As consumers increasingly embrace plant-based alternatives to support healthy ageing, scientists are actively developing viable substitutes for nutrients traditionally obtained from animal sources.
The global cosmetic oil market was valued at approximately $62.59 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach around $104.3 billion by 2034, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.24% from 2024 to 2034 (Precedence Research). The continuing emphasis on sustainability is huge in the cosmetics industry and the most successful companies will be those who take action and embrace the change.
At O&3, we are known for our commitment to supplying natural ingredients throughout the world, and today we are excited to introduce a UK grown natural oil, Refined Ahiflower Seed Oil. We will explore how it aligns with our values of providing needed nutrition to consumers in a natural and sustainable way…
Introducing Ahiflower oil
More commonly known as stone seed or corn gromwell, Ahiflower is a weed native to the UK and its seed oil has been proven to provide natural moisturisation, reducing fine lines and wrinkles through plant-based pro-collagen synthesis.
The Ahiflower plant is grown and harvested using natural and sustainable practices. It is primarily cultivated in the UK, is non-GMO and does not require the use of pesticides or herbicides for its growth, making it a more environmentally friendly option compared to some other oil crops. It represents the most concentrated and advanced plant-based origin of essential fatty acids, containing multiple omegas, all derived from a single plant. It is also entirely plant-based, guaranteeing its compatibility with natural and vegan formulations.
A Natural, Vegan Source of Omegas for Collagen Support
Ahiflower is particularly valuable because it contains both omega-3 fatty acids, such as stearidonic acid (SDA) and alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), as well as omega-6 fatty acids, such as gamma-linolenic acid (GLA).
ALA and SDA are precursors to the long-chain omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), meaning the body naturally converts them into EPA and DHA. Therefore, consuming Ahiflower’s plant-based omega-3s will ultimately result in the health benefits of EPA and DHA.
It is the best possible source of omega-3, as it supports natural anti-inflammatory total skin wellness, immune function, gut health, cardiovascular and cognition. SDA, converts to EPA and DHA at four times the rate of ALA making Ahiflower the richest, non-GMO, plant-derived source of SDA.
The unique stearidonic acid (SDA) and gamma linolenic acid (GLA) content also has anti-inflammatory activity, ideal for topical oil formulations. SDA and GLA fatty acids have demonstrated collagen synthesis support, ideal for advanced anti-aging skin care formulations. Fatty acids have been shown to reduce skin wrinkle depth and roughness, when applied topically. It holds excellent compatibility with other oils in formulations.
What Skin and Hair Care Formulations can Alhiflower Seed Oil be Used In?
While Ahiflower Seed Oil itself can be used as a standalone product for skincare and haircare, we recommend adding it to the following formulations for enhanced results:
Facial oils
Add a few drops of Ahiflower oil to facial oils to boost its nourishing and moisturising properties. It can help improve the overall texture and appearance of the skin.
Moisturisers
Mix a small amount of Ahiflower oil into a moisturiser to increase the hydrating abilities and promote a healthy skin barrier.
Serums
Incorporate Ahiflower oil into serums to enhance their anti-aging and antioxidant properties. It can help reduce inflammation and promote a youthful complexion.
Face masks
Blend Ahiflower oil with face mask ingredients for added hydration and skin-rejuvenating benefits.
Body lotions
Mix Ahiflower oil into body lotion to provide the skin with essential fatty acids, leaving it soft, supple, and nourished.
Hair serums:
Add a few drops of Ahiflower oil into hair serums to boost the conditioning and moisturising effects, as it can help tame frizz, promote hair growth, and add shine.
Hair masks
Mix Ahiflower oil with hair mask ingredients to deeply nourish and repair dry, damaged hair. It can improve the overall health and manageability of the hair.
Leave-in conditioners
Incorporate Ahiflower oil into leave-in conditioner formulations to provide extra moisture, reduce breakage, and protect the hair from environmental damage.
Scalp treatments
Combine Ahiflower oil with other scalp-friendly ingredients to create a treatment oil. It can help soothe dryness, reduce dandruff, and promote a healthy scalp environment.
Sustainability and Ethical Considerations of Ahiflower Oil
As a result of its low environmental footprint, a significant advantage of Ahiflower Seed Oil is that it is highly sustainable throughout its entire life cycle. It is derived from the Ahiflower plant, which is grown and harvested using natural and sustainable practices. Its cultivation does not require pesticides or herbicides, and it can adapt to various climates and soil conditions. The production of Ahiflower oil supports biodiversity, reduces environmental impact, and provides an ethical alternative to fish oil, benefiting both human health and local communities.
Even though it must convert fatty acids into EPA and DHA, while marine-based omega sources, like fish oil, contain preformed EPA and DHA fatty acids, it is a vegan-friendly option and reduces the environmental impact associated with traditional fish oil production, such as overfishing and habitat destruction. By opting for Ahiflower, which is derived from regeneratively grown plants, we can support omega-3 needs without depleting marine ecosystems.
Ahiflower can also grow in diverse climates and soil conditions and this adaptability reduces the need for excessive water usage or irrigation systems. The plant’s short growth cycle of approximately 120 days allows for efficient crop rotation, reducing soil erosion and nutrient diminution. Ahiflower Oil production supports local farmers and promotes agricultural diversity as farmers who cultivate Ahiflower plants can benefit from a diversified crop rotation system and access a new market for their produce. This helps to strengthen local economies and reduce dependency on monoculture farming practices.
Furthermore, Ahiflower plants are bee-friendly and provide a valuable source of nectar and pollen for pollinators. This contributes to the preservation of biodiversity and supports overall ecosystem health.
If you are looking to introduce Refined Ahiflower Seed Oil into your formulations, request a sample or get in touch with our sales team today.
Ready to elevate your formulations with the power of Ahiflower Seed Oil? Request a sample or get in touch with the sales crew today to get started!
Please note that the views/opinions expressed in this blog are solely our own. It is the responsibility of our clients to conduct the necessary testing to substantiate any claims and ensure compliance with industry standards for every ingredient. We will not accept any liability for claims made based on our content.
