Prickly Pear Oil Benefits

Prickly Pear Oil has inherited the extraordinary properties of the tree of which it is the product. In fact, in order to resist the dry and hot climates in which it grows, particularly in Mexico and the Maghreb, the Prickly Pear tree has developed extraordinary adaptability by concentrating the essential nutrients for its survival, particularly in its seeds: Vitamins, Essential Fatty Acids, Antioxidants, everything is there and at much higher levels than in other oils.

 

1. Where does Prickly Pear Oil come from?

Origin

Prickly pear seed oil (also called Prickly Pear Oil, Cactus Oil or Barbary Fig Oil ) is extracted from the seeds of the prickly pear.

The Prickly Pear is the fruit of the Prickly Pear also called Opuntia Ficus-Indica, Indian Fig or Nopal. It is a tree that originates in the tropical areas of Central America and particularly in Mexico. The first known contact with this fruit dates back to 1492 when the Spanish arrived on the island of Haiti. Afterwards, it was first introduced in Spain, then from the 16th century, it began to spread in the Mediterranean and Indian subcontinent.

 

Currently, this plant is cultivated in several regions of the world: Mexico, Italy, Algeria, Tunisia, Morocco, Turkey, India, where it is appreciated for its sweet and delicious fruit but also for its oil. Indeed, the latter is a concentrate of nutrients and active ingredients that have a miraculous effect on the skin.

Production

Prickly Pear Seed Oil is a virgin oil obtained by first cold pressing. The seeds are pressed after having been separated, cleaned and then dried in open air.

The production of this oil is a slow and laborious process. To learn more, read the article about production of Prickly Pear Oil in the Knowledge Corner of Samel Natural..

 

2. What does Prickly Pear Oil contain?

Several recent studies have focused on the analysis of Prickly Pear Oil components and their beneficial effects. This precious oil is among the richest vegetable oils in Vitamins, Nutrients and Essential Fatty Acids.

Vitamin E

Vitamin E is a powerful Antioxidant, it is present in Prickly Pear Oil in the form of Tocopherols at record concentrations of 100mg in 100g of oil, thus placing itself in the lead compared to other vegetable oils.

Linoleic Acid

Essential polyunsaturated fatty acid of the Omega 6 family. An essential fatty acid is not secreted in the body and must therefore be acquired through food or through skin application. It participates in the formation and regeneration of cells. Linoleic acid represents 65.5% of the fatty acids contained in Prickly Pear Oil.

Oleic Acid

Mono unsaturated fatty acid of the Omega 9 family. It represents about 13% of the fatty acids contained in Prickly Pear Oil. It actively participates in the protection of the outer layers of the skin.

Palmitic Acid

Mono unsaturated fatty acid of the Omega 7 family, has an occlusive action and protects the skin against  aggressions and microbial infections. It is present at about 12% in the fatty acids pool of the Prickly Pear Oil.

Phytosterols

Mainly present in the form of Beta-sitosterol, Campesterol and Stigmasterol. Phytosterols are plant compounds identical to cholesterol. They form a powerful protective shield against the ravages of ultraviolet rays.

 

3. What are the Benefits of Prickly Pear Oil for the Skin?

Due to its high concentration of nutrients, Prickly Pear Seed Oil has amazing properties and benefits on the skin.

Anti-Aging and Antioxidant

The high Vitamin E content of Prickly Pear Oil gives it a powerful Anti-Aging and Antioxidant action. Indeed, Vitamin E neutralizes free radicals that are responsible of the cellular ageing by attacking the membrane of the cells and by oxidizing it. Free radicals can also attack the nucleus of the cell and cause its death. Vitamin E effectively fights against this phenomenon and prevents the appearance of skin aging signs such as wrinkles and fine lines

Healing

Thanks to the combined action of Tocopherols and Linoleic Acid. In fact, in recent years, many studies have highlighted the restorative and healing properties of linoleic acid. Regular application of this polyunsaturated fatty acid to the skin has been shown to significantly accelerate the healing process and make it more efficient. It is particularly effective if applied following the removal of stitches, burns or in prevention of stretch marks.

Restorative and Regenerative

The synergistic action of Vitamin E and Linoleic and Oleic Acid boosts boosts Collagen production, thus giving a major stimulus to skin cell regeneration. Moreover, by stimulating the production of Collagen, Prickly Pear Oil gives back to the skin the elasticity and softness lost with age.

Antiinflammatory

The Linoleic Acid present in Prickly Pear Oil contributes to the synthesis of anti-inflammatory molecules when applied to the skin. The same goes for Phytosterols also present in this oil. The action of these two families of substances generates a proven anti-inflammatory effect that will reduce skin inflammation, redness, micro edema and some dermatitis.

Moisturizing

Prickly Pear Oil ensures optimal hydration. Indeed, the fats contained in it (Fatty Acids, Sterols, Vitamin E) play a role in the reinforcement of intercellular cement (cohesion of cells between them), so the water is trapped and retained at the level of epidermal cells.

Softening ( Emollient)

By its nature of Vegetable Oil rich in nutrients and natural fatty elements, Prickly Pear Oil is an excellent emollient that greatly contributes to a smooth and soft skin.

Anti-Bacterial and Anti-Fungal

The hydrolipidic film present on the surface of the skin is a crucial element in its protection against external aggressions and to its good health. The Palmitic Acid present in this oil rebalances the composition of this film and increases its Shield effect.

In addition, the pH of Prickly Pear Oil is between 5 and 5.5: This is the ideal pH range which will eliminate and prevent bacterial and fungal infections.

 

4. What are the Uses of Prickly Pear Oil?

The benefits of Prickly Pear Oil outlined above, demonstrate the miraculous and versatile nature of this oil, it can relieve and even treat several skin conditions including:

Scars and Acne

 

 

Wrinkles and Fine lines

 

 

Dry Skin

 

 

Irritation and Redness

 

Dark Circles

 

 

Brown Spots and Hyper Pigmentation

 

Stretch marks

 

 

Don’t leave your skin feeling deprived and give it everything it needs to regain a healthy glow by using Samel Natural’s 100% Pure Organic Prickly Pear Oil. We use it daily and assure you that you will not be disappointed!