Description

Lepidium meyenii/Plukenetia volubilis seed extract is a combined extract derived from the seeds of two plants: Lepidium meyenii (Maca) and Plukenetia volubilis (Sacha Inchi). This extract leverages the benefits of both plants for use in cosmetics and personal care products.

Chemical Composition and Structure

The combined extract contains key components from both plants:

From Lepidium Meyenii (Maca):

Alkaloids: These compounds are believed to have adaptogenic properties.
Vitamins and Minerals: Includes vitamin C, vitamin B complex, calcium, magnesium, and iron.
Glucosinolates: Compounds that may have antioxidant and hormone-regulating effects.
Amino Acids: Essential for skin nourishment and repair.
From Plukenetia Volubilis (Sacha Inchi):

Fatty Acids: Rich in omega-3, omega-6, and omega-9 fatty acids.
Proteins: Provides essential amino acids.
Polyphenols: Antioxidants that help protect the skin from environmental damage.
Vitamins: Including vitamin E, which has moisturizing properties.
The extract combines these components, offering a comprehensive range of nutrients and antioxidants beneficial for skin health.

Physical Properties

The Lepidium meyenii/Plukenetia volubilis seed extract has the following physical properties:

Appearance: Usually a powder or concentrated liquid, with a light brown or beige color.
Aroma: Mild, slightly earthy or nutty fragrance.
Texture: Powdery or liquid, depending on the formulation.

Production Process

The production process for Lepidium meyenii/Plukenetia volubilis seed extract involves several steps:

Cultivation: Both Lepidium meyenii and Plukenetia volubilis plants are cultivated. Lepidium meyenii is typically grown in high-altitude regions, while Plukenetia volubilis is cultivated in tropical areas.

Seed Preparation: The seeds from both plants are collected, cleaned, and prepared for extraction.

Extraction:

Lepidium Meyenii: The seeds are often ground and subjected to extraction using solvents such as ethanol or water to obtain a concentrated extract.
Plukenetia Volubilis: The seeds are processed using methods such as cold pressing or solvent extraction to obtain the oil, which is then further processed into an extract.
Combining Extracts: The extracts from both plants are combined in specific ratios to achieve the desired formulation.

Purification: The combined extract is purified to remove impurities and ensure the quality of the final product.

Formulation: The extract is then incorporated into cosmetic formulations or other products. It is mixed with other ingredients to create the final product.

Quality Control: The final combined extract undergoes rigorous quality control testing to ensure it meets safety, purity, and performance standards.

Storage: The extract is stored in airtight containers to prevent contamination and degradation.

Applications

Medical: The combined extract may be used in dietary supplements for its potential adaptogenic and nutritional benefits, combining the properties of both Maca and Sacha Inchi.

Cosmetics: In the cosmetic industry, the extract is used for its nourishing, moisturizing, and antioxidant properties. It is included in skincare products such as creams, serums, and masks to enhance skin health and appearance.

Other: The extract can also be utilized in personal care products and formulations aimed at improving overall skin vitality and resilience.

Environmental and Safety Considerations

The Lepidium meyenii/Plukenetia volubilis seed extract is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics and supplements when used according to recommended guidelines. Sustainable agricultural practices and eco-friendly extraction methods help minimize environmental impact. Proper quality control ensures the safety and efficacy of the extract.

INCI


Humectant. Hygroscopic compound used to minimise water loss in the skin and to prevent it from drying out by facilitating faster and greater absorption of water into the stratum corneum of the epidermis. The epidermis is the most superficial of the three layers that make up human skin (epidermis, dermis and hypodermis) and is the layer that maintains hydration in all three layers. In turn, the epidermis is composed of five layers: horny, the most superficial, granular, spinous, shiny, and basal. Humectants have the ability to retain the water they attract from the air in the stratum corneum and have the function of moisturising the skin. They are best used before emollients, which are oil-based.

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.
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