QUINCE SEEDS

QUINCE SEEDS

(Cydonia oblonga)

Quince seed is a ripe seed of Cydonia vulgaris person (Rosaceae), a tree cultivated in South Africa, central Europe and the Middle East. Iran supplies about 75% of the World production.

     The seeds are obtained from the apple or pear shaped fruits. They resemble apple pips (hard body seeds) and are frequently adhered together in masses.

    The seeds possess a mucilaginous epithelium, which is equivalent to approximately 20% of their weight.

Chemical constituents

The mucilage is composed of units of arabinose, xylose and uronic acid derivative, 15% of fixed oil and a small quantity of cyanogenetic glycosides and an enzyme which effects the hydrolysis.

Cosmetic Uses

The hydrocolloid forms viscous solutions with thixotropic properties, and is used as a demulcent, as a good emulsifying agent and in the preparation of hair-fixing lotions.