Health Benefits

Science Backed Health Benefits and Side Effects of Camellia Oil

Sugar And Spice

For over 2,300 years, people in East Asia have been using camellia oil. It’s a key cooking oil there, especially in the southern parts of China. The oil comes from the seeds of a plant called Camellia oleifera Abel.

You might also hear it called “Tea Seed Oil” or “Oriental Olive Oil.” It gets those nicknames because its makeup of healthy fats is a lot like olive oil’s. The plant itself is an evergreen shrub—or a small tree—that’s part of the Theaceae family. Its woody capsules hold the oily seeds that are the reason it’s grown. Plus, the plant helps prevent soil erosion. To get the best quality oil, producers cold-press the mature seeds from inside the Camellia. 1

This oil has a long history. In traditional Chinese medicine and Japanese folk practices, it was used for a range of health issues. For example, people applied it to treat stomach pain, burns, and intestinal problems. In Japan, it’s also known as Tsubaki oil and has been a go-to for conditioning hair and skin. 2 Beyond these uses, it’s so commonly part of daily life that some consider it a functional food. That means it offers health perks beyond just basic nutrition, which makes sense given its high levels of unsaturated fatty acids and antioxidants. 3 

The Nutritional Profile

What makes Camellia oil so good for you is its unique fat makeup. It’s low in saturated fat and packed with monounsaturated fat, especially oleic acid. In fact, it often contains even more oleic acid than olive oil 1 The thing is, it’s not just about the fats. The oil also has a bunch of other natural compounds, like phytosterols, squalene, and phenolics. These extras help the oil stay fresh and add to its health benefits 2

Nutritional Value of Camellia Oil (Per 100g)

Nutrient / Compound Concentration / Value Biological Significance & Properties Source
Total Fat 100 g Composed entirely of lipids; energy density is approximately 900 kcal/100g. {%  https://www.fao.org/fao-who-codexalimentarius/sh-proxy/jp/?lnk=1&url=https%253A%252F%252Fworkspace.fao.org%252Fsites%252Fcodex%252FMeetings%252FCX-709-28%252FWorking%2BDocuments%252Ffo28_05e_Add1.pdf %} 
Saturated Fatty Acids (SFA) 10.0% – 12.6% primarily Palmitic Acid (C16:0) and Stearic Acid (C18:0). The relatively low SFA content is favorable for cardiovascular health compared to animal fats. 2
Monounsaturated Fatty Acids (MUFA) 78.0% – 87.4% Predominantly Oleic Acid (C18:1). Levels are comparable to or higher than olive oil. Critical for reducing LDL cholesterol and resisting oxidation. 2
Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids (PUFA) 6.0% – 11.0% Primarily Linoleic Acid (C18:2, Omega-6) with trace amounts of Alpha-Linolenic Acid (Omega-3). Essential for cell membrane structure and skin hydration. 1
Vitamin E (Total Tocopherols) 37.8 mg – 82.2 mg Potent lipophilic antioxidant. Includes -tocopherol (~20-50 mg), -tocopherol, and -tocopherol. Protects cell membranes from lipid peroxidation. 2
Squalene 5.3 mg – 53.4 mg Triterpene hydrocarbon. Acts as a natural emollient, antioxidant, and precursor to sterol synthesis. Highly valued for skin anti-aging and hydration. 1
Phytosterols ~300 – 550 mg Includes -sitosterol, campesterol, and stigmasterol. Structurally similar to cholesterol, they inhibit cholesterol absorption in the intestine. 1
Polyphenols ~18.1 mg Includes phenolic acids, flavonoids, and catechins (EGCG). Provides anti-inflammatory, anti-allergic, and anti-carcinogenic activities. 1
Saponins Trace (in refined oil) Triterpenoid glycosides. While removed in refining, trace amounts contribute to immunological and anti-inflammatory effects. 4 
Minerals Variable (Trace) Contains trace elements like Calcium, Iron, and Zinc, which support enzymatic functions, though oil is not a primary mineral source. 1

Science-Backed Health Benefits of Camellia Oil

#1: Cardiovascular Health and Cholesterol Regulation

Camellia oil is often called a “heart-healthy” fat. Basically, it’s a good oil to cook with if you’re watching your heart. People even call it the “Oriental Olive Oil,” and for good reason. It can help manage your cholesterol, which is a big deal when it comes to preventing heart problems.

