Apricot Kernel Oil

Our Apricot Kernel oil (Prunus arneniaca) is extracted from Cypriot apricots grown in Troodos mountains. We source the apricot stones from a famous jam and sweets factory in Agros. Their team washes and dries the apricot stones, and we collect them, break them in a small hand-driven machine, and then sort the kernels by hand. There are machines that can sort the kernels, but they always leave behind a certain percentage of shells, and that would make the leftover flour unusable. There’s no substitute for the human hand! 

After sorting the kernels, we press them in our expeller, at a temperature of 30-35 degrees Celsius. We let the oil sit for a few days and then we pass it through double filtration, before it’s ready for bottling or use in blends.

The light, nutty flavor of the oil makes it a delicious addition to salad dressings, fruits, smoothies, or even drizzled over grilled vegetables. It has a faint aroma and taste of marzipan, or bitter almond, and a bright, golden color.

Beyond its culinary uses, Apricot kernel oil is an excellent moisturizer. It absorbs quickly into the skin without leaving a greasy residue, making it ideal for facial and body care, or even as a hair conditioner. Rich in antioxidants, it helps to nourish and protect the skin. Apricot Kernel Oil is a perfect neutral base oil and can be used as a substitute for Sweet Almond Oil. We incorporate our Apricot Kernel Oil in many of our blends.

Native to Central and Western Asia, apricots (Χρυσομηλιά) have been cultivated for millennia, thriving in regions with dry, sunny climates. The apricot kernel, found inside the stone of the fruit, is the source of apricot kernel oil (Prunus armeniaca), which has long been valued in traditional medicine for its emollient properties. Apricots were cherished for both their culinary and medicinal uses throughout ancient cultures, particularly in Persia and along the Silk Road.

Historically, apricot kernel oil has been used in various healing practices. In ancient Persia and throughout the Mediterranean, it was believed to nourish the skin and body, often used as a massage oil to relieve muscle tension and promote relaxation. The oil was also popular in early beauty treatments, where it was applied to maintain a soft and youthful complexion.

In traditional Chinese medicine, apricot kernels were employed to treat respiratory conditions, while the oil was valued for its ability to soothe dry and irritated skin. The rich content of essential fatty acids and vitamins A and E made apricot kernel oil a versatile remedy for a variety of skin ailments.

In many countries, including Cyprus, the kernels are used to prepare a liqueur with the characteristic amaretto flavour.

The main components of our Apricot Kernel Oil are: Oleic acid (60%), Linoleic acid (31%), Palmitic acid (5%), and Stearic acid (1%).

Product Information:

All of our products are made with 100% natural extracts. We add 2% moringa oleifera oil from our production to our apricot kernel oil for its antioxidant effect. As nature is diverse, each plant is unique, leading to variations in color and fragrance of our essential oils, seed and nut oils, and extracts.

Caution & Care:

Store in a cool, dark place, away from direct sunlight and heat. If that is not possible, keep in the refrigerator. Do not use if allergic to any ingredients. Always conduct a patch test before applying to the skin.