Hailed a prominent superfood, pomegranates have firmly held their place in the spotlight for years. Once a symbol of prosperity, abundance and even fertility, pomegranates been known for medicinal and beauty benefits for centuries. This plump red fruit with its jewel-toned seeds is rumoured to have originated in Persia, yet owes its name to Middle French ‘pomme garnete' known as the seeded apple. Native to India, Egypt and certain areas of the Middle East, it is revered for its cosmetic and health boosting properties, it’s no wonder its oil is used in all from cosmetic uses to cultural practices.
7 things to love about Pomegranate Oil
High in vitamins including B1, B2, C, potassium, and magnesium and antioxidants, pomegranate contains three types of polyphenols- (powerful antioxidants known for their heart boosting qualities )—tannins, ellagic acid and anthocyanins – which is unique to it and responsible for its red colour. Incorporated in many beauty products- from anti-aging to sun care, pomegranate oil can help with a number of skin care issues that both men and women of varying ages and ethnicities can face, including dry skin, age spots, hyperpigmentation, acne flare-ups and mild scarring.
1. For healthy, radiant skin
With its incredible antioxidant and anti-microbial properties pomegranate oil has the unique ability to promote cell regeneration. By protecting the dermis and the epidermis - the inner and outer layers of the skin- and increasing circulation, pomegranate seed oil has been known to aid in tissue repair as well as speed the wound healing process.
2. For sun protection
Because of its high ellagic acid content, pomegranate seed oil can help protect the skin against free radicals, relieve sunburn and reduce the signs of sun damage. Studies have also shown that ellagic acid can protect against skin cancer by preventing the growth of skin tumours. And with powerful polyphenol compounds such as catechins which strengthens the skin`s upper layers, pomegranate seed oil can ultimately increase the skin’s resistance to harmful UV rays.
3. To treat dry & combination skin
The small molecular structure of pomegranate seed oil allows it to penetrate deeply into the skin, which makes it highly effective for treating dry skin. It can soothe cracked and irritated skin quickly and its omega 5 fatty acid content works to prevent moisture loss. Pomegranate oil even works for oily and combination skin to treat breakouts and symptoms of acne, including dark spots. This is largely due to its high mineral and Vitamin C content, which is necessary for regulating the production of sebum, one of the root causes of breakouts.
4. To reduce signs of aging
Pomegranate oil can reduce signs of premature aging such as wrinkles and fine lines caused by sun damage and exposure. It can also promote smooth, firmer skin by supporting the skin’s ability to produce both collagen and elastin. Pomegranate seed oil is also thought to prevent hyperpigmentation and minimize age spots
5. To soothe irritated and inflamed skin
Famously high in lipids, including punicic acid (approximately 84%) and with anti-inflammatory properties, pomegranate seed oil is thought to heal inflammation and reduce swelling. Studies have also found that pomegranate extract helps support the immune system and promote healthy blood circulation, control bad cholesterol and keeps arteries clear, ultimately reducing the risk of heart disease. It does this by suppressing both the COX-2 enzyme responsible for pain and inflammation and proteins secreted by cells in the immune system.
6. To improve cardiac health
The phytochemicals present in pomegranate seed oil help to regulate cholesterol levels in the body and supply it with good fats, thereby working to prevent heart attacks, high blood pressure and other cardiovascular diseases. Simply massage a small amount on patches of the skin on a daily basis or as required. Pomegranate seed oil can even be taken internally, add one to two drops to a glass of water or cup of herbal tea and enjoy. Though if allergies develop we strongly recommend you consult your physician.
7. For strong nourished tresses
Pomegranate seed oil continues to be a popular natural hair treatment because of its large content of punicic acid, which helps to revitalize and strengthen the hair, making it lustrous and healthy. Its high antioxidant and vitamin content also help to increase the blood circulation in the scalp, strengthen blood vessels and thereby promote healthy hair growth. It can help to reduce flakiness and itchiness of the scalp, which is why it is an effective in treating conditions like dandruff, dryness and even dull hair.
Cold-pressed & Organic
Cold-pressing, or the process of obtaining oils through pressing and grinding of fruit and seeds under low temperatures (lower than 49°C ) is necessary to retain the nutrients as well as the vitamin content of many oils. As an ethical brand, we take care to source only the purest, highest grade carrier oils from trustworthy sources. Our cold-pressed certified organic Pomegranate seed oil has been obtained from premium pomegranate seeds, and has a clear light golden colour, which indicates minimal processing. Its scent is that of a mild pomegranate fruit, anything overpowering will indicate it cosmetically fragrances have been added.
To recognise a premium unrefined pomegranate oil from a mixture, as with all of our carrier oils, we strongly recommend you check:
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Colour - should be a deep golden colour; a pale orange colour is a sign of bad quality.
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Texture - as with all unrefined oils, the texture should be smooth and slightly thick, never so light its runny.
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Packaging - ever wondered why our oils come in tinted bottle or jars, because not only is glass packaging more environmentally friendly than plastic containers, it also preserves them from heat, light, oxidization and moisture- all of which knowingly affect the quality of organic oils.
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Finally, whenever possible, look a certified organic label or organic ingredients. Products claiming to be 100% organic should visibly display a certified organic label, whereas those listed as organic should contain between 95-99% ingredients!
Written by
Mary-Claire Akinyemi, Health & beauty writer
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