Written By: Zenani Sizane
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Apricots are delicious fruits; we love to eat and enjoy in recipes such as jams and pastries. Apricots are versatile fruits that can be used in various ways, but did you know that the kernel of an apricot is just as beneficial for your skin, hair and overall. Apricot kernels when cold-pressed produce a beautiful lightweight, pale-yellow oil that is considered to be a rich emollient that helps to improve and moisturize the skin and hair. In this article, we are delving into the various ways Apricot kernel oil can benefit your beauty regime and overall health.
What is Apricot Kernel Oil?
Scientific Name: Prunus Armeniaca
Apricot kernel oil, also known as apricot oil, is a lightweight carrier oil pressed from the oil-rich kernels of apricots. The apricot tree’s true origin is still debatable, as it believed to have originated in China, however due to its scientific name-The Prunus Armeniaca botanical, the apricot tree is assumed to have received its name from Armenia, a country to which it is believed to be its native due to the fact that apricots have been cultivated since ancient times. The name means Armenian Plum in Armenia, but currently, Turkey is known to be the largest producer of apricots in the world.
According to Chinese medicine, apricot kernel oil is also associated with fertility and respiration, but it was also used for treating swelling, ulcers, tumors and other malignant growths, an ancient application that circulated around the world. In other traditional approaches to medicine, apricot kernel oil was used for its hydrating properties to slow the look of aging and use its immunity-boosting properties to enhance overall health.
Technical Information on Apricot Kernel Oil:
Shelf Life | 18-24 months |
Colour | Pale yellow |
2 | |
Absorption Rate | 2, Fast |
Saponification Value | 185-195 |
104-112 | |
Extraction Method | Cold Pressed |
Scent | Little to none |
Safety | Safe for most |
Allergies | Apricots |
Skin Feel | Light feel |
Solubility | Oil |
Origin | China |
Botanical Family | Rosaceae |
How is Apricot Kernel Oil Extracted?
The apricot kernel oil extraction process begins with softening the hard, outer shells of the kernels. This is done by soaking the kernels in water between 10 to 20 minutes which makes it easier for the shells to break open and release the inner kernel. Apricot kernel oil is derived from the ripe kernels by cold pressing, which preserves the oil’s quality by protecting it from heat. Cold pressing involves placing the kernels or the kernels powder between two rotating metal plates to apply extreme mechanical pressure that will cause them to break and release their oils.
The resultant oil is mild-yellow in color with the characteristic scent of apricots. If the oil undergoes further refinement, it becomes a lighter yellow in color and its characteristic scent becomes fainter.
Fatty Acid Composition of Apricot Kernel Oil
The main chemical constituents of apricot kernel oil are oleic acid, linoleic acid, alpha-linolenic acid, palmitic acid, stearic acid, vitamin A and E. Apricot kernel oil is also used for medicinal and cosmetic purposes, and this is due to its anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, antiseptic, antioxidant, revitalizing, anti-aging and emollient properties. Despite the several benefits of the fruit, the apricot kernel also comprises potential bioactive components and nutrients including carotenoids, carbohydrates, vitamins, phenols, terpenoids, esters and volatile compounds. Due to its anti-cancer, antioxidant, antimicrobial, antiasthma, anti-inflammatory, anti-analgesic and atherosclerotic properties, apricot kernel is considered a promising ingredient in the health sector.
Here is a look at the fatty acid profile of Apricot Kernel Oil:
Palmitic Acid (C16:10) | 5.0% |
Stearic Acid (C18:10) | 1.0% |
Oleic Acid (C18:1) | 64.2% |
Linoleic Acid (C18:2) | 28.3% |
Linolenic Acid (C18:3) | 0.2% |
Arachidic Acid (C20:0) | 0.2% |
Eicosenoic Acid (C20:1) | 0.29% |
Erucic Acid (C22:1) | 0.1% |
Palmitoleic Acid (C16:1) | 0.5% |
KEY PROPERTIES | |
Vitamin A | |
Vitamin B | |
Vitamin C | |
Vitamin E | |
Fiber | |
Potassium | |
Antioxidants |
What is apricot kernel oil used for?
Used for many centuries, apricot kernel oil continues to be used in skin, hair and health care for its softening, hydrating, rejuvenating and nourishing properties. Apricot oil works to moisturize dry, sensitive skin and to smooth out blemishes, wrinkles, lines and other symptoms typical of maturing skin. Its high level of unsaturated fatty acids makes it non-greasy, and its combination of oleic, linoleic and linolenic acids helps relieve and prevent acne.
Those with nut allergies, and who want to experience the healthful properties of oils such as sweet almond oil can benefit from substituting it with apricot kernel oil, which is a lighter, enriching alternative that is ideal for use on mature skin. Apricot kernel oil is a non-irritating and soothing oil that is easily applied topically, as its thin consistency allows it to absorb quickly but penetrate deeply into the skin, leaving it looking and feeling smooth and soft.
