Are there any dangers associated with the use of hibiscus oil?

Also known as roselle or Guinea sorrel, thehibiscus is a herbaceous plant belonging to the Malvaceae family. This shrub, native to Southeast Asia and Africa, produces flowers used for ornamental, culinary, and medicinal purposes. Hibiscus contains a golden yellow oil with a soft and light scent, which can be extracted from its seeds by cold pressing.

In terms of its benefits, thehibiscus vegetable oil is suitable for all skin types and is rich in fatty acids. These confer several beneficial properties for the skin and hair.

• Nourishing : The linoleic acid found in hibiscus oil helps to stimulate cell renewal, and thus contributes to the restoration and maintenance of the skin's natural protective barrier. This fatty acid indeed plays a role in the synthesis process of ceramides, lipids naturally present in the skin and ensuring good cohesion between the cells of the epidermis.

• Protective : The unsaturated fatty acids in hibiscus oil contribute to the restoration of the skin's lipid barrier. Oleic acid is naturally present in the hydrolipidic film of the skin, promoting its suppleness and elasticity. The topical application of hibiscus oil thus helps to strengthen this protective veil. This latter acts as a shield to keep the skin hydrated and protected from external aggressions.

• Antioxidant : Particularly rich in Vitamin E, hibiscus oil is an excellent antioxidant treatment to protect the skin against the damaging effects of free radicals. These reactive and unstable molecules are notably responsible for premature skin ageing. Thus, hibiscus vegetable oil is an ideal ally to prevent the onset of wrinkles and the weakening of the hair follicle.

• Anti-inflammatory : Thanks to the phytosterols present in its composition, hibiscus vegetable oil also has anti-inflammatory properties. However, the mechanism by which these molecules act has not yet been fully elucidated and further research is still required. It could thus be used to soothe cuts or minor wounds. In fact, it has been used for several centuries in North Africa to alleviate certain injuries and abscesses.

As of today, there are no known contraindications to the use of hibiscus oil. Its topical application is suitable for young children, as well as for pregnant or breastfeeding women. Furthermore, this botanical extract is suitable for sensitive skin and will be particularly appreciated by dry or mature skin. Its composition, rich in saturated fatty acids, allows it to be easily absorbed by the epidermis, as the structure of these molecules is similar to those of compounds found in the skin, thus also suitable for combination to oily skin types.

We should also note that hibiscus oil is non-comedogenic, meaning that its application does not cause an occlusive effect on the skin, a phenomenon that promotes the appearance of comedones. It is therefore very well tolerated by oily skin types, which are often prone to blemishes.

Hibiscus can also be found in certain infusions, herbal teas or dietary supplements.

Before using a new skincare product, it is advisable to take some precautions. Hibiscus vegetable oil is no exception to this rule. Before incorporating it into your routine, we recommend performing a tolerance test. This is done by applying a small amount of the product to the inside of your elbow or behind your ear. If you notice no adverse reaction within the next 24 hours, you can use the oil.

Finally, it is important to note that the biochemical composition of hibiscus oil can vary depending on the manufacturing processes and storage conditions. To reap all its benefits, opt for virgin oils obtained through cold pressing. Indeed, this process does not require the use of relatively high temperatures, which could destroy certain fatty acids in the hibiscus vegetable oil and reduce its effectiveness. To prevent any oxidation and degradation of its active ingredients, it is also recommended to store the oil away from heat, light and air.

• HEINRICH M. & al. Hibiscus sabdariffa L. - a phytochemical and pharmacological review. Food Chemistry (2014).