The Repurposing Life

Blueberry Seed Oil Health and Beauty Benefits

Blueberries are a widely distributed group of perennial (lives more than two years) flowering (angiorperm) shrubs (woody plants) that produce blue–purple berries. The oil extracted from the seeds is packed with phytochemicals, which are plant–based compounds that have a variety benefits. Blueberry seed oil has broad health and beauty benefits, as well as numerous therapeutic uses.

Blueberry seed oil helps soothe, protect, and moisturize skin, hair and nails. It is a cold–pressed carrier oil that can be used on all skin types, particularly sensitive skin. It absorbs quickly due to its high level content of phytosterols and vitamin E, and leaves little residue. Although high in healthy fatty acids, unlike many other essential oils, it is light and greaseless. Its low molecular composition makes it non–comedogenic (won’t clog pores).

Blueberries are found most commonly in acidic and infertile growing conditions. Blueberries are usually prostrate shrubs (having its branches lie just above the ground) that can vary in size from 10 cm (4 in) to 4 m (13 ft.) in height. They are classified in the section (taxonomic rank) Cyanococcus in the genus (species) Vaccinium (a common species of “dwarf” shrubs), in the family Ericaceae (commonly known as the heath or heather family).

The genus Vaccinium also includes cranberries, bilberries (or European blueberries), huckleberries (common name given to two closely related species: Vaccinium and Gaylussacia) and Madeira blueberries (Vaccinium padifolium). V. padifolium grows at elevations of 800–1,700 m. and is endemic to the islands of Madeira and Porto Santo, Portugal.  

Name	Scientific Name	Origin	Benefits	Caution	Storage
Blueberry	Vaccinium sect. Cyanococcus corymbosum	Native to North America	Restores the Skin’s Natural Barrier, Fades the Appearance of Dark Spots, Soothes Acne, Reduces the Appearance of Scars, Reduces Under–Eye Puffiness and Dark Circles, Heals Broken Capillaries (Varicose or Spider Veins), Strengthens and Stimulates Hair Growth, Prevents Dandruff, Protects Against Environmental Damage.	Blueberry seed oil is generally safe to use, it can even be used straight out of the bottle. Avoid use if you are allergic to blueberries or other berries. If nursing or pregnant, consult your physician prior to use. Do not apply directly to broken or damaged skin, or open wounds. Never use in eyes or mucous membranes. Blueberry seed oil can cause skin irritation or an allergic reaction. Always perform a 24–hour skin patch test first.	Airtight dark glass kept in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

Commercial Production Terminology

Commercial blueberries—both wild (lowbush) and cultivated (highbush)—are all native to North America, including Vaccinium caesariense (a species native to the Eastern U.S.). The most common species of blueberry is Vaccinium sect. Cyanococcus corymbosum (a highbush variety), which is native to North America and was not introduced into Europe until the 1930s.

Lowbush Blueberries

In commercial production of blueberries, the species with small, pea–size berries growing on ground–level bushes are known as “lowbush blueberries” (synonymous with “wild”). Canada is the leading producer of lowbush blueberries.

Highbush Blueberries

The species with larger berries growing on taller, cultivated bushes are known as “highbush blueberries”. The U.S. produces about 40% of the world supply of highbush blueberries.

Description of the Blueberry

Wild blueberries reproduce by cross–pollination, with each seed producing a plant with a different genetic composition, causing within the same species differences in growth, productivity, color, leaf characteristics, disease resistance, flavor and other fruit characteristics. 

The mother plant develops underground stems called rhizomes (bulbs that send out roots and shoots from their nodes), allowing the plant to form a network of rhizomes creating a large patch (called a clone) which is genetically distinct.

Soil

Wild blueberries prefer an acidic soil between 4.2 and 5.2 pH and only moderate amounts of moisture. They have a hardy cold tolerance at higher latitudes.

Highbush (cultivated) blueberries prefer sandy or loam soils (soil composed mostly of sand, silt and a smaller amount of clay, at sand–silt–clay concentrations of 40–40–20%), having shallow root systems that benefit from mulch (a layer of matter on the soil’s surface to preserve moisture) and fertilizer (matter added to soil to supply nutrients). 

Leaves

The leaves of highbush blueberries can be either deciduous (are shed in autumn) or evergreen, ovate to lanceolate, and 1–8 cm (½–3+¼ in) long and 0.5–3.5 cm (¼–1+⅜ in) broad.

