NeoLife vitamin E capsules contain vitamin E, a powerful, fat-soluble antioxidant, to support overall health. It contributes to the protection of cells from oxidative stress and the maintenance of good health.
BENEFITS OF VITAMIN E
- An inherited disorder that causes red blood cells to break down in response to stress (G6PD deficiency). Taking vitamin E by mouth, alone or together with selenium, might benefit people with this condition.
- Bleeding within the skull (intracranial hemorrhage). Taking vitamin E by mouth seems to reduce the risk of bleeding in the skull in premature infants.
- Bleeding into or around the fluid-filled areas (ventricles) of the brain (intraventricular hemorrhage). Giving oral vitamin E to premature infants can reduce the risk of bleeding into the brain. But giving high doses of vitamin E might increase the risk of a serious blood infection (sepsis) in these infants.
- Conditions in a male that prevent a female partner from getting pregnant (male infertility). Taking vitamin E by mouth improves pregnancy rates for males with fertility problems. But taking high doses of vitamin E together with vitamin C doesn’t seem to provide the same benefits.
- The reduced benefit of nitrate therapy happens when nitrates are used all day (nitrate tolerance). Taking vitamin E by mouth daily can help prevent nitrate tolerance.
- Swelling (inflammation) and buildup of fat in the liver in people who drink little or no alcohol (nonalcoholic steatohepatitis or NASH). Taking vitamin E by mouth daily seems to improve inflammation and liver markers of this form of liver disease in adults and children.
- Premenstrual syndrome (PMS). Taking vitamin E by mouth seems to reduce anxiety, craving, and depression in some people with PMS.
- A movement disorder often caused by antipsychotic drugs (tardive dyskinesia). Taking vitamin E by mouth seems to improve the symptoms associated with this movement disorder.
- Alzheimer disease. Taking vitamin E supplements by mouth doesn’t seem to prevent Alzheimer’s disease from developing. But in people who already have Alzheimer’s disease, taking vitamin E along with some anti-Alzheimer medicines might slow down memory loss.
- A blood disorder that reduces levels of protein in the blood called hemoglobin (beta-thalassemia). Taking vitamin E by mouth seems to benefit children with this blood disorder.
- Menstrual cramps (dysmenorrhea). Taking vitamin E by mouth for 2 days before bleeding and for 3 days after bleeding starts seems to decrease pain and reduce menstrual blood loss. Learn More
Cardiovascular Diseases
Cardiovascular complications basically arise because of the oxidation of low-density lipoproteins present in the body and the consequent inflammation. Gamma-tocopherol is found to improve cardiovascular functions by increasing the activity of nitric oxide synthase, which produces vessel-relaxing nitric oxide. It does this by trapping the reactive nitrogen species (peroxynitriten) molecules and thus enhancing the endothelial function. Researchers have found that the supplementation of 100 mg per day of gamma-tocopherol in humans leads to a reduction in several risk factors for arterial clotting, such as platelet aggregation and cholesterol. In another study, mixed tocopherols were found to have a stronger inhibitory effect on lipid peroxidation and the inhibition of human platelet aggregation than individual tocopherols alone, suggesting a synergistic platelet-inhibitory effect. Apart from tocopherols, tocotrienols were also found to inhibit cholesterol biosynthesis by suppressing 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-CoA (HMGCoA) reductase, resulting in less cholesterol being manufactured by the liver cells. Contradictory to this, most of the recent large interventional clinical trials have not shown cardiovascular benefits from vitamin E supplementation and report that the use of vitamin E was associated with a significantly increased risk of a hemorrhagic stroke in the participants. Thus, it was suggested that understanding the potential uses of vitamin E in preventing coronary heart disease might require longer studies with younger participants.
Cancer
Vitamin E also possesses anti-cancer properties. This is possibly because of the various functions of vitamin E which include: the stimulation of the wild-type p53 tumor suppressor gene; the downregulation of mutant p53 proteins; the activation of heat shock proteins, and an anti-angiogenic effect mediated by the blockage of transforming growth factor-alpha. Alpha-, gamma-and delta-tocopherols have emerged as vitamin E molecules with functions clearly distinct from each other in anti-cancer activity as well. Alpha-tocopherol was found to inhibit the production of PKC and collagenase, which facilitate cancer cell growth. In this context, gamma-tocopherol was found to be more effective than alpha-tocopherol in its growth-inhibitory effect on human prostate cancer cell lines, whereas delta-tocopherol has shown growth-inhibitory activity against mouse mammary cancer cell lines.
