Thistle Oil - The Omega 6 and 3 Powerhouse

Thistle (INCI: Carthamus tinctorius) has a history of multiple uses. The flowers have been used to make textile dyes since ancient Egypt, providing colors that range from deep yellows and oranges to rich reds. For the same reason, the flowers are popularly used as an inexpensive replacement for saffron in cooking. Also known as safflower, safflower, beni and chimichanga (of all things!), this rather common plant has quite a bit to offer in the way of skin care.

Non-Oily Oil

It is the seeds of the plant that are refined or cold pressed to produce thistle oil, which is characterized as thin and dry. This kind of classification means the oil will quickly and easily melt into the skin without feeling greasy. In short – thistle is a non-oily oil.

An Essential Fatty Acid Powerhouse

Thistle oil is so rich in essential fatty acids that over 80% of the oil content can consist of omegas 6 and 3 (most particularly omega 6). For this very reason it is often recommended to take the oil as a nutritional supplement.

Great For Pores...

Because thistle oil is such a rich source of essential fatty acid, it adds a great skin-loving boost when partnered with other oils and fats. It is incredibly well tolerated and ideal for problem skin, mature skin and normal-to-oily skin. Thistle oil also helps to reduce the size of the pores, helping to rebalance skin. 

...and Nails

For brittle nails that are prone to splitting, thistle offers healing powers when applied neat and gently massaged in.

More Thistle Oil Plusses

• It's easy to work with 
• It's among the less expensive oils 
• It blends well with almost everything
• It has a long natural shelf life (up to 2 years)
• It is well tolerated by most
• It is good for oily skin, large pores and all skin conditions

LisaLise Products With Thistle Oil

Personalized Oil Blends, Personal make-up bases, Bare Basic Body Butter

Other Fun Facts About Thistle

• The oils are favored for bird feed mixes because squirrels don't like the taste
• Since 2008, thistle-derived insulin has been tested in humans with positive results
• The oil I use is cold-pressed and organic
• For cooking, the oil is better used cold (in salad dressing) than heated (frying) due to the low smoke point

Isn't it great when a common and relatively inexpensive everyday thing has so much to offer?