Shea butter

Shea Butter is a fat extracted from the nuts of the Shea tree (Vitellaria paradoxa). It is usually yellow in raw form but more processed versions are white. It is widely used in cosmetics as a moisturizer, salve or lotion. Shea butter is edible and is used in food preparation in some African countries.

Extraction

Shea butter is extracted from the nuts of the Shea tree which grow in the Savannah region of West Africa. The process of extraction can be a lengthy one, as the nuts are first dried, then crushed and finally boiled to extract the butter.

Composition

Shea butter is composed of five principal fatty acids: palmitic, stearic, oleic, linoleic, and arachidic. The relative proportion of these acids in the butter can vary, leading to differences in Shea butter consistency and melting point.

Uses

Shea butter is used in a variety of applications, both cosmetic and edible.

Cosmetic

In the cosmetic industry, Shea butter is used in a variety of products due to its moisturizing properties. It is found in lotions, creams, soaps, and lip balms. It is also used as a base for medicinal ointments, and has been claimed to have anti-inflammatory properties.

Edible

In some African countries, Shea butter is used in food preparation. It is sometimes used as a substitute for cocoa butter in chocolate production.

Health Benefits

Shea butter is known for its moisturizing effects. This can be beneficial for skin health, as it can help to reduce dryness and promote skin smoothness. Some studies also suggest that Shea butter may have anti-inflammatory properties, which could potentially help to reduce skin inflammation.

See Also

• Cocoa butter
• Lotion
• Moisturizer