The past two decades have witnessed a surge in food and cosmetic products derived from plant sources, with a whole range of nourishing oils being made commercially available.
You must have come across many flower- and fruit-based essential oils, vegetable, blended and cold-pressed cooking oils, besides beneficial fatty extracts obtained from nuts and seeds.
Also Read: Small Seeds, Big Beauty Benefits: 5 Sensational Natural Oils For Gorgeous Skin
But did you know that the ubiquitous cereal grain in pretty much every single Indian kitchen – wheat – also produces an oleaginous residue?
Yes, besides being used as atta – the whole wheat flour - to make soft rotis, parathas and bread, as well as maida – the refined powder – to roll fluffy pooris, bhaturas and bake light, moist cakes, the humble grass, in addition, offers wheat germ oil.
So What Exactly Is Wheat Germ Oil?
Wheat germ is essentially the embryo of the seeds, from which the whole crop sprouts. Unlike the refined grain which loses its original nutrient value, the germ portion contains vast reserves of healthful compounds, which are retained in the oil, that is obtained by pressing and extraction processes of the kernels.
Wheat Germ Oil Nutrition Facts:
A wonderful gift from Mother Nature, wheat germ oil is a treasure trove of nutritional elements. It comprises significant amounts of healthy fats, plant proteins and fibers, apart from being inherently rich in vitamins E, A, D, K and minerals like potassium, zinc and iron. Moreover, wheat germ oil abounds in potent antioxidant, antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory constituents.
These offer several incentives for overall well-being, ranging from augmenting heart functions and improving endurance levels, to enriching skin texture and promoting hair growth.
Also Read: 7 Incredible Hair Growth Tips For Healthy, Long And Lustrous Tresses
Wheat Germ Oil Health Benefits:
Lowers LDL Cholesterol
Wheat germ oil houses massive quantities of omega-3 fatty acids, which regulate metabolism and lipid breakdown and absorption in the body. This helps to elevate the good HDL cholesterol, while bringing down the bad LDL cholesterol in the bloodstream, thereby minimising the risk of heart attacks and other associated ailments. It also stimulates the functioning of the cardiac muscle and blood circulation throughout the system.
Boosts Energy Capacity
The goodness of octacosanol – a long-chain fatty acid with an alcoholic end segment, in wheat germ oil assists in building strength in core muscles, aside from tremendously increasing stamina and resilience. Taking wheat germ oil supplements once a day, an hour before a workout, immensely bolsters performance in physical activities. Keep in mind to consult with a nutritionist or doctor before consuming nutritional capsules.
Slows Down Ageing
Wheat germ oil is indeed an elixir for skin wellness. Packed with advantageous antioxidants, apart from the trace mineral zinc, it effectively treats dryness, acne, dark spots, scars and is a superb organic remedy for eczema. Just a few drops of this miraculous tincture are enough to decrease free radical damage to skin cells, thus diminishing signs of ageing like wrinkles, fine lines and giving a youthful, unblemished appearance.
Prevents Hair Fall
Infused with ample volumes of vitamin E, along with myriad antimicrobial agents, wheat germ oil is a blessing for a host of hair-related woes. These wholesome components transport vital nutrients to hair roots or follicles, to increase growth, thickness of locks, apart from efficiently get rid of dandruff, flaky scalp. Applying wheat germ oil on hair is a magical solution to attain smooth, soft, silky tresses.
Aids Digestion Process
An amazing add-on advantage of wheat germ oil is its capacity to smooth the digestive process since wheat germ is high in dietary fiber. Consumption of fiber helps the body to maintain healthy bowel movements and fight constipation. Thus, consuming wheat germ oil implies a better digestive system.
Builds Stronger Muscles
Wheat germ is a well-known source of plant-based protein, Moreover, it has zinc, phosphorus, and magnesium in great amounts. All this and protein content help the body stay satiated besides performing essential body functions like building and repairing the muscles.
Boosts Immunity
Wheat germ has significant amounts of Vitamin E, an antioxidant that helps to protect fat-containing substances in the body, such as brain cells and cell membranes. It protects them from damage that can be caused by free radicals in the body, leading to impaired immune functioning, besides diseases such as cancer and heart disease. Zinc and manganese help to strengthen your immune system and fight viruses that affect the immune system.
