Sacha Inchi Oil: The Omega-3 Powerhouse for Radiant Skin

Find out more about the remarkable benefits of Sacha Inchi oil, nature’s richest plant-based source of omega-3 fatty acids, and unlock the secrets to a healthier, more radiant complexion.

By: Jordan LaFragola

Sacha Inchi Oil: The Omega-3 Powerhouse for Radiant Skin

Introduction.

When it comes to natural skincare oils, there are many different kinds, each with a myriad of nourishing and rejuvenating properties for your skin. I spent years researching and experimenting with them all before founding Flora Mirabilis to see which ones I felt were the most effective. One in particular stood out to me for its exceptional benefits—Sacha Inchi Oil. In this post, I will explain what makes Sacha Inchi Oil so special and why I consider it a must-have in your skincare routine.

What is Sacha Inchi?

Sacha Inchi is a plant native to the Amazon rainforest. Its scientific name is Plukenetia volubilis, and it is often referred to as the “Inca peanut” because of its nut-like seeds, which have been consumed by indigenous communities for centuries. The plant itself is a climbing vine with star-shaped seed pods and small greenish-white flowers.

The seeds of the Sacha Inchi plant are highly valued for their nutritional content, particularly for their rich concentration of omega-3 fatty acids. These seeds yield an oil prized for its health and skincare benefits.

How is Sacha Inchi oil made?

Sacha Inchi oil is produced through a process called cold-pressing, which involves extracting the oil from the seeds of the plant without the use of heat or chemicals. The process starts by harvesting the mature, dry seeds. The seeds are cleaned and dried to remove any moisture before being placed in a cold-press machine, which applies pressure to extract the oil. This method preserves the natural compounds and properties of the oil. The extracted oil is filtered to remove any remaining solids, producing a clear, golden oil with a slightly nutty aroma.

What makes Sacha Inchi oil so special?

Sacha Inchi is the richest plant source of omega-3 fatty acids, particularly linolenic acid, an essential fatty acid that the body cannot produce on its own. I recently wrote an article about fatty acids and why they are so important for skin health. Click here to read more about them. Omega-3/linolenic acid makes up about 50% of its fatty acid content. In comparison, flaxseed oil- another popular omega-3 source, only contains about 35% linolenic acid.

Omega-3 fatty acids play a crucial role in skin health. They help strengthen your skin’s barrier function, retain moisture, and reduce inflammation, leading to a smoother, more vibrant complexion.

Benefits of Sacha Inchi oil for your skin.

Besides being the richest plant-based source of omega-3/linolenic, Sacha Inchi oil also contains an abundance of omega-6/linoleic and omega-9/oleic fatty acids, which help restore your skin. It is rich in vitamin E, a powerful antioxidant that protects your skin, and zinc, an antibacterial and anti-inflammatory mineral that is essential for skin repair.

All of these compounds give Sacha Inchi oil a multitude of skin benefits:

Moisturizing & Hydrating

Sacha Inchi oil is an excellent moisturizer that is quick to absorb and can penetrate your skin deeply. It is non-greasy, and its fatty acid profile helps nourish your skin, preventing dryness and keeping it soft and supple.

Anti-Aging

The high antioxidant content in Sacha Inchi oil, coming from vitamin E, polyphenols, and phytosterols, fights free radicals and UV damage, which are responsible for premature aging. Regular use can help reduce the appearance of fine lines, giving your skin a more youthful glow.

Soothing Inflammation

If you suffer from inflammatory skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis, or acne, Sacha Inchi oil can be a game-changer. Its powerful anti-inflammatory properties help soothe irritated skin and reduce redness.

Improving Skin Elasticity

Fatty acids are essential for maintaining skin elasticity. Omega-3, in particular, can help stimulate the production of collagen, a protein that provides structure to skin. Sacha Inchi oil, being the richest source, can help keep skin firm and prevent laxity.

Balancing Oil Production

Despite being an oil, Sacha Inchi can actually help regulate your skin’s natural oil production. Fatty acids, particularly omega-3 and omega-6, are integral parts of sebum, your skin’s natural oil. By providing your skin with these essential fatty acids, they help balance the production and composition of sebum, making it less likely to contribute to acne or other skin issues. Additionally, because Sacha Inchi oil maintains your skin’s barrier function, it prevents skin dehydration. Skin that is properly hydrated is less likely to overcompensate by producing excess oil.

How to incorporate Sacha Inchi oil into your skincare routine.

Incorporating Sacha Inchi oil into your skincare routine is simple. You can use it as a standalone facial oil by applying a few drops to clean skin. Alternatively, look for skincare products that contain Sacha Inchi oil as a key ingredient.

Sacha Inchi oil in Flora Mirabilis.

I was so impressed by the composition and skin benefits of Sacha Inchi oil that I chose it as the primary oil in our Holy Grail Face Oil. Its skin-enhancing abilities are proven and powerful, and I couldn’t imagine designing a face oil without it. Its lightweight texture, paired with the fact that it is completely non-comedogenic, makes it a perfect moisturizer.

Conclusion.

Sacha Inchi oil is a skincare gem that offers a multitude of benefits for your skin. Its rich omega-3 content and natural rejuvenating properties make it an ideal choice for anyone looking to enhance their skincare routine.