Gamma-tocopherol inhibits the growth of cancer cells in cultures through a number of mechanisms. It traps free radicals, including the reactive nitrogen species molecules that cause mutations in the deoxyribonucleic acid strands and malignant transformations in the cells. It also downregulates the control molecules known as cyclins, stopping the cancerous cell cycle in the middle and thus preventing their proliferation. Gamma-tocopherol has also been found to be superior to alpha-tocopherol in inducing apoptosis; triggering a number of cell-death-inducing pathways; stimulating peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma activity, especially in colon cancer cells, and reducing the formation of new blood vessels in tumors, thus depriving them of the nutrients they need to thrive. In this context, tocotrienols were also found to have antiproliferative and apoptotic activities on normal and cancerous cells in humans, which could be due to the induction of apoptosis by a mitochondria-mediated pathway, or due to the suppression of cyclin D which would therefore arrest the cell cycle. They also inhibit vascularization and suppress 3-hydroxy-3-methyl coenzyme A (HMG-CoA) reductase activity, thus preventing malignant proliferation.
Jiang et al. showed that, of the various forms of vitamin E, gamma-tocopherol, particularly in combination with delta-tocopherol, induced apoptosis in androgen-sensitive prostate cancer cells within three days of treatment, while alpha-tocopherol alone did not have the same effect. The gamma and delta E fractions appear to induce apoptosis by interrupting the synthesis of sphingolipid in the membranes of human prostate cancer cells. The fractions do this by inducing the release of cytochrome c, the activation of caspase-9 and caspase-3, the cleavage of polyadenosine diphosphate (ADP)-ribose polymerase (PARP) and the involvement of caspase-independent pathways. Recently, Chen reported that, of the tocopherols tested, the gamma form was the most potent anti-cancer form of the vitamin. They also found a novel anti-cancer mechanism of vitamin E: gamma-tocopherol, they created a new agent which was found to be 20-fold more effective. They did so by removing a string of chemical groups dangling from the head group of gamma-tocopherol which enhanced its anti-cancer effect. Chen et al. said that gamma-tocopherol was more effective than other tocopherols because of its chemical structure which is more effective in attaching and thus shutting off the Akt enzyme. These findings suggest that an agent based on the chemical structure of one form of vitamin E could help to prevent and treat numerous types of cancer—particularly those associated with a mutation in the PTEN gene, a fairly common cancer-related genetic defect that keeps protein kinase B (Akt) active. Chen studied both alpha and gamma forms of the vitamin E molecule; both inhibited the Akt enzyme in very targeted ways, but the gamma structure emerged as the more powerful form of the vitamin. In effect, the vitamin halted Akt activation by attracting Akt and the PHLPP1 protein to the same region of a cell where the vitamin was absorbed in the fat-rich cell membrane. The PHLPP1 tumor suppressor protein then launched a chemical reaction that inactivated Akt, rendering it unable to keep cancer cells alive.
Apart from these findings, the role of vitamin E in cancer prevention remains controversial. The reports from the Cancer Institute of New Jersey show that gamma- and delta-tocopherols can prevent colon, lung, breast and prostate cancers, while alpha-tocopherol had no such effect. In addition, human trials and surveys aiming to study the association between vitamin E intake and cancer have found that vitamin E is not beneficial in most cases. Both the Heart Outcomes Prevention Evaluation—The Ongoing Outcomes (HOPE-TOO) trial and the WHS study evaluated whether vitamin E supplements might protect people from cancer and found no significant reduction in the risk of developing cancer in individuals taking daily doses of 400 IU or 600 IU of vitamin E.
Cataracts
Cataracts are one of the commonest causes of significant vision loss in older people. They basically occur due to the accumulation of proteins damaged by free radicals. Several observational studies have revealed a potential relationship between vitamin E supplements and the risk of cataract formation. Leske et al. found that lens clarity was superior in participants who took vitamin E supplements and those with higher blood levels of the vitamin. In another study, long-term supplementation of vitamin E was associated with the slower progression of age-related lens opacification. However, in the randomized Age-Related Eye Disease Study (AREDS), vitamin E had no apparent effect on cataract development/progression over an average of 6.3 years. Overall, the available evidence is insufficient to conclude that vitamin E supplements, taken alone or in combination with other antioxidants, can reduce the risk of cataract formation.
