Contents:

• Properties of prickly pear oil
• The use of fig-opuntia oil

Prickly pear (Latin: Opuntia ficus-indica ) is not a fig, as its name suggests, but a cactus. This plant is native to Mexico, but is also cultivated in the USA, India, and some Mediterranean countries. For centuries, the oil extracted from the seeds of the prickly pear fruit has been used medicinally, for treating burns, abscesses, or in the preparation of cough syrup. The prickly pear is also used in cooking. Today, prickly pear oil is valued for its nourishing properties.

Properties of prickly pear oil

This unobtrusive oil with a delicate and pleasant fragrance contains many valuable ingredients:

• essential fatty acids,
• amino acids,
• Vitamin E,
• Vitamin K,
• Polyphenols,
• phytosterols,
• Betalains .

Among other cosmetic products available on the market, prickly pear oil has the highest content of essential omega-6 fatty acids and linoleic acid. These acids are necessary to stimulate the production and regeneration of our skin cells. They also strengthen the outer layer and ensure that it stays moisturized for longer. These acids help fight inflammation and also have anti-acne properties. Linoleic acid, on the other hand, is good for treating minor burns. The polyphenols contained in prickly pear oil have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, soothe redness and irritation of the skin, and reduce the damaging effects of free radicals.

Prickly pear oil contains a very high concentration of vitamin E, a powerful antioxidant that destroys free radicals and accelerates wound healing. Prickly pear oil also contains water-binding phytosterols, which help keep the skin moisturized for a relatively long time. They play a very important role in the production of collagen, which is essential for maintaining the softness and youthful appearance of the skin. Collagen production is also influenced by the amino acids contained in the oil. Prickly pear contains numerous antioxidants, including betalains, which protect the skin from the aging process, and vitamin K helps reduce skin discoloration.

The use of fig-opuntia oil

Prickly pear oil can be applied directly to the face and body like a conventional cream. It absorbs relatively quickly, has a light consistency, and exhibits powerful properties with regular use:

• anti-aging,
• smoothing
• moisturizing,
• illuminating,
• nutritionally,
• Flexibility,
• Reduction of discoloration and redness,
• narrowing of pores,
• Regeneration of damaged epidermis,
• soothing irritations,
• Protection from harmful external factors.

Opuntia fig seed oil is a natural and mild cosmetic that can be used by both older and younger people. It is especially good for people with sensitive and oily skin, prone to irritation. It can be used to care for the skin of the face and body and has a wide range of uses – as a standalone cosmetic, applied morning and evening after washing your face. You can also add a few drops to a regular cream. Prickly pear oil should be stored in a cool, dry place, preferably in the refrigerator.