Echium Plantagineum Seed Oil

Echium plantagineum seed oil is a non-fragrant plant oil that's a rich source of saturated fatty acids and phospholipids for skin. It's sometimes referred to as purple viper's-bugloss. In particular, it's a very good source the omega-3 fatty acid linolenic acid plus an omega-3 precursor fatty acid known as stearidonic acid. These compounds help repair and strengthen skin's moisture barrier, in turn making skin less sensitive to external aggressors.

The oil expressed from the seeds of this plant is also rich in antioxidants such as vitamin E and caffeic acid. Due to the inherent instability of the oil in the presence of heat, cold or non-heat solvent extraction methods should be utilized. Citric and ascorbic acids as well as sunflower oil have proven to bolster the oil's stability.

Usage levels for this plant oil vary and there are no restrictions on how much can be used in a cosmetic; for example, a brand could offer a 100% pure oil for topical use (it's also marketed as an omega fatty acid supplement). Typical usage levels in cosmetics range from 1–5%, depending on formulary goals.