Introduction
In the realm of natural skincare, urucum, also known as Bixa orellana or annatto, is a hidden gem. This vibrant seed is commonly used as a dye, but it also provides numerous benefits for the skin. Let’s delve into these benefits, learn how to create urucum macerated oil, and understand how and why to incorporate it into your skincare regimen.
What is Urucum (Bixa Orellana)?
Botanical Profile:
- Scientific Name: Bixa orellana
- Family: Bixaceae
- Common Names: Annatto, Achiote, Urucum, Lipstick Tree
- Origin: Tropical regions of the Americas
Urucum, or Bixa orellana, is a plant from the Amazon rainforest. It has a long history of use in food and medicine. The plant grows in tropical regions of Central and South America and goes by names like annatto, achiote, or lipstick tree.
It produces clusters of bright flowers that turn into spiky, heart-shaped seed pods. Inside these pods are red seeds covered in a waxy coating. These seeds are rich in carotenoids, especially bixin and norbixin, which give them their red-orange color.
Its vibrant red seeds hold benefits for the skin, making urucum increasingly popular in the skincare world.
By adding urucum to your skincare routine, you can enjoy its many benefits and keep your skin healthy and glowing.
urucum benefits FOr Skincare
- Rich in Antioxidants: Urucum seeds are rich in antioxidants, which help fight free radicals and protect the skin from environmental stressors. This can help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, promoting a more youthful complexion. Urucum is also rich in bixin, a carotenoid with antioxidant properties that combat free radicals. Free radicals can damage skin cells and contribute to signs of aging such as wrinkles and loss of elasticity.
- Anti-Inflammatory Properties: The anti-inflammatory compounds in urucum can soothe irritated skin, making it beneficial for conditions like eczema and acne. It helps reduce redness and swelling, providing relief to sensitive skin. Urucum’s traditional use for wound healing might be linked to its anti-inflammatory properties. This could be beneficial for calming irritated or inflamed skin.
- Natural UV Protection: While not a substitute for sunscreen, the carotenoids in urucum provide a natural barrier against UV radiation. This can enhance your skin’s defense against sun damage when used alongside regular sun protection methods.
- Brightening and Even Skin Tone: The high concentration of carotenoids can help brighten the skin and even out the skin tone. Regular use of urucum-based products can reduce hyperpigmentation and give the skin a healthy glow.
- Hydration and Nourishment: Urucum oil is rich in essential fatty acids, which help moisturize and nourish the skin. It can improve skin elasticity and smoothness, making it an excellent addition to your daily skincare routine.
HOW TO PREPARE URUCUM OIL MACERATE
Creating your own urucum macerate oil at home is simple and rewarding. Here’s a step-by-step guide using apricot kernel oil as the base. Of course you can use any oil you like, or have at home. Or mixture of oils.
Ingredients:
- Apricot Kernel Oil (Organic): 90 g
- Urucum Powder: 10 g
Equipment
- clean bottle
- 2 glass beakers
- spoon
- digital scale
Instructions:
- Weigh the Powder: Measure 10 g of urucum powder in one beaker
- Transfer the Oil: Pour 100 g of apricot kernel oil into a second beaker
- Combine the Ingredients: Transfet urucum powder to clean bottle provided for maceration and add the oil to urucum powder. Mix all together.
- Shake Well: Secure the bottle and shake it well to mix the powder into the oil.
- Maceration Period: Store the bottle in a cool, dark place for 2-4 weeks. Shake it occasionally to ensure the powder is well-dispersed. I usually shake it every day.
- Filter the Mixture: After the maceration period, filter the mixture using a coffee filter or a clean cloth.
- Transfer the Filtrate: Use a clean pipette to transfer the filtered oil into a clean, airtight bottle.
How to Use:
Your urucum macerate oil is now ready to use. It can be incorporated into your skincare routine as an oily phase in various treatments. This macerate is stable and can be stored for several months if kept away from light and heat.
By making this oil at home, you can enjoy the benefits of urucum in your daily skincare regimen. In the next post I will write how you can use macerate urucum.
Happy formulating!
