Source

Maracuja word comes from the Amazon, where it refers to the Passion fruit. Its biological name is Passiflora edulis. The seeds of this fruit are rich in oil, and when extracted, this is termed as maracuja oil. However, this is not the major source of Maracuja oil. Most commercial Maracuja oil comes from the Passion flower. Its biological name is Passiflora incarnata. So, we see that both the sources are from the same genus. Passion flower is an exotic, breathtaking flower which has many health benefits too. Most common application of passion flower is to induce sleep and promote relaxation in people with anxiety. There may be differences in the properties of Maracuja oil derived from passion fruit and the passion flower. Maracuja and its oil have been used in Aztec civilization and in the heart of the Amazon rainforest for a variety of uses.

Properties

These are some of the therapeutic properties of Maracuja oil. Since it is not a well researched oil, we still only know little about it.

    Emollient - It is considered to be an excellent moisturizer for skin.

    Anti-inflammatory - it reduces inflammation.

    Anti-insomnia - may induce sleep, but not validated.

    Antioxidant - scavenges free radicals, thus preventing our tissues from damage by these entities.

    Anti-itching - relieves itching on the skin.

Other potential properties which might be present in this oil based on the properties of the source plants.

    Anti-stress - this oil may have a profound stress  relieving effect.

    Anti-asthmatic - reduce bronchial spasms and asthma. 

    Anti-tussive - cough suppressant

    Anxiolytic - relieve anxiety

Uses of Maracuja Oil

Maracuja Oil is reported to help repair damaged skin whether due to excessive tanning or due to acne or rosacea. This is partly due to its anti-inflammatory properties and possibly also due to its vitamin C content since this vitamin is essential for the manufacture of collagen.

The vitamin C content in Maracuja Oil can help to make your skin look brighter skin, whilst calcium and phosphorus work to nourish skin to enhance skin’s healthy appearance.

Maracuja Oil is very rich in essential fatty acids.  It contains nearly 80% linoleic acid together with oleic, palmitic and stearic acids.  These essential fatty acids not only work as a great moisturiser but they also have anti-inflammatory properties helping to alleviate inflammatory skin concerns such as rosacea and acne. By calming inflammation in skin, less sebum or oil is released and thus the likelihood of blocked pores in acne is greatly diminished.  Because of its moisturising and anti-inflammatory properties, Maracuja Oil has a balancing effect being suitable for all skin types including sensitive, dry and oily skin. With its high antioxidant activity,  Maracuja Oil is also reported to help counter fine lines and wrinkles.

In addition to its topical use in skincare, Maracuja Oil can also be used as a massage oil helping to ease the pain of arthritic joints and muscle pain.

Applying Maracuja Oil to the scalp is reported to help a variety of concerns from dandruff, itchy scalp, dry scalp and dry, damaged hair. An application to the cuticles of Maracuja Oil helps alleviate dry cuticles and also helps strengthen weak, fragile nails.