What is rapeseed oil for? What is rapeseed oil made from? Harm and benefit of the product. How to choose and store rapeseed oil

20.02.2022

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In Russia, the use of rapeseed oil in food has not received much popularity, but in Europe this product is considered one of the main sources of fatty acids in any diet.

In terms of its beneficial properties and taste characteristics, it is compared with olive oil, only it costs several times cheaper.

Previously, rapeseed was used only as an agricultural crop, and the oil was extracted only for technical purposes. Today, oil is becoming increasingly popular in cosmetology, cooking and medicine.

For food purposes, only mutant varieties of rapeseed are suitable, in the oil of which the content of erucic acid is minimal. According to GOST 8988-2002, only unrefined first grade rapeseed oil or refined, non-deodorized rapeseed oil, in which the concentration of erucic acid is less than 5%, thioglucosides - less than 3%, is allowed for food. Under these conditions, the product will not cause harm.

Rapeseed oil, like any vegetable oil (sunflower, olive, corn), is high in calories. 99% of the product consists of fats. We note the most useful of them:

saturated fatty acids (10%);
unsaturated fatty acids (33%);
monounsaturated (oleic acid);
polyunsaturated (linolenic, linoleic acids);
phospholipids, etc.

The benefits of the product also depend on the vitamin and mineral composition:

vitamin E (tocopherols);
carotenoids;
B vitamins;
vitamin D;
phosphorus;
zinc;
copper;
magnesium, etc.

Sometimes an extract from rape seeds is called "Russian olive oil". The composition of these products is similar, the benefits are huge.

What kind of rapeseed oil is good for humans?

People learned to grow rapeseed even more than one and a half thousand years ago, but until the middle of the last century it was not eaten. This is due to the fact that it contains a substance such as erucic acid, it does not break down in the human body, accumulates and has a negative impact on health.

Currently, breeders have bred many varieties of rapeseed with a minimum concentration of harmful acid, which made it possible to use rapeseed oil in a wide range, including for treatment.

This product has received the greatest popularity in Germany, where almost 80% of the population consumes it daily.

Rapeseed is a cabbage family, and the oil content in its seed reaches 40%.

Due to the fact that this agricultural crop is not demanding on environmental conditions, and the production of oil is a practically waste-free production, the price of rapeseed oil is several times lower than the cost of other vegetable oils.

The main technological process for obtaining any vegetable oil is extraction and cold pressing. Initially harvested rapeseed is cleaned, crushed and placed under a press.

Thus, unrefined oil is obtained, which is not subjected to thermal and chemical processing, and retains the maximum amount of nutrients and healing properties in its composition. The remaining cake is repressed by some manufacturers, and some are mixed with livestock feed.

Unusual compared to other oils, rapeseed oil can retain its properties, color and smell for a long period of time without spoiling or becoming rancid.

Useful chemical composition

Almost all the healing properties of the oil are based on its main components - polyunsaturated fatty acids.

At present, scientists have not yet fully studied the effect of rapeseed oil on the human body, so the recommendations for eating it are ambiguous.

In terms of its constituent components, it is identical to olive oil, however, it can be harmful due to the presence of toxic compounds.

Oil is a very high-calorie product, as it is enriched with saturated and polyunsaturated fats, which are necessary for the normal functioning of all organs and tissues. Omega-3 and omega-6 acids are not able to be independently synthesized in the body, but at the same time they take part in the processes of synthesizing new protein compounds, in energy metabolism and other processes.

In the vitamin ratio in rapeseed oil, carotenoids, tocopherols, vitamin A and D are present in high concentrations. They fill the body with energy and regulate fat metabolism.

Due to its chemical composition, rapeseed oil is absorbed by the intestines almost completely. However, erucic acid and thioglucosides, which have a toxic effect, in the composition of the oil are not able to be digested in the human body and, accordingly, accumulate, causing harm to health.

Therefore, only those varieties of rapeseed that are artificially bred with a minimum content of harmful substances are used for food.

The mineral composition of rapeseed oil is not enriched, phosphorus is present in various phosphate compounds, they help strengthen blood vessels.

Also in rapeseed copper, zinc, calcium and potassium are concentrated.

How to apply

The product does not lose transparency for a long time, it has a delicate pleasant aroma, useful properties are preserved for at least five years.

cooking

In cooking, rapeseed oil is best used as a salad dressing. The product is not suitable for frying and baking. The fact is that under the influence of high temperatures, toxic compounds appear in it.

ethnoscience

The rapeseed product is quite often found in traditional medicine recipes. Warm compresses and baths from this product help eliminate joint diseases. It starts the regeneration process, it can be used to lubricate wounds and burns.

