ALL ABOUT SACHA INCHI BOTANICAL EXTRACT

IN ESSENCE…

• Sacha Inchi Botanical Extract is derived from the seeds of the Plukenetia volubilis fruit.
• Sacha Inchi seeds are considered to be the richest plant-based source of essential fatty acids and vitamins.
• Used on the skin, Sacha Inchi Botanical Extract protects against the damaging effects of sun exposure, regulates oil production, maintains elasticity, soothes and prevents inflammation, promotes softness, smoothness, and suppleness, hydrates the skin without clogging the pores, helps to reduce the appearance of fine lines, and is gentle enough to use on all skin types.
• Used in hair, Sacha Inchi Extract conditions, softens, enhances the hair’s natural gloss and smoothness, calms inflammation of the scalp, regulates oil production, enhances moisture retention, nourishes, and strengthens the scalp and the strands.
• Used in medicinal applications, Sacha Inchi Botanical Extract is believed to support the healthy functioning of the brain, heart, and nervous system, to help maintain healthy levels of cholesterol and blood pressure, to prevent the onset of inflammation, to distribute essential nutrients throughout the body, and to balance the mood.
• Sacha Inchi Extract is believed to have a positive effect on mental health, to promote muscle regeneration, to reduce joint inflammation, to improve bone strength and density, and to boost circulation.

HISTORY OF SACHA INCHI SEED POWDER USAGE

Sacha Inchi Botanical Extract is derived from the seeds of the star-shaped Plukenetia volubilis fruit, which are more commonly recognized as Mountain Peanuts or Inca Peanuts, among their other nicknames. Although their potential as a food has only been re-discovered worldwide in more current times, for thousands of years the Incan people consumed these protein-rich seeds as food and crushed them to obtain the nutrient-rich Sacha Inchi Oil.

The seeds, which are considered to be the richest plant-based source of essential fatty acids and vitamins, are turned into a powder that is commonly added to natural moisturizers, soaps, and cosmetics to balance, protect, and repair the skin in order to enhance its elasticity, resilience, hydration, and ultimately its health. The powder form of Sacha Inchi Botanical Extract comes from dried Sacha Inchi seeds that have first been cold-pressed first to obtain the seed oil. Next, the now-defatted seeds are processed, albeit minimally, to create the seed powder, which is known to retain all of the nutrients that are naturally found in the seeds.

This article highlights the various cosmetic and therapeutic properties and benefits of NDA’s Sacha Inchi Organic Botanical Extract as well as several safe uses.

SACHA INCHI SEED POWDER BENEFITS

Used on the skin in cosmetic applications, Sacha Inchi Botanical Extract can introduce moisture to the skin and lock it in to protect against the damaging effects of sun exposure, regulate oil production, and maintain elasticity. It is known to soothe and prevent inflammation and to promote softness, smoothness, and suppleness, thereby promoting the skin’s rejuvenation for a more youthful complexion. Sacha Inchi Extract hydrates the skin without clogging the pores, making it light and gentle enough to apply to all skin types, especially sensitive skin that is afflicted with dryness, itchiness, irritation, and blemishes. Its emollience, soothing quality, and high vitamin and fatty acid content work in conjunction to benefit the acne-prone skin. High in antioxidants, Sacha Inchi Extract is also known to be beneficial for maturing skin, as it helps to reduce the appearance of the signs of aging, such as fine lines and age spots. The high levels of antioxidants in this powder extract also contribute to the shelf life of natural products that are enriched with it, extending their longevity to at least 18 months.

Used in hair, Sacha Inchi Extract conditions and thus contributes softness, shine, and silkiness to dry, damaged, and brittle strands, thereby enhancing the hair’s natural gloss and smoothness. It soothes irritation and calms inflammation of the scalp, especially on scalps that suffer from uncomfortable symptoms associated with dandruff, psoriasis, or eczema. Sacha Inchi Extract is reputed to regulate oil production in the scalp, to enhance moisture retention, to nourish, and to strengthen the scalp and the strands.

Used in medicinal applications, Sacha Inchi Botanical Extract is believed to support the healthy functioning of the brain, heart, and nervous system and to help maintain healthy levels of cholesterol and blood pressure. Furthermore, it is believed to prevent the onset of inflammation, distribute essential nutrients throughout the body, and balance the mood. Sacha Inchi has been discovered to contain an amino acid that contributes to the production of Serotonin, which is responsible for regulating several bodily functions, such as sleep, movement, the expression of emotions, appetite, and digestion; hence, by supporting metabolic function and the body’s ability to manage stress, Sacha Inchi helps reduce the cravings for unnecessary snacking, which in turn supports healthy weight loss.

