Plukenetia volubilis is a climbing, star-fruited plant. This “mountain almond” is fond of very supple or even muddy soils, thriving on the edge of forests and, more specifically, at the foot of the Andes. It is cultivated on small, usually family-owned plots. Peru is home to a flora replete with various riches, which often cause envy: “bio-piracy”, or the appropriation of traditional resources and knowledge, is widespread, and Plukenetia volubilis isthe source of great jealousy.
The plant has been cultivated for over three thousand years. Its brown seeds, high in proteins, can be eaten roasted, while its leaves are eaten cooked. Ceramics from the year 1438, decorated with depictions of the victory of the Incas emperor Pachacuti over the Chankas, show how important the fruits were at the time: they are easily recognisable among the illustrations. In the 16th century, Garcillaso de la Vega, a man of noble Incan lineage on his mother’s side and a Spanish aristocrat thanks to his father, shared his idyllic vision of the empire, the Tawantinsuyu, in his book Comentarios Reales de los Incas. This included the earliest known description of the plant and its uses.
Collected fruit is put out to dry. Once removed from the pulp, the seeds are cold-presssed. The oil is clarified, decanted and filtered. Approximately five kilograms of seeds are required to obtain one liter of a delicate oil, with a green, woody scent and a fine, lightweight texture.
Health Benefits of Inca Inchi Oil
Rich in antioxidant components and vitamin E, Organic Inca Inchi Oil is a balm for parched skin: it restores the suppleness and comfort of tired or mature skin and generously nourishes younger skin. Its exceptional concentration of linoleic acid (omega 6) and linolenic acid (omega 3) turns it into a veritable shield for the epidermis.
Deliciously fragrant, easy to apply, excellent under any circumstances, Organic Inca Inchi Oil is one of the most remarkable anti-aging oils in the world. Its green scent makes it particularly popular among those who dislike the typically earthy aroma of natural oils. The wonderful dry feel is as light as can be. It absorbs quickly and leaves the skin feeling fresh and smooth. It soothes dehydrated skin and assuages bouts of rosacea.
Can help to balance acne-prone skin.
Exceptionally soothing to dry or irritated skin.
Can help improve moisture retention.
Excellent for the lips, nails, hair and scalp.
Extraordinarily high antioxidant properties, therefore good for anti-aging.
Limits dehydration and helps to strengthen and rebuild natural skin barriers.
Relieves irritated or scaly scalps from eczema and/or psoriasis.
Can be used to relieve itchy, scaly, and chronically dry skin, including inflamed or irritated skin.
Useful for dry, brittle, or damaged hair. Add the oil to your hair and scalp products to make your hair feel soft and manageable.
Wonderful for mature skin with fine lines.
Helps regulate oil production.
Helps protect the skin from sun damage.
Keeps skin elastic.