Babassu Oil is extracted from Babassu coconut, one of the most important of Brazilian palm trees, very common in the state of Maranhão and in a large part of the Amazon rainforest. The Babassu grows on a large tree – which can reach up to 20 meters in height – and is very resistant, and can even withstand fires and attacks by predators.
Each Babassu coconut palm can have up to six bunches, and it is in them that fruiting occurs. The fruits appear from August to January and have an elongated oval shape, brown in color. Within each fruit, three to five almonds can be found and the oil is extracted from the Babassu fruit.
Currently, this is the main product in the Maranhão region, in which the extraction of these almonds involves the work of many families.
These almonds are extracted manually by women who are called “breakers”, in a homemade and simple system. It is from the almonds that Babassu coconut oil is obtained
The peels of the fruit are also used in the manufacture of baskets and sieves. Industrially, the husks are used to make biofuel and coal.
Benefits of Babassu Oil for personal care:
For Hair Care:
Babassu Oil is an ingredient widely used in the manufacture of hair care products. It is a natural emollient, which leaves the hair softer, softer and more flexible; has a strengthening and antiseptic effect that fights infections.
Babassu Oil is also widely used in hair care products, such as shampoos, moisturizers and leave-in, as it helps to obtain a protective film on the hair that blocks moisture and prevents frizz; In addition to contributing to the hydration and discipline of the hair.
For Skin care:
Babassu Oil is also a source of vitamin E – a nutrient that contributes to cell regeneration, in addition to having antimicrobial action. Therefore, it is widely used in products that combat skin damage such as chapped lips, light burns, superficial cuts, cracked heels and other small wounds.
It can be applied to the skin in cases of insect bites, rashes, for skin diseases such as eczema, psoriasis and rosacea, or for cracks, burns and irritations.
Babassu also helps to reduce redness and inflammation in the skin, in addition to relieving discomfort due to its anti-inflammatory effect.
In addition to the benefits of Babassu oil for hair health, it also helps to fight dandruff and scalp irritations.
For Nail Care:
As already mentioned, Babassu has a large amount of vitamin E, helping in nail care. Applying Babassu oil regularly to the fingers and toes strengthens the nails and helps to combat fungi.