The seeds of the borage plant, Borago officinalis, are used to make starflower oil, also referred to as borage seed oil. It is highly valued for having a high concentration of GLA, or gamma-linolenic acid, an important fatty acid that has positive effects on many aspects of health.
GLA is a particular class of omega-6 fatty acid that is essential for preserving the integrity and functionality of cell membranes as well as controlling inflammation within the body. GLA needs to be obtained through food sources like starflower oil because the body is unable to create it on its own.
As a dietary supplement, sunflower oil is frequently used to support hormonal balance, lessen inflammation linked to illnesses like arthritis, improve skin health, and ease menopausal and premenstrual syndrome (PMS) symptoms. It comes in a number of forms, such as topical creams, liquid extracts, and capsules.
It’s crucial to speak with a healthcare provider before using starflower oil as a supplement, particularly if you take medication or have any underlying medical concerns. This is because starflower oil may interfere with some medications. Furthermore, it’s critical to adhere to the manufacturer’s or healthcare provider’s prescribed dosages and instructions.
The elderberry plant’s (Sambucus nigra) berries are used to obtain elderberry oil. Because of the abundance of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals found in these tiny, dark purple berries, elderberry oil is a widely used component in natural health and cosmetic products.
The elderberries are usually cold-pressed to extract the oil, which helps keep the health-promoting ingredients in the berries intact. Because of its nourishing and moisturizing qualities, elderberry oil is frequently used as an ingredient in skincare products like lotions, creams, and serums.
When taken orally, elderberry oil is thought to have a number of health benefits in addition to its benefits for skincare. In order to support the immune system, it is frequently used as a dietary supplement, especially during the cold and flu season. Flavonoids and anthocyanins, two substances found in elderberries, have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant qualities that may help shield cells from harm and lessen inflammation in the body.
Nevertheless, it’s crucial to remember that elderberry oil and supplements should only be used sparingly because excessive ingestion may upset certain people’s stomachs. Before adding elderberry oil or supplements to your regimen, it’s always good to speak with a healthcare provider, particularly if you have any underlying medical concerns or are pregnant or nursing.
Padina Pavonica
Brown algae called Padina pavonica is sometimes referred to as “Lobed Kelp” or “Peacock’s Tail.” It is found near rocky coasts and coral reefs in coastal parts of the Atlantic and Mediterranean Seas.
The characteristic lobed and fan-shaped fronds of this kind of algae range in color from olive green to dark brown. In shallow marine habitats, Padina pavonica adheres to rocky substrates or other hard surfaces.
Padina pavonica is well-known for having a diverse chemical makeup that contains bioactive substances like polyphenols and polysaccharides. These ingredients support the product’s possible uses in medicine and cosmetics. Extracts from Padina pavonica have been used in traditional medicine to treat a wide range of conditions, such as digestive problems and skin disorder.
Extracts from Padina pavonica are prized for their skin-nourishing and moisturizing qualities in the cosmetics industry. They are frequently used to skincare products including masks, serums, and moisturizers to help hydrate the skin, increase its suppleness, and lessen the visibility of wrinkles.
Research into the potential health benefits of Padina pavonica is ongoing, with studies focusing on its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-aging properties. However, further research is needed to fully understand its therapeutic potential and ensure its use in various applications.