Canola oil helps eliminate hangovers. To do this, you need to dilute a few drops in a glass of water and drink on an empty stomach.

traditional medicine

Sterile rapeseed oil is used in pharmacology; oil formulations for injections are made on its basis.

For adult men and women

It is dominated by monounsaturated oleic acid.. It is rapidly absorbed by the digestive system.

At the same time, it reduces the level of bad cholesterol, which means it prevents atherosclerosis, also normalizes blood pressure and is a prevention of diabetes.

Polyunsaturated acids (omega-6 and omega-3) are in the only right ratio for health 1:2. And this is the correct functioning of the brain, heart, reduction of inflammation, prevention of tumors.

Harmful saturated fatty acids and trans fatty acids make up a very low percentage, which reduces the risk of cholesterol plaques on the walls of blood vessels.

The manufacturer, as a rule, enriches the oil with tocopherol(a form of vitamin E content). He, like all antioxidants, is a powerful stimulator of recovery processes. Accordingly, improves the health of our skin, nails and hair.

For pregnant and lactating

Is rapeseed oil good for expectant mothers? This oil is just a godsend. It contains a natural analogue of the female hormone estradiol.

This hormone affects the mood, attractiveness, stamina, as well as the reproductive function of a woman. In addition, it is responsible for the preservation of the fetus and blood clotting, which is important for preparing for childbirth.

A group of French scientists found that in those regions where women constantly use this product, a significantly lower percentage of breast cancer cases.

So nursing mothers can not be afraid for themselves, and for their crumbs too.

For kids

Rapeseed oil is an ingredient in many infant formulas. and is therefore considered safe.

It can perfectly complement the regular children's diet, because it is light, rarely causes allergies.

In addition, it has a good effect on the formation of brain activity. Why not experiment?

It is only necessary to coordinate with the pediatrician the daily dose of consumption, each age group is different.

For the elderly

Is a gentle product for the digestive system of the elderly. Therefore, it is able to perform the function of a supplier of essential acids for the body.

Moreover, animal fats and milk at this stage of life should be reduced to a minimum. They are too high in cholesterol and saturated fats.

In old age, you need to use only refined oil as salad dressings. It is strictly forbidden to fry on it.

Application in dietary nutrition

Rape seeds contain up to 50% fat, 6% fiber, up to 30% protein. The oil has a low calorie content, accelerates metabolic processes in the body, which allows you to effectively use it in the fight against extra pounds.

Almost all diets allow the intake of rapeseed oil, since the product is well absorbed by the body. This oil is a mandatory component of the diet against atherosclerosis, it is prescribed for problems with the heart and blood vessels.

Norm

In therapeutic and mono-diets, the daily dose of oil is 15 ml. With a protein and healthy diet, the amount of oil can be increased to 30 ml.

children

In some European countries, this product is used in the production of baby food. It contains healthy fatty acids, it is completely free of cholesterol.

Norm

Oil can be introduced into the diet of a child at 4-6 months, adding 1 drop to vegetable complementary foods. The dose can be gradually increased, for a week the daily amount of oil can be brought up to 2 ml.

This product should not be added to store-bought vegetable purees - most often it is already in the composition. In baby food, due to its mild taste, it is almost imperceptible, so the baby will be happy to eat the food offered, and parents can be calm about his health.

The daily dose of rapeseed oil for a child should not exceed 30 ml.

Rapeseed oil in cosmetology

Rapeseed oil is used to improve the condition of the skin, eliminate dermatological problems. We bring to your attention several proven recipes.

Soothing bath:

fresh milk - 220 ml;
soda - 12 g;
rapeseed oil - 30 ml;
dried lavender flowers (chamomile, calendula) - 50 g;
corn starch - 5 g.

Mix all components, add 100 g of sea salt. The duration of the water procedure is no more than 20 minutes.

Hair

Rapeseed oil improves the condition of the hair, it makes curls strong and shiny, eliminates split ends. It should be added to shampoo or balm. For every 100 ml of base, 7 ml of oil is required.

Legs

Terry socks for the treatment of dry feet, with gel enriched with rapeseed, olive and mineral oils

Useful and healing properties of rapeseed oil

This product concentrates many substances that can have a beneficial effect on the human body:

Rapeseed oil significantly improves immunity, helps to cope with bacterial and viral infections;
Strengthens blood vessels, promotes the breakdown of bad cholesterol, which prevents the appearance of atherosclerotic plaques.

