Here are some other magnificent oils to try or look out for:
• Tamanu oil is made from the kernels of the fruit of the tamanu tree, found abundantly in south Pacific islands like Tahiti, where it is considered sacred, and which has been used by the locals as a topical skin remedy for thousands of years, as well as on babies to prevent nappy rash. Research shows it to help reduce visible signs of scar tissue.
• Preciosa oil is a fragrant, marzipany oil extracted from the preciosa tree. It grows only in the Amazon rainforest, and which is rich in oils, minerals and vitamins.
• Starflower/Borage oil is an oil produced from the seeds of a perennial herb originating from Syria, which grows throughout Mediterranean countries. It is the highest known plant source of gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) which is reputed to rejuvenate skin cells.
• Rosehip oil is made from the seeds of the dog rose. It is rich in vitamins A and E, and omega 3, 6 and 9 fatty acids. It can help reduce fine lines and wrinkles, and the size and colour of age spots caused by sun exposure.
• Kukui oil is used by Hawaiians for dry-skin conditions such as psoriasis and as a sun protecting agent, and made from the nuts of the kukui trees which grow wild there, and which are seen as a symbol of peace and enlightenment, this oil is particularly good for hair treatments.
• Carrot Seed oil is a vitamin A-rich oil which has been consistently shown to reduce the signs of ageing by revitalising and toning mature skin and decreasing the appearance of wrinkles.
• Spelt Germ Oil comes from spelt, which is an ancient form of wheat thought to be more nutritious than common wheat, and may be more digestible for those suffering mild wheat intolerances. Its germ oil is extremely rich in essential fatty acids and the skin’s favourite vitamin - vitamin E. It therefore helps skin elasticity, natural protection from the sun, and cellular rejuvenation.
• Ximenia oil is common in southern African nations, this oil is derived from the kernels of the plum-like ximenia fruit. It is used mainly as an emollient, and local women use it as an effective hair conditioner.
• Tea seed oil - hard to find in Britain at the moment, yet one of the oldest known culinary oils in the world, tea seed oil is made from the seeds of camellia oleifera flowers, related to the tea plant camellia sinensis, and has a delicate, sweet herbal aroma.
• Mongongo/Minketti oil is derived from the mongongo fruit, which is of great value to the Kung bushpeople of Botswana, this oil has reputed epidermal benefits and may protect against UV rays.
• Karanja oil is derived from the seeds of the pongam tree, native to India, this very light oil has anti-bacterial qualities and a flowery aroma, and helps clarify the complexion. Popular in ayurvedic medicine for skin conditions and to soothe rheumatic pain.