Sarah EatonCarrot seed essential oil, which comes from the dried seeds of the wild carrot plant, can be traced back to uses in Egypt, France and India. It should not be confused with the more cheaply-made carrot oil, though that itself has its own set of base-oil benefits. Carrot seed oil has a yellowish-brown color, and it has a distinct woody, root-like aroma. Carrot seed oil has been used in cooking and in beauty products, but also has several medicinal uses. (1) To learn about the specifics of these medicinal uses, read below.
Here are 12 health uses of carrot seed essential oil:
1. Youthful Skin
Carrot seed essential oil is packed full of antioxidants and carotol, which means it can help protect your skin from damage as well as diminish the appearance of wrinkles. Furthermore, carrot seed oil, with its antioxidant agents, can keep your hair from turning white, keep your joints from stiffening, your muscles from weakening and your eyesight from deteriorating. It may also prevent other issues related to aging, such as weak digestion and sexual decline. It seems this essential oil acts similarly to the fountain of youth! (2)
2. Antibacterial
Studies show that carrot seed essential oil is effective in fighting off certain strains of bacteria. In fact, one study in particular that studied the effect of 60 essential oils on bacterial growth found that carrot seed oil was the most active. It significantly inhibited bacteria growth after only one hour, indicating it’s fast-acting as well as powerful. (3)
3. Anti-Fungal
Not only is carrot seed essential oil antibacterial, it has also shown to have powerful antifungal properties. In a 2016 study, in fact, carrot seed essential oil demonstrated antifungal activity against Cryptococcus neoformans, as well as some activity against strains of Candida spp. as well as Aspergillus spp. (4)
4. Fights Some Forms of Cancer
Research indicates that carrot seed oil may be beneficial in treating some forms of cancer. These anti-carcinogenic effects stem not only from carrot seed oil’s antioxidant properties, but also from other medicinal properties the oil contains. (5)
5. Helps Expel Gases
Excess gas and bloating can make you feel extremely uncomfortable, but you can use carrot seed oil to alleviate your gas-related symptoms. This essential oil can help remove gas from your intestines that cause the bloated feeling. (6)
6. Aids Your Body in Dispelling Toxins
Carrot seed oil can help cleanse the liver, as well as other organs from impurities. It removes toxins such as uric acid, urea, insecticides, pesticides, and other harmful chemicals that enter the body through food, water, and atmosphere. Essentially, by helping the body rid of toxins, carrot seed oil will help improve your overall health. (7)
7. Works as a Diuretic
Proper urination can help protect your body from various ailments. When you urinate, your body gets rid of several toxic substances, such as uric acid and bile, as well as microbes that cause infections like UTIs. You can use carrot seed oil for its natural diuretic properties to help maintain healthy urination practices. (8)
8. Helps Regulate Menstruation
If you suffer from irregular or painful periods, carrot seed oil may be able to help. It can help ease issues associated with obstructed menses. (9)
9. Acts as a Stimulant
Carrot essential oil is a stimulant and may help both in circulation and in metabolic function. It may aid in hormone production, enzymes, gastric juices, bile, as well as the peristaltic motion of the intestines. Furthermore, it may stimulate brain function, helping you to stay alert and more active. (10)
10. Rids of Parasites in Kids, Adults and Pets
While you should speak to your doctor before using essential oils to treat children, carrot seed oil can be used to kill intestinal parasites, both in adults and children. This is especially important as intestinal worms can lead to malnutrition as well as other harmful conditions. (11) Carrot seed oil may also be used to treat pets who have worms, though you should first speak to your veterinarian before administering a dose. (12)
11. Aids in Digestion
Carrot seed oil increases the efficiency of the organs involved with digestion. This means it can help regulate the flow of digestive juices, which in turn will help maintain normal order in your digestive system. (13)
12. Stimulates Cell Growth
Carrot seed essential oil, with its cytophylactic properties, stimulates the growth of new cells and tissues. This can come in handy for diminishing the appearance of unsightly scars on your skin. (14)
Warning for Using Carrot Seed Essential Oil:
While there are currently no known risks involved with the use of carrot seed oil, there are cautions to consider. Pregnant women avoid using this oil as there is no research to predict its effect on fetuses.