Karanja Oil (INCI: Pongamia Glabra Seed Oil or Pongamia Pinnata Seed Oil) is a lesser-known but highly valuable carrier oil in natural skincare and cosmetic formulations. It’s derived from the seeds of the Karanja tree, native to India and other parts of Asia, and is often used alongside neem oil for its therapeutic benefits.

🔬 Chemical Profile of Karanja Oil

Karanja oil contains a variety of bioactive compounds and fatty acids:

✳️ Major Fatty Acids

🧪 Key Active Compounds

• Karanjin – A furanoflavonoid with insecticidal, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory activity.
• Pongamol – A bioactive compound with antioxidant and photoprotective properties.
• Flavonoids & Sterols – Contribute to skin repair and antioxidant protection.
• Triterpenoids – Known for anti-aging and healing properties.

🌿 Skin Benefits of Karanja Oil in Cosmetic Formulations

✅ 1. Antibacterial & Antifungal

• Helps in formulations for acne-prone, inflamed, or fungal-prone skin.
• Effective in deodorants, anti-dandruff treatments, and feet care products.

✅ 2. Anti-inflammatory

• Soothes irritated and sensitive skin.
• Suitable for eczema, psoriasis, and dermatitis blends.

✅ 3. Natural UV Protection (Photoprotective)

• Pongamol and karanjin have been shown to provide mild UV protection.
• Often used in natural SPF oils and balms (though not a standalone sunscreen).

✅ 4. Antioxidant & Anti-aging

• Neutralizes free radicals and protects against environmental stress.
• Helps support collagen and elastin preservation.

✅ 5. Healing & Regenerating

• Promotes wound healing and regeneration of dry, cracked skin.
• Great for lip balms, hand creams, and after-sun care.

✅ 6. Insect-Repelling

• Useful in formulations for mosquito repellents and anti-lice treatments.
• Can be combined with neem oil and essential oils like citronella or eucalyptus.

🧴 Formulation Tips

• Usage rate: 1–10% in face care, up to 30% in body care or scalp treatments.
• Color & scent: Yellow-brown to reddish oil with a slightly nutty/earthy scent. May need to be masked in sensitive formulations.
• Texture: Medium viscosity, absorbs well but may leave slight residue.
• Compatibility: Blends well with neem, tamanu, coconut, calendula, lavender, tea tree oils.
• Karanja oil is in my SPF 20 Vitamin C Face oleo gel formula 

💡 Ideal Applications

• Soothing creams for eczema or psoriasis
• Herbal anti-acne serums
• After-sun care balms
• Natural insect repellent balms
• Antifungal foot creams
• Scalp oils and hair masks for dandruff

Cheers,

La Mayca x