Shea Butter, Scientifically Vitellaria Paradoxa, formerly Butyrospermum parkii, is an edible extract from the Shea tree that is more commonly known for its topical use due to its amazing skin and hair benefits.
This ingredient is incredibly unique because it is extracted using the traditional hand pressed method. Unlike most ingredients that are machine extracted, a lot of physical effort , sweat and love goes into making this gem. To make the butter, once picked, the Shea nuts are dried and ground. The powder is then boiled in water to release an unctuous substance which rises to the top and solidifies to create the butter .
Shea Butter, as per the photos, when unrefined and in its authentic raw state is ivory/off-white in colour and has a nutty like scent. Our butter is sourced from a cooperative in Ghana and is organic and fair traded. Like may of our ingredients, it is said that Cleopatra also kept jars of pure Shea Butter as part of her regal beauty routine. This butter has been used for centuries in Africa and beyond to moisturize and protect the skin from sun, wind, heat and salt water and is now an essential ingredient in most cosmetic recipes even in the western world.
Random Fact
Shea Butter is known as “women’s gold” in Africa because it is a valuable source of income for many women an their families in West Africa.
Next time you purchase Shea Butter or a product with it inside, consider this fact and question if your product has been fair traded....
The Benefits of Shea Butter:
Shea butter is great for hair, especially as a 'sealant' for natural afro textured hair. It has moisturizing properties that can help with dry scalp and stimulate hair growth. It can also be used as a pomade, to hold your hairstyle and lightly relax curls.
In its natural state, Shea Butter is full of Vitamins, Minerals, Proteins and Fatty Acids. This is great for a variety of Skin types as it helps our skin to retain its brilliance and elasticity and also retains moisture for longer than most other cosmetic oils making it softer and healthier overall.
Many have also used Shea Butter to help with skin conditions such as Eczema, dermatitis and as an anti-aging agent.
Disclaimer: Thank you so much for reading, but please note that I am not medically trained and this information has been collected purely on research and advice. Please ensure you do not use or consume these oils without seeking professional advice if necessary.
I have always known Shea butter to be good for Hair , i also discovered it goodness on my skin when I was pregnant i helped to prevent stretch mark and kept me moisturised throughout ! I love this stuff.
Thank you for more info x