It is believed that applying Sacha Inchi Extract to the scalp has a positive effect on mental health as well, and this is reputedly due to its ability to balance the nervous system and to its natural abundance of Omega 3 fatty acids, a deficiency in which is thought to lead to depressive mental states. In addition, the high levels of healthy fats in Sacha Inchi Extract are thought to reduce brain inflammation, thereby decreasing the risk of experiencing mental grievances, such as memory loss, mood swings, depression, headaches, fatigue, and strokes, among other potential ailments.

By increasing the body’s ability to absorb calcium, it is known to improve the strength, density, and health of the bones. It is reputed to effectively boost circulation, which subsequently helps lower blood pressure to prevent issues associated with stress on the cardiovascular system.

As illustrated, Sacha Inchi Botanical Extract is reputed to have many therapeutic properties. The following highlights its many benefits and the kinds of activity it is believed to show:

• COSMETIC: Balancing, Reparative, Soothing, Anti-inflammatory, Regenerative, Strengthening, Hydrating, Smoothing, Non-comedogenic
• MEDICINAL: Balancing, Reparative, Soothing, Anti-inflammatory, Regenerative, Strengthening, Mood-boosting, Health-enhancing, Regulating

SACHA INCHI SEED POWDER USES

For cosmetic or topical applications, Sacha Inchi can be incorporated into natural formulations for creams, serums, lotions, body butters, and hair care products, among others, and can help keep the final products light in weight, which will thus promote their speedy absorption into the skin. For a simple nighttime moisturizer that is known to diminish the appearance of fine lines, simply mix a small amount of Sacha Inchi Botanical Extract into an equal amount of a carrier oil. To use this mixture, dab a few drops around the eye area, lightly massage it into the entire face, and smooth it down over the neck. Alternatively, a small amount of Sacha Inchi Botanical Extract can be diluted in a regular face cream or lotion to be massaged into the face or body. This is best applied before bed, as this will allow the extract to slowly penetrate into the skin overnight. Applied to the body, moisturizers enriched with Sacha Inchi Extract are reputed to exhibit regenerative properties, have soothing effects, and prevent the development of stretch marks.

To make another natural facial serum that can facilitate the healing of damage caused by UV radiation, combine Sacha Inchi Organic Botanical Extract with an Organic Carrier Oil in a small cup or bowl. To this, add a preferred Herbal Oil and essential oils that are known to have protective effects on the skin. Transfer this blend to a darkly-colored glass dropper bottle for easy application. To use this serum, cleanse the face, then massage a small amount into the face in slow, circular motions. 

To make a face cream that is enriched with Sacha Inchi, combine Sacha Inchi Botanical Extract and Refined Shea Butter in a bowl then thoroughly mix them together with a hand blender. After the mixture reaches a smooth consistency, add in a Hydrosol, blending it in small amounts at a time until it is fully incorporated into the mixture. Once the resultant blend has the consistency of a smooth, creamy lotion, transfer it to one or more glass jars. As the cream sets over the course of a few hours, it will thicken but will remain soft for easy application. This recipe should have a shelf life of 3-4 months and can be used on any skin type, ranging from normal to dry and dull to combination to oily.

For a softening and nourishing body scrub that is known to eliminate dullness and reduce the appearance of some acne-related blemishes for skin with a revitalized look and feel, combine Sacha Inchi Botanical Extract with Brown Sugar, any Carrier Oil, and an essential oil of personal preference. To use the resultant exfoliant, apply it in the shower by scooping a small amount into the hands and gently massaging it in small circles to the preferred areas of skin.

For a facial toner that helps support the skin’s suppleness, combine the following ingredients in a spray bottle: Sacha Inchi Botanical Extract, Floral Water, a total of 2 drops of essential oils that are known to smoothe and soften the skin, and 2 drops Solubilizer (Polysorbate 20) Raw Material. Cap the bottle and shake it well before spritzing the resultant spray lightly onto the face and allowing it to air dry.

For a face mask that has protective qualities and is known to hydrate the skin while repairing any damage caused by environmental stressors, such as the elements, begin by thoroughly combining the following ingredients in a bowl: Sacha Inchi Botanical Extract, Green French Clay, Kaolin Facial Scrub Superfine, Aloe Vera Juice, and a Floral Water of personal preference. To use this mask, simply spread a thin layer over the face with the fingers and allow the mask to dry for no longer than 20 minutes before rinsing it off with warm water. This mask is known to soothe irritation and redness and to energize tired skin.