If you use it regularly, it helps lower the “bad” stuff—that’s LDL cholesterol and triglycerides. Those are the things that can clog up your arteries. At the same time, it helps maintain or even boost your “good” HDL cholesterol, which actually helps clear the fat out of your bloodstream. 5

But it’s not just about cholesterol. Camellia oil is also packed with antioxidants, like vitamin E and polyphenols. Think of those as little shields for your blood vessels. They protect them from damage caused by things like oxidative stress and inflammation. 6 This protection helps keep your arteries flexible and supports healthy blood pressure. So, adding it to your routine is a pretty smart move for your heart down the road. 5

What Research says?

#2: Advanced Skin Barrier Repair and Atopic Dermatitis Treatment

If you have dry, sensitive, or eczema-prone skin, Camellia oil might be a good option. It’s a natural way to soothe your skin, and it does more than just add moisture. In skincare, it’s popular because it can mimic the skin’s natural lipid structure. This helps it absorb deeply without feeling greasy or blocking pores. 11 This oil is especially good at repairing your skin’s protective barrier. Think of this barrier as a shield—it keeps out irritants and allergens, and stops moisture from escaping. 12 If you use it regularly, it can help calm the itching and redness that come with conditions like atopic dermatitis, also known as eczema. Over time, it can help bring back your skin’s smooth texture. Camellia oil works by locking in moisture and encouraging your skin to produce essential proteins. This helps turn rough, damaged skin into something healthier and stronger. It can offer relief even when regular moisturizers don’t seem to help. 2

What Research says?

#3: Anti-Aging, Collagen Synthesis, and Anti-Pollution Protection

Camellia oil can help fight premature aging and keep skin looking firm and healthy. Here’s how it works. It’s packed with antioxidants like squalene and vitamin E. These help neutralize free radicals—unstable molecules caused by UV rays and pollution that damage skin. 1 Those two factors are major causes of aging. The oil also helps your skin produce more collagen. 13 Collagen is the protein that keeps skin plump and elastic. By boosting collagen and helping prevent its breakdown, Camellia oil can smooth out fine lines and wrinkles, improve skin texture, and reduce sagging. 14 On top of that, it acts as a kind of shield against pollution. It helps stop environmental toxins from getting into the skin and causing damage at the cellular level. 15 

What Research says?

#4: Gastrointestinal Mucosal Protection

People have turned to camellia oil for stomach troubles for a long time. Now, science is starting to show why it actually works. It turns out the oil acts like a soothing balm for your stomach lining, helping to protect it from harsh things like alcohol and certain pain relievers (think NSAIDs). 17 It does this by giving the stomach’s natural defenses a boost and by cutting down on oxidative stress in the gut tissue. This one-two punch not only helps prevent ulcers from forming but also helps heal the ones that are already there. On top of that, camellia oil helps keep the whole GI tract in good shape by making sure the protective mucosal barrier stays strong. And when that barrier is working right, it’s a lot easier for your body to digest food and absorb all the good nutrients 18 

What Research says?

#5: Gut Microbiota Modulation and Anti-Colitis Effects

Your gut plays a huge role in your overall health. And it turns out, Camellia oil might be a big help in keeping it in good shape. Think of it as a prebiotic—it feeds the good bacteria in your gut, like Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus, which are key for digestion and a strong immune system. 20 At the same time, it helps keep bad bacteria in check and can calm inflammation in the colon. This is especially helpful for people dealing with conditions like colitis, where the gut lining is already irritated and the bacterial balance is off. 21 By soothing that inflammation and encouraging a healthy mix of microbes, Camellia oil supports better digestion and helps your body stay resilient overall. 1

What Research says?

#6: Weight Management, Metabolic Regulation, and Anti-Obesity

If you’re watching your weight or keeping an eye on your metabolic health, Camellia oil is a solid choice compared to other fats. It actually helps boost your metabolism and can cut down on fat buildup, especially around your liver and belly. Unlike unhealthy saturated fats—which tend to slow things down and pack on the pounds—Camellia oil works differently. Its nutrients tell your body to burn fat more effectively and respond better to insulin. That means it can be a helpful part of your diet if you’re looking to avoid issues like fatty liver disease or type 2 diabetes. Put simply, it helps keep your blood sugar steady and your metabolism humming along the way it should. 23 

What Research says?

#7: Potent Anti-Inflammatory and Immunomodulatory Activity

Chronic inflammation is often a hidden factor behind all sorts of health problems, like joint pain or autoimmune conditions. That’s where camellia oil comes in. It acts like a natural anti-inflammatory agent, helping to “cool down” an overactive immune system. Basically, it works by targeting specific pathways in the body to cut down on the signals that cause inflammation. This helps ease pain and swelling. 22 At the same time, it helps fine-tune the immune system. This ensures it responds to real threats without going overboard and attacking healthy tissue Because it works in these two ways, it can be helpful for managing inflammatory issues while also supporting overall immune health. 1 

What Research says?