In addition, it affects the composition of the blood and its viscosity, therefore, reduces the risk of thrombosis, myocardial infarction and stroke;

Rapeseed oil is indispensable for the female body, as it contains estradiols, a replacement component of female hormones.

Due to them, the disturbed hormonal background in girls is normalized, the menstrual cycle is restored, and unpleasant symptoms are relieved during premenstrual syndrome and during menopause;

Cosmetologists use oil in masks and creams for hands, face and body.

The skin after their regular use becomes smooth, soft and acquires a radiant color;

Due to the high content of carotenoids and vitamin E, rapeseed reduces the risk of developing malignant tumors, eliminates free radicals and fights cancer cells;
With diets, rapeseed oil contributes to the speedy breakdown of body fat and enhances metabolic processes in the body.

However, it must be eaten regularly, combined with proper nutrition and sports activities;

Restores the work of the gastrointestinal tract, enveloping the mucous membrane of the stomach, reduces its acidity, heals ulcerative lesions of the intestine.

Also, rapeseed oil enhances intestinal motility, removes toxic substances and slag deposits from the body;

It is rightfully considered the elixir of longevity and youth, as it stimulates the production of collagen fibers, thereby removing mimic wrinkles, making the skin smooth and even.
Also, rapeseed oil has found application in the pharmaceutical industry, with the help of its specialists prepare injection solutions and add it to healing creams and ointments;
Strengthens the nervous system during stress, anxiety, and also helps to cope with insomnia;
During the period of gestation and lactating women, it is recommended to regularly drink a tablespoon of vegetable oil in the morning, as they saturate the newborn's body with all the necessary elements and minerals;
In diseases of the musculoskeletal system, with gouty arthritis, doctors advise making lotions from rapeseed oil on diseased areas of the body.

Experts believe that every day you need to take one or two dessert spoons of rapeseed oil. In this case, the body will be saturated with polyunsaturated fatty acids and other complex chemical compounds that have a beneficial effect on the human body.

It must be drunk early in the morning immediately after waking up, that is, on an empty stomach, at least an hour before meals.

Healing recipes using rapeseed oil

It is used not only in traditional medicine for the treatment of the cardiovascular and digestive systems. The oil is actively used for cosmetic purposes to strengthen and restore hair, moisturize the skin of the face and hands.

To relax the body tired during the day, you can take a restorative bath in the evenings.

First you need to mix a glass of warm milk, two tablespoons of coarse sea salt, soda, starch, a few drops of lavender oil and a couple of tablespoons of rapeseed oil.

After that, pour the mixed mixture into hot water and lie in the bath for no more than 20 minutes, then take a contrast shower.

To make your hair smooth, manageable and shiny, it is enough to rub rapeseed oil twice a month into the hair roots and into the scalp, massaging it thoroughly.

After that, it is necessary to remove the hair in a special cap and wrap it with a towel, warm the head for half an hour and rinse well with regular shampoo.

It should be borne in mind that washing off the oil from the head is a rather difficult task, so cosmetologists have their own tricks. It is necessary to dilute the yolk and a few drops of lemon juice in water, and then proceed to wash your hair.

For the face and skin of the hands, the following recipe is suitable.

It is necessary to mix two dessert spoons of butter with natural yogurt and honey. Apply the product for 15 - 20 minutes and rinse under warm running water. Thus, it is possible to protect delicate skin from sudden changes in temperature in winter, remove peeling and moisturize dry epidermis.

To cure the gastrointestinal tract, gastroenterologists recommend eating fresh rapeseed oil on an empty stomach, a teaspoonful several times a day.

You can also add it to snacks and salads, replacing other vegetable oils.

Possible contraindications and harm to the body

The most serious and dangerous deficiency in the composition of rapeseed oil is the presence of erucic acid. When accumulated, it begins to have a toxic effect, primarily on the liver, heart and musculoskeletal system.

Therefore, when choosing rapeseed oil in a store or pharmacy, you should pay special attention to the level of thioglycosides and the content of erucic acid.

Some pediatricians in European countries are against the use of rapeseed oil by young children, believing that it harms a fragile child's body.

When heated, the oil releases carcinogens that provoke the development of cancer, as well as toxic substances that cannot be excreted from the human body.

The main contraindications for which the use of rapeseed vegetable oil is prohibited are:

dysentery and diarrhea, which are accompanied by a breakdown of the stool and vomiting;
cholecystitis in the acute stage and various types of hepatitis;
individual intolerance to any of the components in the composition of the oil;
allergic reactions, as if consumed excessively, it can cause swelling, inflammation, irritation and itching.

