At Lekithos, we maintain the promise of authentic oils to ensure that our consumers gain every benefit without additives or preservatives. Additionally, each of our ingredients are exclusively sourced from selected, certified organic farms to ensure 100% traceability for your peace of mind.
When it came to Lekithos Organic Pomegranate Seed Oil, we knew we had a winner!
Our oil is sustainably made from Guloyshe, Rosa Guloysha and Bala Mursal organic pomegranate varieties, which are cultivated on nearly 1000 acres in the Agsu region of Eastern Azerbaijan. The seeds used are the byproduct of making organic pomegranate juice. Rather than simply discard them, the unneeded seeds are repurposed by mechanically cold-pressing them into a rich organic oil. And since Pomegranate seeds are roughly 10% oil, we need over 6 pounds of seeds to produce about 8 ounces of oil.
The delicate production process requires the oil to maintain a certain temperature to protect its natural benefits. The result is a thick, golden oil with a slightly nutty aroma.
Due to pomegranate seed oil’s exceptionally high Omega-5 (Punicic Acid) content and its luxurious consistency, it can be used both as a nutritional supplement and topical treatment.
As an added bonus, it perfectly complements other oils in a blend to meet the need of various skin types.
In order to fully understand its countless benefits, we take a closer look at the makeup of pomegranate seed oil: fatty acids, tannins, vitamins and tocopherols, as well as phytosterols.
Fatty Acids
Our team at Lekithos recognized the importance of these omega fatty acids and had it third party tested to ensure only the purest quality. Only one tablespoon of Lekithos Organic Pomegranate Seed Oil contains a firework of fatty acids:
| Form | Daily Serving |
|---|---|
| Punicic Acid (Omega-5) | 11,200mg* |
| Linoleic Acid (Omega-6) | 930mg |
| Oleic Acid (Omega-9) | 890mg |
*A value of 80% is a truly outstanding value!
Let’s start with the active ingredient that makes up 80% of this oil — Omega-5. Recognized as punicic acid, this conjugated fatty acid is unique to pomegranate seed oil, and considered a rarity in nature and vital for our nutrition as the body does not produce it.
Omega-5 assists in preventing cell growth and encourages apoptosis (programmed cell death of unwanted, old or damaged cells) in breast cancer cell lines (Zarfeshani, et al. 1). Its anticancer characteristics have shown positive potential in the prevention and treatment of prostate cancer as well as chemopreventive properties regarding skin cancer. Additionally, punicic acid regularly displays antidiabetic, antioxidative, and antiatherosclerotic qualities (1).
Other potent fatty acids present in pomegranate seed oil include Omega-6 and Omega-9. Though present in lower amounts, these omega fatty acids contribute to the high antioxidant value. Omega-6 provides energy, supports skin barrier function and reduces inflammation which can assist cholesterol levels and nerve health. Omega-9 contributes also to inflammation reduction, aids blood sugar and cholesterol control.
And the benefits don’t stop there!
Tannins
Pomegranate seeds are also rich in tannins including punicalagin, punicalin, and tannin precursors ellagic and gallic acid. Tannins are polyphenolic compounds — a plant defense system against UV radiation and pests that simultaneously supports the internal structure (Jang, et al. 1). These compounds support human health in a similar way by protecting the skin from UV damage, neutralizing free radicals to reduce oxidative stress, and soothing inflammation and irritation.
Punicalagin is an important bioactive component with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits that may protect against heart diseases by likely reducing high blood pressure and improving lipid profiles (1). Punicalin has potential nontoxic and chemopreventive benefits for prostate cancer. Ellagic and gallic acid imitate vitamins C and E by reducing oxidative damage and free radicals (1). It also may lower cholesterol, support heart health, can benefit while in chemotherapy, and help reduce cognitive impairment.
Tocopherols are a naturally-occurring fat-soluble source of vitamin E that boosts antioxidants and enforces cell protection as well as anti-inflammatory benefits. The four types include alpha, beta, gamma, and delta.
Third-party testing of the tocopherol profile in Lekithos Organic Pomegranate Seed Oil showed some extraordinary results:
| Profile | Results | Total |
|---|---|---|
| alpha-tocopherol | 31.1 mcg/mL | 2% of total |
| beta+gamma-tocopherol | 1476 mcg/mL | 95% of total |
| delta-tocopherol | 48.5 mcg/mL | 3% of total |
Summary: Total Tocopherols of 1,555.6 mcg/ml indicates excellent antioxidant capacity and good oxidative stability. The fractional breakdown serves as strong authenticity indicator – no blending or diluting with other oils, our quality promise to our customers!
What is the difference?
Alpha-tocopherols are most commonly found in human tissue and are vital for vitamin E. Gamma-tocopherols are recognized for fighting reactive nitrogen species in addition to reducing inflammation more effectively than its counterpart.
Reactive nitrogen species (RNS) are highly reactive molecules containing nitrogen that send signals to regulate physiological processes such as immune defense (Martinez, et al. 1). An excess of RNS can overwhelm the body’s antioxidant defense system and cause cardiovascular disease and hypertension, damage proteins and DNA, and even induce neuronal damage linked to Alzheimer's (1).
Beta-tocopherols have the least antioxidative properties among them all, while delta-tocopherols are considered the most powerful antioxidant, especially when it comes to lipid oxidation (Katyal 1).
Pomegranate seed oil’s antioxidative effects mimic that of green tea. When mixing high levels of punicic acid with vitamins and tocopherols, the natural anti-inflammatory properties demonstrate efficacy in treating acne, rosacea, eczema, and other skin disorders (Zielinska, et al. 1).
Phytoestrogens and Phytosterols
When applied regularly in skin care treatments, pomegranate seed oil increases cell renewal and reinforces skin barrier to present a smoother texture and brighter complexion. Through plant-based compounds that mimic estrogen called phytoestrogens, this oil can stimulate the production of collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid which may reduce wrinkles and increase skin firmness and elasticity (Zielinska, et al. 1).
Phytosterols are plant-based compounds that block the absorption of cholesterol in the gut which lowers LDL cholesterol (Higdon, et al. 1). Due to its similarity to cholesterol, it can reinforce the skin barrier and promote hydration and firmness through production of collagen and elastin (Quirin, et al. 1).
Additionally, the anti-inflammatory qualities of both phytoestrogens and phytosterols aid in reducing swelling, pain, and minor irritations. The regenerative properties have proven how effective pomegranate seed oil is in treating most skin conditions making it perfect for all ages and skin types (1).
Suggested Uses
For nutritional use we suggest taking it as is, or adding it to foods (e.g. salads, bowls, etc.) or beverages (smoothies, shakes, etc).
When using topically in skin care, mix with lotion or other oils and apply to damp skin to improve hydration, or apply 2-3 drops to a clean face and massage until absorbed.
Product of Germany | Seeds from Azerbaijan | Packaged in the USA
