Your heart loves apricot in any form maybe as a fruit or as a dry-fruit. On hearing the word apricot the delicious sensation runs in your mind, and the craving and eagerness to consume the highly nutritious and vitamin loaded fruit arise.

Now get ready for a surprise!!

We are going to tell you a magical secret about, the apricots, seed kernels that you used to throw away while having the apricot. Yes the kernels are the most nutritious and vitamin loaded part of the whole fruit, those hard kernels can provide numerous benefits to your skin and hair.

The apricot kernels or seeds can be extracted to make 100% natural apricot kernel oil by cold pressing those hard kernels.

Is the apricot kernel oil safe for topical application on skin and hair?

Yes, the oil extracted by cold pressing the kernels is totally safe to apply on to your skin and hair; I repeat it is totally safe to make use of the apricot kernel oil. So, are you ready to explore more about the most amazing oil that can moisturize and exfoliate your skin and also protect it from getting dull and dry. The omega-9 fatty acids present in the oil can also benefit you hair and scalp in numerous ways.

So, fasten your belts we are going to take you taking you on a adventurous ride we will travel to the history and also go through the origin and cultivation of the apricot kernels, and you are going to know how the oil is made, you will get to know you the magic that this oil can do as a carrier oil .you will get to know all the benefits of the apricot kernel oil to your skin and body. We care, for you so we will also tell you about the safety and precautions (if there are any).

The history of apricot kernel oil

Apricot Kernel Carrier Oil, also referred to simply as Apricot Oil, is lightweight carrier oil pressed from the oil-rich kernels of Apricots.

The Prunus armeniaca is the botanical name of the apricot tree. The apricot tree got its name from Armenia; the apricot tree is a native to Armenia. The meaning of the name is name “Armenian plum.”  Some historical notes carries the evidence of India being the first the first country to cultivate the apricots some 3000years ago.

Apricots were introduced to Roman Empire by the Roman General Lucullus and to Greece by King Alexander the Great. Turkey is currently known to be the largest producer of Apricots.

The Apricot tree origin cannot be found out exactly. The apricot trees were also planted by the ancient Chinese.

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.

Description of apricot kernels

An apricot kernel is the seed of an apricot fruit that grows on the apricot tree, which is located within the hard endocarp, the kernels are the main product used to produce the apricot oil.

The kernels of the apricot are rich in oil they contains 50%-60% of oil content.

Cultivation and harvesting of Apricot kernels for oil

The apricot trees are of delicate nature. The roots of the plant cannot withstand sandy soil and extreme temperatures. Water logging also poses harm to the apricot plant. Warm summers and mild winters is most suitable for the trees growth. There are very few species of apricot that could withstand the low temperatures -28°C (-20°F).

An apricot tree takes 5-6 years time to bear fruits after planting if all the conditions are suitable. Apricot flower buds begin to bloom. In spring, Apricot fruits begin to ripen. The Apricot is a drupe, which is a fleshy, thin-skinned fruit with a hard stone at its centre that contains the seed. In the late summer the size of the fruit grows and it ripens, the apricots are ready for harvesting

Manual process is inculcated to harvest the apricots, and it begins with collecting the fruits, sometimes long sticks are used to shake the branches in order to make them fall to the ground. Once collected, the fruits are taken to next process of oil extraction.

 The Process

 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 and 20 minutes, which makes it easier for the shells to break open and release the inner Kernel.

When the extraction process begins, 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 between two rotating metal plates to apply extreme mechanical pressure that will cause them to break and release their oils. The oil is mid-yellow in colour. The oil is ready to be packed into bottles.

Now we will go through the benefits of the 100% Natural cold-pressed apricot kernel oil

 Caring your skin

1. Perfect anti-ager

There are vitamins, antioxidants, fatty acids, essential fatty acids and more present in the apricot kernel oil.

Apricot oil benefits your skin with a high content of vitamin E. The perfect blend of antioxidants and vitamins helps in removing the fine lines and wrinkles so it is a perfect anti-aging product.

2. Eliminating blackheads

It is a common confusion that black heads are black because of the dirt and pollution but they’re actually black because the oil inside your pores has become oxidized. And turns brownish black

Apricot kernel oil can help stop this from happening because of its high antioxidant content. When the oil inside of your pores is protected, it doesn’t turn black and therefore not only are you protecting against future black headed spots, your pores will also look smaller and less visible.

3.  No more dull skin

Dry and mature skin types are slow and uneven in their skin cell renewal making your skin tone look, dull, dry and uneven. However, use a rejuvenating, vitamin A containing oil like apricot oil and this dry, maturing skin cycle can be stopped, halted and unwound. Your skin tone can become brightened, dewy and even.

