Shea Butter

I. General Information

A. Scientific Name:

Vitellaria paradoxa (Shea Tree)

B. Alternative Names:

Karité butter, Women’s Gold (West Africa)

C. Pronunciation:

shay buh-ter

II. Sourcing and Origin

A. Source:

Extracted from the nuts of the shea tree

B. Geographic Origin:

Native to West Africa, known as the “women’s gold” industry

C. Method of Processing:

Nuts are harvested, dried, roasted, and ground; fat is extracted and whipped into butter

III. Properties and Uses

A. Physical Properties:

Off-white to ivory solid fat, melts at body temperature, creamy texture

B. Chemical Composition:

Rich in fatty acids: Oleic, stearic, palmitic, linoleic acids.

Vitamins: A, E, and F.

Contains antioxidants and cinnamic acid esters that contribute to UV protection and anti-inflammatory benefits.

C. Primary Uses:

Skincare: Deep moisturizer, reduces dryness, helps fade scars and stretch marks, soothes irritation.

Haircare: Conditions scalp, reduces frizz, strengthens hair.

Wellness: Used in traditional African medicine for joint pain and inflammation.

Culinary: In some African regions, used in cooking and chocolate-making as a cocoa butter substitute.

Household: Ingredient in natural balms, soaps, and creams.

D. Key Benefits:

Deep moisturizer, reduces dryness, promotes skin healing, improves elasticity

IV. Safety and Considerations

A. Potential Allergies:

Rare, but possible in people with tree nut allergies.

May cause mild skin irritation in sensitive individuals.

Always patch test before first use.

B. Best Practices for Use:

Apply raw shea butter directly or blend into lotions

C. Special Precautions:

Store in cool, dry place to avoid rancidity

Generally safe for topical use.

Rare cases of nut-related allergies (though uncommon).

Refined shea butter is less likely to trigger sensitivities.

V. Fun & Educational Facts

A. Historical Context:

Used for centuries by African women to protect skin and hair from harsh desert climates

B. Did You Know?

Did you know shea butter is sometimes called “women’s gold” in Africa because it provides income for millions of women?

Cleopatra was said to have used jars of shea butter as part of her beauty routine.

Shea trees can live up to 200 years, but they only start producing fruit after 15 years.

C. DIY Recipe Idea:

DIY whipped shea butter with coconut oil and lavender essential oil for body cream

Shea Lip Balm – Melt with beeswax and add honey for a natural balm.

Shea Hair Mask – Mix with olive oil for dry, frizzy hair.

Shea Hand Cream – Combine with aloe vera gel for soothing moisture.