Tanacetum Annuum Flower Oil also known as blue tanacetus oil, is extracted by steam distillation of the flowers of the plant of the same name, which belongs to the Asteraceae family.
The name describes the structure of the molecule:
- Tanacetum Annuum is the scientific name for the flower commonly known as blue tansy or blue chamomile. This plant is valued for its flowers which produce a blue-colored essential oil.
- Flower Oil indicates that the product is an essential oil extracted from the flowers of Tanacetum Annuum.
Industrial Production Process
- Flower collection. Tanacetum Annuum flowers are harvested when fully bloomed, which is when the essential oil content is highest.
- Steam distillation. The fresh flowers are immediately subjected to steam distillation. This method involves passing steam through the plant material to extract the essential oils.
- Condensation. The steam carrying the essential oils is cooled in a condenser, turning it into liquid. The essential oil separates from the distillation water due to differences in density.
- Oil collection. The essential oil, which floats above the water or separates to the side, is collected and drained out of the distillation system.
- Filtration and purification. The collected oil may be filtered to remove physical impurities and further purified if necessary.
- Quality control. Tanacetum Annuum essential oil undergoes various tests to ensure purity, the concentration of active compounds such as chamazulene, and to verify the absence of contaminants.
- Storage. The oil is stored in dark glass containers to protect it from light, which could degrade its active chemical components.
What it is used for and where
This oil is renowned for its high content of chamazulene, a compound that gives the oil its characteristic blue color and has anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic properties. It is primarily used in aromatherapy to relieve stress and calm the mind. Additionally, due to its soothing properties, it is a popular ingredient in skincare products intended to treat conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, and skin irritations. Blue tansy oil is also employed for its ability to improve skin tone and reduce redness.
Cosmetics - INCI Functions
- Fragrance. It plays a very important role in the formulation of cosmetic products as it provides the possibility of enhancing, masking or adding fragrance to the final product, increasing its marketability. It is able to create a perceptible pleasant odour, masking a bad smell. The consumer always expects to find a pleasant or distinctive scent in a cosmetic product.
- Skin conditioning agent. It is the mainstay of topical skin treatment as it has the function of restoring, increasing or improving skin tolerance to external factors, including melanocyte tolerance. The most important function of the conditioning agent is to prevent skin dehydration, but the subject is rather complex and involves emollients and humectants that can be added in the formulation.
Main uses and benefits of Tanacetum Annuum Flower Oil.
Anti-inflammatory Properties. This oil is highly effective at reducing inflammation and soothing skin irritations such as eczema, psoriasis, and rosacea (1).
Calming and Relaxing Effects. The aroma of Tanacetum Annuum is used in aromatherapy to reduce stress and promote a sense of calm, helping to alleviate tensions and anxiety.
Skin Care. The oil has healing properties that can accelerate the healing process of small wounds, cuts, and abrasions, thanks to its ability to support cell regeneration.
Antioxidant. It contains antioxidants that help protect the skin from free radical damage and premature aging.
Pain Relief. It can be used to relieve muscle pain and tension due to its analgesic properties, making it useful in massage oils and balms.
Versatile Applications. Tanacetum Annuum Flower Oil can be incorporated into various cosmetic products, including creams, lotions, serums, body oils, and products for sensitive skin care.
Safety
Tanacetum Annuum Flower Oil is a product generally considered safe.
