Black currant seed oil, derived from the seeds of the Ribes nigrum shrub native to Europe and Northern Asia, is garnering attention for its rich nutrient profile and potential health benefits. Celebrated as a super fruit with powerful anti-inflammatory properties, black currants offer a multitude of advantages, especially when their seed oil is incorporated into skincare, haircare, and dietary routines. This article delves into the various benefits of black currant seed oil, its uses, and essential precautions to consider.
What is Black Currant Seed Oil?
Black currant (Ribes nigrum) is a shrub that typically grows to about 1-2 meters tall, producing edible, purple-black berries. The oil extracted from these seeds is a precious substance, often cold-pressed to retain its beneficial properties. A Tracie Martyn hero oil, black currant seed oil is a precious seed oil extracted and cold-pressed from the currant shrub. It is a rich source of essential fatty acids, antioxidants, and other phytonutrients. Black currant seed oil contains a chemical called gamma-linolenic acid (GLA). It is known for its unique lipid composition, making it a valuable ingredient in various cosmetic and wellness applications.
Nutritional Profile: A Powerhouse of Essential Nutrients
Black currant seed oil is a nutritional powerhouse, containing several essential vitamins, including vitamin C and vitamin E, along with vitamins B1, B5, and B6. In addition, black currant seed oil provides trace minerals such as iron and manganese, and offers a unique balance of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. Some of the key components include:
- Gamma-Linolenic Acid (GLA): An omega-6 fatty acid that plays a crucial role in maintaining skin health and reducing inflammation.
- Alpha-Linolenic Acid (ALA): An omega-3 fatty acid that nourishes and revitalizes the skin, promoting elasticity and hydration.
- Vitamin C: Known for its antioxidant properties and ability to brighten the complexion.
- Anthocyanins: Antioxidants that contribute to skin health and overall wellness.
- Phytochemicals: Compounds that protect against bacteria and other infectious agents, offering antimicrobial and antioxidant effects.
Black Currant Seed Oil Benefits
1. Potent Anti-Inflammatory Properties
Celebrated as a super fruit, black currants possess powerful anti-inflammatory properties. Phenolic compounds, which are chemical compounds naturally found in plants, are particularly abundant in Black Currant Seed Oil. These compounds exhibit anti-inflammatory effects, helping to alleviate redness, swelling, and irritation of the skin.
Blackcurrant seed oil contains GLA, a type of omega-6 fatty acid that’s been said to help ease inflammation in the body. The high GLA and anthocyanin content may help reduce joint or muscle pain, stiffness, soreness, and damage.
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2. Exceptional Skin Hydration
One of the key components of Black Currant Seed Oil is gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), an omega-6 fatty acid. The high concentration of GLA in Black Currant Seed Oil makes it an excellent moisturizer that helps lock in hydration, improving the skin's texture and reducing dryness. Thanks to its unique lipid composition, black currant seed oil is your BFF. If you lack essential fatty acid in your skin, it can lead to scaliness, irritation, and dryness.
Black Currant Seed Oil deeply penetrates the skin to strengthen its natural barrier, locking in moisture and preventing transepidermal water loss (TEWL). Blackcurrant Seed Oil can introduce moisture to the skin and lock it in to protect against the damaging effects of sun exposure, regulate oil production, and maintain elasticity.
3. Powerful Antioxidant Protection
Black Currant Seed Oil is abundant in flavonoids, which are natural plant compounds renowned for their potent antioxidant properties. UV radiation from the sun poses a significant threat to the skin, as it generates harmful free radicals upon contact. Black Currant Seed Oil is renowned for its abundant content of anthocyanins, a specific type of antioxidant that plays a crucial role in skin health.
Organic black currant seed oil is boosted with protective antioxidants like Vitamin C and organic green tea extract that help keep it active and fresh, while further protecting your skin from visible signs of aging.
4. Supports Cardiovascular Wellness
Black currant seed oil contains natural polyphenols and flavonoids that may help support healthy blood flow. Research published in the Journal of Life Science suggests that black currant-derived compounds may influence key factors involved in platelet activity and healthy circulation.
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Additionally, the oil’s rich antioxidant and fatty acid profile is thought to contribute to a healthy vascular tone, which is crucial for maintaining circulatory and heart health.
5. Promotes Hormonal Balance
The ratio of ALA and EPA in black currant seed oil may promote hormonal balance, which is crucial for maintaining the body’s physiological functions. A favorable EPA to ALA ratio supports the efficient conversion of plant-based omega-3 fatty acids into bioactive forms that support a balanced inflammatory response, which is closely linked to hormone signaling.
Evidence published in The Proceedings of the Nutrition Society suggests that both ALA and EPA are involved in a complex cascade of biochemical pathways that influence cell membrane structure, receptor sensitivity, and the production of signaling molecules. The authors highlight that these pathways are essential for the regulation of hormones related to stress, metabolism, and reproductive function. Blackcurrant supplements may support bone health, promote cardiovascular well-being, and reduce inflammation during menopause, when the risk of bone thinning, heart disease, and inflammation increases, so they can be particularly beneficial for menopausal women.
6. Helps Strengthen Immune Support
Black currant seed oil contains naturally occurring phytonutrients and antioxidants, including anthocyanins, which are the pigments that give black currant berries their deep purple color. Anthocyanins are of interest as they can interact with oxidative compounds in the body. They have been studied for their role in helping maintain a balanced oxidative environment and supporting natural biological processes that respond to everyday environmental stressors.
A study published in Nutrients summarizes, “Anthocyanins have attracted considerable attention for their potential to modulate the immune system by influencing key immune cells, such as lymphocytes, macrophages, and dendritic cells.” Black currants, also known as cassis, are tart-tasting fruits that have several potential health benefits. Studies have shown that they may help to boost the immune system and reduce inflammation in the body.
