DESCRIPTION

Wheat germ oil is derived from the germ or embryo of the wheat kernel. The germ is the part of the wheat kernel that contains the majority of the nutrients. Wheat is typically grown in temperate regions worldwide, including North America, Europe, and Asia. It belongs to the Poaceae family and is a member of the Triticum genus. It is an annual grass that can grow up to 1.5 meters tall. It has hollow, cylindrical stems and long, narrow leaves with rough edges. The flowers are arranged in spikelets and are wind-pollinated. The wheat germ is the embryo or reproductive part of the wheat kernel. It is a small, nutrient-rich part of the kernel that contains proteins, minerals, vitamins, and essential fatty acids and thus it is used to extract the oil from it. Wheat is typically grown in areas with cool, moist winters and warm, dry summers. It required well-drained, fertile soil that is rich in organic matter. The wheat is sown in the fall and harvested in the summer and it is harvested when the kernels are mature and dry. To harvest the wheat germ, the stalks are cut down and the kernels are separated from the straw. The kernels are then, milled to remove the outer layers, which contain the bran and the germ. The germ is then, separated from the bran and milled to produce the oil.  The remaining endosperm is used to make flour.

The oil is extracted using cold-pressing method and is rich in essential fatty acids such as omega-3, omega-6, linoleic acid and alpha-linolenic acid. It also contains vitamin E, which is a potent antioxidant, and other bioactive compounds such as phytosterols, carotenoids, and polyphenols. Additionally, it is a good source of B vitamins, zinc, iron, and selenium. It is a dark & thick oil that is commonly used in the cosmetic and skincare industry for its nourishing and moisturizing properties. It is also used in the food industry as a dietary supplement due to its high content of vitamin E and essential fatty acids. The oil has a nutty, slightly sweet flavour and is often added to salad dressings, smoothies, and other foods. It is considered to be a healthy oil due to its high content of vitamin E, which is a powerful antioxidant that can help protect the body from damage caused by free radicals. Its high vitamin E content also makes it a popular ingredient in anti-ageing products, as it can help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

It has been found to have several other health benefits. It may help reduce cholesterol levels and lower the risk of heart disease. It may also have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce pain and inflammation in the body. Some studies have even suggested that it may help boost the immune system and improve cognitive function. Thus, this oil is a good source of essential fatty acids, which are important for maintaining overall health. However, the use of this oil can be traced back to ancient Egypt, where it was used as a healing oil for skin and hair. The ancient Greeks and Romans also used it for medicinal purposes, including as a remedy for skin disorders and to improve digestion. In the 20th century, the nutritional benefits of this oil began to be recognized. During World War II, the US government began adding this oil to soldiers' rations to help boost their nutrient intake. In the 1960s and 1970s, it became popular as a dietary supplement due to its high vitamin E content and other nutritional benefits. Today, this oil is widely used in the cosmetic and skincare industry as a natural ingredient in lotions, creams, and massage oils. It is also commonly used as a dietary supplement, either in its pure oil form or in capsule or soft gel form. With its many health benefits, this oil continues to be a popular choice for those looking to improve their overall health and well-being.

INDUSTRIAL APPLICATIONS

• Food and Beverages Industry: Wheat germ oil is used in the food and beverage industry as a natural food flavouring and colouring agent. It is also added to many foods as a source of essential fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals and thus it is often added to a variety of products, such as baked goods, cereals, and snack bars, to boost their nutritional content.

• Pharmaceutical Industry: It is used in the pharmaceutical industry as an ingredient in various products, including dietary supplements and topical creams. It is valued for its potential health benefits, including its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

• Cosmetic and Skincare Industry: It is a common ingredient in cosmetics and skincare products such as lotions, creams, and serums. It is valued for its ability to moisturize and nourish the skin, promote the health of the skin, and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles on it.

• Nutraceuticals Industry: The oil is used in nutraceuticals and dietary supplements as a source of essential fatty acids and vitamin E. It is valued for its potential health benefits, including its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

• Industrial Lubricants Manufacturing Industry: It can be used as a natural lubricant in various mechanical systems, including machinery and engines. It has a high viscosity and can withstand high temperatures making it an ideal lubricant for many industrial applications.

• Biofuel Industry: It is used as a feedstock for the production of biodiesel, a renewable and sustainable alternative to traditional fossil fuels. Its high fatty acid content makes it an attractive feedstock for biodiesel production.

PERSONAL USES

• Best to use for Cooking: Wheat germ oil is a healthy oil that can be used as a cooking oil. You can use it for sautéing, baking, and frying. It has a high smoke point and a nutty flavour and it will come up as a great choice for salad dressings and marinades. It can be used as a healthy and flavorful salad dressing. Simply mix a few tablespoons of the oil with vinegar, lemon juice, herbs, and spices to create a delicious and nutritious dressing. You can also make delicious smoothies with this oil, which will just not add flavour to them but also boost their nutritional content. To use it, simply add a few drops of it to your favourite smoothie recipe for an added dose of vitamins and minerals.