Alzheimer’s Disease
Alzheimer’s disease (AD) occurs as a result of protein oxidation and lipid peroxidation via a free radical mechanism, where the beta-amyloid protein induces cytotoxicity through a mechanism involving oxidative stress and hydrogen peroxide, leading to neuronal cell death and, finally, AD. Vitamin E can block the production of hydrogen peroxide and the resulting cytotoxicity. It reduces beta-amyloid-induced cell death in rat hippocampal cell cultures and PC12 cells and attenuates the excitatory amino acid-induced toxicity in neuroblastoma cells. The Alzheimer’s Disease Cooperative Study in 1997 showed that vitamin E may slow disease progression in patients with moderately severe AD. High doses of vitamin E delayed the loss of the patient’s ability to carry out daily activities and their consequent placement in residential care for several months. In another study, it was found that subjects with AD had reduced concentrations of plasma antioxidant micronutrients, suggesting that inadequate antioxidant activity is a factor in this disease. High plasma levels of vitamin E are associated with a reduced risk of AD in older patients and this neuroprotective effect is related to the combination of different forms of vitamin E rather than to alpha-tocopherol alone. A study published in 2009 examined the effects of taking 2,000 IU of vitamin E with and without an AD drug on 847 people. It concluded that vitamin E plus a cholinesterase inhibitor may be more beneficial than taking either agent alone.
At the biomarker level, Mangialasche et al. demonstrated that plasma levels of tocopherols and tocotrienols together with automated magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) measures can help to differentiate patients with AD and mild cognitive impairment (MCI) from the control subjects, and prospectively predict the MCI conversion into AD. This, therefore, suggests the potential role of nutritional biomarkers detected in plasma-tocopherols and tocotrienols as indirect indicators of AD pathology. However, researchers have recommended that patients should not take vitamin E to treat AD without the supervision of a physician, as in high doses it can interact negatively with other medications, including those prescribed to lower cholesterol.
Human Immunodeficiency Virus and Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome
Vitamin E is an important anti-inflammatory agent that is often found to be deficient in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-positive individuals; however, it is not known whether vitamin E supplementation is beneficial either at any stage of HIV infection. At a dose of 400 IU, vitamin E was shown to restore delayed skin hypersensitivity reactions and interleukin-2 production, and at high doses, it was shown to stimulate T helper cell (CD4 T-cell) proliferation. In 1997, Tang et al. studied the association between serum vitamin A and E levels with HIV-1 disease progression. In this study, it was found that men with serum vitamin E levels above 23.5 μm/L had a significantly reduced risk of disease progression. A strong correlation was noted in this cohort between the intake of supplements containing vitamin E at the point of entry into the study and high blood levels of vitamin E.
A study on murine-acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) using a 15-fold increase in dietary vitamin E showed the normalization of immune parameters that are altered in HIV/AIDS. Apart from this, an increase in dietary vitamin E has also been shown to protect against the side effects of azidothymidine, such as bone marrow toxicity. Related studies on bone marrow cultures from stage IV AIDS patients using d-alpha-tocopherol supplementation revealed similar results. Nevertheless, it has also been reported that higher vitamin E levels pre-infection were found to be associated with increased mortality. Thus, further research is needed to elucidate the role vitamin E plays in the pathogenesis of HIV-1.
Immunity
It has now been proven that vitamin E stimulates the body’s defenses, enhances humoral and cell immune responses, and increases phagocytic functions. It has a pronounced effect in infectious diseases where immune phagocytosis is involved but is less effective in the case of cell-mediated immune defenses. Its supplementation significantly enhances both cell-mediated and humoral immune functions in humans, especially in the elderly. A daily intake of 200 mg of vitamin E improved the antibody response to various vaccines in healthy subjects who showed no adverse side effects to vitamin E supplementation. Vitamin E also enhanced resistance to viral diseases in elderly subjects, where higher plasma vitamin E levels correlated with a reduced number of infections over a three-year period. A recent study by Kutty et al. showed that a daily supplementation of vitamin E can enhance the immune response to a specific antigen.
