Obtained through cold pressing of seeds, camelina oil is known for its benefits to the skin, hair, and overall health. The antioxidants and essential fatty acids it contains make it beneficial for use. However, one must question if there are any risks associated with daily use of camelina oil. Let's learn more in this article.
Is Camelina Oil Dangerous?
Published on February 1, 2024, updated on October 4, 2024, by Kahina, Scientific Editor — 4 min of reading
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Can Camelina Oil be dangerous?
Thecamelina oil is characterized by its fluidity, lightness, and non-comedogenic properties, making it suitable for all skin types for topical application. It does not pose any major risk when used, as shown in the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) report on camelina oil. Furthermore, it is not contraindicated in pregnant or breastfeeding women, nor in children or infants.
A concern could arise from its oxidation state. Indeed, camelina oil is concentrated in omega-3 (27.9%). However, their chemical structure, rich in double bonds and their numerous bis-allylic hydrogens, make them susceptible to oxidative degradation, which is characterized by the production of free radicals.
The nutritional and organoleptic properties of the oil will then be degraded, despite the presence of vitamin E and other antioxidants. Oxidized camelina oil (rancid) becomes comedogenic, its application on the skin will then promote the appearance of comedones, among other things. It thickens, changes color, and a characteristic odor appears.
When consumed orally, the context changes. Camelina oil is rich in omega-3 fatty acids. However, due to the ability of these compounds to prevent the formation of blood clots, taking camelina oil as a dietary supplement could interact with certain medications, such as blood thinners, and cause side effects, such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
It is important to consult a doctor before taking this supplement to avoid any risk.
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What are the usage precautions for camelina oil?
It is important to use the camelina oil correctly in order to fully benefit from its properties. You must ensure that the oil is of good quality, and does not exhibit characteristics that might suggest the occurrence of oxidative degradation.
To do this, one must check its smell, texture, and the absence of color change (the "usual" color of camelina oil being golden yellow). Before its use, it is recommended to perform a skin test in the crook of the elbow, on the inner side of the wrist, or behind the ear, for example, to observe potential skin reactions.
To maintain the quality of camelina oil, it is important to tightly seal the bottle to prevent the presence of oxygen. Then, store it in a cool place, away from direct sunlight for proper and risk-free preservation. After opening the bottle, this oil can be kept six to eight months in the refrigerator.
Do not hesitate to consult your doctor if you have any questions or doubts.
Sources
Thèse de Romain GUITARD. Oxidation of omega-3 oils and preservation by natural phenolic antioxidants (2016).
GRAS Notice (GRN) No. 642: Camelina oil. FDA (2016).
Complément alimentaire : Oméga-3 des huiles de poissons. Vidal (2018).
Thèse de Sonia LEPELTIER. Étude ethnobotanique de Camelina sativa (L.) Crantz (2021).
