Kiwi (Actinidia chinensis)
Kiwi Seed Oil extracted from Kiwifruit / Chinese Gooseberry (L. Actinidia chinensis PLANCHON)
Kiwifruit is regarded as being a rich source of vitamin C, vitamin E, potassium, magnesium and dietary fibre. Kiwifruit has been recognised as the second most nutritionally dense fruit after Guava. In addition, kiwifruit contains the very acid stable protease enzyme group, actinidin. We can now add to this very impressive nutritional and dietary profile, the rich source of essential fatty acids that are contained in the kiwifruit seeds.
The Seeds
Less than 3% of the total weight of the Kiwifruit is made up of the seeds. The seeds are very small and delicate, separation from the pulp takes place via a special process developed in New Zealand. The seeds are then stabilised for shipment.
The Seed Oil
The Kiwi Seed contains over 60% of the very nutritionally important Essential Fatty Acid (EFA), Alpha Linolenic Acid (ALA), an essential Omega 3 fatty acid that is normally found in much lower concentrations in some other seeds such as Flax Seed or must be extracted from Fish Oils. The body naturally converts between 2% and 10% of the ALA into eicosapentanoeic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). The body also uses the EFAs contained in Kiwi Seed Oil to help maintain the proper wall flexibility of cells and restore the proper cholesterol /triglyceride ratio. This keeps our cell membranes soft and pliable, facilitating receptors in the membrane to work to bring vital compounds to regulate the cell and to provide easy entry for oxygen and nutrients and an efficient exit for carbon dioxide and wastes.
Kiwi seed extract: In 2007, online sources reported that a company in New Zealand sought to make a nutricosmetic ingredient from the seeds of the kiwi fruit. Kiwifruit Extract Venture Ltd. was already supplying the cosmetics industry with kiwi oil, which contains omega-3 alpha-linolenic acid, and the fruit contains vitamins C, A and E, potassium and flavonoid antioxidants, but the company found that the seeds, which are typically not digested by humans, are a source of two antioxidant flavonoid glycosides: quercitrin (a precursor to quercetin) and kaempferol.
Initial research had centered around topical application of the seed extract, but the company discovered that both the kiwi oil and the seed extract can be taken orally in supplement form. Soon came preliminary evidence that 50 mg of the antioxidant extract taken in oral supplement form can have an improving effect on skin, notably in reducing fine lines and wrinkles, the company reported.
Separately, a 2006 Japanese study conducted on guinea pigs examined the effects of an aqueous ethanol extract prepared from defatted kiwi seed and its constituents quercitrin and kaempferol (KSE) 3-O-rhamunoside on acne and melanin formation. The authors concluded that the extract “inhibits the enzyme activities involved in acne and melanin formation, and oral administration of KSE is effective in eliminating skin pigmentation.”
The Applications for Kiwi Seed Oil
Cosmetic Topical Applications : Kiwi Seed Oil is ideally suited for skin and hair care products as the high concentration of ALA helps to maintain moisture in the skin and hair and prevent drying and scaling. Classic anti aging product and an important dermatitis formulation ingredient.
Kiwi Fruit Extract
A natural protease enzyme extracted from organic kiwi fruit.
Kiwi has a high level of actinidin, a protease enzyme that mimics the natural enzyme pepsin.
Naturally occuring high levels of Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Magnesium, Potassium and Essential Fatty Acids.
(68% Alpha Linolenic Acid = an Omega-3 EFA, and precursor to EPA and DHA)
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Disclaimer:
The information presented herein is intended for educational purposes only. These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose, cure, treat or prevent disease. Individual results may vary, and before using any supplements, it is always advisable to consult with your own health care provider.
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