Selection of rapeseed oil in the store and storage options

The main requirements for choosing vegetable oil include:

When choosing an oil, you need to pay attention to the presence of sediment in the bottle.

Its presence at the bottom of the container indicates poor-quality raw materials that cannot be eaten;

You should also pay attention to the label with the composition.

It should indicate the exact concentration of harmful erucic acid, it should not be more than 0.5%;

It is recommended to choose only refined oil that has passed all stages of physical and chemical purification;
The label should not contain an inscription about the hydrogenation of the product.

This is the process of treating vegetable oil with water. In this case, it acquires an unstable chemical structure and is more susceptible to rancidity.

Rapeseed oil has a bright golden color and a slight pleasant aroma.

An ideal option for storing vegetable oil at home is glassware with a hermetically sealed lid. At the same time, it is recommended to store it in a dark, cool place away from sunlight, so as not to lose all the healing substances.

In Russia, such oil is inexpensive, a liter can be purchased within 100 rubles. This is due to the fact that it is easy to obtain and the cleaning process does not take much time and money. In addition, the rapeseed crop produces seeds more than three times a year.

Thus, each person chooses for himself whether rapeseed oil will benefit the body or cause harm. However, modern scientists believe that there are much more useful properties in it than in other vegetable oils.

The price of rapeseed oil

Although this product is extremely useful, it is not always sold close to home. Finding a bottle with a valuable composition on the shelf of a large supermarket or buying it in an online store will not be any particular problem. What is the average rapeseed oil price? The product is inexpensive - within 45-60 rubles per 1 kg. Due to the affordable cost, rapeseed oil may well compete with sunflower or more expensive olive oil, which is familiar to households.

The Mediterranean climate is considered native to such a common plant as rapeseed. But even in European countries, it has taken root perfectly and is growing quite successfully, giving offspring in the form of a huge number of seeds. It is from these seeds that useful and very inexpensive rapeseed oil is obtained. It turns out that this plant not only gives a rich harvest of seeds, but has a beneficial effect on the soil, supplying it with nitrogen. Thanks to this property, rapeseed ensures the productivity of the land even after it fades. Rapeseed oil is used quite widely in many areas of industry, medicine and cosmetology. But what is its benefit and whether it has any harmful characteristics, it is worth talking about it in detail.

Technologies: options for obtaining rapeseed oil

Modern technological progress does not stand in one place, so the scheme for obtaining rapeseed oil is quite simple. As usual, in most cases, the technology of pressing and squeezing is used: first, the seeds are peeled, placed in a huge container, where they are boiled or thermally treated under pressure. After that, the prepared rape fruits are pressed and the oil is distilled off with the help of special substances. The result is a cake that also contains a small percentage of oil. It can be re-distilled and squeezed out the leftovers, or recycled to add to animal feed.

In refined rapeseed oil, there are continuous “usefulnesses” that in many ways have a positive effect on the human or animal body. Among them are the following:

A large percentage of the content of linoleic, linolenic, oleic and other fatty acids that support the normal functioning of the cardiovascular apparatus, they improve the blood formula, regulate temperature and pressure.

Rapeseed oil contains a large amount of vitamin E. As you know, it greatly affects the quality of the brain and vascular system, "knows how" to slow down the aging process, can prevent the appearance of blood clots, and also accelerate the regeneration of epidermal cells.

Rapeseed oil is used by the aviation industry as a lubricant and is also widely used in the rubber and even steel industries.

Among other things, rapeseed oil serves as a biodiesel fuel widely used in industry. Given the desire of global manufacturers to reduce fuel toxicity, rapeseed oil is gradually becoming one of the most popular types of biofuels.

Characteristic features: what is the use of rapeseed oil?

Based on the facts confirming how widespread rapeseed oil is in the world industry, we can talk about its beneficial characteristics. Perhaps it cannot be compared in usefulness with olive or sea buckthorn oil, but nevertheless, rapeseed oil can boast of the following properties:

1. First of all, rapeseed oil is rich in vitamin E and polyunsaturated fatty acids. Needless to say, these elements indicate the ability of the oil to support the body's immune forces, ensure decent functioning of the heart, blood vessels, brain, and also reduce the risk of heart attacks, strokes, hypertension and coronary heart disease.

2. Rapeseed oil also contains a fairly high percentage of a female-type hormone called estradiol. The level of this hormone increases naturally with the onset of ovulation. The skin of a woman becomes radiant and clean, and the hair is elastic and strong.