Flowers

Floral and leaf buds develop intermittently along the stems of the plant, with each floral bud giving rise to 5–6 flowers and the eventual fruit. The flowers are bell–shaped, white, pale pink or red, sometimes tinged green.

Fruit

The fruit is a berry (a fleshy fruit without a pit produced from a single flower containing one ovary) 5–16 mm (0.2–0.6 in) in diameter with a flared crown at the end. They are pale green at first, then reddish–purple, and finally uniformly blue when ripe. The berries are covered in a protective coating of powdery epicuticular wax (a coating of whitish film that forms on fruits and other plant organs), colloquially known as the “bloom”.

The berries generally have a sweet flavor when mature, with variable acidity. Blueberry bushes typically bear fruit in the middle of the growing season. Fruiting times can be affected by local conditions such as climate, altitude and latitude (northernmost geographical region), so the time of harvest in the northern hemisphere can vary from May to August.

Fruit productivity of wild (lowbush) blueberries varies by the degree of pollination, genetics of the clone, soil fertility, water availability, insect infestation, plant diseases and local growing conditions. Lowbush blueberries have an average mature weight of 0.3 grams (0.008 oz.).

The Origins of Cultivating Blueberries

First Nations peoples (a term used to identify Indigenous Canadian peoples who are neither Inuit nor Métis, traditionally, people who lived south of the tree line and the Arctic Circle) consumed wild blueberries for millennia before North America was colonized by Europeans.

The species Vaccinium has a mostly circumpolar distribution (occurs at high latitudes), with species mainly present in North America, Europe and Asia. Many of the species available for commerce are from North America, particularly Canada and the U.S. for wild (lowbush) blueberries, and several U.S. states and British Columbia for cultivated (highbush) blueberries.

Highbush blueberries were first cultivated in New Jersey around the beginning of the 20^th century. North American native species of blueberries are now grown commercially in the Southern Hemisphere in Australia, New Zealand and some South American countries. The Colombian or Andean blueberry, Vaccinium meridionale (also “agraz”, a species in the section Pyxothamnus, found in the mountains of Colombia and Venezuela), is wild–harvested and commonly available locally.

Blueberries as Food

Blueberries are sold fresh or are processed as individually quick frozen (IQF) fruit, purée (cooked and blended to the consistency of a paste), juice, or dried or infused berries. These may then be used in a variety of consumer goods, such as jellies (fruit preserves), jams, pies, muffins, snack foods, pancakes, or as an additive to breakfast cereals.

Blueberry jams and jellies are made from blueberries, sugar, water and fruit pectin (a structural acidic heteropolysaccharide). Blueberry sauce is a sweet sauce prepared using blueberries as a primary ingredient. Blueberry wine is made from the flesh and skin of the berries, which is fermented and then matured; usually the lowbush blueberry variety is used.

The Nutrient Content of Blueberries

Blueberries contain moderate levels of essential dietary minerals and dietary fiber (the parts of plants that cannot be completely broken down by digestive enzymes). Generally, the nutritional contents of blueberries are a low percentage of the DV (Daily Values).

A 100 gram serving provides a relatively low caloric value (57 kcal) with a glycemic load (GL, a number that estimates how much the food will raise a person’s blood glucose after ingestion) of 6.

Value per 100 g (3.5 oz.) blueberries, raw
Energy	240 kJ (57 kcal)
Carbohydrates	14.49 g
Sugars	9.96 g
Dietary fiber	2.4 g
Fat	0.33 g
Protein	0.74 g
Vitamins	Quantity	% DV†
Vitamin A equiv. beta–Carotene	32 μg	0%
Lutein zeaxanthin	80 μg	0%
Vitamin A	54 IU
Thiamine (B1)	0.037 mg	3%
Riboflavin (B2)	0.041 mg	3%
Niacin (B3)	0.418 mg	3%
Pantothenic acid (B5)	0.124 mg	2%
Vitamin B6	0.052 mg	4%
Folate (B9)	6 μg	2%
Vitamin C	9.7 mg	12%
Vitamin E	0.57 mg	4%
Vitamin K	19.3 μg	18%
Minerals	Quantity	%DV†
Calcium	6 mg	1%
Iron	0.28 mg	2%
Magnesium	6 mg	2%
Manganese	0.336 mg	16%
Phosphorus	12 mg	2%
Potassium	77 mg	2%
Sodium	1 mg	0%
Zinc	0.165 mg	2%
Other Constituents	Quantity
Water	84 g

The Phytochemistry of Blueberry Seed Oil

The active chemical compounds in blueberry seed oil are essential fatty acids (Omega 3 and 6). The most abundant is linoleic acid (41–57.0%), which helps to reduce inflammation, lowering the risk of acne, eczema and psoriasis. Followed by alpha linoleic acid (16–27.0%), which helps keep skin hydrated. Oleic acid (16–25.0%), palmitic acid (3.5–7.0%) and stearic acid (0.6–6.0%) can also be found in smaller amounts.