The extract of the apricot kernel can be effectively used as an antifungal ingredient for the prevention of skin and health issues. Apricot oil can promote blood circulation and release pain and inflammation. It has also been used for the treatment of skin diseases such as acne vulgaris, dandruff and furuncle due to its antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and wound healing properties. The antioxidant properties in apricot kernel oil also help fight free radicals and promote skin barrier homeostasis.
Apricot kernel oil is also an excellent vehicle in the field of medicine as it has broad-spectrum applications. Apricot kernel oil has been used for centuries as a popular remedy in China and among the mountain dwellers of the Himalayas. The rich nutritional composition of apricot and apricot kernels, which contains phytonutrients, saccharides, organic acids, minerals and vitamins, is the main factor for using this fruit in folk medicine.
The apricot kernel is folk medicine that is mainly used by the Chinese in regenerating body fluid, quenching thirst and detoxifying, whereas the apricot is used in making syrups which help in alleviating coughs and other respiratory problems. The folk relate apricot as an antipyretic, antiseptic, antispasmodic and Anti asthmatic, analgesic and laxative. There are several reports that reveal that apricot kernels have been used for the treatment of migraine, hypertension, chronic inflammation, cancer and other reaction diseases.
Overall Apricot kernel oil is an organic product that positively impacts human health and is considered a great ingredient for its many therapeutic, medicinal, industrial and topical applications. It is also a cost-effective and eco-friendly product.
Skin Benefits of Apricot Kernel Oil
Anti-aging
Apricot kernel oil has anti-aging benefits due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It helps to nourish the skin and decrease the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, while improving the overall appearance of your skin tone, making your skin appear more radiant and brighter. Its antiseptic and antibacterial properties help the skin heal blemishes and protect against environmental damage.
Anti-inflammatory
Apricot kernel oil is a good source of bioactive compounds such as tocopherols and phytosterols. These are antioxidants that are rich emollients and naturally found in fruits and vegetables. They hydrate and protect the skin against environmental damages and keep the skin supple. Apricot oil is also particularly rich in beta-sitosterol, which has anti-inflammatory properties and is high in oleic acid, which helps to lock in moisture.
Protects against free radical damage
Apricot kernel oil contains vitamin E and A and can help moisturize and protect the skin from oxidative stress. Due to its high antioxidant content, it helps to minimize damage from free radicals and helps to combat pesky signs of aging and has been found to reduce blackheads.
Hydrates the Skin
Due to its deeply rejuvenating and revitalizing properties, apricot kernel oil helps to maintain the skin’s hydration and minimize inflammation. It is a rich emollient and is ideal for nourishing dry and mature skins.
Apricot kernel oil impacts the breakdown of collagen and can increase collagen production and fight signs of aging.
The high content of oleic acid gives apricot oil a greater affinity with the skin compared to some other oils which means that it is more easily absorbed. This oil can be mixed with other products to form creams, serums and balms that can help alleviate a variety of skincare woes.
Suitable for all skin types
Apricot kernel oil is an ideal oil for dry and mature skin due to its emollient, nourishing and revitalizing properties. Apricot kernel oil is mildly comedogenic (level 2) and those with acne-prone skin should avoid using apricot kernel oil too frequently. However, apricot kernel oil is a very versatile oil and can be used for almost everything from haircare to improving respiratory health. Apricot kernel oil is a great option for those who are looking to reduce the signs of skin aging, strengthening hair and many other ailments.
Haircare Benefits of Apricot Kernel Oil
Prevents Hair Loss
Apricot kernel oil with a blend of other oils can be gently heated and applied to the hair as a hot oil treatment. This helps and prevents excessive hair loss that may be caused by dryness and a lack of proper hair nutrition. The astringent properties of Apricot kernel oil ensure that the scalp has a tiger grip on hair follicles thereby slowing hair loss.
Conditions and hydrates the hair
Apricot oil is a natural conditioner for hair and can leave your hair looking glossy and shiny. It can also penetrate the hair shaft and hydrate it from within. This deep moisturization is particularly beneficial for dry, brittle hair, leaving it soft, supple and manageable.
Adds softness and shine
Apricot kernel oil is known to be a natural hair softener. If you are struggling with coarse textured hair that is prone to frizz, apricot oil can help to tame frizz and make your hair easier to style, while also enhancing the natural shine of your strands, making them look healthier and more vibrant.
Moisturizes dry and itchy scalp
The anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial properties make apricot kernel oil an ideal choice for maintaining a healthy scalp. It can alleviate itching, flakiness and dandruff, ensuring your scalp remains in optimal health. It can also help prevent hair loss by keeping the scalp healthy and free from dryness and inflammation.