3. Thanks to this vitamin complex, the risk of breast cancer in girls tends to zero.

4. Want to lose weight faster? In this, just rapeseed oil will become an assistant. It breaks down fats, lowers cholesterol, the metabolism is seriously accelerated. It can be eaten, complementing salads and other dishes.

5. Rapeseed oil is very often used as an element of any diet. It is rarely used on its own. For example, it is added to kefir or protein diets, and is also used as a dietary supplement during the treatment of diseases of the gastrointestinal tract.

6. On top of that, rapeseed oil will be appropriate in face masks or hair masks. It heals small wounds, scratches, burns, strengthens the hair structure, perfectly moisturizes the skin.

Contraindications to the use and potential harm of rapeseed oil

Rapeseed oil must be refined, as the crude liquid may contain a high percentage of erucic acid. It is not considered too useful for the animal or human body, as it may well slow down the process of growth and development, as well as puberty. In addition, due to the high percentage of erucic acid in rapeseed, a healthy person may experience problems in the cardiovascular system, disorders in the liver and kidneys. When buying rapeseed oil on your own, be sure to pay attention to the indicators of erucic acid: normally, they should not be more than 0.6%.

Of course, it is also worth mentioning the individual intolerance by individuals of various types of oils, including rapeseed. Allergy sufferers should not eat such a product, because there is a high risk of developing edema, suffocation, rashes and itching.

However, you can not eat salads, first or second courses containing rapeseed oil for women with biliary tract diseases, pancreatitis and cholecystitis. Moreover, it is forbidden to use rapeseed oil for those suffering from chronic diarrhea or hepatitis, because in this case it has a negative effect on the liver.

It is worth considering, among other things, some toxicity of rapeseed oil, which manifests itself during its heating. That is why nutritionists do not recommend eating too much of it, and even more so frying any food on it.

Recommendations: how to use rapeseed oil correctly

Rapeseed oil is allowed to be used as a basis for creating hair masks. It can simply be applied to the roots, rubbing into the scalp, and then cover the hair with polyethylene and a towel. It is enough to withstand only half an hour for the oil to work: it strengthens the hair roots, preventing hair loss, as well as the tips, so that they do not break or split.

Another invigorating hair mask: with rapeseed oil and avocado. It is done in the following way:

Half an avocado should be mashed

Add to it 1-2 tbsp. l. rapeseed oil,

1-2 drops of rosemary essential composition,

And also 10 drops of vitamin A (retinol).

Cover your hair with this mixture, stretching from the roots to the very ends. You need to “wear” the mask on your hair for about 40 minutes, and then wash it off using daily shampoo.

It is allowed to combine rapeseed oil with argan, castor, burdock or olive oil. Please note that rapeseed oil, like the rest, is quite difficult to wash off the hair. Therefore, when washing off, it is better to use the “yolk plus water” solution or a small amount of lemon juice also mixed with water. And a mandatory rule: do not buy low-quality oils, then they will be washed off the hair the first time.

Try making face and hand masks with rapeseed oil at home. For example, a simple mask with honey and yogurt will provide excellent protection against frosty air and wind in winter. You just need to mix 1 tbsp. l. rapeseed oil, the same amount of yogurt and 1 tsp. honey.

But a mask with grated banana and rapeseed oil will help strengthen the skin in the décolleté area. Supplement the mass with lemon juice and the mask will also become whitening. Do you want a homemade scrub? There is nothing easier: add brown sugar to the banana and butter as well. In this case, the mixture must be applied to the skin immediately after preparation, otherwise the sugar may dissolve quickly.

As a dietary supplement, rapeseed oil will help improve intestinal motility. It can be added to salads with fresh vegetables or prepared meat sauces based on it. For example, the popular olive oil-based pesto sauce can be modified by mixing basil, parmesan cheese, some nuts (pine or walnuts), garlic, pepper, and salt. All this should be whipped in a blender and you will get a great sauce for meat, fragrant and very healthy.

Rapeseed oil appeared on the shelves of Russian stores relatively recently and has already gained many fans. However, there are those who doubt the benefits of this product and treat it with caution. And yet, is rapeseed oil beneficial or harmful? Let's figure it out.

A product is produced from an oil-bearing herbaceous plant called "rapeseed", a representative of the Cruciferous or Cabbage family. This is a tall plant with elongated-lanceolate blue-green leaves and bright yellow racemose inflorescences. It bears fruit in narrow long pods, inside of which there are seeds, in terms of fat and protein content, they are not inferior to mustard and sunflower and superior to soybeans.