Reduces Stress Levels
Wheat germ oil consists of noteworthy amounts of vitamin D, as well as a multitude of anti-inflammatory complexes. These work in synergy to elevate nervous system functioning, besides lowering anxiety, depression, tension, and deliver instant stress relief. Having the supplements, as well as massaging the oil on the body ,alleviates pain, pressure, hence greatly uplifting memory and positively influencing mood.
Marvellous DIY Tips With Wheat Germ Oil For Healthy Skin And Hair:
Wheat Germ Oil And Aloe Vera Face Gel
Ingredients:
5 drops wheat germ oil, from splitting a capsule
3 tbsp aloe vera gel
Method:
Mix the wheat germ oil extracts along with aloe vera gel in a bowl.
After cleansing the face, apply this blend on to dry skin and let it stay for 10 – 15 minutes.
Wash it off with cold water and gently pat the skin dry.
How It Works:
Wheat germ oil is an excellent source of vitamin E, which provides essential fatty acids to support the structural integrity, elasticity of dermal cells and makes the skin soft and supple. Aloe vera gel is imbued with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds that moisturise the skin and prevent acne breakouts, dryness and dark spots.
Wheat Germ Oil And Neem Hair Mask
Ingredients:
7 drops wheat germ oil, obtained from a capsule
2 tbsp almond oil
A few neem leaves, ground to a paste
Method:
In a dish, combine the wheat germ oil, almond oil and neem leaf paste.
Warm this blend very mildly, then massage it onto the scalp and hair and leave it on for 30 minutes.
Wash the hair with shampoo in cold water to rinse off the oil blend.
How It Works:
Bestowed with vitamin E, A, and B as well as antimicrobial components, wheat germ oil supplies vital nutrients to the follicles, promotes the growth of strong, thick hair and arrests hair fall. Almond oil supplies B vitamins, proteins for soft, silky tresses, while neem leaves are laden with antibacterial and antifungal elements to thwart dandruff, itching and flaking in the scalp.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Wheat Germ Oil Good for the Skin?
Yes. Wheat germ oil is rich in vitamin E, essential fatty acids, and antioxidants, making it excellent for skin health. It helps:
Moisturise dry skin
Reduce fine lines and wrinkles
Promote skin repair and regeneration
Improve skin tone and texture
It is especially beneficial for people with dry or ageing skin.
Can Wheat Germ Oil Regrow Hair?
It may help promote hair growth. Wheat germ oil contains:
The richness of Vitamin E boosts scalp circulation
Linoleic acid and protein help to nourish hair follicles
Wheat germ oil is not a magical remedy for hair growth, but it can strengthen existing hair, reduce breakage, and improve overall scalp health, which supports hair growth.
Is Wheat Germ Oil Good for Weight Loss?
Not directly. Wheat germ oil is high in calories and healthy fats, so it is not a weight-loss food per se. However, its nutrients can support metabolism and hormone balance. It can be part of a balanced diet, but should be used sparingly if you are trying to reduce calorie intake.
Can I Take Wheat Germ Oil Every Day?
Yes, in small amounts. A daily dose of 1 teaspoon (about 5 ml) is generally safe for most people and provides benefits like improved skin, antioxidant protection, and heart health. However, avoid excessive use due to its high calorie and fat content.
Does Wheat Reduce Belly Fat?
Whole wheat can help in weight management, including belly fat reduction, when part of a balanced diet. Whole grains:
They are rich in fiber, which keeps you full
Help control blood sugar levels
Improve digestion
Refined wheat, on the other hand, may contribute to weight gain. Therefore, opt for whole wheat over refined flour for improved fat management.
(This article is reviewed by M Sowmya Binu, Health & Nutrition Expert)
Author Profile:
Soumita Basu:
Soumita Basu holds a Bachelor's Degree in Pharmacy and is keenly interested in Ayurveda, home remedies, yoga, fitness, diagnostics, and beauty. With nearly 6 years of experience, she produces evidence-based health content, including articles, videos, and infographics, to provide valuable insights to her audience.
References:
An Insight into Wheat Germ Oil Nutrition, Identification of Its Bioactive Constituents and Computer-Aided Multidimensional Data Analysis of Its Potential Anti-Inflammatory Effect via Molecular Connections
Seema Zargar 1,*, Tanveer A Wani 2, Syed Rizwan Ahamad 2
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9960255/
https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/agricultural-and-biological-sciences/wheat-germ-oil