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7. Supports Skin Barrier Function
Black currant seed oil is a rich source of GLA and ALA, two fatty acids that are involved in maintaining the structure and integrity of skin cells. GLA and ALA may also help reinforce the skin’s natural lipid barrier, supporting its ability to retain moisture and maintain a smooth, balanced appearance.
8. May Support Eye Health
Anthocyanins in black currant seeds have been linked to benefits for eye health and vision. Although more research is needed to understand the role of anthocyanins in ocular functions, a study published in Molecules found that these natural compounds help relax eye muscles and support retinal blood circulation. These combined effects may support overall eye function and help maintain visual health.
9. Hair and Nail Health
Strengthens hair strands and promotes healthy nail growth by providing essential nutrients and moisture. Blackcurrant Seed Oil is reputed to regulate oil production in the scalp, to enhance moisture retention, to nourish, and to strengthen the scalp and the strands. Furthermore, Blackcurrant Oil works to soothe inflammation and eliminate fungal infections on the scalp.
10. Potential Benefits for Dry Eyes
Black currant seed oil contains an Omega-6 essential fatty acid that may help treat dry eyes. Some studies suggest that GLA may help improve some dry eye symptoms and related conditions, but researchers are uncertain.
Research shows that GLA and linoleic acid, which are found in black currants, may be promising for treating dry eye disease and improving overall signs and symptoms of the condition. In particular, people who do computer work every day may benefit from blackcurrant supplements.
Uses of Black Currant Seed Oil
Skincare
- Moisturizer: Apply directly to the skin or incorporate into creams and lotions to hydrate and improve skin texture.
- Anti-Aging: Reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles by hydrating and repairing the skin at a cellular level.
- Acne Treatment: Balances sebum production and calms inflammation, making it suitable for acne-prone skin.
- Eczema and Psoriasis Relief: Helps soothe and manage skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and atopic dermatitis.
Haircare
- Scalp Treatment: Massaging the oil into the scalp can help regulate oil production, reduce inflammation, and eliminate fungal infections.
- Hair Strengthening: Provides essential nutrients and moisture to strengthen hair strands and promote healthy growth.
Dietary Supplement
- Capsules or Liquid Extracts: Can be taken orally to support overall wellness, reduce inflammation, and promote heart and eye health.
Energetic Properties
Black Currant Seed Oil resonates with the sacral chakra and the heart chakra, fostering emotional stability, compassion, and self-acceptance. Its grounding and nurturing energy helps release stored tension and supports emotional healing. The Omega-3 and Omega-6 balance in the oil reflects its energetic harmony, encouraging balance in both the physical and energetic body.
How to Use Black Currant Seed Oil
For topical use, warm a few drops in your hands and gently apply to your skin or hair. Black currant seed supplements are widely available in softgel form or as liquid formulations that can be mixed into water or other beverages. It’s generally recommended to take black currant seed supplements with foods that naturally contain omega-3 fatty acids, such as fish, chia seeds, or egg yolks, to maximize the potential health benefits of these fatty acids. Black currant seed oil is also commonly used in skin and hair care products, either on its own or blended with other oils and moisturizers for topical use.
Dosage Recommendations
Black currant seed oil products are usually sold as liquid extracts in bottles ranging from one to eight ounces or in capsule form with concentrations ranging between 500 and 1500 milligrams. While a typical dose is around 2000 milligrams, some products provide up to 5000 milligrams per day based on individual preferences and usage guidelines. It’s crucial to carefully follow the dosage recommendations on the product label and to consult a healthcare professional before incorporating black currant seed oil into your routine.
For topical use, it’s best to start with a small amount and gradually increase as needed. Always perform a patch test first to check for any potential skin sensitivities or allergies. Dosage recommendations include one small glass (150 milliliters) of fruit juice per day and 80 g of fresh or frozen black currants a day.
Precautions and Side Effects
While black currant seed oil is generally considered safe, it is important to be aware of potential side effects and precautions:
- Blood Clotting: Black currant seed oil might slow blood clotting, increasing the risk of bruising and bleeding in people with bleeding disorders or those undergoing surgery.
- Surgery: Stop taking black currant seed oil at least two weeks before a scheduled surgery.
- Interactions: Be cautious when taking black currant seed oil with medications that also slow blood clotting, as this may increase the risk of bruising and bleeding.
- Seizures: Taking black currant seed oil with phenothiazines might increase the chance of having a seizure in some people.
- Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: There isn't enough reliable information to know if black currant is safe to use when pregnant or breastfeeding. Stay on the safe side and avoid use.
- Digestive Issues: Some people may experience mild digestive discomfort, such as soft stools, mild diarrhea, or gas.
- Allergic Reactions: In rare cases, individuals sensitive to salicylates may experience an allergic reaction.
Black Currant in Diet
It’s not hard to incorporate more blackcurrants into your diet. You can find blackcurrant in the form of:
- dried fruit
- frozen fruit
- fruit juice
- fruit tea
- jam
The berries themselves can be tossed into any recipe that calls for a bit of tangy sweetness. You can also try substituting berries for blackcurrants in your yogurt or salad.
Choosing High-Quality Black Currant Seed Oil
Always invest in pure, high-quality Black Currant Seed Oil that is cold-pressed to retain its benefits. Because linoleic acid-rich oils tend to go bad quickly, it’s crucial to find a product with good formulation and packaging. In terms of packaging, it’s housed in a dark, opaque bottle that prevents light from destabilizing the product, while the airless pump keeps it away from oxygen.
To ensure quality and purity, find a supplement that has been third-party tested (for example, NSF-, USP-, or GMP-certified), which means an unbiased party has tested batches of the product and confirmed it contains only the ingredients it lists on the label and in the amounts stated.