Cucumber Oil (Cucumis Sativus)

Cucumber Oil (Cucumis Sativus)
Buy Cucumber Oil (Cucumis sativus)

Cucumber oil is a pale yellow, lightweight oil extracted from the seeds of the cucumber (Cucumis sativus), a widely cultivated plant in the gourd family. Native to India and now grown globally, cucumber oil is prized in cosmetics and wellness for its unique composition and gentle, soothing properties.

Extraction & Physical Properties

• Extraction Method:
  Cucumber oil is typically obtained from dried cucumber seeds using cold-pressed extraction. For higher yield and purity, continuous extraction with a soxhlet apparatus and n-hexane solvent is also used, followed by refining processes such as degumming and neutralization1.

• Appearance: Pale yellow liquid

• Aroma: Mild, characteristic, and subtle

• Density: ~0.91 g/mL after refining

• Acid Value: ~2.13 mg KOH/g after refining

• Peroxide Value: Low (0.82 meq O₂/g oil)

Chemical Composition

Cucumber seed oil is rich in unsaturated fatty acids and bioactive compounds:

• Linoleic acid (Omega-6): 25–45% (essential for skin barrier and hydration)

• Palmitic acid: ~21%

• Squalene: 22–53% (potent antioxidant and skin emollient; content increases after refining)

• Oleic acid: Present in smaller amounts

• Other Components: Trace amounts of lauric acid, stearic acid, ethyl linoleate, and minor esters1.

Key Benefits & Uses

• Antioxidant:
  High squalene and linoleic acid content provide strong antioxidant effects, protecting skin from free radical damage and supporting cellular repair. The presence of vitamin C further boosts its antioxidant profile, making it a popular base for sunscreens and anti-aging creams1.

• Skin Health & Photo Protection:
  Helps reduce oxidative stress and photo damage, minimizing wrinkles and supporting skin structure. Its lightweight texture and high linoleic acid content make it suitable for all skin types, including sensitive and acne-prone skin.

• Moisturizing & Soothing:
  Deeply hydrates without clogging pores, soothes irritation, and calms inflamed or sunburned skin. Ideal for use in facial oils, serums, and after-sun products.

• Eye Care:
  Traditionally used to relieve hot, inflamed, swollen, or dry eyes.

• Hair Care:
  The natural silica and fatty acids in cucumber oil help reduce hair loss, boost elasticity, and add shine.

• Digestive Support:
  Cucumber oil has mild laxative properties and may offer relief for digestive discomfort and bladder issues.

• Cosmetic Ingredient:
  Used in creams, lotions, massage oils, and as a carrier oil for essential oils due to its mild scent and excellent emollient properties.

Summary Table

Cucumber oil is a gentle, antioxidant-rich oil ideal for skin, hair, and wellness applications. Its high content of linoleic acid and squalene makes it a valuable addition to modern cosmetic formulations, offering hydration, protection, and soothing benefits for a variety of uses1.

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