The origin of rapeseed is very vague, since it is practically not found in the wild. According to scientists, the plant is a natural hybrid of garden cabbage and colza weed. It began to be cultivated several thousand years before our era, so rapeseed can be called one of the oldest agricultural crops.

Initially, rapeseed oil was used exclusively as a lubricant, for indoor lighting and in the production of drying oil and soap. It was not suitable for food, because the composition of the product included harmful components and it did not taste very pleasant.

In 1978, Canadian breeders introduced the world to a new variety of rapeseed called "canola", with a minimum amount of harmful substances, which gave the plant, one might say, a "second life". The new variety made it possible to safely eat rapeseed and obtain edible vegetable oil from it. The product is especially popular in European countries, where it was nicknamed the "Northern Olive" - in terms of valuable properties, rapeseed oil is similar to olive oil.

Rapeseed oil is one of the few foods with an almost perfect balance of fatty acids. Most of the composition of the product is occupied by linoleic and linolenic acids, which the human body cannot synthesize. Deficiency of these components can lead to serious circulatory disorders. These important acids maintain the walls of blood vessels in an elastic state, improve heart function, and prevent thrombosis. In addition, another fatty acid, arachidonic acid, is synthesized from linoleic acid in the body. One of its important functions is participation in the development of the musculoskeletal system in children. Without arachidonic acid, the normal physical development of the baby is impossible.

Rapeseed oil contains a large amount of such a powerful antioxidant as vitamin E. It also contains vitamins A, D, F and B, carotenoids, tocopherols, zinc, magnesium, phosphorus, calcium and other trace elements.

By appearance It is an oily liquid with a nutty odor and a taste reminiscent of olive oil. Its color varies from yellow to brownish. The calorie content of rapeseed oil, like that of olive oil, is about 900 kcal per 100 g. The density indicators of the product are excellent - from 908 to 915 kg / m3.

Edible oil is made from rapeseed using cold pressing.. Plant seeds are pre-cleaned and subjected to magnetic separation. Next, screw pressing is carried out, and then the product is filtered. It turns out unrefined oil, which retained most of the nutrients, as well as a nutty aroma and pleasant taste.

On sale found edible refined oil from rape seeds. During processing, it undergoes hydration, neutralization, refining and freezing. As a result of these actions, the product loses biologically active components and smell. But the benefit in it still remains, because. fatty acids are preserved, although it is incomparable with the benefits that unrefined oil brings to the body.

These two types of oils also differ in color. The unrefined is colored yellow or amber-yellow, sometimes with a slight brownish tint, while the refined has a light yellow color.

Rapeseed oil is also made by hot pressing.. In this case, the crushed seeds are subjected to moisture-thermal treatment, then pressing and filtering. The output is a dark oily liquid with shades from greenish to brown-red. Such oil is unsuitable for food and is used only for industrial purposes.. It is important to know about this so as not to accidentally purchase just such a product in the store.

Beneficial features

The balanced composition of rapeseed oil allows us to talk about its undoubted benefits for humans.. It:

improves cardiac activity, contributes to the normal functioning of the pancreas, as well as the liver and kidneys;
reduces the level of bad cholesterol, plays a significant role in the normalization of fat metabolism;
useful for digestion, reduces the acidity of the stomach, has a mild laxative effect;
has a regenerating effect, due to which the process of healing wounds and burns is much faster;
having analgesic properties, it is useful for diseases of the joints;
improves the condition of the skin and hair, preserving their beauty and youth.

This oil is especially recommended for women. It contains the hormone estradiol, which is responsible for the readiness of the female body for conception and protects against gynecological diseases. The product is useful for pregnant women, because it contributes to the proper development of the fetus. "Northern olive" is of great value for baby food, because it contains the substances necessary for the healthy development of the child.

It is worth saying that the antioxidant vitamin E found in rapeseed prevents the formation of cancer cells and inhibits their growth. According to recent studies, in women who use rapeseed or olive oil in cooking, the risk of breast cancer is significantly reduced.

The body's daily need for vitamin E can be met with just a daily tablespoon of rapeseed oil.

Can it cause harm?

In rapeseed oil there are harmful substances that are extremely important to know about - these are erucic acid and thioglycosides. Our body cannot process erucic acid. Accumulating in the tissues, it disrupts the functioning of the liver, heart and circulatory system. In addition, this acid causes problems in the genital area. Such dangerous components as thioglycosides provoke headaches and allergies.

However, these substances are harmful to the body only if they are present in the product in large quantities. Such oil should not be categorically used for food, it is used only for technical needs.

