FSS Amaranthus Squalane

In ancient Greece, the amaranthus was
sacred to Ephesian Artemis, Greek goddess of the hunt; it was supposed to have
special healing properties. As a symbol of immortality, it was used to decorate
images of the gods and tombs. The name from the Greek meaning ‘unwithering’
refers to the plants long lasting flowers. Amaranthus, often referred to as
summer pointsettia, consists of nearly 60 plant species that can be categorized
as either grain or green leaf vegetable types. All are tall plants with red,
purple, orange or gold flowers that can grow to heights of over eight feet,
with each plant bearing long, trailing seed clusters. The crop is resistant to
drought and can thrive on poor soils and arid land. The exact origin of
amaranthus is unknown, however, since it was a staple crop of the ancient Aztec
and Inca civilizations, some believe it originated in Central and South
America.
Amaranthus
consists of approximately 5% to 9% oil which is generally higher than other
cereals. The lipid fraction of amaranthus is similar to other cereals, being
approximately 60% unsaturated with linoleic acid being the predominant fatty
acid. The lipid fraction is unique, a result of the unusually high squalene
content (5% to 8%) of the total lipid fraction. Squalene C30H50 is an
unsaturated hydrocarbon which can easily produce oxygen by combining with
water. Squalene has been extensively researched and as an oxygen carrier, was
found to play a key role in maintaining health. Squalane C30H62 is produced
from the catalytic hydrogenation of squalene. Both squalane and squalene are
naturally produced by our bodies and are major components of human sebum. Squalane,
a natural emollient, imparts to the skin a suppleness without an unpleasant,
greasy feel. Squalane is an ideal ingredient for use in personal care
formulations because it is more stable against oxidation than squalene.

FSS Amaranthus Squalane is intended
to replace the squalane that is lost over time causing our skin to become dry, cracked and irritated. FSS Amaranthus Squalane may be used as a
moisturizer in various cosmetic applications including facial preparations,
make-up, shampoo and conditioners. On account of its sustainability and
availability, FSS Amaranthus Squalane will provide formulators with an
exceptional alternative to olive-derived squalane.
INCI Nomenclature: |
Squalane |
Suggested Use Levels: |
1-10% |
Appearance: |
Clear Liquid |
Application: |
Moisturization |
Storage: Protected from direct light and humidity at a temperature of 50°-77°F (10°-25°C)
Shelf life: 12 months, properly stored, in sealed container.
This product should be added to a formulation at the recommended usage rate.
References:
1) Belton, P.S., Taylor, John, R.N. Pseudocereals and Less Common Cereals: Grain Properties and Utilization Potential. 2002: pp 219-229.
2) Gallagher, E.; T. R. Gormley, E. K. Arendt. “Recent advances in the formulation of gluten-free cereal-based products”. Trends in Food Science & Technol
ogy 15 (3-4): 143-152. http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/... Retrieved 2011-06-26.
3) Judd et al. (2008). Plant Systematics: A Phylogenetic Approach, Third Edition. Sinauer Associates, Inc. Sunderland, MA
4) Costea M, DeMason D (2001). “Stem morphology and anatomy in Amaranthus L. (Amaranthaceae)- Taxonomic significance”. Journal of the Torrey Bo
tanical Society 128 (3): 254–281
5) Juan et al. (2007). “Electrophoretic characterization of Amaranthus L. seed proteins and its systematic implication”. Botanical Journal of the Linnean
Society 155: 57–63