Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Seed Oil

Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Seed Oil

Cucumis Sativus Seed Oil is the fixed oil expressed from the seeds of the cucumber, Cucumis sativus L., Cucurbitaceae. Sp.gr.: 0.922. Saponification value: 185. Iodine value: 125. Average carbon number: 17.9. Average molecular weight: 278.3. C14:0 0.1%; C16:0 11%; C16:1 0.5%;C17:0 0.05%; C18:0 7.5%; C18:1 17.0%; C18:2 64.0%;C18:3 0.5%; C20:1 0.05%; C22:2 0.1%. It also contains tocopherols 600-700ppm and phytosterols 4000-5000ppm. The seeds are rich in oil with a nutty flavour that is said to resemble olive oil and so is used in salad dressings and French cooking. The high levels of phytosterols should make it a useful ingredient in skin care products. It has been shown that phytosterols help the skin strengthen its lipid barrier and restores the moisture balance, smoothing the skin’s surface and improving skin elasticity. Phytosterols are also known to stimulate skin cells and encourage the regeneration of healthy skin cells. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) includes cucumber among the 20 most frequently consumed raw vegetables. Botanical and botanically derived ingredients used in the formulation of cosmetics are generally mild and safe. Prior to marketing the finished cosmetic product, the safety of each ingredient must be substantiated in accordance with 21 CFR 740.10. Safety substantiation of cosmetic ingredients may include tests for ocular and skin irritation as well as allergenicity, phototoxicity, photoallergenicity and mutagenicity, depending on the application or intended use. There is a considerable body of information about the safety of botanical ingredients and a well established history of use. These resources are consulted to ensure the safety of these materials as they are used in cosmetics.

Source: Dweck, Anthony. Handbook of Natural Ingredients (Dweck Books 4) . Dweck Data.