Cooking Oils as Massage Oils and More: The Healthy Benefits

When you finish using your oil for cooking or making a salad dressing, there are many more uses for the oil in that bottle - and with many other healthy benefits. For example, many cooking oils, also known as culinary oils, are often used as massage oils, either alone or as carrier oils when essential oils are added.

Essential oils are those oils, like lavender, patchouli, frankincense, myrrh and much much more. They are natural substances extracted from flowers, herbs, spices, grasses, trees, shrubs and resins. When used for massages, essential oils are added in small quantities to these carrier (cooking/culinary) oils.

Note: If you are applying oil to your skin for the first time, do a patch test to be sure you are not allergic.

MORE USES FOR COOKING OILS

Almond Oil - used in baking, sauces, salad dressings and desserts - is also an emollient

Because it softens and soothe the skin, almond oil is a great emollient and is even suitable for all skin types. The oil is an effective skin moisturizer that also helps reduce inflammation and relieve itching. Almond oil does not penetrate the skin quickly making it a popular massage oil; this is because it can be used all over the body and still allow time for a good massage before the oil sinks into the skin. The oil is also used as a carrier oil because of its non-greasy properties, ability to spread easily and nourish the skin. Used for massages, almond oil is also beneficial for relieving aches and pains.

Apricot Kernel Oil - good for cooking and salad dressings - is also good for sensitive skin

Apricot kernel oil is used both as a massage oil alone and as a carrier oil. The very rich vitamin E. content of apricot kernel oil makes it beneficial for helping skin maintain its suppleness and elasticity. The oil penetrates the skin easily without leaving an oily residue behind. It works very well on sensitive skin as well as dry and irritated skin. .

Grapeseed Oil - used for cooking and in salad dressings - is also the most popular massage oil

Commonly used for massages, grapeseed oil is beneficial for the skin type that does not absorb oil easily.

Hazelnut Oil - used for flavoring, baking and salad dressings - also has astringent properties

In addition to its astringent properties, hazelnut oil penetrates deeply and stimulates the circulatory system. It is also high in vitamins, minerals and protein. The texture of the oil makes it a good choice for moisturizers for people with oily skin. Hazelnut oil is often used for facial and body massages and works well as a carrier oil.

Hemp Seed Oil - used in cooking and salad dressings - is a rich source of omega-6 fatty acids

The fatty acids in this oil helps naturally replenish moisture in the skin. The omega-6 fatty acids are good for people who suffer from psoriasis, eczema, scaly and cracking skin, dry lips and dry hair. Adding this fat to the diet is how you improve your skin's natural appearance.

Macadamia Nut Oil - used in marinades, flavoring, cooking and salad dressings - is also the best regenerative oil

This nut oil is known as one of the best regenerative oils available on the market. This is because macadamia nut oil resembles sebum - the oil our skin naturally produces for protection. The protective oil has a high absorption rate and works well for healing scars, skin irritations, sunburn and minor wounds.

Olive Oil - for cooking and drizzling over food or to make salad dressings - also has a multitude of uses in addition to being a carrier oil

Olive oil has been used for centuries for a wide range of reasons. This includes not only for a healthy diet but a healthy complexion and hair as well

- use olive oil as a simple warm soak for dried brittle fingernails, ragged cuticles, to soften hands and feet, and relieve chapped lips

- as a hair massage oil to reduce frizzy hair

- add 2 to 3 tablespoons to bath water mixed with your favorite essential oil to soothe skin

- olive oil is also used for face and body scrubs (see link below)

- many believe it is beneficial for weight loss (see link below for more information)

Pecan Nut Oil - used in baking, flavoring foods, marinades and salad dressings - is also good for dry skin

Pecan nut oil is a lightweight massage oil. It has skin soothing and softening properties and is especially good for dry skin.

Pistachio Nut Oil - used for flavoring foods and salad dressings - will quickly hydrate the skin

Pistachio nut oil is used for massages because of its ability to be easily absorbed by the skin resulting in a soft and supple texture. The oil helps nourish, hydrate and soften the skin because of its vitamin content.

Sesame Seed Oil - used for stir-frying, flavoring and salad dressings - is also naturally antibacterial

In addition to being antibacterial, sesame seed oil is also anti-inflammatory and antiviral. It helps nourish the scalp in order to control dandruff and to kill dandruff-causing bacteria. The oil helps protect the skin from chlorine in swimming pools. Sesame seed oil has been used to kill lice infestations in the hair of children. Use this oil also to soothe your skin if has been exposed to too much sun and wind; it will calm a sunburn.

Safflower Oil - used for salad dressings and cooking - is also a popular carrier oil

This popular carrier oil helps to moisturize, condition, soften and regenerate the skin. As one of the most popular carrier oils, it is most beneficial for sensitive, damaged and dry skin.

Sunflower Oil - used as a cooking fat, and for salad dressings - is also good for sensitive skin

Sunflower oil is also good for sensitive skin that is dry and damaged. The oil helps to moisturize, condition, soften and regenerate the skin.

Wheatgerm Oil - good for flavoring and salad dressings - is also good for rough skin areas

Due to its ultra rich properties, wheat germ oil is useful as a massage oil. It is especially beneficial when used on rough skin areas. If you find the oil is too sticky on its own, mix it with a lighter oil such as almond oil.

Note: Keep in mind when it comes to massages, you do not need to head to a spa - you can massage these oils into areas of your skin yourself.

For more information about the many uses of cooking oil, as well as for cooking, see the links below. Also see the warning about buying and properly storing cooking oils.