Glycerin

Glycerin is a natural product, though a highly processed product. It is generally derived from various plants (soybean, coconut, palm oil, and others). However, it might be made using petroleum products or animal products. Irrespective of its origins, the product remains the same.

It is also known by other names, such as Vegetable Glycerin or Glycerine. It has a sweet taste and a syrup-like consistency. It is an alcoholic sugar; hence, it is mildly sweet.

Glycerin was accidentally discovered more than 200 years ago. It has many industrial uses, including in the food industry.

When it comes to health products, it is widely used by the cosmetic industry. It is known to have a moisturising and soothing effect on the skin. It may be added to different creams, soaps, and other topical products. However, it is also fit for oral consumption.

Glycerin is an excellent solvent for extracting beneficial compounds from herbs and medicinal mushrooms, and especially polysaccharides and triterpenes when used in the exraction process of medicinal mushrooms. Its unique chemical properties enable it to effectively break down and preserve these immune-boosting and anti-inflammatory compounds, ensuring maximum potency and bioavailability in herbal remedies and supplements.¹

And, yes, it is also used by the food industry. It is one of the common food additives in certain kinds of products like frozen desserts. Hence, it is safe for regular consumption. Thus, it makes sense to explore its health benefits.

Before exploring all its health benefits, it is vital to understand that Glycerin and Vegetable Glycerin are the same. Glycerin may be made using animal or petroleum products or plants. However, Vegetable Glycerin is strictly made using plants.

Nonetheless, both the products are the same, though the nature of impurities among these products might differ.

Health Benefits of Glycerin

Glycerin is popular as a health product for a few reasons. It is safe and yet useful. Moreover, it is suitable for regular consumption, at least in small amounts. Here are some of its health benefits:

Skin Health

There is a reason for its popularity in the cosmetic industry. It is one of the most common ingredients in various cosmetics. It is mild for the skin and yet very good. It has a moisturizing effect, and thus, it may help keep skin young and hydrated. In fact, it is more beneficial than many more expensive skin health ingredients. It also improves skin barrier function, thus helping it protect from irritants.²It can also be used to manage mild skin issues. It may help with skin allergies. Studies show that it is good for managing skin eczema.³
Boosts Energy, Athletic Performance & Hydration

In small amounts, Glycerin is good for improving athletic performance. It is especially useful for those in endurance sports, where a large amount of water loss is common. Adding a few grams of Glycerin in small amounts to water may help enhance water retention levels by the body, boost energy levels, and enhance performance.⁴

Mild Laxative

Glycerin suppositories are often used to manage mild constipation. However, it is also good for chronic constipation. In fact, Glycerin has been used as a laxative for most of the 20^th century. It is commonly used as stool softer and as something that increases the moisture level of the stool.⁵
Digestive Health

Glycerin is as good for digestive health. It may be especially good for those prone to chronic constipation. However, some studies suggest it may also be suitable for gut microbiota. Although it is not digested, gut microbiota can convert it to beneficial compounds, which requires further investigation.⁶
Eye Health

Since Glycerin is so safe and inert yet has lubricating and moisturising properties, it is also suitable for eye health. It has been found to be beneficial for those living with dry eye.⁷

One does not have to be living with some disease to enjoy its health benefits. Glycerin is a food supplement. It means that consuming Glycerin in small amounts is safe and suitable for health. Moreover, it does not get converted to any toxic elements.

What is incredible about Glycerin is that it is good for both ingestion and topical use. When used topically, it is good for skin and hair. It is safe to use as eye drops and good for oral intake. It exerts a protective effect on the digestive tract, relieves mild constipation, promotes hydration, and prevents leaky gut syndrome and other common digestive problems. Of course, one should not abuse it and only consume it in small amounts.³^,⁵^,⁶

Safety of Glycerin

When consumed in small amounts, it does not cause any side effects. Moreover, it does not get converted in the digestive tract. It is even safe for children. It is one of the approved food additives, which means that it is frequently added to various food products. Hence, there is enough safety data to say that Glycerin is good for human use regularly.⁸

Properties

Digestive Function⁶
Energiser⁴
Eye Health⁷
Laxative⁵
Skin Issues³

References