4. Protects against dehydration

Keeping your skin hydrated is an often overlooked essential. Think of it this way. How well can you think when hungry and thirsty? It’s the same for your skin. To function at its best, your skin cells need water. Apricot oil benefits your skin by resealing your skin barrier. You might not know it, but your skin barrier is oil based. Oil and water don’t mix and this is how your skin holds onto hydration.

5. Softening and Soothing skin

Apricot oil is great for soothing dry skin. It deeply nourishes damaged, rough or chapped skin. Just apply it on the affected area and let it be. It acts as a great natural moisturizer.

Benefits of Apricot kernel oil to your hair and scalp

 Six magical benefits of apricot oil for your hair & scalp.

• Apricot seed oil has oleic acid, which is an omega-9 fatty acid and a wonderful emollient that makes hair and scalp softer and smooth.
• It actually moisturizes the hair and scalp while increasing the hydration level.
• Linoleic acid benefits hair by stimulating hair growth by preventing moisture loss.
• Linoleic acid is a fatty acid that controls or keeps moisture in the hair and scalp.
• This oil provides lubrication to the skin, including the scalp and as a light and gentle lubricant, it is great for sensitive skin types and often used in hair and face creams and rinses.
• It not only seals in the moisture, but it also absorbs small amounts of water from the air’s humidity to help maintain that barrier of hydration inside the strand and scalp.

Side effects of apricot kernel oil

They are no side effects of the apricot oil if used as a topical applicant to skin and hair. But patch test is suggested before applying to sensitive e areas. Discontinue use if you see any allergic symptoms.

The consumption of this oil is hazardous as it can cause damage if it enters the person’s stomach. Apricot kernel is LIKELY UNSAFE to take by mouth or as an injection into the veins. But topical application on skin and hair is totally safe, even it can be used as a massage oil safely.

 Shelf life

The shelf life of the 100% natural cold-pressed apricot kernel oil ranges from 6-12 months when kept in a cool and dry place.

So, now we have reached the end of this beautiful journey. We hope you know much more about this apricot kernel oil now, if any query arises please mention in the comments section below we will be really happy to resolve it.

Carrot seed oil is an essential oil extracted from the seed of the Daucus carota plant, when added to a variety of carrier oils, carrot seed oil has antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties that may improve skin health especially our face.

Carrot Seed Essential Oil is used for aromatherapy. It has a warm, earthy aroma and is believed to offer a variety of health benefits, including the reduction of stress levels.

Carrot seed oil should not be confused with carrot oil, which is made from crushed carrot roots and can be used for culinary purposes. As an essential oil, the carrot seed oil is intended for external use only. The Essential Oils are not supposed to be ingested.

Is Carrot Seed Essential oil perfect for Facial use?

Carrot Seed Essential Oil used in cosmetics for anti-aging properties in skincare. Carrot seed essential oil has shown antibacterial, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties.

These properties make it a perfect oil to be used on the face it helps to prevent Aging effects on skin carrot seed oil provides effective protection from sunburns and also helps to deal with the problems of hyper pigmentation and dark spots on the face.

Some DIY tips to make use of Carrot Seed Essential Oil more effectively on your face Facial Serum using Carrot Seed Essential Oil

For a facial serum that promotes and maintains skin health, pour 15 ml of Olive Carrier Oil into a 17 ml dropper bottle, then add 8 drops Carrot Seed Essential Oil, 4 drops Chamomile Essential Oil, 2 drops Geranium Essential Oil, and 2 drops Lavender Essential Oil.

Shake the bottle well to thoroughly blend together all the ingredients. To use this blend, cleanse the face and massage 4 drops into the forehead, chin, and cheeks.

Anti-aging Moisturizer Using Carrot Seed Essential Oil

For a conditioning anti-aging moisturizer that can be used immediately before makeup application, first combine 1 Table-spoon. Prickly Pear Carrier Oil and 2 tsp. Argan Carrier Oil in a  dropper bottle that is darkly colored. Next, add 5 drops of Carrot Seed Essential Oil, 3 drops of Lavender Essential Oil, and 2 drops of Frankincense Essential Oil. Cap the bottle and gently shake it or roll it between the palms to ensure that all the oils are thoroughly mixed together. Before applying makeup, cleanse the face and massage 2-3 drops of this blend into the forehead, chin, and cheeks.

A Natural Face Exfoliant using Carrot Seed Essential Oil

Carrot Seed Essential Oil makes an ideal ingredient for use in a natural face exfoliant that will not only remove dead skin cells and cleanse pores but that will also repair dryness and damage to leave the complexion looking and feeling smoother, clearer, and more radiant. First, pour 2 Table-spoon. Coconut Carrier Oil and 2 tsp.

