In another new series, we are going to talk in more detail about each of the natural ingredients we use in our products.
We all want to know what's in the products we eat, so why not those which we put on our skin? (After all, remember that a whopping 60% of what you put on your skin is absorbed into your bloodstream!)
Apricot Kernel Oil - what is it??
Latin name: Prunus armeniaca (Apricot) Kernel Oil
The fruit is widely cultivated in Mediterranean and Central Asia. The largest producer of Apricots is Turkey. The seeds of apricot have a high percentage of oil.
Apricot kernel oil has been mentioned in TCM ( Traditional Chinese medicine ) where it is used for treating tumors and ulcers. This use of apricot kernel spread far and wide with time and was used for this purpose in England in 17th century. Apricots themselves are great for a number of conditions.
Extracted from the soft fleshy center of the Apricot stone, this oil is an excellent moisturiser, and is very similar to Peach Kernel Oil. Apricot kernels themselves are quite healthy and are being researched for a number of health conditions including cancer.
The high content of Oleic acid gives Apricot greater affinity with the skin compared to some other oils which means that it is more easily absorbed.
Apricot Kernel oil is rich in vitamins A, B and E. Vitamin E is one of the most powerful natural antioxidants and it helps to combat the formation of free radicals and prevent skin damage.
Who is it suitable for?
All skin types, including sensitive, and is particularly useful for dry/damaged skin.
You can find it in: