Antioxidant Support
Vitamin E Oil Background and Benefits
Vitamin E is a collective term for a group of compounds that include tocopherols and tocotrienols. The most biologically active of these compounds in humans is D-alpha-tocopherol, which is also the second-most abundant form of vitamin E in nature. The most significant dietary sources of vitamin E are generally seed oils such as wheat germ oil, almond oil, canola oil, sunflower oil and safflower oil.
The American anatomist Herbert McLean Evans discovered vitamin E in 1922. The American biochemist Gladys Anderson Emerson isolated vitamin E for the first time in 1935. The German chemist Erhard Fernholz first synthesized vitamin E in 1938, and its therapeutic effects for humans were also established for the first time in that year. Vitamin E is now known to be an essential nutrient, with a minimum daily requirement of 15 milligrams for adults.
The oxidation of fat produces a variety of reactive oxygen compounds commonly known as free radicals. These compounds can cause many types of damage when they react with cells in the body, especially their membranes. Vitamin E is a fat-soluble antioxidant that inhibits the production of these free radicals, which may provide cells with a supportive effect. Health supplements with vitamin E are often in the form of an oil.
Uses of Vitamin E Oil
Vitamin E is most commonly used for its antioxidant properties. It also supports normal physical movements, cognitive functions and blood production.
Cognitive support
Vitamin E may help to support cognitive functions, especially memory recall. The benefit is especially helpful for older people.
Blood health support
Vitamin E may support the normal production of red blood cells if on hemodialysis or taking erythropoietin.
Antioxidant support
Oral supplements containing vitamin E may have a strong antioxidant effects, especially when taken in combination with vitamin C. This benefit can be especially helpful for skin damage caused by ultraviolet radiation.
Movement support
Vitamin E can help to maintain normal body movements, especially when you have a naturally low level of vitamin E.
Signs You May Need Vitamin E Oil
The most significant effect of a low level of vitamin E is a loss of electrical conduction through nerve cells. This condition commonly causes neuromuscular problems, especially movements. Additional signs that you may need vitamin E oil include a weak immune system and anemia. Vitamin E deficiency is rare in humans and usually occurs only in specific conditions such as a low birth weight, genetic disorders affecting the metabolism of fats and conditions that inhibit the absorption of vitamin E from the intestines.