The Virtues of Baobab Oil

By: NewNaturalista

Recently Israel Segal, the creator of Free Your Mane natural hair products, told me one of the secrets to his line is baobab oil. This revelation had me intrigued – I’d never heard of it!

Turns out baobab oil is known in Central Africa for its moisturizing properties. The oil comes from the baobab tree – which is often referred to as the “tree of life.”

Baobab Tree

Baobab oil is cold pressed from the seed of the baobab fruit. Interesting looking aren’t they?

Baobab Fruit

This fruit is said to have more vitamin C than oranges and more calcium than cow’s milk. The seeds can be eaten, the natives often use the pulp to make juice. In Kenya the seeds are called “mabuyu” and cooked with sugar and eaten as a snack. For those looking to make a profit outside of Africa however, the magic is in the oil.

For skin, it’s believed the oil helps to preserve elasticity, soften wrinkles and treat sunburn. Unlike many other oils, baobab is said to penetrate the hair shaft. It’s described as light and greaseless and it’s rich in vitamins A, D, E and F (essential fatty acids.)  Based on the buzz, I’m pretty confident you’ll be seeing baobab (and argan)  become the “it” oil of the season.

Have you tried it? What are your thoughts?

Headline photo source: naturallyafricanplatform.org