Rapeseed oil suitable for consumption is obtained, as mentioned above, from the canola variety, in which the amount of harmful substances is minimized. Such a product is tasty, nutritious and healthy, and the content of erucic acid in it does not exceed 0.6%, which is completely safe for health. Due to the growing popularity of rapeseed oil, breeders are working tirelessly to create varieties with even less and even zero content of harmful substances in the plant, predicting a great future for rapeseed.

Application

The properties of rapeseed oil allow it to be used in cosmetology, medicine, cooking and other fields. In all these areas, it shows excellent results and has earned positive reviews. Already accumulated a lot of recipes using this product, simple and effective.

In cosmetology

For cosmetic purposes, pure rapeseed oil is used or homemade creams and masks are made on its basis. They perfectly nourish, moisturize and soften the skin. Especially the remedy is indicated for tired, overdried and rough skin. It is also useful for curls. After applying the oil, the hair becomes soft, silky and shiny, dandruff disappears.

Recipes with rapeseed oil for skin and hair:

Facial cleansing. A couple of teaspoons of rapeseed oil are slightly heated in a water bath (an easier option is to pour into a heated spoon). Saturate a cotton pad with warm oil and cleanse the skin with it. Next, take a new cotton pad and use it to apply our oil product already abundantly on the face, not forgetting the eyebrows and lips. After 2-3 minutes, the product can be wiped off with a cotton swab dipped in tea or water diluted in half with fruit juice. This procedure has a beneficial effect on any skin.
Mask for dry and chapped skin of the face and hands. Mix a couple of dessert spoons of butter with honey and cream or natural yogurt, taken in a tablespoon. Apply the composition on the face and hands, and after 20-25 minutes, rinse with warm water.
Moisturizing bath for body skin. Add a couple of tablespoons of oil to a bath filled with water and bath foam. Take a bath for 15-20 minutes. The skin after such a procedure will be moisturized, acquire velvety and elasticity.
Elimination of dandruff. Add the oil to the shampoo in a ratio of 10 per 100 ml and wash your hair with it 1-2 times a week. A positive result will not keep you waiting. The scalp will soften, dryness and with it unpleasant white flakes will quickly disappear.
Nourishing hair mask. Rub rapeseed oil into the scalp and hair roots with massaging movements. Next, cover your head with a shower cap and warm with a towel, and after half an hour wash off the product with warm water using shampoo. The procedure is carried out twice a month until the condition of the hair improves.

In medicine and pharmacology

For medicinal purposes, rapeseed oil is used orally to improve the body, it is also effective as a compress for joint diseases and as part of ointments for the treatment of skin lesions. In the pharmaceutical industry, it is used in oil injections and in topical healing ointments.

Rapeseed oil treatment:

Ingestion to strengthen the body. Daily take one to two dessert spoons of oil on an empty stomach for an hour and a half before breakfast.
Joint treatment. Apply a warm compress with oil to the sore spot for a couple of hours. Rapeseed reduces inflammation and relieves pain.
Healing of small wounds, cuts and burns. Lubricate the lesions with rapeseed oil up to 4 times a day.
Revitalizing bath after a hard day's work. Pour a mixture of 2 tablespoons of oil, a glass of milk, 50 g of sea salt, a teaspoon of starch, a tablespoon of soda, 3 drops of lavender aromatic oil into a bath with warm water and take it for no more than 20 minutes.

In culinary and other areas

Unrefined rapeseed oil is great for dressing salads, contributing to a better absorption of the nutrients found in the ingredients of the dish. It is not recommended to fry on it. With prolonged heating, the product loses useful substances, and extremely dangerous toxic compounds are formed in it. To maximize the benefits of this wonderful oil, it is best to use it cold or slightly heated in a water bath.

Although the product is often found as an ingredient in ready-made baby food, some nutritionists have expressed concern about the consumption of rapeseed by children. They believe that even a small amount of erucic acid can be harmful to the child's body. To minimize all possible risks, it is recommended to give the baby such food not on an ongoing basis, but only periodically.

In the food industry, the product is used in the production of cooking oils, mayonnaise and margarine. Technical oil from rapeseed is used in metallurgy for the steel hardening procedure. Due to the resistance of the product to low temperatures, it is successfully used for the lubrication of jet engines. Also, this oil has found application in the paint and varnish, chemical, printing, leather and textile industries. Do not forget about it in the production of soap, detergents and cosmetics.

Rapeseed oil is becoming increasingly popular as a biofuel component. By adding caustic soda and methyl alcohol to it, an excellent substitute for diesel fuel is obtained. Rapeseed oil fuel causes minimal harm to nature and is half the cost.

