Description

Silybum Marianum Seed Oil is extracted from the seeds of the milk thistle plant (Silybum marianum). This oil is celebrated for its high content of silymarin, particularly silybin, as well as essential fatty acids such as linoleic acid and oleic acid. It is valued for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and moisturizing properties, making it a popular ingredient in skincare and cosmetic formulations.

Chemical Composition and Structure:
Silybum Marianum Seed Oil contains a rich blend of bioactive compounds and fatty acids:

Silymarin: The key active component, including silybin, which is known for its potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
Essential Fatty Acids: Includes linoleic acid (omega-6) and oleic acid (omega-9), which are crucial for maintaining skin hydration and barrier function.
Phytosterols: Such as beta-sitosterol, which contributes to the oil’s skin-conditioning and anti-inflammatory effects.

The oil has a complex mixture of triglycerides, phospholipids, and various bioactive compounds that contribute to its beneficial properties.

Physical Properties:
Silybum Marianum Seed Oil is typically a light to dark yellow or greenish oil with a mild, nutty aroma. It has a smooth, non-greasy texture that absorbs easily into the skin. The oil is liquid at room temperature and has a relatively low viscosity. It is soluble in both lipophilic and some organic solvents but is insoluble in water.

Production Process:

Seed Collection and Preparation: Seeds of the milk thistle plant are harvested and cleaned.
Cold Pressing or Extraction: The seeds are subjected to cold pressing or solvent extraction to obtain the oil. Cold pressing is preferred for preserving the oil's natural bioactive compounds.
Filtration and Refinement: The extracted oil is filtered and refined to remove any impurities and to improve its stability and clarity.
Formulation: The refined oil is then formulated into various skincare and cosmetic products.

Applications:

Cosmetics: Used in skincare products for its moisturizing, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties. It is commonly included in creams, serums, and lotions to enhance skin hydration and improve overall skin texture.
Pharmaceuticals: Utilized in supplements for its liver-supportive properties due to its silymarin content.
Functional Foods: Added to nutritional products for its health benefits, including its antioxidant properties.

Environmental and Safety Considerations:

Environmental Impact: The production of Silybum Marianum Seed Oil should follow sustainable practices to reduce environmental impact. Efficient management and disposal of waste materials are important.
Safety: Generally considered safe for topical and oral use. However, it is important to adhere to recommended usage guidelines to avoid potential allergic reactions or adverse effects. Safety evaluations should be conducted for new formulations or higher concentrations.

INCI Functions:


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.
Synonyms:

CAS: 84604-20-6 EC number 283-298-7