Description

Oenothera biennis seed, also known as evening primrose seed, is obtained from the seeds of the Oenothera biennis plant, which belongs to the Onagraceae family. The seed is used to produce extracts rich in essential fatty acids and other beneficial compounds, applicable in cosmetic and nutraceutical products.

Chemical Composition and Structure

Oenothera biennis seed contains various bioactive compounds, including:

Essential fatty acids: particularly rich in gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), a polyunsaturated fatty acid known for its anti-inflammatory properties and support for skin health.
Flavonoids: includes flavonoids that contribute to the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of the seed.
Phenolic compounds: contains phenolic compounds that offer antioxidant protection and enhance skin benefits.
Vitamins: provides vitamins such as vitamin E, useful for supporting skin health and protecting against oxidative stress.
The chemical structure of Oenothera biennis seed is characterized by a variety of essential fatty acids and polyphenolic compounds that contribute to its beneficial effects.

Physical Properties

Oenothera biennis seed is generally light brown and has a hard texture. When processed to obtain extracts, it can be turned into a light yellow oil with a mild, vegetal aroma. This oil is soluble in oils and organic solvents.

Production Process

The production process for Oenothera biennis seed involves several steps:

Harvesting: The seeds of Oenothera biennis are collected from the plant. These seeds are particularly rich in essential fatty acids.

Preparation: The collected seeds are cleaned and prepared for extraction, which includes removing impurities and preparing the material for extraction.

Extraction:

Solvent Extraction: The prepared seeds are treated with solvents such as vegetable oils or alcohol to extract the bioactive compounds. This process produces a concentrated oil.
Cold Pressing: Cold pressing may be used to obtain a high-quality oil while preserving the nutrients and beneficial compounds.
Purification: The extracted oil or extract is purified to remove impurities and obtain a high-quality product. This typically includes filtration and concentration.

Formulation: The purified oil or extract is incorporated into various cosmetic and nutraceutical formulations, such as creams, lotions, serums, and supplements. It is blended with other ingredients to optimize its benefits.

Quality Control: The final product undergoes rigorous quality control testing to ensure it meets safety, efficacy, and performance standards. This includes checks for purity, stability, and compatibility with other ingredients.

Storage: The product is stored in airtight containers, away from light, moisture, and heat, to maintain its stability and effectiveness.

Applications

Medical: Oenothera biennis seed can be used in nutraceutical formulations for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It may be employed in treatments for inflammatory conditions and to support skin health.

Cosmetic: In cosmetics, Oenothera biennis seed oil is valued for its antioxidant and skin-supporting properties. It is used in products such as creams, lotions, serums, and masks to improve skin health and protect against environmental damage.

Other: The seed extract can also be included in other personal care products and potentially in additional therapeutic applications.

Environmental and Safety Considerations

Oenothera biennis seed is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics and nutraceuticals when used according to recommended guidelines. It is a natural ingredient with a low risk of irritation or allergic reactions. Environmentally, sustainable harvesting of the seeds and appropriate extraction methods help reduce ecological impact compared to wild harvesting, supporting more sustainable production practices.

INCI


Abrasive agent. It contains abrasive particles to remove stains or biofilm that accumulate on the stratum corneum or teeth. Baking soda, kieselguhr, silica and many others have abrasive properties. Peeling or exfoliating products used in dermatology or cosmetic applications contain abrasive agents in the form of synthetic microspheres, however, these microspheres, or abrasive particles may not be biodegradable and create pollution in aquatic ecosystems.
Synonyms:

CAS: 90028-66-3 EC number 289-859-2