Camelina oil is a relatively unknown vegetable oil. However, this versatile oil is full of benefits for the health and beauty of skin and hair .

In this article, we invite you to discover what camelina oil is, what its properties are and why this oil is so valuable for our health, our skin and our hair.

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Introduction to Camelina Oil

What is camelina oil?

Camelina oil is extracted from the seeds of the camelina plant, or Latin name "camelina sativa," which belongs to the Brassicaceae family, like rapeseed and mustard.

This plant is characterized by slender stems, toothed leaves, and pretty yellow flowers. Its seeds, from which camelina vegetable oil is extracted, are small and round. Camelina sativa, also known as "bastard flax" or "German sesame," is resilient and can grow in a variety of climatic conditions, making it a suitable crop for regions with temperate to cold climates.

It is found in abundance in France, and its cultivation is easy and inexpensive in terms of energy, which makes it a virtuous plant and vegetable oil, perfect for cosmetics.

Camelina vegetable oil, with its herbaceous scent and subtle, delicate hazelnut taste, is renowned for its composition rich in unsaturated fatty acids and for its many benefits for the health and beauty of skin and hair.

A little history of camelina oil and its origin

Native to Northern Europe and Central Asia, camelina sativa has been cultivated for over 3,000 years!

Antiquity and Middle Ages:

Camelina oil was widely used in ancient times by various civilizations, including the Egyptians, Romans, and Greeks. These cultures valued its nutritional, medicinal, and cosmetic properties.

The Egyptians used this vegetable oil in particular in the preparation of cosmetic ointments and in the preservation of mummies. During the Middle Ages, it continued to be a valuable ingredient in cooking and medicine, contributing to general health.

Renaissance and Modern Era:

With the Renaissance , interest in ancient knowledge and culinary arts led to a rediscovery of camelina oil in Europe . Its use spread from royal kitchens to ordinary homes. During the early modern period, this oil also found its way into artistic studios, serving as a solvent for oil paints, due to its stability and light color.

Contemporary Era:

In the 20th century, camelina oil was largely relegated to the background in favor of other, more widely marketed oils. However, with the renewed interest in natural products and healthy eating in the 21st century, this vegetable oil has experienced a resurgence in popularity. It has become a popular ingredient in organic food, gourmet cooking, and the natural cosmetics industry.

Today, camelina oil is hailed for its beneficial properties for health and beauty, thus returning to an ancient tradition that already recognized its virtues.

Health benefits

Camelina vegetable oil is an exceptional source of essential fatty acids, promoting heart health, optimal brain function and immune system support.

Make sure to choose it “cold pressed” to ensure its quality!

Rich in omega-3 and omega-6

Since omega-3 and omega-6 are fatty acids that the human body cannot synthesize, an external supply is essential.

Camelina oil has a high concentration of omega 3 and 6, and is therefore a valuable source of these essential fatty acids!

In addition to these fatty acids, camelina oil is also composed of antioxidants, such as vitamin E, thus reinforcing its anti-aging and protective action against free radicals on all skin types.

Effects on cardiovascular health

Camelina oil has many benefits for cardiovascular health due to its richness in polyunsaturated fatty acids, including alpha-linolenic acid (omega-3) and linoleic acid (omega-6).

These essential fatty acids contribute to the reduction of blood cholesterol, the modulation of triglycerides and the regulation of blood pressure.

The anti-inflammatory properties of camelina oil may also play a role in protecting blood vessels, reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease.

Role in reducing inflammation

Camelina vegetable oil plays a significant role in reducing inflammation thanks to its high concentration of omega 3 and 6, as well as phytosterols.

These polyunsaturated fatty acids are precursors to anti-inflammatory lipid mediators, such as series III prostaglandins. By promoting the production of these compounds, camelina oil helps modulate the body's inflammatory response.

This modulation may be beneficial in the management of inflammatory conditions, such as arthritis, by attenuating inflammatory processes and promoting optimal balance in the immune system.

Incorporating camelina oil into the diet should be combined with a healthy lifestyle and nutrition to maximize its anti-inflammatory effects.

Benefits for digestive health

Camelina oil is a real ally for the digestive system, including the intestines, thanks to its composition of essential fatty acids.

Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids promote balanced gut function by reducing inflammation and supporting the intestinal lining. Its anti-inflammatory action may be particularly beneficial for people with gastrointestinal disorders, such as colitis or irritable bowel syndrome.

Additionally, camelina oil can aid in the absorption of essential nutrients, promoting better overall digestive health.

Uses of camelina vegetable oil in cosmetics

Hydration and skin care

The essential fatty acids in camelina oil play a fundamental role in maintaining skin hydration.

Omega 3 and 6 help regulate the skin barrier, promoting moisture retention and preventing dehydration. These essential fatty acids also help reduce skin inflammation, soothing sensitive or irritated skin.

Omega 9, meanwhile, gives camelina oil exceptional emollient qualities. It penetrates deep into the skin, ensuring intense and long-lasting hydration. Additionally, the vitamin E present in the oil protects the skin from free radicals and helps prevent the signs of skin aging. This plant oil is therefore a prime ingredient in anti-aging skincare.

