Croton OIL
Derived from the seeds of the Croton tiglium plant, native to Southeast Asia and parts of India, croton oil holds a unique place in traditional medicine and skincare. Traditionally used for its potent medicinal properties, croton oil has a rich history dating back centuries.
Croton Oil Specifications:
General Characteristics:
- Product: Croton Oil
- Botanical Name: Croton tiglium
- Family: Euphorbiaceae
- Part of the plant used: Seeds
- Appearance: Viscous liquid
- Colour: Yellowish-brown
- Odour: Characteristic, pungent aroma
Identification:
- A. TLC: Complies with test
- B. GC: Complies with test
Physio-Chemical Properties:
- Relative density: 0.940 – 0.970
- Refractive index at 20˙C: 1.480 – 1.500
- Optical rotation: (+10˙) – (+30˙)
- Storage: Store in a tightly sealed container away from heat and light
Croton Oil History: With a history deeply intertwined with traditional medicine, croton oil has been esteemed for its potent therapeutic effects. It has been historically used in various cultures for its medicinal properties.
Industrial Uses: Croton oil finds applications in the pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries. It is valued for its potential as a purgative, analgesic, and as an ingredient in skincare products.
Properties:
- Synonyms: Croton seed oil, Croton tiglium oil
- Botanical Name: Croton tiglium
- Part Used: Seeds
- Color: Yellowish-brown
- Viscosity: Viscous
- Perfumery Note: Not typically used in perfumery due to its pungent aroma
- Shelf Life: Two years
- Density: 0.940 – 0.970
- Refractive Index: 1.480 – 1.500
Extraction: Croton oil is extracted through cold pressing or solvent extraction from the seeds of the Croton tiglium plant. The process yields a potent and aromatic oil known for its medicinal properties.
Ecological Information: Croton tiglium is a tropical plant that thrives in warm climates with well-drained soils. It is primarily found in regions with tropical and subtropical climates, contributing to the biodiversity of these ecosystems.
Proven Uses and Benefits:
- Croton oil is traditionally used as a purgative in traditional medicine to treat constipation.
- It has analgesic properties and may be used topically to relieve pain and inflammation.
- In skincare, croton oil is sometimes used in the treatment of certain skin conditions, although caution is advised due to its potency.
Abstract or How to Extract it?: Croton oil contains various bioactive compounds, including crotonic acid and phorbol esters, which contribute to its medicinal properties.
Concoction: Croton oil is often used in combination with carrier oils or other ingredients to dilute its potency for topical application.
Safety Measures:
- Caution must be exercised when using croton oil due to its potent nature.
- It should be diluted before topical application, and a patch test is recommended to check for allergic reactions.
Storage and Handling: Store croton oil in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Ensure containers are tightly sealed to prevent oxidation and evaporation.
Toxicological Information: Croton oil is toxic if ingested and can cause severe irritation if applied undiluted to the skin. It should be handled with care and kept out of reach of children.