#8: Anti-Fatigue and Exercise Performance Enhancement

If you’re into sports or just staying active, Camellia oil might be worth a look. Some research suggests it could give you a natural edge by helping fight off physical fatigue and boosting your endurance. The idea is that it influences the types of muscle fibers your body uses and helps reduce the oxidative stress that builds up during tough workouts. That combination can mean faster recovery and better performance. It also taps into something called the gut-muscle connection—basically, a healthy gut helps keep your energy steady, so you can keep going longer without crashing. 27

What Research says?

How to Consume Camellia Oil?

Culinary Applications

One thing that sets Camellia oil apart is its smoke point, which hits about 252°C (485°F). That makes it one of the most stable cooking oils out there. To put that in perspective, it handles heat better than olive oil, which starts smoking around 190-210°C. So for high-heat cooking—think stir-frying, deep-frying, or searing—it’s a solid choice. At those temperatures, the oil doesn’t break down easily into harmful compounds. It holds up well, keeping its nutritional benefits intact. 28 

Raw and Cold Preparation

The oil itself has a light, thin texture and a mild flavor—just a hint of nuttiness or herbs—so it won’t overpower other ingredients. 29 That makes it a great base for things like salad dressings, vinaigrettes, or cold dips. You can also use it in place of olive oil when making pesto, or simply drizzle it over steamed vegetables and soups. It adds a bit of richness and some of those helpful nutrients, without leaving things feeling greasy. 1

Baking and Fat Substitution

Because its flavor is pretty neutral—especially compared to some other unrefined oils—Camellia oil works well as a healthier fat swap in baking. That means you can use it in place of butter or vegetable shortening in cakes, muffins, and cookies. It adds moisture, just like you’d want, but helps cut back on the saturated fat. 5 

Traditional Medicinal Ingestion

In traditional Chinese medicine, people sometimes take Camellia oil straight—just a teaspoon or so—to calm an upset stomach or ease intestinal discomfort. The thinking is that the oil helps coat and protect the mucous membranes in the gut. 1

Topical Application

Aside from cooking with it, the oil is also used directly on skin and hair. For skincare, people apply it as a moisturizer, an anti-aging serum, or even to help with rough patches and minor burns. When it comes to hair, it’s used to condition the scalp and boost shine.5 This practice is pretty well-known in Japan, where it’s called the Tsubaki oil treatment. 11

Science Backed Health Risks & Side Effects of Camellia Oil

Camellia oil is generally recognized as safe, or GRAS, and people have been using it for a long time. That said, some risks and side effects have been noted in the scientific literature.

Allergic Contact Dermatitis

While Camellia oil is often used to help with skin conditions, it’s worth noting that it can also cause problems. In some people, it might actually trigger allergic contact dermatitis. There have been documented cases where botanical oils led to skin irritation or allergic reactions. 30 This usually happens because someone has a specific sensitivity to certain proteins or leftover trace compounds called saponins in the oil. That’s why experts recommend doing a patch test before using it widely on your skin. This is especially important for people with a history of nut or seed allergies. 31 

Potential Drug Interactions (Anticoagulation): Camellia oil is packed with Omega-9 fatty acids and Vitamin E. These components have mild natural blood-thinning properties. Some research suggests that taking in high amounts of these compounds could theoretically boost the effects of anticoagulant medications—like Warfarin, Heparin, or Aspirin—as well as anti-platelet drugs. This might raise the risk of bleeding for people who are already taking these medications or for those with bleeding disorders. 32 

Saponin Toxicity in Unrefined Products

Here’s the thing about Camellia seeds—they contain compounds called saponins. These are a type of bioactive triterpenoid glycoside. In high concentrations, they can be toxic. If they get directly into the bloodstream, saponins have hemolytic activity, which means they can rupture red blood cells. On top of that, taking high oral doses can cause some pretty unpleasant stomach issues, like gastrointestinal irritation, nausea, and vomiting. But there’s a big difference between the processed oil you buy and the raw stuff. Commercial edible Camellia oil is refined to bring saponin levels down to safe amounts. So, consuming crude, unprocessed oil or something called “oil cake” could actually pose a toxicity risk.25 

Caloric Density and Weight Gain

Like all pure fats, Camellia oil is high in calories. It packs about 900 kcal per 100g. 33  Now, it does have some metabolic benefits. But here’s the catch: if you use a lot of it without cutting back elsewhere in your diet, those calories can add up. That surplus can lead to weight gain, which would actually work against its anti-obesity properties.