Besides the above-mentioned diseases, vitamin E has also been found to play a beneficial role in other diseases, such as photodermatitis, menstrual pain/dysmenorrhoea, pre-eclampsia, and tardive dyskinesia, when taken along with vitamin C. Learn More
Pregnancy / Lactation
Studies have demonstrated that vitamin E supplementation does not reduce the risk of pre-eclampsia, stillbirth, neonatal death, preterm birth, or intrauterine growth restriction. However, a Cochrane review suggests a possible association between vitamin E and reduced risk for placental abruption; further studies are needed. Bastani 2011, Rumbold 2015 These findings, coupled with the conflicting evidence regarding a relationship between vitamin E supplementation and mortality risk in the literature Abner 2011, Bjelakovic 2012, Lee 2005, Miller 2005 need to be considered when determining whether to supplement with vitamin E beyond the recommended daily intake during pregnancy.
Rheumatoid arthritis/Osteoarthritis
Oxidative stress resulting from an imbalance of antioxidants has been implicated in causing chondrocyte damage, which can lead to impaired cartilage remodeling. Lower vitamin E doses might be beneficial in ameliorating the oxidative stress harmful to chondrocytes, while higher doses may cause oxidative damage. Chin 2018
Animal data
In a study of rat chondrocytes derived from articular cartilage, vitamin E prevented apoptosis and senescence of the chondrocytes, as well as preserved the proteoglycan content. Bhatti 2013 In an osteoarthritis model in dogs, administration of vitamin E 400 units/day for 55 days was associated with increased serum and synovial fluid concentrations of vitamin E. Prostaglandin E2 and nitrogen oxides were lower in the dogs receiving vitamin E. Rhouma 2013
In a study of neonatal rats with rheumatoid arthritis, a combination of glucosamine and vitamin E supplementation exerted antioxidant activity. Dai 2018 In another rat model of rheumatoid arthritis, delta-tocotrienol 10 mg/kg daily from days 25 to 50 following induction of disease was associated with reduced paw edema. Haleagrahara 2014
Postoperative pain
Clinical data
In a study of patients undergoing Milligan-Morgan hemorrhoidectomy, application of topical vitamin E reduced postoperative pain, length of hospitalization, and time to resume activities of daily living, and increased patient satisfaction with surgery. Ruiz-Tovar 2016
Peyronie disease
Clinical data
In a study of 70 men with Peyronie disease, a combination of verapamil, propolis, blueberries, and topical diclofenac was compared with the same combination plus natural vitamin E. The addition of vitamin E was associated with significant improvements in plaque size, penile curvature (96.6% improved in the vitamin E group compared with 48.4% in the group without vitamin E [P=0.0001]), and International Index of Erectile Function scores. Paulis 2013
Polycystic ovarian syndrome
Clinical data
In a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of 86 women with polycystic ovarian syndrome, the combination of vitamin E with coenzyme Q10 given for 8 weeks was associated with significant benefits on fasting blood sugar; however, this effect was not noted in the vitamin E only group. Vitamin E, both alone and in combination with coenzyme Q10, significantly reduced serum total testosterone concentrations compared with placebo (P<0.001). The combination also significantly improved sex hormone binding globulin compared to the other groups (P=0.008). Izadi 2018
Postoperative pain
Clinical data
In a study of patients undergoing Milligan-Morgan hemorrhoidectomy, application of topical vitamin E reduced postoperative pain, length of hospitalization, and time to resume activities of daily living, and increased patient satisfaction with surgery. Ruiz-Tovar 2016
Male fertility
Clinical data
A 2014 Cochrane systematic review and meta-analysis evaluating antioxidant use in male subfertility identified 2 trials (N=117) that investigated vitamin E, and although an apparent association between vitamin E and an increase in live birth rates appeared to exist (P=0.006; I2=0%), risk of bias was high. One trial (n=64) also reported a significantly lower sperm DNA fragmentation with administration of vitamin E plus vitamin C compared with placebo. Vitamin E was also one of 2 antioxidants associated with an increase in clinical pregnancy rate based on evidence from analyses of specific antioxidants. Showell 2014
Liver diseases
The imbalance between oxidative stress and diminished antioxidant activity is purported to be a cause of liver disease. Antioxidants such as vitamin E have been evaluated in diseases of the liver. Bjelakovic 2011 in patients with nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), vitamin E is important for mitigating hepatocyte damage by reducing the circulation of malondialdehyde and transforming growth factor alpha-1.Tang 2017