• Use it on your Nails & Cuticles: This oil can be used as a daily nail & cuticle oil to moisturize and nourish dry and cracked cuticles. Simply apply a small amount of it on your cuticles and massage gently until it's fully absorbed. You can also create a moisturizing cuticle & nail cream with this oil. To make it, mix 1 tablespoon of beeswax pellets, 1 tablespoon of shea butter, and 1 tablespoon of this oil in a double boiler. Once melted, pour the mixture into a small container and allow it to cool and solidify.

• Use it to make your lips soft: Soothe your dry & chapped lips with Wheat germ Lip Balm as this oil can be used to make a nourishing lip balm at home. To make it, mix 1 tablespoon of beeswax pellets, 1 tablespoon of shea butter, and 1 tablespoon of it in a double boiler. Once melted, pour the mixture into small containers and allow it to cool and solidify.

• Perfect to add to routine skin care: This oil can be used daily as a natural skincare regime to moisturize and nourish the skin. It is high in vitamin E, which is a powerful antioxidant that can help to protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals. It can be used in multiple ways & you can use it as a Skin moisturizer. It is an excellent moisturizer for the skin that can help to nourish and hydrate the skin, leaving it soft and supple. Simply apply a few drops of it on your face, hands, or other areas of the skin, and massage gently in circular motions until it is fully absorbed. Using it regularly helps to add the required hydration to the skin & make it glowing & smooth. It can also be used in a body scrub to exfoliate and moisturize the skin. Mix 1 cup of sugar with 1/2 cup of this oil, and then, adds a few drops of your favourite essential oil into it. Massage the scrub onto damp skin in a circular motion, and then rinse off with water. Moreover, you can also use it to create a facial serum that can help to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Mix 1/2 oz. of this oil with 1/2 oz. of jojoba oil, and add a few drops of your favourite essential oil to make a facial serum. Apply a few drops of it onto your face and neck, and massage gently until it's fully absorbed.

• Use it to do Hair care: This oil can be used daily as a natural hair care ingredient to condition and strengthen the hair. It is high in vitamins and minerals that are essential for healthy hair growth, such as vitamin E, B vitamins, and zinc. You can use this oil on your hair as a Hair conditioner. It is an effective conditioner for dry and damaged hair. Mix a few drops of it in your regular shampoo or conditioner and apply it to your hair. Leave it on for a few minutes before rinsing it off to improve the overall health of your hair. Moreover, it can also be used to create a hair mask that can nourish and strengthen hair. To make it, mix 2 tablespoons of the oil with 1 mashed avocado and 1 egg yolk. Apply the mixture to wet hair, and leave it on for 20-30 minutes before rinsing it off with water.

BENEFITS

• This leads to having a healthy heart: This oil is high in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which help to reduce inflammation in the body, lower blood pressure, and improve cholesterol levels. By generating required & essential fatty acids in the body & addressing such problems, this oil can help to improve the health of the heart and thus lower the risk of heart disease.

• Protects skin from damage: It is rich in vitamin E, which is an essential nutrient for healthy skin. Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant that helps to protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals, which can lead to premature ageing, wrinkles, and fine lines. It can help to nourish and moisturize the skin, leaving it soft and smooth. Maintaining the required hydration in the skin improves the elasticity of the skin and thus improves the overall appearance of it.

• Boosts Immune System: It contains several antioxidants, including vitamin E and beta-carotene, which can help to boost the immune system. Antioxidants can help to protect the body from damage caused by free radicals, which can weaken the immune system and make it more susceptible to illness and disease. It helps to protect the body from harmful bacteria and viruses and supports the production of white blood cells.

• Supports Reproductive Health: The oil is high in vitamin E and zinc, which are essential for reproductive health. They help improve sperm quality and motility, support healthy menstrual cycles, and reduce the risk of miscarriage.

• Enhances Cognitive Function: It is high in vitamin E and omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for cognitive function. These all are the contents that help to improve memory, focus, and concentration, and reduce the risk of cognitive decline.

• Aids in Digestion: The oil is also a good source of fibre, which is essential for healthy digestion. Fibre can help to promote regular bowel movements, reduce constipation, and improve overall gut health.

• Makes Bones Stronger: It is high in phosphorus and magnesium, which are essential for bone health. They help to strengthen the bones and reduce the risk of osteoporosis.

• Boosts hair health: It is also beneficial for hair health. It contains vitamins and minerals that are essential for healthy hair growth, such as vitamin E, B vitamins, and zinc. Regular use of this oil can help to strengthen hair strands, reduce hair loss, and improve overall hair health.