Vitellaria Nilotica (East African Shea Butter)

1. Definition Vitellaria Nilotica (East African Shea Butter):

Vitellaria Nilotica, also known as East African Shea Butter, is a natural fat extracted from the nuts of the Vitellaria Nilotica tree, which is native to East Africa. It is similar to the more commonly known West African Shea Butter but is considered to have a higher content of olein, making it softer and creamier in texture.

2. Use:

Vitellaria Nilotica is widely used in cosmetics for its moisturizing and nourishing properties. It is rich in vitamins A and E, essential fatty acids, and antioxidants, making it a popular ingredient in skincare products such as lotions, creams, balms, and soaps. It is known to help improve skin elasticity, reduce inflammation, and protect the skin from environmental damage.

3. Usage Vitellaria Nilotica (East African Shea Butter):

When using Vitellaria Nilotica in cosmetics, it is important to ensure that you are using a high-quality, unrefined product to maximize its benefits. It can be applied directly to the skin or hair as a moisturizer or used as an ingredient in DIY skincare recipes. It is generally safe for most skin types, but it is always recommended to do a patch test before using it on a larger area to check for any allergic reactions.

4. References:

- Tchokponhoue DA, Oumorou M, Houssou P, et al. Chemical composition and physicochemical characteristics of Vitellaria paradoxa butter from Benin. Food Sci Nutr. 2018;6(1):236-242. doi:10.1002/fsn3.545

- Maranz S, Wiesman Z. Influence of climate on the tocopherol content of shea butter. J Agric Food Chem. 2004;52(9):2934-2937. doi:10.1021/jf035487l

- Nour A, El-Hadary A, El-Lakany A. Formulation and evaluation of anti-wrinkle cream with shea butter and its in vivo efficacy on skin elasticity improvement. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2018;17(2):207-216. doi:10.1111/jocd.12528