Animal data
In a study of mice undergoing partial hepatectomy, vitamin E supplementation (approximately 20 mg/day) reduced thiobarbituric acid reactive substances level (a measure of oxidative stress), as well as nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) activity scores at day 7 following hepatectomy. Karimian 2015
In rats subjected to partial hepatectomy and exposed to alcohol, which inhibits liver regeneration, a group receiving intraperitoneal doses of vitamin C 250 mg/kg/day and vitamin E 250 mg/kg/day for 5 weeks demonstrated lowered serum malondialdehyde levels and protective effects on liver function (eg, lowered ALT serum concentrations). The investigators suggested that vitamins C and E may have promoted liver regeneration. Okamura 2018
Clinical data
In a Cochrane review, 15 trials of vitamin E dosed alone and in combination with other supplements (vitamin E doses ranging from 30 to 1,000 units) were reviewed. The authors found no evidence to support or refute the use of vitamin E in patients with conditions of the liver, such as alcoholic or autoimmune liver diseases, hepatitis B or C, or cirrhosis. Additionally, the data reviewed showed a nonsignificant trend towards elevated liver function tests with vitamin E (RR, 2.27; 95% CI, 0.48 to 10.67). Bjelakovic 2011
Diabetes mellitus
Animal data
In a study of diabetic rats, vitamin E given for 6 weeks was associated with reduced myocardial damage, blood glucose, and lipid peroxidation, as well as improved serum lipids and enhanced antioxidant capacity. Abdel-Raheem 2015 Another study in fructose-induced metabolic syndrome in rats found that vitamin E (100 mg/kg/day for 6 weeks) alone or in combination with liraglutide (0.3 mg/kg/day for 6 weeks) exerted beneficial effects on the visceral fat index, liver function tests, fasting blood glucose, and cholesterol parameters. Geddawy 2017
Clinical data
Conflicting data exist regarding use of vitamin E in patients with or at risk for diabetes. A number of older clinical trials found no effect of vitamin E on outcomes. Engelen 2005, Fardoun 2007, Giannini 2007, Liu 2006, McQueen 2005
A meta-analysis of randomized controlled clinical trials found that vitamin E supplementation improved blood glucose and hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), as well as enhanced antioxidant capacity in patients with type 2 diabetes. Balbi 2018
Down syndrome
Because oxidative stress is implicated in the pathogenesis of Down syndrome, the antioxidant effects of vitamin E supplementation have been evaluated. Shichiri 2011
Animal data
In a mouse model of Down syndrome, long-term supplementation with alpha-tocopherol was associated with improvements in cognitive deficits and reduction of lipid peroxidation. Shichiri 2011
Clinical data
Supplementation with vitamin E 1,000 units twice daily for 3 years did not slow progression of cognitive deterioration in aging patients (i.e., 50 years and older) with Down syndrome. Sano 2016 in children and teenagers with Down syndrome, vitamin E 400 mg plus vitamin C 500 mg daily for 6 months reduced oxidative stress. Parisotto 2014 These participants were further studied, with antioxidant effects still noted up to 1 year after discontinuation of antioxidant therapy. Parisotto 2015
In a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, 2-year trial of 53 patients with Down syndrome and Alzheimer disease–type dementia, the effects of a combination of alpha-tocopherol 900 units, alpha lipoic acid (ALA) 600 mg, and ascorbic acid 200 mg did not improve cognitive function or stabilize cognitive decline. No serious adverse effects were noted. Lott 2011
In a randomized controlled trial (N=93), supplementation with alpha-tocopherol 400 units/day for 4 months significantly decreased urinary concentrations of the oxidative stress biomarker 8=hydroxyl-2′-deoxyguanosine (8OHdG) in children with Down syndrome compared with placebo (P<0.01). Because Down syndrome children have higher baseline levels of oxidative stress than their siblings, the authors suggested that alpha-tocopherol supplementation may reduce oxidative stress at the DNA level. Nachvak 2014. Learn More
1. May reduce markers of oxidative stress and improve antioxidant defenses
Oxidative stress is a condition that occurs when there’s an imbalance between your body’s antioxidant defenses and the production and accumulation of compounds called reactive oxygen species (ROS). This can lead to cellular damage and increased disease risk.
Because vitamin E acts as a powerful antioxidant in the body, studies have shown that supplementing with high doses of it can reduce markers of oxidative stress and boost antioxidant defenses in some populations.
