It’s time for the latest installment in our Oilixia Origins blog series where we discover more about the precious ingredients in our products. This time we’re taking a closer look our carrot seed oil, which we source from Nepal, and all the wonderful skincare, beauty, health and wellbeing properties it contains.
THE PROCESS OF EXTRACTION
The oil is extracted from the dried seeds of the wild carrot plant in a process called steam distillation. Strict temperature control is applied throughout to ensure the maximum amount of oil is extracted without burning the raw material.
THE HISTORY OF CARROT SEED OIL
Originating from Western Asia with different sources tracing it to both India and Nepal, the use of carrot seed oil for its medicinal properties date back to the ancient times. Also known as “Queen Anne’s Lace”, it was used as back as far as 700BC, with the earliest recorded use around 25BC by Roman encyclopaedist, Aulus Cornelius Celsus in his medical paper “De Medicina”. While it takes its name from the ancient Greek word ‘carotos’, the Romans used this oil to help with a variety of common skin conditions including dry skin and wrinkles.
THE SCENT
A fresh, natural and slightly sweet aroma with earthy, woody undertones and a herbaceous linger reminiscent of childhood days spent in the woods!
THE FEELING
Refreshing and revitalising!
THE SKINCARE AND BEAUTY BENEFITS OF CARROT SEED OIL
A large dose of both vitamin A and beta-carotene make carrot seed oil a great anti-ageing product as it helps to reduce the appearance of wrinkles, fine lines and dark spots by rejuvenating, refreshing and nourishing the skin. Beta-carotene also helps to improve skin texture by promoting surface skin cell exfoliation leaving brighter and smoother looking skin. Carrot seed oil is also great at fighting common problems including eczema, psoriasis, dermatitis and rashes, while the oil’s antiseptic properties means it will effectively treat ulcers, abscesses and open wounds.
THE HEALTH BENEFITS OF CARROT SEED OIL
Carrot seed oil works as a diuretic, helping to eliminate the body of nasty toxins and clean the kidneys. It also works to reduce pain during menstruation, treat ulcers, ease flatulence and protect eyesight – the latter is down to the carotene and proves (sort of) that carrots really do help you to see in the dark! It’s good for cleansing and regulating the digestive system and detoxifying the liver, by toning up the vital organs, tissues and muscles. Carrot seed oil has also been known to ease the symptoms of arthritis, gout, rheumatism and bronchitis, as well as protect from muscular degeneration. The carotene also means it’s good for the hair and for oral hygiene.
THE WELLBEING BENEFITS OF CARROT SEED OIL
The natural, earthy aromas of the oil have made it an aromatherapist’s favourite, and it is widely used for its stress-relieving properties for those suffering from anxiety. Its uplifting fragrance also helps to soothe exhaustion.
READ MORE ABOUT OILIXIA ORIGINS
Interested in the origins of some of our other ingredients? Read about our Italian Bergamot, Tunisian Neroli, Colombian Cacay, French Lavender, and Australian Macadamia.
