap and water. For particularly dirty screens, use a gentle scrub with a sponge or soft-bristle brush to eliminate built-up grime or grease.

If you’re aiming for a quick clean, leave the screens in place and use a sticky lint roller to effortlessly remove dust and dirt.

 

Quick Grime Fix with a Magic Eraser

When you’re short on time or lack a lint roller, keep your window screens tidy with the occasional wipe down. Mr. Clean Magic Erasers work wonders for a swift scrub between more extensive cleaning sessions.

 

Have Separate Tools for Inside and Outside

Maintain separate cleaning tools for the inside and outside of your windows. While both sides accumulate dirt, the outside tends to be grimier, dealing with pollen and bird droppings. Ensure you have extra microfiber cloths on hand for easy switching.

 

Vary Your Wiping Direction

Say goodbye to streaks by changing up the direction as you wipe the windows. Begin with small circular motions, then finish with a few horizontal and vertical swipes for a streak-free shine.

 

Eliminate Streaks with a Chalkboard Eraser

If you spot streaks after washing the windows, achieve a flawless finish by gently running a clean chalkboard eraser over the glass to buff away any marks.

 

Tackle Horizontal Blinds with Tongs

While cleaning windows, address window treatments like blinds. For a quick clean, take kitchen tongs and wrap microfiber cloths around each arm, securing them with rubber bands.

Glide this tool along each slat to clean both top and bottom simultaneously. Other blind cleaning hacks include dusting with an old sock or using dryer sheets to repel dust.

 

Vacuum Curtains for a Clean Finish

Use your vacuum’s upholstery or slim nozzle attachment to clean curtains. The vacuum will suck up grime, ensuring it doesn’t compromise the cleanliness of your freshly cleaned windows.

6 Reasons You Should Try Sleeping Naked Tonight (Plus 3 Cons)

 

Did you know your sleep, and consequently your health, profits every time you ditch the pajamas and go to bed as you came into this world? The benefits of sleeping naked go beyond not having to deal with changing your clothes when bedtime arrives.

 

What are the benefits of sleeping naked?

Most of the benefits of sleeping naked can be traced back to the body temperature and how clothes can affect the natural regulation of the body. Nevertheless, this simple effect has several other positive consequences for the body, and some may even be surprising.

 

Weight loss

Out of the benefits of sleeping naked, this is perhaps the most surprising one.

According to a 2014 study, lowering the room temperature triggers the body into raising its own temperature to compensate for the difference. This increment promotes the burning of adipose tissue but not of muscle, thus helping with weight loss.

Sleeping naked is the easiest and most practical way to create this temperature discrepancy.

 

Better sleep

Sleeping naked helps to cool the body which, according to a 2017 study, is beneficial to get a better quality sleep.

The researchers concluded that warm and hot temperatures disrupt the circadian rhythm, making it harder to fall asleep and inhibiting the body from getting into the deeper stages of sleep.

Getting a full night of quality sleep without interruptions has several benefits of its own:

• Better focus and memory
• Better skin as the regeneration during sleep is more effective
• Reduced levels of cortisol
• Lower risk of stroke and heart attack, especially for women

 

Genital health

Your genitalia is constantly covered and kept in a dark and moist environment, the perfect conditions for bacteria to thrive.

By letting it “air out” at night, you see the chances of yeast infections significantly reduced.

 

Stress relief

If you have a partner, sleeping naked can lead to more sexual intercourse between you two. However, even the simple touch of skin on skin is enough to work wonders to reduce your stress levels.

This contact increases the levels of oxytocin, a hormone released to soothe anxiety and stress. This hormone is also associated with more feelings of trust, so it can also help your relationship.

 

It’s practical

First, you’ll have less laundry to do if you don’t wear pajamas. You’re also skipping a step in the evening and in the morning as you just need to take off or put on your clothes and you’re good to go.

And second, you can save some money with your A/C in the warmest days.

 

You do more things

Most people get home after work, change into their pajamas and then lose all motivation to go out again. Even if they are invited to a fun activity, they just refuse it using the argument “I’m already in my pajamas”.

When you sleep naked, though, you don’t have this excuse. You’re ready to go anytime because you only undress when it’s time to go to bed.

 

Are there any cons?

Nothing is ever perfect. Despite the benefits of sleeping naked, there are also some disadvantages too. However, the downsides are quite mild and specific.

Colds: You are more likely to catch a cold if the room temperature gets too low.

Sleepwalking: If you’re a sleepwalker, the benefits of sleeping naked might not compensate being arrested for indecent exposure in the middle of the night.

Anxiety: If you feel uncomfortable sleeping naked or are constantly afraid someone might barge into the room, you shouldn’t do it. It will become a source of stress and ruin all the benefits you could collect.

