What is wheat germ oil?

Wheat germ oil is extracted from the germ of the wheat kernel, which makes up only 2.5% by weight of the kernel.Wheat germ oilis particularly high in octacosanol - a 28-carbon long-chain saturated primary alcohol found in a number of different vegetable waxes. Octacosanol has been studied as an exercise- and physical performance-enhancing agent. Very long chain fatty alcohols obtained from plant waxes and beeswax have been reported to lower plasma cholesterol in humans. Wheat germ oil is also very high in vitamin E (255 mg/100g), and has the highest content of vitamin E of any food that has not undergone prior preparation or vitamin fortification.

Wheat germ is the embryo of a wheat berry (kernel) and forms about 2.5 percent of the total berry. Wheat bran (the seed coat) forms 14.5 percent and the starchy endosperm forms 83 percent. Commercial wheat germ is a by-product of milling the endosperm to make white flour. Wheat germ oil is expeller pressed from the wheat germ or solvent extracted using acetone, hexane or methanol. The oil is then filtered, degummed, bleached and deodorized.

Wheat germ oil is a natural and fat soluble oil that comes from wheat kernel germ. It is high in vitamins A, D and E as well as lecithin. Wheat germ oil also contains vitamins B1, B2, B3 and B6 in smaller levels as well as vitamin F.

Vitamins A, D and E

Because of the high amounts of vitamins A, D and E, wheat germ oil works great on aging and dry skin due to its cell regenerative properties.

Cardiovascular Function

Wheat germ oil contains properties that balance blood cholesterol. This is helpful in enhancing cardiovascular function.

Elevates Mood

Wheat germ oil improves the functions of the nervous system and also acts as a mood elevator.

Fiber

Wheat germ oil is an excellent source of fiber. This will improve functions of the bowel, prevent weight gain and reduce the risk of developing diabetes.

Conception

Because wheat germ oil is so rich in vitamin E it often can help a woman conceive. This is contingent on the fact that she has no underlying health disorders.