Origin: Carrot Seed Essential Oil is steam distilled from the dried seeds of the Daucus Carota (botanical name), also known as the Wild Carrot or Queen Anne's Lace. Carrot Seed Oil originated in the time of the ancient Greeks, Romans, Egyptians, French, and Indians.
They used it to soothe inflammation and ease indigestion. Also, it was combined with the essential oils of Bergamot and Lemon to cure the same ailments in some of these geographic regions.
Carrot Seed Oil is mentioned in Chinese medicine, where they would use it as a bath or massage oil to cure muscle pain. They also used it as an effective treatment for intestinal ailments such as dysentery and worms.
Traditionally, it is also used in the manufacturing of perfumes to contribute its woody modulations to scents that are “Oriental” and “aldehydic.” This oil is blessed with woody, earthy smell.
When used in other cosmetics, it is a traditional and famous moisturizing agent for all-purpose body lotions.
As per Ayurveda, Carrot Seed oil works as a tan protector. It is believed to have SPF of 28 and 40.
Scientifically: Carrot Seed contains antiseptic and antibacterial properties that are really good for skin and treating acne. The antioxidants present in carrot seed can repair tissue damage and helps prevent early aging.
The carrot seed oil includes a-pinene, camphene, b-pinene, sabinene, myrcene, y-terpinene, limonene, beta-bisabolene, geranyl acetate and carotol. A wide range of essential oils such as lavender, bergamot, rosemary, ylang-ylang, patchouli, geranium, and cedarwood oils works an excellent blender with carrot seed oil. The bioflavonoids in carrot seed oil give it antifungal, antibacterial and anticancer qualities.
These antioxidants also prevent discoloring of hair and strengthen joint and muscles. Carrot seeds can improve sperm motility in men. It can cure infections and protect against its effects as well as prevent tetanus.
It also detoxifies the body including blood, tissues, muscles and internal organs like the heart and liver. It can regulate the biliary secretion of the liver and can help treat jaundice.
“Leung's Encyclopedia of Common Natural Ingredients,” states carrot seed oil to be nontoxic.
Recent studies have shown that carrot seeds have anti-cancer properties which can cure some forms of cancer like mouth, throat, prostate, stomach, and kidneys. Carrot seeds are diuretic in nature and facilitate menstruation. It makes periods less painful and regulates the menstrual cycle without any obstructions. It also stimulates both circulation and metabolic function.
Carrot seed oil stimulates the lymphatic system. It also helps women in the production of breast milk after childbirth. It also facilitates hiccups, colic, and flatulence.
When applied on the skin, it nourishes, tightens and rejuvenates skin. It should not be applied on your skin minus mixing it with a carrier oil such as coconut oil, olive oil, sunflower oil or hempseed oil.
Carrot seed oil affects the following bacteria and fungi: Dermatophytes, Cryptococcus neoformans, Alternaria alternata, Escherichia coli, Salmonella, Candida, Acinetobacter, Stenotrophomonas maltophilia, and Aedes albopictus.
Usage: Apart from the health benefits, they are used for culinary purposes as well. It is added to spicy food and sauces in many Asian cuisines. It is being used in many cosmetic products across the world. It is mixed with other oils to infuse a woody smell in oriental scents. It is also used as a massage oil to relieve muscle pain. It is also extensively used in aromatherapy to combat stress and anxiety.
Below are some DIY with carrot seed oil:
- Take 5 drops of carrot seed oil and 1/4 cup of Aloe Vera gel. Mix it all together and apply on sunburn affected area.
- To make the anti-aging serum, with the help of a funnel pour 1 tbsp prickly Pear oil and 2 tsp Argan oil into a dropper bottle. Then, add 5 drops carrot seed oil, 3 drops lavender oil and 2 drops frankincense oil. Everyday massage your face with 2-3 drops of this anti-aging serum.
- Take a few drops of carrot seed oil and apply directly on the face. Gently massage until absorbed. Leave it overnight. This helps in removing wrinkles and fine lines.
- Add a few drops of carrot seed oil to a tablespoon of castor oil. Mix well and apply on the scalp. Shampoo as usual after 30 minutes. This helps in promoting hair growth.
- Carrot seed oil is full of anti-oxidants. It helps in reducing acne and reduces blemishes.