From Traditional Knowledge to Modern Formulation: Potential and Prospects of Pistacia atlantica Desf. Essential and Fixed Oils Uses in Cosmetics

Abstract

Pistacia atlantica Desf. (Atlas pistachio) is one of the most widely distributed wild species of the genus. It is an Irano–Touranian species with a large geographic area that extends from the Canary Islands to Pamir Mountains. Since ancient times, atlas pistachio gum-like resin and fruits, very rich in essential oils (EOs) and fixed oils (FOs), respectively, were used in traditional medicine and included in different traditional cosmetics and health and beauty products. Since then, Atlas pistachio fixed oil is incorporated into several soaps, creams and shampoos to benefit from its medicinal properties. Atlas pistachio fixed oils, resin and leaf essential oils are constituted by several bioactive compounds such as monoterpenes with α-pinene and β-pinene in the resin, terpinen-4-ol, elemol, sesquiterpenes with D-germacrene and E-caryophyllene in the leaves and oxygenated monoterpenes (bornyl acetate) in the fruits. The unsaturated fatty acids (oleic, linoleic, palmitic and stearic acid), sterols (β-sitostero) and tocopherols represented the principal compounds in fatty oil fruits. All these compounds exhibit great therapeutic and cosmetic virtues. Unlike lentisk oil uses in cosmetology, the cosmetic potentials of Atlas pistachio oils remain less valued. In the current review, we seek to highlight the characteristics and properties of Atlas pistachio oils in the prospects of the development of new and different cosmetic formulations as well as an innovative valuation of active ingredients and products inspired by indigenous knowledge and practices.

Pistacia atlantica as Anti-Inflammatory Agent in Medicinal Uses

“…Interestingly, rural populations have long utilized fixed oils extracted from Atlas pistachio fruits for managing conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and joint pain. The oil is commonly applied directly to the affected area with a gentle massage to enhance absorption and promote relief [26].…”

Nutraceutical Content and Biological Properties of Lipophilic and Hydrophilic Fractions of the Phytocomplex from Pistacia atlantica Desf. Buds, Roots, and Fruits

“…However, another notable product derived from the aerial parts of this tree is the resin, also known as mastic. This substance has been used in culinary applications, such as a flavoring agent, and as a chewing gum component [ 5 ]. Seeds and resin have been also utilized in medicinal preparations against gastrointestinal, liver, splenic, neurological, cardiac, psychological, respiratory, urogenital, and dermatologic disorders [ 2 , 6 , 7 ].…”

“…Seeds and resin have been also utilized in medicinal preparations against gastrointestinal, liver, splenic, neurological, cardiac, psychological, respiratory, urogenital, and dermatologic disorders [ 2 , 6 , 7 ]. Due to their content of bioactive compounds with potential health benefits, P. atlantica leaves may be also used in phytotherapy, beyond classic recipes, like salads and bread [ 5 , 8 , 9 ].…”

Two-Phase Extraction Processes, Physicochemical Characteristics, and Autoxidation Inhibition of the Essential Oil Nanoemulsion of Citrus reticulata Blanco (Tangerine) Leaves

“…Since ancient times, traditional medicine therapists have used essential oils to prevent, avoid, or treat several diseases and provide the health benefits required. With the development of scientific research and the technological revolution in various aspects, essential oils have become very important due to their chemical composition that is rich in biologically active compounds and their importance in the production of healthy and nutritious products [8], processed foods [9,10], the pharmaceutical industry [11][12][13], cosmetics [14][15][16], anxiety reduction [17], and fragrance applications [18], either directly or indirectly.…”