*Fatty acid breakdown is shared from Modern Cosmetics Volume 1.

Vitamin E and tocopherols are remarkably abundant nutrients in blueberry seed oil. Tocotrienols, a certain type of vitamin E abundant in this specific oil, is dubbed to be more potent than vitamin E itself in its protection against environmental and UV damage. Vitamin A promotes cell turnover and collagen production. Vitamin C is an antioxidant that brightens skin.

Phytosterols make up a staggering 580 mg per 100 grams. This is among the highest sterol concentration in an oil, even surpassing soybean oil. Phytosterols act as anti–inflammatory agents, helping skin repair itself, they create a moisturizing effect by reducing trans–dermal water loss.

Another compound found in large quantity in blueberry seed oil is squalene, which helps cracked skin regenerate and also prevents UV damage. Other less abundant compounds are proanthocyanidins, powerful antioxidants that help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and carotenoids like quercetin, a flavonoid with anti–inflammatory properties.

Blueberries contain anthocyanins (or anthocyans, water–soluble vacuolar pigments that, depending on their pH, may appear red, purple, blue, or black), other polyphenols and various phytochemicals (chemical compounds produced by plants) are under preliminary research for their potential biological effects. 

Most polyphenol studies have been conducted using the highbush cultivar of blueberries (V. corymbosum), while content of polyphenols and anthocyanins in lowbush (wild) blueberries (V. angustifolium) exceeds values found in highbush cultivars.

The Beauty Benefits of Blueberry Seed Oil

Blueberries are among the most nutrient–dense berries. Blueberries have powerful antioxidant properties, the highest antioxidant content of all the “superfoods”, in fact. Antioxidants are responsible for protecting your body against free radicals, which are unstable molecules (like environmental stressors) that can damage your cells. When it comes to skin, hair and overall physical health, antioxidants are key.

Blueberries are used to make jellies, syrups, and eaten fresh or frozen. They provide many health and beauty benefits due to their abundance in essential nutrients like vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, phytonutrients, flavonoids and dietary fibers. If you’re interested in reading in further detail, here is a PDF on Blueberry Seed Oil Health and Beauty Benefits. The most common beauty benefits attributed to blueberry seed oil are discussed below.

Blueberry Seed Oil for Skin

The oil extracted from the seeds of Vaccinium sect. Cyanococcus corymbosum is used in aromatherapy and in cosmetics. Blueberry seed oil helps soothe, protect, and moisturize skin, hair and nails. If you have some old blueberries sitting in your fridge, consider a zero waste approach by making a Homemade Blueberry Radiance Mask with blueberries that are too old to eat, but too good to throw out.

Blueberry seed oil can be used on all skin types and particularly sensitive skin. It has an absorption rating of 1, meaning it absorbs quickly and leaves little residue on skin. The high levels of phytosterols and vitamin E play a major factor when it comes to its rapid absorption by the skin. Although high in healthy fatty acids, the oil is light and greaseless, having a low molecular composition. Blueberry seed oil has a comedogenic rating of 1, meaning it has a very low likelihood to clog pores.

1. Prevents and Reduces the Signs of Aging

As skin ages, the production of collagen and elastin slows down. This leads to the formation of fine lines and wrinkles. Blueberry seed oil is a great source of antioxidants, vitamins C and E, which help to protect against free radical and UV damage. These are two of the main causes of premature aging.

Blueberry seed oil also helps reduce the breakdown of collagen and improves elasticity, which makes it even better in anti–aging formulations. It is a wonderful emollient that helps keep skin moisturized and reduces irritation.

The proanthocyanidins in blueberry seed oil also help to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Skin repair is also essential for preventing signs of premature aging. Vitamins C and A help to stimulate cell turnover and collagen production, which helps keep skin look plump and firm.

2. Fades the Appearance of Dark Spots

The proanthocyanidins in blueberry seed oil help to protect against UV damage, repair sun–damaged skin and improve skin’s overall tone. They also help treat damaged skin caused by high levels of radiation and chemotherapy. Skin damage from the sun can also cause dark spots (hyperpigmentation). The Vitamin C in blueberry seed oil brightens skin and reduces the appearance of dark spots.

