CO2 Extracts

Organic Black Cumin CO2-to extract, 10 ml

Name: Organic Black Cumin CO2-to extract, 10 ml
Brand: Handymade
SKU: CO050_010
Price: 3.89 EUR
Availability: InStock

Pack size10 ml50 ml 100 ml

Black cumin ( Nigella sativa L.) originates in the Mediterranean region and the Middle East — a plant whose seeds have been used in these countries for millennia. full description

AvailabilityIn stock · 84 bal.

Product codeCO050_010

Batch462115

Best before04/2031

€3.89incl. VAT€389.00/l

Lowest price in the last 30 days: €3.89

Product description

Black cumin (Nigella sativa L.) originates in the Mediterranean region and the Middle East — a plant whose seeds have been used in these countries for millennia. For cosmetics they are interesting for two reasons: they contain thymoquinone — a bioactive quinone with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties — and a rich fatty acid fraction headed by linoleic acid (omega-6) and oleic acid (omega-9). The typical spicy scent is provided by the volatile monoterpenes α-thujene and p-cymene.
CO₂ extraction works with supercritical carbon dioxide as the extraction medium — without organic solvents, without heavy metals, without inorganic salts. The designation CO₂-to (total extract) indicates that the extract captures the full spectrum of lipophilic substances from the seed: fixed oil, waxes, thymoquinone and volatile components. Compared to pressed black cumin seed oil, the resulting product is significantly more concentrated — compounds that remain in the marc during mechanical pressing pass into the extract here. In a formulation, therefore, a significantly lower dosage is sufficient than with a conventional vegetable oil.

Key benefits

Anti-inflammatory action — thymoquinone inhibits the formation of inflammatory mediators; key for reactive, irritated and problematic skin
Strong antioxidant potential — thymoquinone and thymohydroquinone protect the skin against oxidative stress and slow down visible ageing
Antimicrobial properties — active against bacteria associated with acne (Cutibacterium acnes) and common skin pathogens
Soothing sensitive and reactive skin — reduces redness, itching and irritation
Nourishing and supporting the skin barrier — linoleic and oleic acid help restore the lipid barrier and retain moisture
Scalp care — anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial action for itching, flaking and irritated scalp

Suitable for products such as

facial serums and oils for problematic, combination and acne-prone skin
products for sensitive and reactive skin — soothing creams, spot balms
anti-ageing serums and creams — antioxidant protection and support for mature skin
anhydrous products — dry oils, oleogels, balms, solid sticks
scalp serums and pre-wash oils — for itching, dandruff and irritation of the scalp
aftershave products and men’s care for skin prone to inflammation
body care for a compromised skin barrier — as a complement in eczema and psoriasis

Use in formulation

The extract is lipophilic — miscible with vegetable oils, esters, silicones and fatty active substances; it is not directly compatible with the water phase
In emulsions it is incorporated into the oil phase or during cooling
It is recommended to add it during cooling (at a temperature below 40 °C) — thymoquinone and volatile monoterpenes are heat-sensitive
Compatible with esters, silicones, triglycerides and waxy emulsifiers
Physical state: dark brown viscous mass — slight heating to 30–35 °C will help with dosing
The characteristic spicy aroma is pronounced — at higher concentrations, the aromatic profile of the formulation needs to be taken into account

Safety and storage

Store in a tightly closed, ideally dark container in a cool place, protected from direct light and heat. After each withdrawal, close the container immediately — this minimizes oxidation of sensitive components. Avoid contact with eyes and mucous membranes. The product is intended exclusively for external use. For sensitive skin we recommend testing tolerance on a small area of skin before using it in a formulation.

Frequently asked questions

How does the CO₂-to extract from black cumin seeds differ from pressed oil?

Pressed black cumin seed oil contains mainly fatty acids and only trace amounts of thymoquinone — most of this compound remains in the seed marc during pressing. The CO₂-to extract is several times more concentrated specifically in the bioactive fraction: thymoquinone, monoterpenes and other lipophilic compounds that you do not obtain by pressing. In a formulation, therefore, a significantly lower dosage is sufficient than with the oil.

Can I apply it directly to the skin without dilution?

We do not recommend this. The extract is highly concentrated and its direct application may irritate the skin, especially sensitive skin. The correct use is always in a formulation — diluted in oil or incorporated into a serum, cream or balm.

How to work with the strong scent in a formulation?

The spicy aroma comes from the volatile monoterpenes α-thujene and p-cymene. At lower concentrations of the extract it is usually not disturbing and gives the product a natural character. At higher dosages it is appropriate to choose fragrance components that harmonize the scent — earthy or woody essential oils work well. Important: avoid temperatures above 40 °C, because heat accelerates the evaporation of exactly these aromatic compounds.

Is it suitable only for problematic skin, or also for dry and mature skin?

Also for dry and mature skin. Linoleic acid in the lipid fraction nourishes dry skin and helps restore the skin barrier. For mature skin, the antioxidant action of thymoquinone, which slows oxidative stress — one of the main factors in visible ageing — is particularly valuable. So it is not just a raw material for acne.

Can it be combined with retinol or vitamin C?

Combining it with retinol makes sense in formulation terms — the antioxidant action of the extract can mitigate potential irritation from the retinoid. With lipophilic forms of vitamin C (e.g. ascorbyl tetraisopalmitate) it is well compatible in the oil phase. With water-based forms of vitamin C, the extract belongs exclusively to the lipid part of the formulation; it does not mix with water.

How should the extract be stored after opening?

After opening, store in a tightly closed dark container in the refrigerator or in a cool place. The CO₂-to extract is naturally stable thanks to its low moisture content, but thymoquinone and volatile components are sensitive to heat, light and air. On each withdrawal, measure out the required amount quickly and close the container immediately.

You can find more about the principles and use of CO₂ extracts in natural cosmetics in the article CO₂ extracts and their use.
Also see other CO₂ extracts in the Handymade.sk range.