Macerated oils Vs. Carrier Oils
Macerated oils or Infused oils are different products then Carrier oils. The difference is in the precess how they are made. Macerated oils are made by submerging plant materials in a carrier oil. The carrier oil acts as solvent which extracts liposoluble active compounds from other plants.
The Macerated/Infused oil has a property of both Carrier oil and the herbs that were infused into the oil. The resulting oils are mild on skin, Humectant and Moisturizer. Macerated oils are used as massage oils, hair oils or bases for salve, lotions and soaps. They give silky, smooth finish to formula.
Most common Macerated oils are: Calendula, Arnica, Carrot, Comfrey, St. John’s wart.
The carrier oils used for Maceration could be Sunflower or Olive oil.
Calendula Macerated oil is made by submerging plant (Calendula officinalis) flowers in Sunflower oil. Calendula flowers contain Lutein and Zeaxantin that improve skin hydration and elasticity and prevent lipid peroxidation. The Calendula Macerated oil has Emolient and Soothing properties as well as anti inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties. It is beneficial for skin regeneration after bruising, skin rushes, chapped and cracked skin. Could be used in products for treating eczema, protection of skin against blue spectrum of light.
Arnica Macerated oil is made by submerging plant (Arnica montana) flowers in Sunflower oil or olive oil. The main application is for the external treatment of injuries in which the skin is not broken, such as bruises, strained muscles, tendons, and swellings.
Carrot Macerated oil is made by submerging plant (Daucus carrota) roots in Sunflower oil. Rich in beta carotene, vitamin D and E oil is useful for skin rejuvenation. Beta carotene is precursor for vitamin A that is antioxidant. It has photoprotective effect because it absorbs ultaviolet radiation.The carrot oil is therefore ingredient in the products for sunprotection. It helps regeneration of the epidermis and to prevent excessive shedding after sun exposer. Recommended for dry and mature skin type. It could be used in products for hair care as hair conditioner to prevent hair split ends.
Comfrey oil is made by submerging plant (Symphytum officinale) leaves or root sin sunflower oil.
Used to soothe dry, rough, or mature skin, calm minor irritations, and support the appearance of skin after minor surface damage. The active major compounds in Comfrey oil are: Allantoin, Rosmarinic Acid, Mucilage polysaccharides. They are responsible for its antiinflammatory and analgisic effects. Comfrey also stimulates granulation and tissue regeneration.
St. John’s wart oil is made by submerging plant (Hypericum perforatum) flowers with stem and leaves in carrier oil. For the extraction of Hypericum perforatum most commonly is used olive oil. The active component in the Macerate is Hypericin. The oil is used topically for mild burns, bruises sores. It should not be used before going to sun as it increases photosensitivity.