3. Soothes Acne

Acne is caused by a variety of factors, including inflammation, bacteria and excess oil production. Alpha linolenic acid, linoleic acid, and quercetin are all anti–inflammatory agents that can help reduce the swelling and redness associated with acne. The omega–3 fatty acids in blueberry seed oil help to regulate oil production to keep pores from becoming clogged, while keeping skin hydrated.

Detoxifying compounds like Vitamin C protect the skin from toxins and pollutants. They reduce the appearance of pores by keeping them clear of dirt and oil, and lower the risk of skin problems like acne and pimples.

4. Restores the Skin’s Natural Barrier

The skin’s natural barrier is responsible for keeping your skin hydrated and protected from environmental damage. When this barrier is damaged, it can lead to dryness, irritation and inflammation. Dry skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis are often caused by a lack of moisture. Blueberry seed oil is rich in omega–3 fatty acids, which are important for maintaining the health of your cell membranes. Healthy fats are also essential for preventing inflammation.

Blueberries make a wonderful skin toner that aids in skin detoxification, maintains pH balance and tightens pores.

5. Reduces the Appearance of Scars

Scars can be both a physical and emotional burden. Blueberry seed oil can help reduce the appearance of scars and in the healing of cracked lips and lip sores. The vitamin C in blueberry seed oil helps to promote collagen production and repair damaged skin, hair, and nail cells. Check out our post on a Homemade Clear Nails Fungus Eliminator Recipe. 

6. Reduces Under–Eye Puffiness and Dark Circles

Dark under–eye circles are often a result of fatigue, allergies or genetics. The proanthocyanidins in blueberry seed oil help to reduce the appearance of dark under–eye circles. Puffiness around the eyes is often a result of inflammation or fluid retention. The anti–inflammatory properties of blueberry seed oil can help to reduce puffiness.

7. Heals Broken Capillaries (Varicose or Spider Veins)

Varicose or spider veins are caused by the weakening of blood vessels beneath the epidermal (outer most) layer of skin. It is a harmless, albeit unsightly condition that can be seen by the change in the surface appearance of the skin. Blueberries strengthen blood vessels and help heal broken capillaries. Vitamins C and A, and flavonoids protect our blood vessels from free radical damage. Potassium improves blood circulation and benefits the circulatory system. 

Blueberry Seed Oil for Hair

Blueberry seed oil is packed with phytochemicals, which are plant–based compounds that have a variety of skin, hair and health benefits.

1. Strengthens and Stimulates Hair Growth

The omega–3 fatty acids in blueberry seed oil help to nourish, strengthen and stimulate hair growth. Blueberry seed oil can help add shine and luster to dull, lifeless hair. Zinc, iron, potassium, magnesium and B vitamins also improve scalp health and promote hair growth, helping prevent breakage and split ends.

2. Prevents Dandruff

The omega–3 fatty acids in blueberry seed oil help to relieve the symptoms of scalp conditions like dandruff, psoriasis and seborrheic dermatitis, which can be both painful and embarrassing. Dandruff is a common scalp condition that is characterized by dry, flaky skin. The omega–3 fatty acids in blueberry seed oil help to keep the scalp hydrated, preventing dandruff, and soothe irritation caused by a dry, itchy scalp.

3. Protects Against Environmental Damage

Vitamins C and E in blueberry seed oil help protect cells from free radical damage. The proanthocyanidins in blueberry seed oil also help to protect against UV damage, keeping hair looking healthy and shiny. Since hair and nails are both composed of keratin, blueberry seed oil can be an effective nail treatment.  The antioxidants found in blueberry seed oil stimulate the production of new cells, throughout all three stages of cell growth.

Therapeutic Uses of Blueberry Seed Oil

We all know that blueberries are a powerhouse fruit when it comes to eating nutrient–dense foods that promote a healthy body, healthy skin, hair and nails. But the oil pressed from blueberry seeds is also fantastic for your skin when applied as a moisturizer.

Blueberry seed oil is a carrier oil that is cold–pressed from the seeds of blueberries. It can be used in serums, lotions, creams and even hair care products since it is hydrating and helps lock in moisture.