Contraindications, side effects

Due to the presence of a number of contraindications, the use of this oil is not recommended:

with individual intolerance;
people with cholelithiasis and hepatitis;
with disorders of the digestive tract.

Oil should be used in moderation, taking into account all contraindications and not getting carried away with it. Excessive consumption of this product can cause harm to health in the form of itching, skin irritations and even swelling.

How to choose

In the Russian market, rapeseed oil is a new product, so it is important to take its choice seriously. In a useful "northern olive", the content of erucic acid should not exceed 0.6%. This information should be found on the label. Quality oil cannot contain sediment. It is also important to avoid rapeseed oil made from genetically modified varieties of the plant.

It is worth immediately abandoning the purchase of hydrogenated oil, because it has an unstable molecular structure, which quickly deteriorates.

It is best to buy rapeseed oil in stores specializing in the sale of natural oils.. They value their reputation and care about the quality of the goods. A good product can also be bought in a large hypermarket, but in this case it should be chosen carefully.

On the shelves of stores you can find oil produced by both Russian manufacturers and foreign ones: from Belarus, Finland, the Czech Republic, France, Denmark, England, Poland. The Russian "Anninsky rapeseed oil" from the company "OOO MEZ Yug Rusi" is popular. This is a refined, deodorized and frozen product, suitable not only for dressing cold snacks, but also for frying. It contains fatty acids that are extremely beneficial for health and even for weight loss.

Another well-known company offering high-quality rapeseed oil is Olive, produced in Kazakhstan. This manufacturer enjoys a good reputation in the market. Foreign firms Borges and Bonne have also proven themselves well.

Where to store

Rapeseed oil also valuable because retains all useful properties for 5 years, the necessary transparency and pleasant smell, which cannot be said about other edible oils. It should be stored in a glass hermetically sealed container in a dark place, for example, in a kitchen cabinet. It is important to ensure that the product is not exposed to sunlight.

If the storage rules are violated, the oil may lose its aroma, become cloudy and acquire sediment at the bottom of the bottle, which indicates oxidation and rancidity of the liquid. The started bottle of oil is recommended to be consumed within six months, and it should be stored in the refrigerator.

Rapeseed oil is a product obtained from the seeds of rapeseed, a plant that does not occur in the wild. This product is not new; in the middle of the last century it was used in industry, mainly for biofuel production. It was also used in the manufacture of soap, leather processing and perfumery.

However, despite the high content of nutrients, it was not used in food. Erucic acid is to blame, as a result of accumulation in the body causing various diseases, including cancer.

Composition of rapeseed oil

Canadian scientists have developed canola rapeseed. Erucic acid is present in it in amounts safe for humans, approximately 2%.

Finally, a product with such a high content of polyunsaturated fatty acids necessary for the human body can be used in the food industry. It is worth noting that the beneficial substances contained in rapeseed oil do not contain any product in its pure form.

Benefits of rapeseed oil

Rapeseed oil has proven itself in dietary nutrition, both therapeutic and prophylactic. So, due to the content of unsaturated fatty acids, it is recommended for people with diseases of the digestive system and circulatory system.

The effect of reducing thrombosis with regular consumption of it has been proven, which means that the risk of occurrence and development of heart attacks and strokes is reduced.
Oleic acid controls cholesterol, cleanses blood vessels and prevents the development of atherosclerosis. In addition to cholesterol, which causes interest in traditional medicine. So, it is believed that it relieves the unpleasant manifestations of a hangover syndrome and the consequences of food poisoning.
Vitamin F, which is quite rare in other products, perfectly stimulates the immune system, protecting the body from various infections, has a positive effect on internal organs, promotes wound healing, and has an anti-inflammatory effect.
Vitamin E, which affects the reproductive function of the body, is contained in a fairly large amount.
Thanks to special cleaning, it is not inferior in taste to the favorite -, but the price for it is much lower. Among the people, it even received the name "northern olive."
Works well for outdoor use as well. So, baths of slightly warmed oil relieve pain in diseases of the joints, soften the rough skin of the legs and arms. They treat burns and shallow cuts. Injectable solutions are prepared on the basis of sterile rapeseed oil. Creams from it, moisturize and rejuvenate the skin.

How to apply rapeseed oil

Scientists have come to the conclusion that taking just 1 tablespoon a day completely fills a person's need for fats and polyunsaturated acids. In addition, by accelerating the metabolic processes in the body, it promotes weight loss and improves the digestive process. If you believe all this, then the benefits of rapeseed oil are great, but do not forget that it can harm the body.