Apricot Oil Vs Other Oils for Hair
Apricot kernel oil is a fairly lightweight oil that is readily absorbed by the skin and hair. It is the best all-round oils in skin and hair care applications. It has little to no scent and is only lightly colored. The high oleic acid content of apricot kernel oil helps with the soothing, anti-inflammatory action of the oil. The linoleic acid in apricot kernel oil aids in the regeneration of skin and the scalp.it has a slightly higher vitamin E content than most sweet almond oils. It is a great choice for mature and sensitive skin types. Apricot kernel oil works well as a massage oil as well as an effective moisturizer.
As we have already mentioned, Apricot kernel oil is a great substitute for those with nut allergies and who cannot use other oils like sweet almond oil. Both sweet almond oil and apricot kernel oil are members of the same family and provide the same benefits and applications. They also have the same comedogenic rating of 2, however sweet almond oil is gentler on the skin and hair than apricot kernel oil, for which makes it more suitable for daily use.
Apricot kernel oil, which contains oleic acid, effectively treats hair and scalp problems. Oleic acid, an omega 9 fatty acid provides essential proteins to hair follicles. These minerals improve scalp health by reducing fungal infections and dandruff, stimulating hair growth and making hair shiny and strong.
Almond oil on the other hand is considered to be more superior than apricot oil when it comes to treating hair. Both oils contain vitamin E, which nourishes and protects the hair, however apricot oil contains beneficial nutrients that can add to hydration, making your hair feel thicker and more hydrated. Both apricot kernel oil and sweet almond oil are excellent moisturizers, and though sweet almond oil is considered to be more superior, apricot kernel oil is still a good substitute for those with nut allergies.
Apricot Kernel Oil Substitutes
Peach Oil - peach kernel oil is a lightweight and easy to absorb oil, that is used in face therapies as a daily moisturizer. Peach kernel oil is similar to the texture of apricot kernel oil and sweet almond oil, but absorbs a bit slower, which makes it more suitable for longer massages.
Sweet Almond - sweet almond oil has the same absorption rating and is an oil that will soothe irritation as well. Sweet almond oil is hydrating and anti-inflammatory like apricot kernel oil.
Grapeseed Oil- like Apricot Kernel Oil, grapeseed oil contains vitamin E, which is necessary for skin and hair health. Grapeseed oil is also considered a natural moisturizer due to the high level of linoleic acid, an omega-6 fatty acid.
Chia Seed Oil - Chia seed oil is a great hydrating oil that helps to strengthen the skin barrier. It is especially helpful for those people with dry, mature and sensitive skin due to its anti-inflammatory properties, and makes it a great substitute oil for apricot kernel oil.
Macadamia Nut Oil- macadamia nut oil is an anti-aging and moisturizing oil that also absorbs quickly into the skin. It is a very beneficial oil for the skin and makes a great substitute for apricot kernel oil.
Apricot Kernel Oil is edible!
Apricot Kernel Oil can be used as a cooking oil, just make you use the food grade apricot kernel oil and not the ones ultra-refined and processed for industrial and cosmetic uses.
Apricot Kernel Oil Side Effects
The topical application of apricot kernel oil is not known to have side effects. In the rare chance of an allergic reaction, discontinue use and see a doctor, pharmacists or allergist as soon as possible. While there are not many warnings for Apricot kernel oil if you are allergic to apricot, you should not use the oil. To prevent side effects, consult a medical professional before use.
Environmental Benefits and Sustainability
The environmental impact of apricot kernel oil production is relatively low compared to some other oils due to the sustainable cultivation of apricot trees. Apricot kernel oil has been treasured for centuries for its benefits in skincare, haircare and culinary applications, and as the demand for natural and sustainable product rises, the manufacturing of apricot kernel intensifies. Apricot kernel oil is primarily produced through a cold-press extraction method to ensure the oil retains its natural properties and nutritional value.
Sustainability is a key focus for many apricot kernel oil manufacturers, driven by the increasing demand for environmentally friendly products. The various sustainability practices manufacturers employ is to source apricot kernels from sustainable sources and supporting local farmers, investing in renewable energy and resource efficient technologies and adopting packing solutions that are recyclable or biodegradable.
Apricot and apricot kernel oil production is relatively sustainable, as there is no significant damage to air, water, land, soil, forests as long as there are no pesticides used.
Final thoughts
Apricot kernel oil is an all-round wonderful oil to use, as it is suitable for most skin and hair types. It is also a very versatile oil and can be used in various applications in skincare, haircare and culinary industry. It is a relatively well-researched oil as it has been used for centuries in traditional folk medicine. If apricot kernel oil is an oil, you desire to use in the future be sure to consult your health practitioner and be sure to always buy the unrefined organic variant of apricot kernel oil.
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