In various parts of Nigeria, Shea butter which is known as “ori” is a natural cosmetic used for calming tiredness, and preventing wrinkles, acne, rashes, sunburns, facial lines, and other skin disorders. Shea butter is safe for use and does not interact wrongly with the skin, instead, it gives the skin a protective layer of Vitamins A and E.
There is a long history of the use of shea butter in all types of skincare, as well as a long history of the use of it medicinally, such as in the treatment of wounds and even leprosy. There are also variations in the oral consumption of shea butter. Some scientists suggest that it is particularly unsuitable for people’s stomach because it may interfere with the digestion of other proteins.
There are two main components of a fat; an essential glycerol and an essential fatty acid separated from the butter. These two components play vital roles in human health. At the end of this blog post, you will discover the importance of shea butter and how it can improve your health.
Composition of Shea butter
Based on USDA data, one tablespoon (13.6g) of Shea butter contains the following nutritional information.
| Component | Content |
| Calories | 120g |
| Fat | 14g |
| Sodium | 0mg |
| Carbohydrate | 0mg |
| Fiber | 0mg |
| Sugar | 0mg |
| Protein | 0mg |
Among the five different fatty acids made up in shea butter are oleic acid (found in olive oil and sunflower oil), stearic acid (found in cocoa butter), linoleic acid, palmitic acid, and arachidic acid.
Saturated fatty acids make up three of the ingredients in shea butter, which are less nutritional than others. However, recent research has shown that stearic acid (which constitutes about 40% of shea butter), the predominant saturated fatty acid, is linked with a reduced risk of heart disease, making shea butter a healthier alternative to margarine. Margarine is surprisingly high in trans-fatty acids. These fats have been linked to cardiovascular disease.
Shea butter is also rich in lupeol, a natural compound that lowers cholesterol by absorbing excess trigeronal waste. It is also rich in seven other naturally-occurring hormones that tend to reduce pain by reducing inflammations.
Furthermore, shea butter contains phenols, and strong antioxidants that help protect against cancer and heart disease. Moreover, shea butter is loaded with vitamins such as vitamin E and vitamin A as well as anti-oxidants which do a huge job of improving the quality of the skin and the health of the eyesight.
The great health benefits of shea butter include its rich supply of vitamins and the fact that it contains antioxidants that fight disease. Because of these benefits, shea butter is also great as a flavoring agent in cooking. We like products that perform more than one task.
Notable Health Benefits of Shea Butter
As a skin toner, shea butter is naturally high in vitamins A, E, and F and offers UV protection and essential fatty acids and nutrients for collagen production. It is also available in a few different fragrances. Below are some of the health benefits of Shea butter:
#1. Moisturizer
It penetrates easily, without blocking the pores, and soothes dry skin. It is useful for healing cracked heels, dry cuticles, and rough patches on your skin. Shea butter is recommended for those with dry skin and repair cuts acquired by the skin.
#2. Treat skin blemishes
Several fatty acids, and plant sterols, such as oleic, palmitic, stearic, and linolenic acids are found within shea butter. These compounds are commonly used to treat acne and other skin blemishes. These properties are effective in curing skin rashes, skin peeling after tanning, scars, stretch marks, frost bites, burns, athlete’s foot, insect bites, stings, and acne.
#3. Anti-aging agent
Traditionally, the butter is known for having anti-aging properties. Natural ingredients such as vitamins A and E provide skin with vital nutritional support to keep it supple, nourished, and radiant. If used appropriately, it reduces wrinkles and further prevents facial lines.
#4. Baby care
In its natural state, shea butter can be beneficial in treating any acne on a baby’s skin. The healthy properties of the butter include ease of application, warmth, eczema, and diaper rash healing.
#5. For hair
Shea butter provides many essential nutrients that improve both scalp and hair health by restoring hair moisture as well as preventing hair from becoming vulnerable to harsh weather conditions and harmful free radicals. These properties of shea butter also reduce hair fall and hair loss by strengthening the hair follicles.
Anti-inflammatory properties also contribute to its effectiveness in reducing hair loss. The compounds these plants contain can be used to treat scalp conditions, reducing hair loss. When shea butter is applied to your hair, we find it will grow thicker and have a natural shine.
Lastly, Shea butter is a household cosmetic for the treatment and relief of itching, rashes, and other skin disorders. The good thing about shea butter is, it does not spoil or expire like other cosmetic products. You can keep it for a very long time so far is it kept indoor at a low temperature.