 

What you shouldn’t be wearing in bed

Despite the benefits of sleeping naked, not everyone feels comfortable doing it. As mentioned before, you shouldn’t force yourself to do it if you don’t want to or it will become a source of anxiety.

Nevertheless, even if you cover up there are some clothes you should skip.

 

Bras

Bras can be uncomfortable and constricting, thus affecting your sleep quality. Furthermore, they put pressure on your chest and diaphragm and hinder blood circulation.

The fact that they constantly rub on your skin can also lead to indentations and the friction can damage and irritate the skin.

Don’t worry about having perky breasts. You can use other tricks to achieve them because sleeping with the bra doesn’t do anything to help.

The reasoning behind it is because a bra prevents the sagging caused by gravity, but while you’re sleeping your breast are pulled towards your chest by gravity, not towards your toes.

 

Underwear

Even if you don’t sleep naked, try to at least wear loose fitting pajamas and skip the underwear. The goal is to allow enough room for your private parts to “air-out” and reduce the probability of yeast infections.

Men also benefit from sleeping bare or using loose boxers instead of tight underwear. According to 2018 study, the looser the underwear the biggest the sperm concentration and count. Men wearing tighter underwear, on the other hand, experienced a decrease in testicular function.

 

Tight pajamas

As with bras, tight pajamas constrict your movements, your breathing and blood circulation, which can impact on the quality of sleep.

Prefer loose-fitting nighties to free your body and allow room for your skin to breathe too.

 

Jewelry and accessories

There is no point in bringing your jewelry to bed with you. You can do it to look good for your partner and spice your relationship up, but you still should remove it before sleeping. Jewelry simply represents too many risks.

You can choke on your necklace or get your hears teared up if your earings are snagged in a pillowcase or in the blanket, for instance. There is also a high chance of you scratching yourself with it.

These little things are all likely to wake you up and prevent a restoring sleep.

Top 3 Matcha Tea Side Effects and the Best Way to Prepare It

 

The matcha tea has become one of the most popular varieties of green tea. Since the leaves are crushed to create the powder instead of being merely submerged in hot water, it’s richer in nutrients than the traditional green tea and many report that its preparation feels like a relaxing ritual too. Nevertheless, to benefit fully from its properties, you also need to have into consideration the matcha tea side effects.

 

What are the matcha tea side effects?

Although you need to keep in mind the matcha tea side effects to ensure you don’t harm your body while attempting to lead a healthier diet, the good news is that they are few and rare.

The side effects of this tea only appear when it is consumed in excessive quantities and are mostly due to its content in caffeine.

 

Caffeine content

The matcha tea side effects are mostly due to its high content of caffeine. Since the leaves are used in its preparation this content is even higher than on the regular green tea and can amount to 68mg per cup, while the latter only offers 31.8mg for one cup too.

High quantities of this tea can then trigger dizziness, headaches, nervousness, muscle spasms, irritability and anxiety due to the caffeine content. When drank excessively and frequently it can also lead to digestive disorders, such as diarrhea and irritable bowel syndrome.

You should also avoid drinking it in the evenings as it can affect your sleep.

 

Contamination

Since the leaves are crushed and used to prepare this tea, there is a bigger risk of contamination. If the soil is tainted with pesticides, lead or fluoride, these will be absorbed by the leaves and will later make it into your cup of tea.

Try to purchase on the organic varieties, as the risk is smaller with these, and look for brands that can present certificates or documentation confirming the regular analysis of the soil and water used in the plantations.

 

High nutritious content

One of its benefits is also one possible source of the matcha tea side effects.

Due to its high concentration of plant-based components, excessive quantities can lead to an overdose of these and make them toxic to the liver and the kidneys. These components combined with the caffeine content can also interfere with some medication.

 

Is it safe to drink matcha every day?

It depends on your diet.

In general, it’s perfectly safe to drink every day 1 to 2 cups of tea prepared with 1/2 to 3/4 tsp of matcha powder per cup. However, this is assuming you’re not ingesting caffeine from other sources.

If you also drink coffee or teas with caffeine every day your intake of matcha tea should be reduced.

 

How much matcha tea is too much?

The recommended maximum intake of caffeine per day is of 200mg. Depending on the brand of the tea and its formulation this could go up to represent 5 cups a day.

Nevertheless, you should use this value only as a guideline. You may be ingesting caffeine from other sources through your diet, which would influence the number of cups you can have without suffering from the matcha tea side effects.

Most importantly, you need to know your body. If you’re sensitive to caffeine even the 2 recommended cups per day can already make you feel the effects of this stimulant and even cause digestive disorders.

 

How to make matcha tea

 

How to Use Avocado Oil for Healthy, Radiant Skin

 

Using avocado oil for skin is slowly threatening the predominance of coconut oil as its benefits are once again under discussion. This fruity oil presents itself as a good alternative to supply the skin with nourishing compounds that help it regain its smoothness and healthy looks. It is also a lighter oil, which means it is quickly absorbed without leaving a greasy feeling to the skin.