1. For An Anti–Aging Mask: Blend a small handful of blueberries, olive oil, crushed oats, Fuller’s Earth (bentonite clay) and honey to form a thick paste. Apply this paste on the face, and leave for 20 minutes. Wash off with lukewarm (but not hot) water. 
2. As An Acne Treatment: Mash a small handful of blueberries with a little turmeric powder and 3–4 drops fresh lemon juice enough to form a paste. Apply this paste on the face, and leave for 20 minutes. Wash off with lukewarm (but not hot) water. 
3. As A Skin Toner: Blend a small handful of steamed blueberries, crushed blueberries and enough plain yogurt to form a paste. Apply this paste on the skin, and leave for 20 minutes. Wash off with lukewarm (but not hot) water. 
4. To Exfoliate Dry Skin: Mash a small handful of blueberries, yogurt and oatmeal to form a paste. Use this paste as a scrub. Wash as usual.
5. To Fade Dark Circles: Add enough aloe vera gel to a small handful of mashed blueberries to form a paste. Gently apply this paste under the eyes, and leave for 10–15 minutes. Gently remove the paste from under the eyes using lukewarm (but not hot) water.
6. For a Nourishing Mask: Mash a small handful of blueberries, and add 1 Tbsp. honey and 1 Tbsp. olive oil to form a paste. Apply this paste on the face, and leave for 20–25 minutes. Wash off with lukewarm (but not hot) water. 
7. Face and Neck Moisturizer: Apply 4–6 drops blueberry seed oil and gently massage it into the skin. It should sink in quickly and leave no greasy feeling on your skin.
8. Balm for Irritated Skin: Apply 2–3 drops blueberry seed oil on newly washed irritated skin by slowly rubbing the oil into the skin until absorbed.
9. Massage Oil: The smooth texture and pleasant fragrance of this oil will relax the senses as well as muscle spasms.
10. For Styling Protection: Apply 1–2 drops blueberry seed oil on washed hair when ready for styling.
11. As A Hair Treatment: Apply 4–6 drops blueberry seed oil to hair and scalp before washing. Wait 15 minutes, wash as usual.
12. For Itchy Scalp: Use your fingertips to add 1 tsp. on slightly wet hair roots to soothe scalp and improve hair growth.
13. For Hair Growth: Massage hair roots with 3–4 drops blueberry seed oil, and use a wrap for 15 minutes after washing hair.
14. As A Hair Mask: Combine 2–3 drops blueberry seed oil with your usual hair mask to benefit from the synergistic effects.
15. Fight Dandruff: Apply 2–3 drops blueberry seed oil to scalp and massage with your fingertips before or after showering.
16. Lip Moisturizer: Apply 1–2 drops blueberry seed oil on your lips using your finger. It should be absorbed in a matter of minutes. Additionally, you can combine blueberry seed oil with a lip balm in any ratio you see fit.

Blueberry Seed Oil Substitutes

Baobab seed oil is a great alternative that offers similar benefits to blueberry seed oil. It is wonderful for use in anti–aging formulations and helps protect skin. It is not likely to clog pores and absorbs easily into skin, it can also be used on all skin types.

Red raspberry seed oil is another oil that extracted from berry seeds. It has the same comedogenic rating blueberry seed oil as and helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. It also helps protect skin and repairs the skin’s barrier.

Precautions

Blueberry seed oil is generally safe to use, it can even be used straight out of the bottle. Avoid use if you are allergic to blueberries or other berries. If nursing or pregnant, consult your physician prior to using blueberry seed oil. Use essential oils with extreme caution on children, be sure that it is safe for use on children. Some brands clearly labels their essential oils “KidSafe” on the bottle if it can be used on children ages 2–10.

Do not apply blueberry seed oil directly to broken or damaged skin. Do not apply directly to open wounds. Never use blueberry seed oil in eyes or in mucous membranes. Blueberry seed oil can cause skin irritation or an allergic reaction. When applying blueberry seed oil topically (on your skin), always perform a 24–hour skin patch test first using 1–2 drops, read how for further details. Since there are so many varieties of the species Vaccinium, blueberry seed oils can vary from one manufacturer—or even one bottle—to another. Use only 100% authentic oils. Store in tightly–sealed dark glass containers; in a cool, dark place away from light.

If you are interested in trying blueberry seed oil, be sure to choose a product that is 100% pure and organic. Blueberry seed oil can be found at most health food stores or online. Unrefined blueberry seed oil has a shelf life of about one year, while refined blueberry seed oil has a shelf life of two to three years.

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10 Proven Health Benefits of Blueberries
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Written by Joe Leech, MS on October 9, 2018