Apricot oil facts for kids
Apricot oil, also called apricot kernel oil, is a special oil made from the seeds (or kernels) of the apricot fruit. These kernels are found inside the hard pit of the apricot. Apricot kernels are quite oily, with about 40% to 50% of their weight being oil. This oil is made by pressing the kernels, much like how olive oil is pressed from olives.
Apricot oil is a lot like almond oil and peach oil. This is because all three oils come from the kernels of their fruits. These fruits are all part of the same plant family.
What is Apricot Oil Made Of?
Apricot oil is mostly made of healthy fats. The main fats are called oleic acid and linoleic acid. These are types of unsaturated fats, which are good for you. Smaller amounts of other fats like palmitic acid and stearic acid are also found in the oil.
Vitamins in Apricot Kernels
The kernels of apricots contain several important vitamins. The exact amount of each vitamin can change based on how the oil is made. However, the dry apricot kernel itself has vitamins like:
- Thiamine (also known as Vitamin B1)
- Riboflavin (also known as Vitamin B2)
- Niacin (also known as Vitamin B3)
- Vitamin C
- Vitamin E (specifically delta-tocopherol and alpha-tocopherol)
These vitamins are important for your body to stay healthy and work properly.
How is Apricot Oil Used?
Apricot oil is used in many different ways. It is often found in cosmetics, which are products like lotions, creams, and soaps. This is because the oil is light and easily absorbed by the skin. It can help to make skin feel soft and smooth.
It is also used in some foods, especially in cooking or as a salad dressing. However, it is not as common as other cooking oils like olive oil or sunflower oil.
See also
In Spanish: Aceite de albaricoque para niños
