Ingredient: Baobab Seed Oil
Other Names(s)
Scientific Name: Adansonia digitata
Common Names: African Baobab, baobab seed oil, Adansonia digitate oil, Adansonia oil.
Did You Know?
- Native to Africa, the baobab tree, often referred to as the tree of life, the upside-down tree, or the pharmacy tree, can live for thousands of years and is revered in African folklore and culture.
- These majestic trees can live for thousands of years and are revered in African folklore and culture.
- The leaves, bark and fruit pulp have been traditionally used as immunostimulants, and analgesics in the treatment of diseases such as fever, diarrhoea, cough, dysentery, haemoptysis, tuberculosis, microbial infection and worms.
- The flowers of the baobab tree are said to smell like carrion. Fortunately, the oil has a mild, nutty aroma.
Uses
Every part of the baobab tree, from its fruit to its leaves and seeds, has been utilised for various purposes across cultures for centuries. The fruit is approved by the European Commission as being highly nutritive.
Toiletries and cosmetic
- Skin care: Baobab oil is a natural emollient and humectant and its linoleic and linolenic acid composition is deeply nourishing for the skin, improving texture, elasticity, and aiding in barrier repair. It’s also highly effective in soothing irritation and redness. Baobab oil is also a collagen stimulant making it highly popular worldwide in skin care, cosmetics and hair care.
- Baobab oil is highly suitable as a cleansing oil due to its fatty acid composition and emollient properties. Rated 2 out of 5 as a comedogenic, it can clean the pores without clogging and stripping the skin of its natural oils.
- Being rich in vitamin C, Baobab oil may be used as a natural skin lightener and to promote an even skin tone.
- Scalp and hair care: When used as a scalp treatment, baobab oil may prevent dandruff and flaking skin. It moisturises and detangles dry hair, and strengthens brittle strands, contributing to overall hair health.
Health
- Eating baobab fruit pulp and applying the oil topically is effective for conditions like eczema, hives and acne. However, the oil should be used sparingly if you have oily or sensitive skin. A patch test is always recommended for any new treatment.
- Baobab oil is rich in Vitamin E, which absorbs UV rays and reduces free radical damage to the skin caused by sun exposure.
- Baobab fruit pulp serves as a nutrient-rich dietary supplement due to its high vitamin C and mineral content, offering a boost to overall health and immunity. It is low in protein and fat, but rich in pectins.
- All parts of the baobab tree have been used in traditional medicine to regulate appetite, alleviate fever, pain, cough, skin wounds, sore muscles, worms, diarrhoea and gastrointestinal issues.
Aromatherapy
- Baobab oil has a light texture and a mild, slightly nutty aroma, making it an excellent carrier oil for aromatherapy massage blends.
- When used in aromatherapy, baobab oil can help promote relaxation, relieve stress, and uplift the mood due to its calming and grounding effects.
Other Uses
- Culinary: Baobab fruit powder, with its thickening properties, is a sought-after ingredient in cooking and baking, adding both flavour and nutritional value to dishes.
- Environmental: Beyond its direct uses, the baobab tree contributes to ecosystem balance by providing habitat and sustenance for wildlife and aiding in soil fertility and erosion control.
Remedies and formulations
Oil Cleansing For All Skin Types
Pressed Serum For Dry Winter Skin
Properties
- Rich in Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Baobab oil, extracted from its seeds, is abundant in omega-3 fatty acids like palmitic, oleic, linolenic and linoleic acids, renowned for their skin and hair benefits and cell regeneration.
- High Nutrient Content: Baobab fruit and seeds are packed with essential vitamins (A, E and C) and minerals, including calcium, iron, potassium, magnesium, phosphorus, and manganese.
- Medicinal Compounds: Baobab fruit contains hydroxycinnamic acid glycoside, known for its antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties.
Certifications
Essentially Natural Baobab Oil is certified: Vegan and Beauty Without Cruelty.
Good Life Organic Baobab Fruit Powder Vegan & certified organic
INCI: Adansonia Digitata
Products containing baobab
Essentially Natural Baobab Oil
Good Life Organic Baobab Fruit Powder
Caution
- While baobab oil is generally safe for topical use, individuals with nut allergies should exercise caution, as it is derived from the seeds of the baobab fruit.
- Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult with a healthcare professional before using baobab oil internally or topically.
Disclaimer: This information is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Always consult with a healthcare professional before using baobab oil or any other natural remedy, especially if you have pre-existing health conditions or concerns.
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