For example, a 2018 study in 54 people with diabetic nephropathy — kidney damage caused by high blood sugar — found that supplementing with 800 IU of vitamin E per day for 12 weeks significantly increased levels of glutathione peroxidase (GPx) compared with a placebo.
GPx is a group of antioxidant enzymes that protect your cells from oxidative damage.
A 2021 study also showed that supplementing with a combination of vitamin E and vitamin C daily for 8 weeks reduced markers of oxidative stress, such as malondialdehyde and ROS, women with endometriosis.
2. May reduce heart disease risk factors
Having high blood pressure and high levels of blood lipids such as LDL (bad) cholesterol and triglycerides may increase your risk of developing heart disease.
Promisingly, research suggests that vitamin E supplements may help reduce heart disease risk factors such as these in some people.
A 2019 review of 18 studies found that, compared with placebo treatments, vitamin E supplements significantly reduced systolic but not diastolic blood pressure — the top and bottom numbers of blood pressure readings, respectively.
Some studies also show that taking vitamin E with omega-3 supplements may reduce LDL and triglyceride levels in people with metabolic syndrome — a cluster of conditions, including high blood fat levels, that increases the risk of heart disease and other health conditions.
3. May benefit those with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)
NAFLD includes a number of conditions that cause an accumulation of fat in the liver in people who drink little or no alcohol.
According to research findings, vitamin E supplements may improve some aspects of health in people with NAFLD.
A 2021 review of eight studies found that supplementing with vitamin E reduced levels of the liver enzymes alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST), decreased blood lipid levels, and improved liver health in people with NAFLD.
Elevated AST and ALT levels can indicate liver inflammation and damage in people with NAFLD, so lower levels are favorable.
4. May help manage dysmenorrhea
Dysmenorrhea is a condition characterized by severe and frequent menstrual pain, such as cramps and pelvic pain.
Promisingly, research suggests vitamin E supplements may reduce pain in women with this condition.
In a 2018 study of 100 women with dysmenorrhea, taking 200 IU of vitamin E daily relieved menstrual pain more than a placebo. The effects were even better when the vitamin was combined with an omega-3 supplement containing 180 mg of EPA and 120 mg of DHA.
Additionally, a 2021 study showed that supplementing with a combination of vitamin E and vitamin C daily for 8 weeks helped reduce the severity of pelvic pain and dysmenorrhea in women with endometriosis.
5–8. Other potential health benefits
Vitamin E supplements have also been linked to several other health benefits:
- May benefit skin health.
Vitamin E supplements may be helpful for those with certain skin disorders, such as eczema. However, research is currently limited, and more studies are needed to learn more about this potential benefit.
- May benefit cognitive health.
Maintaining optimal vitamin E levels and taking supplements may help protect against cognitive decline. But it’s still unclear whether the supplements benefit people with cognitive conditions like Alzheimer’s disease.
- May benefit older adults.
Because vitamin E plays important roles in health, such as reducing inflammation and improving immune function, supplements may benefit people who have increased needs or don’t get enough in their diets, such as some older.
- May improve lung function.
Studies have shown that vitamin E supplements could improve lung function and certain symptoms of asthma in children and adults. Learn More
Wound healing
Some research suggests that vitamin E may promote wound healing. It is possible that topical vitamin E oil might offer similar benefits, but there is little research on the subject.
Skin cancer prevention
A 2013 study found that mice given supplements containing vitamin E were less likely to develop skin cancer, even when exposed to large quantities of ultraviolet light. These results prompted some supporters of vitamin E oil and supplements to claim that it can prevent skin cancer.
However, studies on humans have not found any skin cancer prevention benefits associated with vitamin E.
Reducing skin itching
Vitamin E cannot treat allergic reactions, infections, and other issues that cause skin itching.
Because it moisturizes the skin, however, it may offer temporary relief from itching caused by dry skin.
Keeping skin well moisturized may help to prevent dry skin, and prevent symptoms such as itchiness. Any kind of oil safe for the skin may offer these benefits.
Eczema
Vitamin E may alleviate the dryness, itching, and flaking associated with eczema, or atopic dermatitis.
One study found that oral vitamin E supplements could produce significant improvements in eczema symptoms. Though vitamin E oil has not been well-studied in the treatment of eczema, it may increase the effectiveness of topical moisturizers.
Psoriasis
At least one study has linked topical vitamin E to a reduction in psoriasis symptoms. Even better, the study showed that there were no serious side effects.