Economic Adulteration

Because Camellia oil is pretty valuable and similar to olive oil, it’s often a target for food fraud.48 Some producers might mix it with cheaper oils, like soybean, rapeseed, or peanut oil. Here’s the problem: that not only waters down the health benefits, but it also brings in hidden allergens. For example, peanut proteins could end up in the oil without being listed on the label. For someone with a peanut allergy, that could trigger a severe anaphylactic reaction without any warning. That’s why it’s really important to buy from trusted, certified sources and why authenticity testing matters so much. 34 

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This article is based on Scientific Research Conducted by following Research Organization:

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  13. 32 OZ ORGANIC CAMELLIA SEED CARRIER OIL PURE COLD PRESSED
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  16. Lipid Characteristics of Camellia Seed Oil–Tokyo University of Technology, Japan
  17. Comprehensive evaluation of chemical composition and health-promoting effects with chemometrics analysis of plant derived edible oils–Sichuan Agricultural University, China
  18. Nutritional and Health Values of Tunisian Edible Oils from Less-Used Plant Sources–University of Messina, Italy, Higher Institute of Applied Sciences and Technology (BISSAT University of Monastir), Tunisia, National Institute of Applied Sciences and Technology, Tunisia, Scientific Institute of Public Health, Belgium, Université Tunis El Manar, Tunisia, University of Napoli Federico II, Italy
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  23. Thai Tea Seed Oil and Virgin Olive Oil Similarly Reduce Plasma Lipids: A Pilot Study within a Healthy Adult Male Population–Thammasat University, Thailand, University of California, United States
  24. Dietary camellia (Camellia oleifera Abel) seed oil in traditional Chinese cooking for high-risk cardiovascular disease: A three-arm double-blind randomized controlled feeding trial protocol–Zhejiang University, China, Westlake University, China
  25. Ferulic Acid Supplementation Improves Lipid Profiles, Oxidative Stress, and Inflammatory Status in Hyperlipidemic Subjects: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial–Mahidol University, Thailand
  26. Camellia oil (Camellia oleifera Abel.) treatment improves high-fat diet-induced atherosclerosis in apolipoprotein E (ApoE)−/− mice–Zunyi Medical University, China
  27. Ferulic Acid Supplementation Improves Lipid Profiles, Oxidative Stress, and Inflammatory Status in Hyperlipidemic Subjects: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial–Mahidol University, Thailand
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  29. Effect of Camellia japonica oil on human type I procollagen production and skin barrier function–Yonsei University, South Korea
  30. Protective Effect of Camellia japonica Extract on 2,4-Dinitrochlorobenzene (DNCB)-Induced Atopic Dermatitis in an SKH-1 Mouse Model–Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine, Republic of Korea
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  38. Anti-Inflammatory, Antioxidant, and Microbiota-Modulating Effects of Camellia Oil from Camellia brevistyla on Acetic Acid-Induced Colitis in Rats–National Chung Hsing University, Taiwan
  39. Camellia Oil ( Camellia oleifera Abel.) Modifies the Composition of Gut Microbiota and Alleviates Acetic Acid-Induced Colitis in Rats–Taipei Medical University, Taiwan
  40. Anti-obesity effects of Camellia (Camellia oleifera Abel) oil treatment on high-fat diet-induced obesity in C57BL/6J mice–Chonnam National University, Republic of Korea
  41. Camellia (Camellia oleifera Abel.) Seed Oil Regulating of Metabolic Phenotype and Alleviates Dyslipidemia in High Fat-Fed Mice through Serum Branch-Chain Amino Acids–Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, China
  42. Camellia oil exhibits anti-fatigue property by modulating antioxidant capacity, muscle fiber, and gut microbial composition in mice–Fujian Medical University, China
  43. Utilization of tea oil camellia (Camellia oleifera Abel.) shells as alternative raw materials for manufacturing particleboard–South China Agricultural University, China
  44. Efficacy of Double-Pocket Fecal Catheter System Combined With Camellia Oil Application in the Prevention and Treatment of Irritant Contact Dermatitis Due to Incontinence Among Patients in the Intensive Care Unit–Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, China
  45. Treatment of Atopic Dermatitis in Children–California Institute of Behavioral Neurosciences and Psychology, United States
  46. Antivirals against animal viruses–Zunyi Medical University, China
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  49. Traditional uses, phytochemistry, pharmacology, toxicity and clinical application of traditional Chinese medicine Cynoglossum amabile: a review–Minzu University of China, China, Yunnan Minzu University, China, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, China
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