Prunus mahaleb (St. Lucie Cherry)
Common Name: St. Lucie Cherry
Family: Rosaceae
Botanical Description
Prunus mahaleb is a deciduous tree or large shrub typically reaching 6–9 meters (20–30 ft) in height. It possesses a deep, fibrous root system and grey-brown bark. Slender branches radiate outward in a spoke-like pattern from the main stem. Leaves are small, ovate to cordate, serrated, and glabrous. White hermaphroditic flowers appear in mid-spring in short racemes and are insect-pollinated. The fruit is a small spherical drupe that matures from green to red, dark purple, and ultimately black in late summer.
Parts Used in Formulation
• Seed Oil
• Seed Extract
Phytochemical Profile
- Linoleic acid (omega-6)
- Oleic acid (omega-9)
- Tocopherols
- Aromatic compounds (benzaldehyde derivatives in seed kernel)
- Phenolic antioxidants
(Constituent balance varies based on extraction method.)
Functional Applications
Scalp
Provides lipid replenishment through essential fatty acid content.
Supports barrier integrity and surface conditioning.
Hair Fiber
Enhances lubrication and strand flexibility.
Contributes to improved tensile resilience when incorporated into lipid-rich compositions.
Supports hydration retention through emollient reinforcement.
Skin
Offers lightweight emollient properties suitable for barrier support.
Provides antioxidant activity through phenolic compounds.
Nails
Conditions keratin structures through lipid reinforcement.
Supports cuticle smoothness when used in oil-based systems.
Traditional Lineage
Seeds historically used in Middle Eastern and Mediterranean regions for culinary and aromatic applications. In botanical oil form, valued for conditioning and fragrance properties.
Sensory Profile
Light-to-medium weight
Mild nutty, faintly almond-like aromatic undertone
Moderate absorption rate
Stability & Compatibility
Moderate oxidative stability
Benefits from pairing with antioxidant-rich botanicals
Compatible with structural carrier oils and aromatic root extracts