However, the effects of vitamin E on psoriasis were not as good as most readily available treatments. Vitamin E oil might be a good option for people who want to avoid prescription remedies and who have mild psoriasis.
Preventing or minimizing the appearance of scars
Folk wisdom has long suggested that vitamin E, applied to the skin, taken as a supplement, or both, might treat scars, or prevent them from forming in the first place. But research does not support this claim and has found no association between vitamin E use and scar prevention.
In one older study from 1999, almost one-third of participants had an allergic reaction to topical vitamin E, suggesting the oil is more likely to make scarring worse rather than prevent it.
A more recent literature review found that evidence about whether vitamin E improved or worsened scarring was inconclusive.
Research does suggest that well-moisturized skin is less likely to scar. So for people who do not have an allergic reaction to vitamin E, using it as a moisturizer while the wound heals may offer some benefits.
Preventing or treating fine lines and wrinkles
Dry skin tends to look more wrinkled than well-moisturized skin. The moisturizing benefits of vitamin E oil may help the skin look more youthful and less wrinkled.
Claims that vitamin E prevents or treats wrinkles, however, are unsupported by scientific evidence. The best strategy for preventing wrinkles is to avoid direct sunlight and to wear a quality sunscreen.
Sunburn prevention
Limited research suggests that vitamin E can prevent or reduce the formation of sunburns.
Because vitamin E oil can moisturize and soothe dry, flaky skin, it may help to relieve the burning and itching that result from sunburn.
However, wearing sunscreen and avoiding direct sun exposure remain the best strategies for protecting the skin.
Promoting nail health
Research suggests that vitamin E supplementation can prevent yellow nail syndrome, which causes peeling, cracked, and yellowing nails.
Vitamin E oil’s moisturizing benefits may also support nail health by preventing cracked cuticles and dry skin around the nail bed.
Risks and considerations
The biggest risk associated with vitamin E use is an allergic reaction. Vitamin E can irritate the skin, making skin problems worse. People with a history of allergic reactions should avoid vitamin E, or should do a patch test on a small area of skin first.
Because vitamin E oil is a supplement and a beauty product, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) do not regulate it. This may mean that two vitamin E oils might have radically different concentrations and produce different effects in the same person.
Many vitamin E products contain additional ingredients. It is important to read the label and consult a doctor if uncertain about the product’s safety. Learn More
1. Vitamin E may slow the aging process of cells
Vitamin E is an antioxidant, meaning it prevents free radicals from damaging cells. Free radicals are highly reactive molecules produced by chemical reactions in the body. They can also come from outside sources like cigarette smoke and air pollution. When free radicals damage cells, conditions like dementia and Alzheimer’s disease may develop.
Free radicals reduce a cell’s lifespan through a process called oxidative stress. The process of oxidative stress as it relates to aging is not clear. However, scientists do know that free radicals bind to cells in a way that causes damage to the protein and DNA inside. As an antioxidant, vitamin E neutralizes this threat.
A 2018 paper in The Journals of Gerontology: Series A found that among 1,002 patients with clinically confirmed cardiovascular disease, low vitamin E consumption was linked to increase cellular aging.
2. Vitamin E can help those with macular dysfunction
Macular dysfunction is a genetic eye disease, and in severe cases, it can result in vision loss. The condition occurs when the macula region — an oval-shaped area at the center of your eye — is damaged by free radicals.
Two clinical trials in 2006 with about 4800 participants found that vitamin E in combination with other nutrients could reduce the risk of vision loss by 19%. They also found that the vitamin E combo slowed the progression of macular dysfunction.
The study compared different supplements and how they affected the progression of macular dysfunction. The researchers found that a supplement containing 400 IU of vitamin E — along with other vitamins like zinc oxide, copper, vitamin C, and beta-carotene — reduced the possibility of a mild case of macular dysfunction developing into a severe case. Supplementations with only copper and zinc or antioxidants were not as effective.
It’s important to note that vitamin E is best suited to prevent progression of the disease in those who already have it. It is not as effective at preventing age-related macular dysfunction in people who do not show symptoms of the disorder.
3. Vitamin E boosts immune system response
Vitamin E appears to boost levels of a type of immune cell called T lymphocytes or T cells, says Elizabeth Somer, MA, RD, a registered dietitian and medical advisory board member for Persona.
