Wheat Germ

Wheat germ oil contains high levels of vitamin E, a natural antioxidant, so it can be added to other carrier oils to act as a preservative.  Wheatgerm oil is the richest food source we have for vitamin E.

Origin

Wheat germ oil is the most widely cultivated cereal grain in the world and is derived from a hybrid wild wheat that grew in the Middle East 10,000 years ago.

How's it's made

Wheatgerm oil is extracted by warm pressing or solvent extraction from the germ of wheat.  It is an extremely valuable source of vitamin E (190mg per 100gm) and essential fatty acids.  Because of it vitamin E content it is a natural antioxidant and is well protected from the elements that usually break down vegetable oils, such as light and heat. It promotes the formation of skin cells, improving blood circulation, and helps relieve symptoms of dermatitis.

Uses

Rich in lipid soluble vitamins therefore very good for revitalizing dry skin.
Believed to help relieve symptoms of dermatitis.
Beneficial for tired muscles, making a good base for after sport massage.

Cautions

Those allergic to wheat flour should be tested for possible skin reaction beofre use in aromatherapy or massage.
Regular use on the face may encourage hair growth in those susceptible to it.
It is non-irritant on the skin of babies (stier 1990)

Safety Considerations

• Do not take essential oils internally.
• Do not apply to eyes, sensitive areas or mucous membranes.
• Do not apply undiluted to skin (for directions on proper dilution refer to an aromatherapy text).
• The information on this website is not intended to diagnose or prescribe.
• Pregnant women, nursing mothers and children should not use essential oils without first consulting a trained healthcare practitioner.
• The statements on this website have not been evaluated by the FDA.
• You should not use this information for treating a health problem or disease or to make a self-diagnosis.
• Contact your Health Care provider immediately if you suspect that you have a medical problem.

References:

Price L. Price S. Carrier Oils for Aromatherapy and Massage. Riverhead Publishing, England 2010
Battaglia, S.  The Complete Guide to Aromatherapy. The International Centre of Holistic Aromatherapy, Australia, 2005
Tisserand R. Young R.  Essential Oil Safety, second edition.  Churchhill Livingstone, UK, 2013
Sheppard-Hanger S. The Aromatherapy Practitioner Reference Manual.  Atlantic Institute of Aromatherapy, USA, 2000
Caddy R. Essential Oils in Colour.  Amberwood Publishing, UK, 2005
Lawless J. The encyclopaedia of Essential Oils.  Element Books Limited, GB, 1992
Caddy R. the Essential Blending Guide.  Amberwood Publishing, UK, 2007
Weaver W.W. Sauer’s Herbal Cures.  Routledge, UK, 2001
World Wide Web Encyclopeadia Britannica. USA, 2014
Photos attribution – istock Photos

Information and statements regarding Kelley products have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any health condition or disease.  All information, content and product descriptions contained within this site is for reference purposes and is not intended to substitute advice given by a pharmacist, physician, or other licensed health-care professional. You should not use this information for treating a health problem or disease or to make a self-diagnosis.  Contact your Health Care provider immediately if you suspect that you have a medical problem.