For a natural facial cleanser that is reputed to hydrate the skin and to reduce the appearance of wrinkles, age spots, and blemishes, begin by combining Sacha Inchi Botanical Extract, Plain Yogurt, and Ground Almond. Next, cleanse the face and massage the mixture into the face before rinsing it off. Alternatively, it may be left on the skin for several minutes before being rinsed off.

Used in hair, Sacha Inchi Extract moisturizes, conditions, repairs, and soothes. To make a strengthening Sacha Inchi-enriched shampoo that is reputed to help balance oil production while soothing itchiness and irritation, combine the following ingredients in a shampoo dispenser bottle: Sacha Inchi Botanical Extract, Shampoo Base, and an essential oil of personal preference. Cap the bottle, shake it well to thoroughly combine all the ingredients, then apply it to the scalp and hair as usual in the shower. This natural shampoo blend is known to address dandruff, strengthen dull and brittle strands, and hydrate frizz for smoother and softer curls.

Used in medicinal applications, Sacha Inchi Extract is known to enhance circulation, reduce joint pain, calm inflammation, and stabilize blood pressure. To create a bath bomb through which the whole body can benefit from Sacha Inchi’s versatile qualities, begin by diluting an essential oil in a carrier oil inside a bowl. In a separate bowl, combine the following ingredients: Sacha Inchi Botanical Extract, Baking Soda, and Citric Acid (Anhydrous USP/FCC) Raw Material. Next, pour the oil mixture into the bowl of the dry raw material mixture, then add Witch Hazel as required to bind all the ingredients together into a hard, packed sphere. To use the resultant bath bomb, simply drop it into a bathtub filled with enough warm water for an adult-sized bath. Enter the tub once the entire bomb has dissolved.

A GUIDE TO SACHA INCHI BOTANICAL EXTRACT & ITS BENEFITS

SACHA INCHI ORGANIC BOTANICAL EXTRACT

Botanical Name: Plukenetia Volubilis L.

Country of Origin: Peru

Believed to:

• Be extracted from Organic Sacha Inchi seeds, the richest plant-based source of Omega 3 (alpha-Linolenic) fatty acids
• Also contain Omega 6 (Linoleic) fatty acids, Vitamin E, and Vitamin A
• Be a fine powder that is off-white in color
• Help balance the oiliness of the skin
• Help maintain the skin’s elasticity to keep it looking soft and supple
• Protect the skin from the abuse of external elements
• Lock in moisture to keep the skin well hydrated
• Be ideal for use in soaps and cosmetics

SACHA INCHI SEED POWDER SIDE EFFECTS

As with all other New Directions Aromatics products, Sacha Inchi Botanical Extract is for external use only. It is imperative to consult a medical practitioner before using this product for therapeutic purposes. Pregnant and nursing women are especially advised not to use Sacha Inchi Botanical Extract without the medical advice of a physician, as it may have an effect on certain hormone secretions and it is unclear whether these effects are transferable to babies at these stages of development. This product should always be stored in an area that is inaccessible to children, especially those under the age of 7.

Those with the following health conditions are recommended to be advised by a physician: cancer, skin disorders, bleeding disorders, hormone-related ailments, and conditions of the heart, liver, or kidney. Individuals that are taking prescription drugs, undergoing major surgery, or who are at a greater risk of experiencing strokes, heart attacks, or atherosclerosis are also advised to seek medical consultation prior to use. Those with allergies to nuts should avoid using Sacha Inchi Extract.

Prior to using Sacha Inchi Botanical Extract, a skin test is recommended. This can be done by diluting 1 Tsp. Sacha Inchi Botanical Extract in 1 tsp. distilled water and applying a dime-size amount of this blend to a small area of skin that is not sensitive. Sacha Inchi must never be used near the eyes, inner nose, and ears, or on any other particularly sensitive areas of skin. Potential side effects of Sacha Inchi Botanical Extract include hot flashes, cramping, headaches, constipation, elevated HDL cholesterol, and nausea.

Those seeking medical care to manage moods, behaviors, or disorders should treat this product as a complementary remedy rather than a replacement for any medicinal treatments or prescriptions. This product may interact with supplements or medications that increase Tryptophan/Serotonin, such as antidepressants, and may consequently increase the risk of acquiring Serotonin Syndrome. In the event of an allergic reaction, discontinue use of the product and see a doctor, pharmacist, or allergist immediately for a health assessment and appropriate remedial action. To prevent side effects, consult with a medical professional prior to use.