The kernels of the Apricot tree produces a nourishing carrier oil called Apricot kernel oil. Read on about this oil and its benefits for the skin.
History
Botanists scientifically call the Apricot kernel tree Prunus armeniaca, which means the ‘Armenian plum’. Most people believe that the tree was named after Armenia. In this country, the tree grows in abundance. There has been a lot of historical debate surrounding the true origin of the Armenian plum. Some scholars believe the tree was first cultivated in India before 3000 BC. Others however claim it first originated from China. In fact, in contemporary China, people still call a physician the ‘Expert of the Apricot Grove’. Now, the tree grows in other places like Italy, Greece and Turkey. Turkey is in fact the world’s largest producer.
Uses
Apricots’ biting taste makes them a preferred fruit when eaten raw. Many people use them for culinary purposes. For instance, they use them for marmalade and jams. Moreover, in traditional Chinese medicine, Apricot kernel oil was used to treat ulcers, swellings and tumours. The English later copied and practised this during the 17th century. Similarly, other traditional medicine approaches such as Ayurveda, later adopted the medicinal use of this oil. Indeed, Ayurveda medicine capitalised on the oil’s hydrating properties. Thus it was used to slow down ageing and to boost the body’s immune system.
How Apricot Kernel Oil is extracted
The extraction process begins by first soaking the hard, outer shells of the kernels in water. This is done for 10 to 20 minutes to soften them. Then, once the shells come off, the kernels are exposed. The exposed kernels are cold-pressed between two rotating metallic plates. These plates apply intense machine-driven pressure to crush the kernels. Sometimes, the kernels are ground into powder or paste before cold-pressing them. As a matter of fact, cold pressing preserves the quality of the oil by protecting it from heat. Once this process is completed, Argan oil is extracted. This oil is amber-coloured and smells like apricot.
What Apricot Kernel Oil contains
The composition of Apricot Kernel oil is a combination of Omega fatty acids, other acids and vitamins. Their benefits are shown in the table below:
Benefits of Apricot Kernel Oil
| Constituent | Skin Benefit |
| Oleic Acid (Omega 9 acid) | Keeps skin soft and radiant Reduces the visible signs of ageing such as wrinkles and fine lines |
| Alpha-Linoleic Acid (Omega 3 acid) | Reduces inflammation |
| Palmitic Acid (Omega 7 acid) | Softens the skin Soothes the skin |
| Linoleic Acid (Omega 6 acid) | Helps wounds to heal Soothes acne and prevents a flare-up Helps the skin to retain moisture Reduces inflammation |
| Stearic Acid | Deeply cleanses the skin of sebum, dirt and sweat Softens the skin |
| Vitamin A | Protects skin from sun damage Reduces the visible signs of ageing such as wrinkles and fine lines Triggers the production of collagen Triggers cells regeneration to keep skin strong, healthy and firm Helps wounds to heal faster Protects the skin from toxins and bacteria Clears up skin discolourations Gives an even tone Slows down the production of oil in the skin Clears up pores and Prevents acne flare-up |
| Vitamin E | Slows down ageing Helps skin to retain moisture Reduces scarring and blemishes Cleanses skin pores Reduces oil production in pores Prevents acne |
Apricot Kernel oil is the perfect emulsifier that can bind water and oil. Besides, it is also non-greasy, which is why we use it to make many cosmetics. If you want to experience these benefits, you’re welcome to try our GLOW FACE ELIXIR. Get it here.