 

Benefits of using avocado oil for skin

The benefits of avocado oil for the skin still require more extensive research to be completely proved. However, unlike its use for the hair, there are already some studies that indicate its potential for the human skin.

 

Moisturizer

If there is a benefit of using avocado oil for skin that stands out is clearly the moisturization it provides. According to a 2017 study, this oil is also great to treat dry, chapped and damaged skin.

Avocado oil is loaded with fatty acids, vitamins A, D and E, potassium, lecithin and antioxidants that nourish and moisturize the skin leaving it smooth, strong, and beautiful.

Despite being an oil, it is also great to moisturize greasy skin types as it doesn’t worsen these conditions due to its fast absorption and light touch.

 

Sunburns

According to a 2011 research, the avocado oil shows promising results in providing basic protection to the skin against the UV damages, besides helping to restore the skin in case of a sunburn.

This effect is yet to be tested and confirmed by further studies, as this conclusion is solely based on the nutrients of this oil and their potential and not on a direct trial.

 

It may help to treat psoriasis

According to a small 2001 study, the topical application of avocado oil can help treat and prevent certain skin diseases such as psoriasis.

During the research, a vitamin B12 cream with avocado oil was tested again the effects of vitamin D3. In the first weeks, the latter performed significantly quicker than the avocado oil cream. However, its effect began to subside after that while the cream with avocado oil remained constant through all the treatment.

 

It may help treat wounds

So far, no human trials were performed to confirm this effect. Nevertheless, a 2008 study evaluated the impact of an oral and topical application of avocado oil for skin healing in rats and concluded that it increased wound contraction and speed up its healing up.

A 2013 study reached similar conclusions too, as the avocado oil increased the collagen synthesis and reduced the number of inflammatory cells in the affected area, prompting a faster wound recovery in rats.

 

It may help to treat acne

The anti-inflammatory properties of this oil that help with the treatment of wounds can also be beneficial to treat acne.

Since it is also a light oil, besides supporting the disinfection of the skin and the treatment of acne, it also helps to moisturize the skin without worsening the problem.

 

How to use avocado oil for skin care

It is very easy to use avocado oil for skin care as it doesn’t need to be warmed or mixed with other ingredients to produce its effects. You can, however, prepare several beauty recipes with this oil to reinforce its efficiency.

 

As a moisturizer

You can use avocado oil for skin care on its own. All you have to do it dip your finger in a bit of the oil and apply it directly to the skin. Make sure to use small amounts each time so the oil is quickly absorbed and doesn’t leave a greasy feeling.

If you’re into aromatherapy, this oil is also a great carrier for essential oils. You can mix 10 drops of avocado oil with essential oil for wrinkles or acne, for instance.

 

As a facial moisturizer

Dip your fingers in the oil and apply very small amounts to your face, while massaging with circular motions to ensure its proper absorption.

If you have a greasy skin or acne, wait for a few minutes before washing your face thoroughly to rinse off the oil. For other skin types, you can simply leave the oil on overnight and wash it off in the morning.

 

As a body treatment

Since to use avocado oil for skin you need to apply small amounts each time, using it as a body treatment can be burdensome.

The simplest way to apply this oil is then by adding a few tablespoons of this oil to your bath and let it work its magic while you relax.

Besides moisturizing the skin, this oil also works to prevent the water from drying it any further.

 

Other benefits

The beauty applications of avocado oil are still understudied, but researchers have been paying more attention to the possible benefits of its intake.

Kidney damage: according to a 2017 research, this oil can help to reduce oxidative damage to kidneys in type 2 diabetic rats.

Cholesterol: avocado oil is as good as olive oil in helping to reduce the levels of “bad” cholesterol in white rabbits, according to a 2003 study.

Arthritis: early research suggests that avocado oil may help reduce the symptoms of pain and stiffness associated with arthritis, according to a 2010 review.

 

Risks and side effects

The effects of avocado oil for skin are still understudied and further research is necessary to fully assess its efficiency as well as any risks associated with its use.

The risk of allergies is small but possible with this oil. Do not use it if you are allergic to this fruit. Always patch test the oil before applying it to your skin, particularly if your intent is for it to help with acne and psoriasis.

 

Avocado oil vs coconut oil vs olive oil

The three are very similar regarding their applications and nutrients. Given its high content of oleic acid, avocado oil resembles the olive oil more closely, but it is lighter than this and has a higher smoke point. This means that when used for cooking, it maintains its nutrients intact at higher temperatures.

Avocado oil also has more vitamins than olive oil, but it loses to it when it comes to anti-inflammatory antioxidants.

As for the coconut oil, the main difference between the two, besides the texture at room temperature, is that the coconut variety has wider and stronger antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.