Product Description
Prickly Pear Seed Oil / Opuntia Oil (Opuntia Ficus Indica)
Opuntia Oil is known as Prickly Pear Oil, Barbary Fig Seed Oil, Indian Fig Oil, and Cactus Oil. It contains more natural Vitamin E than any other plant oil – even more than Argan oil – and is non-irritating and ideal for sensitive skin.
Where does it come from?
In the Free State region mainly, South Africa is now producing world-class quality that is pure and cold-pressed.
Extracting the fruit from the seeds is a lengthy operation, which can take three to four days. It is a manual operation, and the season lasts only a few months. It is worth noting that half a ton of these cactus fruits only produce one litre of prickly pear seed oil. The seeds contain only 5 per cent oil, making extraction difficult with low yields per batch. Thus, it is one of the most expensive oils available.
Opuntia Oil versus Argan Oil
- 65% polyunsaturated fatty acids (nourishing) as opposed to 33% for argan oil
- Vitamin E (antioxidant) over 100mg/100g as opposed to 65mg for argan oil
- It contains 150% more vitamin E than argan oil
This oil is also extremely rich in essential fatty acids, including omega 6 and 9, antioxidants, polyphenols, amino acids, and vitamin K. It calms inflammation and rehydrates your skin. Its high Linoleic Acid content allows the oil to absorb quickly and penetrate deeply without leaving a greasy residue.
Skin Treatment
- Intensely hydrates the skin
- Suitable for all skin types but works particularly well on dry, mature skin
- Brightens skin and gets rid of dark spots
- Reduces wrinkles and adds firmness
- Highly effective moisturiser
- Easily absorbed into the skin
- Does not clog your pores
- Calms down any inflammation and redness, especially for those prone to rosacea
Brighten under-eye circles and minimise spider veins
The fatty acid profile of linoleic acid and oleic acid replenish lost lipids within the skin, which helps moisturise and restore skin elasticity. The high linoleic acid content, roughly 62%, ensures that even the most dehydrated skin is soothed.
Sufferers of acne usually have higher oleic acid levels in the skin than linoleic acid.
Its high linoleic acid content helps prevent sebum from hardening and thus prevents blocked pores, leading to acne and spots.
Hair Treatment
Opuntia Oil is excellent for dry, dull, and lacklustre hair. For hair treatment, use one or two drops and massage into hair every night; leave for 15 minutes before washing.
Nail Care
When applied regularly to the nail cuticles, this oil strengthens nails, making them less prone to breakage.
Weight Loss
Opuntia oil is also used in herbal supplements for weight loss.