1 4

Herbal Manetenance Ingredients

Unrefined Shea Butter

Unrefined Shea Butter

Vitellaria paradoxa

Composition

Fatty Acids:

  • Oleic Acid: A monounsaturated fatty acid, often referred to as the "good fat". 
  • Stearic Acid: A saturated fatty acid, contributing to the butter's texture. 
  • Palmitic Acid: Another saturated fatty acid. 
  • Linoleic Acid: An omega-6 fatty acid, considered an essential fatty acid. 

Vitamins:

  • Vitamin A: Important for eye health, immune function, and skin repair. 
  • Vitamin E: A potent antioxidant that protects cells from oxidative stress and supports immune function. 

Unsaponifiable Matter:

  • Triterpenes: Compounds with anti-inflammatory properties. 
  • Phytoestrols: Plant sterols with antioxidant properties. 

Other Components:Shea butter also contains minerals like iron, calcium, and potassium, though in smaller amounts. Additionally, it contains phenolic compounds, including catechins, with antioxidant properties. 

Origins

Unrefined shea butter, a natural moisturizer,originates from the shea tree, native to Africa's savannah regions, particularly in West Africa.The shea butter is extracted from the nuts of this tree, a process traditionally involving boiling the kernels with water.The use of shea butter has a long history in African culture, with its moisturizing and healing properties valued for centuries.

Did you know?

  • It can be used on the skin, hair, and even as a cooking oil in its purest form.
  • Potential nasal congestion relief:Some studies suggest that applying shea butter to the inside of the nose can help relieve nasal congestion. 
  • Natural sunscreen:While not a substitute for sunscreen, shea butter does provide a small amount of natural sun protection. 
View full details

HAIR BENEFITS

  • Intense Hydration:Shea butter is a natural moisturizer that deeply hydrates dry, brittle, or damaged hair, helping to restore its natural moisture balance. 
  • Scalp Nourishment:Its emollient properties soothe and nourish the scalp, making it beneficial for dry, itchy, or irritated scalps, including those with conditions like eczema or psoriasis. 
  • Protection and Repair:Shea butter's rich nutrients and fatty acids help protect hair from damage, including split ends, breakage, and heat damage. 
  • Anti-inflammatory and Antioxidant Properties:Shea butter's anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties can help reduce scalp inflammation and irritation, and protect hair and scalp from environmental stressors. 
  • Increased Shine and Reduced Frizz:The fatty acids in shea butter smooth down the hair cuticle, helping to tame frizz, reduce static, and increase shine. 
  • May Promote Hair Growth:While more research is needed, some studies suggest that the nutrients in shea butter may help stimulate the scalp and promote healthier hair growth. 

SCALP / SKIN BENEFITS

Benefits for Scalp:

  • Deeply Moisturizing:Shea butter is rich in fatty acids, making it an excellent emollient that helps trap moisture in the skin and scalp, alleviating dryness and flakiness. 
  • Anti-inflammatory:It can help soothe irritated and inflamed scalps, reducing redness, itching, and discomfort associated with conditions like dandruff and psoriasis. 
  • Nourishing:Shea butter is packed with vitamins and essential nutrients that nourish the scalp, promoting healthy hair growth and reducing breakage. 
  • Reduces Scalp Irritation:Its moisturizing and anti-inflammatory properties can help alleviate scalp irritation and discomfort. 
  • Potential for Hair Growth:Some believe shea butter can stimulate hair growth by nourishing the scalp and promoting healthy hair follicles. 

Benefits for Skin:

  • Anti-inflammatory:Shea butter can help soothe and reduce inflammation in the skin, making it beneficial for conditions like eczema, dermatitis, and psoriasis. 
  • Moisturizing:It deeply moisturizes the skin, leaving it soft, supple, and hydrated. 
  • Anti-aging:Some studies suggest that shea butter's antioxidants and collagen-boosting properties may help reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. 
  • Reduces Stretch Marks:Shea butter can help improve skin elasticity and reduce the appearance of stretch marks. 
  • Soothing for Irritated Skin:Its calming properties can be beneficial for soothing skin irritation, rashes, and other skin problems. 
  • May Help with Acne:Some believe shea butter's anti-inflammatory and moisturizing properties can help reduce acne breakouts and improve overall skin health.