Nkuto (shea butter) from the shea tree, Butyrospermum parkii, also called Vitellaria paradoxa. Shea butter is made from nuts found on trees by removing the outer shell.
The nuts are crushed by hand to allow them to be slowly roasted, releasing the shea butter.
It is smooth in texture and does not liquefy at room temperature; However, it will be softened in the hand, making it easy to apply.
Composition
It has been established that the composition of shea butter is based on where it is grown. The constituents of shea butter are what provide the health benefits.
Linoleic, palmitic, stearic, and oleic fatty acids, ingredients balance the oils in the skin. Shea tree oil contains approximately 45 to 50 percent oleic acid, 30 to 41 percent stearic acid, five to nine percent palmitic acid, and four to five percent linoleic acid. The best shea butter is extracted using the cold-pressed method without any added chemicals or preservatives.
Vitamins A, E, and F, antioxidant vitamins promote circulation and healthy skin cell growth.
It has a relatively high amount of saturated fatty acids (such as MCT oil), when compared to other plant source lipids, such as grapeseed oil, olive oil and canola oil.
Triglyceride, the fatty part of shea nut nutrition and skin condition.
Cetyl ester, the waxy part of shea nut butter conditions the skin and locks in moisture. The Food, Drug Administration includes shea nut oil on its list of immediate food substances recognized as Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS).
Anti-inflammatory skin moisturizer, eczema
Many skin care products on the Ghanaian market contain unhealthy synthetic chemicals.
Nkuto or shea butter is a natural ingredient that can be used as a good skin care product. For example, one study (Akihis et al. 2020) found that shea nuts and butter helped reduce inflammation.
In addition, both have anti-tumor compounds called cinnamon esters (which are also found in cinnamon). Another by Ho et al., (2015) suggests that shea butter can be used like a medicated cream to treat eczema.
Shea butter is an excellent moisturizer. For example, one study cited in Price’s article proves that raw shea butter can encourage tissue cell regeneration and skin rejuvenation, which can help reduce fine lines and wrinkles.
A study published in The American Journal of Life Sciences reported a clinical study involving 30 volunteers in which shea butter reduced the signs of aging.
In another clinical study for dry, sensitive or aging skin, 49 volunteers used shea butter twice a day and found that it prevented photoaging.
This is why shea butter is most often found in many natural anti-aging facial products.
Moisturizes both scalp and hair
Annie Price’s article (2022) explains that shea butter can also be used to condition hair and skin as it helps seal in moisture, heal the scalp, reduce dandruff, and provide overall protection from harsh climates – much like how coconut oil works for hair. .
One study (Campo et al. 2017) found that West African Shea makes hair more resistant to breakage.
Another, Micali et al., (2018) found that shea butter when used in combination with other moisturizers, can help reduce dandruff flakes and reduce the risk of flare-ups.
Relieves windburn, sunburn
For those who use sunscreen agents, the best option is local shea butter. This is a healthier and more nutritious option because most sunscreens contain harmful chemicals that penetrate the skin and enter the body.
Another study, (Carayanni et al. 2011) suggests that shea oil can be useful for mild skin (first degree), such as sunburn. This is because the anti-inflammatory components of shea can reduce redness and swelling.
The fatty acid component also soothes the skin by retaining moisture during the healing process.
For those concerned with stretch marks, Nkutu is the best alternative as it prevents the condition.
Furthermore, shea butter helps to deal with stretch marks due to its natural vitamin A content. Price says, “Due to its incredible healing properties and hydrating qualities, shea butter can reduce the appearance of stretch marks and other scar tissue. Some people also use it to improve the appearance of cellulite naturally by smoothing and softening the skin”.
Arthritis pain, nasal congestion
Kao et al.(2016) studied shea oil concentrate and found that it can help reduce inflammation and also protect joints from further damage.
Although this study focused on the knee joint, the potential benefits may extend to other areas of the body.
One older study (Tella, A. 1979) suggests that Shea butter can help relieve nasal congestion. When used in nasal drops, shea butter can reduce inflammation in the nasal passages.
It can also help reduce mucosal damage, which often causes nasal congestion. These effects can be useful when dealing with allergies, sinusitis, or colds
The author is the President, Nyarkotey College of Holistic Medicine & Technology (NUCHMT)/African Naturopathic Foundation. They adhere to strict sources, studies and academic papers in the articles, which are for educational purposes only and are not medical advice for treatment.
Source: [email protected]
| Disclaimer: The opinions expressed here are those of the authors and do not reflect Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no legal or other responsibility for the accuracy of the content. Please report inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a priority. |
Featured Videos