In skincare, camelina oil leaves the skin feeling soft and supple. Its light texture facilitates quick absorption without leaving a greasy residue, making it an ideal choice for all skin types, including sensitive skin.

Camelina oil therefore acts as an emollient, soothing and nourishing agent, helping to maintain healthy, hydrated skin protected against external aggressions.

Benefits for hair

Camelina oil has many benefits for hair beauty due to its composition rich in essential fatty acids, vitamins and antioxidants.

Omega-3, 6 and 9 present in the oil promote cell regeneration in the scalp , thus strengthening hair follicles. Alpha linolenic acid in particular stimulates hair growth by improving blood circulation in the scalp.

The anti-inflammatory properties of camelina oil can soothe scalp problems, reducing irritation and itching . The vitamin E present in the oil acts as a powerful antioxidant, protecting hair follicles from damage caused by free radicals.

Its emollient and moisturizing properties also make camelina oil an effective solution for dry and damaged hair. It penetrates deep into the hair cuticle, sealing in moisture and improving elasticity and shine.

Regular use of camelina oil can also help prevent hair breakage by strengthening its structure. Its lightness makes it an ideal choice, preventing hair from being weighed down.

In summary, camelina oil, thanks to its nourishing, anti-inflammatory and moisturizing properties, promotes the health and beauty of hair, stimulating its growth and improving its texture while protecting it against environmental damage.

Use in natural beauty products

Camelina oil can be incorporated into many natural cosmetic products.

Its many benefits make it an ingredient of choice in anti-aging treatments or products designed to soothe sensitive skin, thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties.

Due to its dry feel and ability to quickly penetrate the skin, camelina oil is also used in facial serums, providing nourishing and revitalizing benefits.

Incorporated into hair products such as masks, conditioners or hair oils, camelina oil nourishes hair, improves its elasticity and adds shine.

Camelina oil can also be used in the formulation of natural lip balms, to prevent dryness and repair chapped lips.

Due to its light texture and soothing action, camelina oil is also used in massage oils, providing a feeling of softness and hydration to the skin.

Finally, camelina oil can be used in the formulation of natural makeup removers to gently remove makeup while providing nourishing and soothing benefits to the skin.

Comparison with other vegetable oils

Camelina oil vs. olive oil

Both vegetable oils are rich in fatty acids. However, olive oil is primarily composed of monounsaturated fatty acids, particularly oleic acid (omega-9), unlike camelina oil, which has an optimal ratio of omega-3, omega-6, and omega-9.

Since omega 3 and 6 cannot be synthesized by the human body, it is worth incorporating this vegetable oil into your diet in order to benefit from its nutritional qualities.

In hair care, camelina oil has a lightweight texture that absorbs quickly into the hair without leaving a greasy residue. Thanks to its balanced composition, camelina oil is also suitable for various hair types, including fine or oily hair. This makes it ideal for daily use without weighing hair down.

In comparison, olive oil is less versatile , can be heavier, and leaves a more persistent film on hair.

Camelina Oil vs. Sunflower Seed Oils

Sunflower seed oil is primarily composed of omega-6, with a lower content of omega-3. Camelina oil is more versatile due to its composition of omega-3, omega-6, and omega-9.

Thanks to its lightness and soothing properties, camelina oil is beneficial in calming irritated or itchy scalps, and helps maintain a healthy scalp.

Although both of these plant oils provide softness and suppleness to the hair fiber, camelina oil will be more suitable if you are looking to promote the health of your scalp and improve the texture of your hair.

Precautions and advice for use

Conservation and shelf life

The shelf life of camelina oil depends on several factors, including storage conditions, oil quality, and how it was obtained. Generally, properly stored first cold-pressed camelina oil can last anywhere from 6 months to 1 year after opening.

As this vegetable oil is very sensitive to oxidation, here are some tips to extend the shelf life of camelina oil:

• Storage: Store camelina oil in a cool, dark, and dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. A stable storage temperature helps prevent oxidation.

• Opaque container: Choose an opaque or dark bottle to protect the oil from light, as exposure to light can accelerate the oxidation process.

• Tight seal: Ensure the container is tightly closed after each use to minimize exposure to air.

• Sensory Inspection: Watch for signs of spoilage, such as a change in odor, color, or taste. If the camelina oil shows signs of rancidity, it is best not to use it.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the benefits of camelina oil?

Camelina oil, thanks to its concentration of essential fatty acids, offers multiple benefits, ranging from maintaining cardiovascular health to reducing inflammation, including benefits for digestion, skin and hair.

How to use camelina oil?

Camelina oil can be consumed in food, added to dishes, or used topically for skin and hair care.

How much camelina oil per day?

The recommended amount varies, but generally, one to two tablespoons per day is a common practice for optimal benefits. Consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice.

Is camelina oil good for hair?

Yes, camelina oil is a real treasure for hair! It moisturizes, strengthens, nourishes, and adds shine to hair, promoting healthy, vibrant hair.