Triticum Vulgare, commonly known as common wheat, is a species of wheat belonging to the Poaceae family. It is one of the most widely cultivated and ancient crops worldwide, grown in a variety of climates and used to produce flour, semolina, and other derivatives. Wheat is vital for human consumption as well as an ingredient in numerous industrial and cosmetic products.

Chemical Composition and Structure

Wheat contains carbohydrates primarily in the form of starch, proteins like gluten, dietary fibers, B vitamins, and minerals such as iron, magnesium, and zinc. Wheat extracts and wheat germ oil are rich in vitamin E, essential fatty acids, and antioxidants.

Physical Properties

Triticum Vulgare grains are generally hard or soft, depending on the variety, with colors ranging from red to white. Wheat germ oil is a dark golden liquid with a characteristic slightly nutty odor.

Production Process

Cultivation: Wheat is cultivated on large tracts of land, requiring temperate or subtropical climates for optimal development.
Harvesting: The grains are harvested when mature, typically using combine harvesters.
Processing:
Milling: Grains are milled to produce flour or semolina.
Oil Extraction: Oil is extracted from the germ of the grain, a nutrient-rich small part, using cold pressing or solvent extraction.
Purification and Refinement: Both flour and oil undergo purification and refining processes to ensure safety and quality.
Quality Control: Each batch of product is tested to ensure compliance with quality and food safety standards.

Applications

Food: Wheat forms the basis for many foods, such as bread, pasta, biscuits, and other bakery products.
Cosmetics: Wheat germ oil is used in creams, lotions, and balms for its emollient and nourishing properties.
Industry: Wheat derivatives are used in various industrial applications, including biofuels and biodegradable materials.

Environmental and Safety Considerations

Wheat is generally considered safe for consumption, but gluten can cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals, such as those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. Wheat cultivation can have a significant environmental impact, so sustainable farming practices and careful resource management are crucial to reduce this impact.

INCI


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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