Organic Raw Honey into jar. To this, add 4 Table-spoon. Organic Coffee Grounds, then blend all the ingredients together. To this mixture, add 8 drops Carrot Seed Essential Oil and 6 drops Tea Tree Essential Oil.

Once more, blend all the ingredients together. To use this exfoliant, first, splash the face with water and pat the skin dry. Using the fingers, scoop a small amount of the scrub into the palms and massage it over the face and neck, avoiding the eye area. Leave the scrub on like a mask for a few minutes, then rinse it off with lukewarm water and pat the skin dry.

Sun protection gel using Carrot Seed Essential Oil

To soothe skin that has been damaged by overexposure to the sun, combine 5 drops of Carrot Seed Essential Oil with ¼ cup of Aloe Vera Gel inside a glass jar.

This soothing salve can be smoothed over the area of skin that has been affected by sunburn.

Some Precautions for Carrot Seed Essential Oil users

Carrot seed oil is generally considered safe if used externally. As an essential oil, carrot seed oil is intended for external use only. The Essential Oils are not supposed to be ingested.

With that being said, you should never apply undiluted carrot seed oil to the skin as it may cause redness, rash, and burning sensations. If using it for topical purposes, always mix carrot seed oil with a cold-pressed carrier oil like sweet almond oil or coconut oil. Pregnant women and toddlers should refrain from using Carrot essential oil.

So these were the few ideas which will help you to add this magical Carrot Seed Essential oil into your daily routine.

Good evening folks! In this article we are going to discuss some frequently asked questions related to carrier oils. This will surely help learners to picture the whole topic clearly. We have seen in earlier blogs that carrier oils play crucial role in aromatherapy and in dilution of essential oil.

In this article we are going to see different carrier oils and how they can be used. It is important to gain this insight because you cannot use essential oils alone. The dilution of essential oil is an unavoidable part and for that knowledge on carrier oil is must. So without any further delay, let us check out the questions and you are free to come up with your own doubts and question. I would love to answer them.

Let us know about carrier oil through some questions:

What are carrier oils?
Carrier oils are vegetable, nut or seeds oil which has in it therapeutic properties. Carrier oils generally consists of fatty acids and so known as fatty oils. These are derived from fatty regions of the plant like seed, nut or kernel. As essential oils are concentrated in nature, it is always necessary to dilute them in carrier oils.

Which process is used to extract carrier oils?
There are various methods of carrier oil extraction like cold-pressed, hot extraction, solvent extraction, CO₂extraction or maceration. As the scope of carrier oils and essential oils is huge in aromatherapy, it is important to choose cold-pressed or expeller pressed oils for better result.

Which fatty acids are present in carrier oils?
Fatty acid is carboxylic acid with long aliphatic chain which can be either saturated or unsaturated. This clears that carrier oils consist of both saturated and unsaturated fatty acids.
Examples of saturated fatty acids are Stearic acid, Palmitic acid, Lauric acid, Capric acid, Myristic acid etc. Examples of unsaturated fatty acids are Oleic acid, linoleic acid, linolenic acid etc.

What is the shelf life of carrier oils?
Carrier oils shelf life generally range from 1 year to 3 years. But different carrier oils show different shelf life and it also depends on its source and preservation methods. In general store carrier oils properly to use them for as long as 2 years.

Which is best carrier oil for essential oils?
Dilution of essential oil is an important step so it is mandatory to know best carrier oils for dilution. I can list different carrier oils but it is always good to choose carrier oil according to your application and requirement. For instance: you are using essential oil for application on face then dilute it with jojoba oil or sweet almond oil as they have excellent moisturizing properties.

How to mix carrier oil with essential oil?
The very first step is collection of ingredients for mixture. You can prefer combination of essential oils and carrier oils. First mix all carrier oils together in beaker and give it a proper stir. After stirring, slowly add drops of essential oil while continuing stir. Then transfer it in an airtight container and leave it for overnight. Next day apply mixture as per requirement.

Which carrier oils to prefer for dry skin?
Dry skin is a problem everyone suffers from. With the right use of essential oil and carrier oil, the problem of dry skin can be solved.  Sweet almond oil, Coconut oil may help you to overcome dry skin with their excellent moisturizing properties. These oils keep skin hydrated.

Are carrier oils helpful for hair health too?
Yes, off course they are very helpful for hair health and hair growth. They can be blended with essential oil or can be used individually. For instance: massaging scalp with coconut oil, mustard oil has been a common practice. Just to let you know, these are carrier oil which impart strengthening to hair scalp and reduce hair fall.

These are some generalized question that usually pops in mind when dealing with carrier oils. We will surely cover another level of questionnaire that involves answers on aromatherapy as it has wide scope. Till then keep reading and keep sharing.

I hope all the beginners found it easy to understand general concept of carrier oils.

Thank you.