Apricot kernel oil is derived from the kernel, the seed, pit of an apricot, the fruit of the apricot tree, scientifically known as Prunus armeniaca. While there are a number of different species called apricot, they have very similar nutrient profiles, as does the oil contained within their kernels. Using a cold-pressing method, apricot kernel oil can be removed from the hard pit in the center of the fruit.

DESCRIPTION

Color: orangey yellow

Smell: discreet, close to bitter almond

Texture: fluid, greasy

Taste: not pronounced

COMPOSITION

Monounsaturated AG: 60 to 65% oleic (Omega9)

Polyunsaturated AG: 25 to 30% linoleic (Omega6)

Saturated AG: palmitic acid 5-8%

Vitamins: A, E

Other constituents: phytosterols, triglycerides

The composition of the vegetable oil is strongly influenced by the conditions of production. To ensure its quality, it is recommended to select a virgin extra oil, obtained by cold pressing, ideally of biological origin.

BENEFITS

Apricot kernel oil is rich in Vitamin K, which is known to reduce dark circles. It also contains vitamin E and omega 6 fatty acids that together with Vitamin K, nourish skin deeply, allowing the nutrients to penetrate the surface of your skin and reaching the blood cells. It also contains gamma linoleic acid that is useful to firm and tone your skin. This also contains Vitamin A and E to soothe and slow down the aging process. It has nourishing properties and an anti-inflammatory effect to soothe eczema.

This oil is quite light and has a nutty, aromatic flavor, making it a popular addition to many culinary efforts in certain parts of the world. In some cases, people replace almond oil with apricot kernel oil for cooking and medicinal purposes. There is a high concentration of oil in each kernel and has likely been in use for thousands of years, given its multiple applications in Chinese traditional medicine. There are two different varieties of apricot kernel oil – one used for cosmetic purposes and the other for culinary consumption.

Moisturizes the Skin – When topically applied, the emollient properties of apricot kernel oil can help to exfoliate and moisturize the skin, helping it retain moisture, eliminating patches of dry skin, and relieving inflammatory conditions, such as rosacea, psoriasis, and eczema.

Improves Hair Health – Many people use this oil on their hair and scalp, as it can help to strengthen weak hair strands and promote the health of hair follicles. It can reduce the levels of certain chemicals that accumulate in the scalp in response to testosterone, which can slow hair growth and even lead to hair loss. Rubbing this oil into the scalp will also reduce inflammatory conditions on the scalp, such as dandruff.

Anticancer Potential – Packed with antioxidants, apricot kernel oil is able to reduce oxidative stress in the skin, which is good news for people who are suffering from premature aging or have wrinkles, says a study published by researchers from the Centre of Excellence for Pharmaceutical Sciences, North-West University, South Africa in the Molecules Journal. These antioxidants can help to tighten and tone the skin, reducing the appearance of age spots and preventing cellular mutation, which can lead to skin cancer.

Treats Acne – It can be difficult to eliminate acne, but suppressing the symptoms is often the first step. Applying apricot kernel oil to the site of an acne flare-up can reduce inflammation and prevent the buildup of sebum in the glands, treating both the symptoms and the underlying problem.

Improves Respiratory Health – In very small amounts, some natural healers recommend the use of apricot kernel oil to relieve respiratory distress. Small amounts can be consumed to treat this area of the body, or you can add some of this oil to aromatic diffusers to help relieve inflammation in the respiratory tracts.

Reduces Inflammation – If you are suffering from chronic pain and inflammation from a condition like arthritis or gout, topically applying this oil to the area of discomfort can quickly soothe pain and reduce swelling and redness.

SOURCES :

https://www.organicfacts.net/apricot-kernel-oil.html

https://www.livestrong.com/article/188731-apricot-kernel-oil-skin-benefits/

https://beautymunsta.com/beauty-benefits-of-apricot-kernel-oil/