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.