T cells are white blood cells that play a role in the immune system. There are two types of T cells: regulatory and cytotoxic. Regulatory T cells manage immune reactions to foreign particles and prevent autoimmune conditions like inflammatory bowel disease and type1 diabetes. Meanwhile, cytotoxic cells attach to cells infected by bacteria and viruses and kill the cells.
“Vitamin E helps maintain the strength and vitality of T cell membranes, helps these cells multiply correctly, and communicate to other immune processes. T cells decrease with age, so maintaining optimal intake of this vitamin is important in maintaining a well-functioning immune system,” Somer says.
A 2018 paper published in IUBMB Life found that vitamin E deficiency hindered immune response by altering the functions of T cells and antibody production. But, it also found that with vitamin E supplementation, these effects can be reversed.
Most research conducted on vitamin E’s role in immune response has focused primarily on T cells. However, scientists believe vitamin E may regulate other types of immune cells too.
For more information, learn about how to boost your immune system.
4. Vitamin E may slow memory loss in individuals with Alzheimer’s disease
Because the brain uses a lot of oxygen, it is highly susceptible to oxidative stress, says Debbie Petitpain, MS, RDN, a spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. Since vitamin E can prevent cellular damage caused by oxygen, it may help prevent cognitive decline
A 2014 study published in JAMA with just over 560 Alzheimer’s patients found that having 2000 IU per day of alpha-tocopherol — a form of vitamin E — reduced functional decline. The study tested cognitive function with daily activity assessment. It’s important to note that all participants had only mild cases of Alzheimer’s.
5. Vitamin E may improve blood vessel health
Vitamin E plays a vital role in the production of red blood cells by protecting them from oxidative damage. Alongside vitamin K, it also helps expand blood vessels, which reduces the possibility of blood clots.
A 2007 paper published in Circulation found that in 213 patients who took 600 IU vitamin E daily, their risk of developing venous thromboembolism, a condition where a blood clot in the extremities travels to the lung, lowered by 21%.
While blood clotting is important because it slows bleeding after a cut or injury, it can be problematic when clots form in your blood vessels and then spread to the lungs or heart. This can lead to severe chest pain, coughing, and difficulty breathing.
A 2013 paper in the Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry assessed 15 healthy men and found that vitamin E protects against the development of impaired lining of blood vessels caused by hyperglycemia after eating. Vitamin E was effective in offsetting any spikes in blood pressure after eating, thus improving blood vessel health.
Another study conducted in 2013 assessed 30 smokers after they stopped smoking and began taking 500 mg of vitamin E daily. It found that vitamin E supplementation along with quitting nicotine, resulted in about a 19% reduction in cardiovascular disease risk. Those who took vitamin E supplementation saw reduced levels of inflammation and better vascular function compared to those who received a placebo.
6. Vitamin E may reduce premenstrual symptoms (PMS)
Vitamin E may even help reduce premenstrual symptoms (PMS) like anxiety, depression, cramping, and even cravings. A 2016 study published in the Iranian Journal of Nursing and Midwifery involving 86 women found that vitamin E supplementation reduced premenstrual symptoms like anxiety and depression more than the placebo group or those taking vitamin D.
Meanwhile, a 2019 study with 210 female participants published in Obstetrics and Gynecology Science indicated that consuming vitamin E two days before menstruation through three days following may help alleviate menstrual cramps.
Vitamin E can even help with premenstrual cravings. A 2013 study published in the Journal of the American College of Nutrition found that 75 women who consume between 150 to 300 IU of vitamin E a day experienced fewer cravings than normal during their period.
7. Vitamin E may prevent sunburn and UV damage
While Vitamin E cannot prevent sunburn on its own, it can be used alongside sunscreen for extra UV protection.
“For protection against photoaging of the skin and sunburns due to sun exposure, it is recommended to use sunscreen daily,” says Olabola Awosika, MD, MS, a dermatologist at Henry Ford Hospital in Detroit. “Vitamin E can be used in conjunction with sunscreen to provide further benefit against oxidative damage from UV rays.”
While multiple studies conducted in animals from the early 2000s found that topical use of vitamin E provided increased protection against skin cancer and reduced skin problems like hyperpigmentation and inflammation, evidence remains unclear in humans.
However, a 2009 paper published in the Journal of Investigative Dermatology suggests that combining vitamins C and E with sunscreen may prevent ultraviolet-related damage in comparison to using sunscreen alone. Learn More
