Shea Butter
Shea Butter
Shea Butter is a solid fat that is extracted from the nuts of the Shea tree mainly found in the wild areas of west and east Africa.
Shea Butter is most commonly used in creams, lotions, moisturisers for skin and hair. Applying Shea Butter on scalp prevents hair damage due to the presence of antioxidants. Shea Butter has anti-ageing properties that helps to soften the skin and stimulates skin cell regeneration. Regular application of Shea Butter on lips during extreme cold and summer season keeps them soft and moisturized due to the presence of vitamin E.
Shea Butter helps in the management of arthritis by reducing inflammation due to its anti-inflammatory properties. It also has an analgesic property that reduces the pain associated with muscle soreness.
Although consumption of Shea Butter in food amounts is safe. But, it is advisable to avoid the excessive consumption of Shea Butter or consult a physician before taking Shea Butter[2][5].
Shea Butter is most commonly used in creams, lotions, moisturisers for skin and hair. Applying Shea Butter on scalp prevents hair damage due to the presence of antioxidants. Shea Butter has anti-ageing properties that helps to soften the skin and stimulates skin cell regeneration. Regular application of Shea Butter on lips during extreme cold and summer season keeps them soft and moisturized due to the presence of vitamin E.
Shea Butter helps in the management of arthritis by reducing inflammation due to its anti-inflammatory properties. It also has an analgesic property that reduces the pain associated with muscle soreness.
Although consumption of Shea Butter in food amounts is safe. But, it is advisable to avoid the excessive consumption of Shea Butter or consult a physician before taking Shea Butter[2][5].
What are the synonyms of Shea Butter?
Vitellaria paradoxa[2].
What is the source of Shea Butter?
Plant Based
Benefits of Shea Butter
FAQs about Shea Butter benefits
Precautions when using Shea Butter
Allergy
Modern Science View
Shea Butter might cause allergies in people allergic to latex. So, it is advisable to consult a physician before using Shea Butter[1].
Breastfeeding
Modern Science View
Shea Butter consumption is safe to be taken in food amounts during breastfeeding. But, It is advisable to avoid excessive consumption of Shea Butter or consult a physician before using Shea Butter during breastfeeding[2].
Minor Medicine Interaction
Modern Science View
Shea butter might increase the risk of bleeding. So it is advisable to consult a physician before taking Shea butter in patients with bleeding disorders or those taking supplements or drugs that might increase the risk of bleeding[1].
Pregnancy
Modern Science View
Shea Butter consumption is safe to be taken in food amounts during pregnancy. But, It is advisable to avoid excessive consumption of Shea Butter or consult a physician before using Shea Butter during pregnancy[2].
Benefits of Shea Butter
Modern Science View
Shea Butter might help in the management of hayfever. A study suggests that applying Shea Butter in the nose clears the blockage in the air passages and improves breathing. This helps in managing the symptoms of hay fever[2].
Modern Science View
Shea Butter helps manage the inflammation in skin due to its anti-inflammatory property. It contains certain constituents which inhibit the mediators of inflammation. Applying a cream containing Shea Butter reduces the pain and inflammation associated with skin problems[7].
Modern Science View
Shea Butter cream helps in the management of muscle soreness that might lead to inflammation and stiffness in the body. It helps reduce inflammation and pain in muscles due to its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties[4].
Modern Science View
Shea Butter might help manage the symptoms of arthritis due to its anti-inflammatory property. It contains certain constituents that inhibit the activity of an inflammatory protein. This reduces the pain and swelling associated with arthritis[3].
Modern Science View
Shea Butter might help in wound healing due to the presence of antioxidants. These antioxidants prevent further damage at the wound site by fighting against free radicals. It causes wound contraction as well as closure and helps in the formation of collagen and new skin cells. It also reduces the risk of infection in the wound and thus promotes wound healing[7][9].
Tips for using Shea Butter for wound healing.
1. Take 50-55 grams of Shea Butter and a few drops of coconut oil (or as per your requirement).
2. Mix both the ingredients properly to make a uniform paste.
3. Apply this paste regularly on the affected area for better results.
4. Preserve it in an airtight container for long time storage.
Tips for using Shea Butter for wound healing.
1. Take 50-55 grams of Shea Butter and a few drops of coconut oil (or as per your requirement).
2. Mix both the ingredients properly to make a uniform paste.
3. Apply this paste regularly on the affected area for better results.
4. Preserve it in an airtight container for long time storage.
Modern Science View
Shea Butter might be useful in eczema due to its emollient property. It helps to reduce the symptoms of eczema such as dry skin and itchiness by providing healing and soothing effects to the skin[8].
Tips for using Shea Butter in eczema.
1. Take 50-55 grams of Shea Butter and a few drops of Sandalwood or Lavender essential oil (or as per your requirement).
2. Mix both the ingredients properly to make a uniform paste.
3. Apply this paste regularly on the affected area for better results.
4. Preserve it in an airtight container for long time storage.
Tips for using Shea Butter in eczema.
1. Take 50-55 grams of Shea Butter and a few drops of Sandalwood or Lavender essential oil (or as per your requirement).
2. Mix both the ingredients properly to make a uniform paste.
3. Apply this paste regularly on the affected area for better results.
4. Preserve it in an airtight container for long time storage.
Modern Science View
Shea Butter has strong healing properties due to the presence of Vitamin A. It is effective in promoting healing and soothes skin allergies such as insect bites[5].
Modern Science View
Shea Butter ointment helps prevent skin dryness due to the presence of vitamin F. It has an emollient property that helps to soften the skin. It also has the ability to rejuvenate skin by soothing and healing rough and dry skin[5].
Tips for using Shea Butter for dry skin.
1. Take 50-55 grams of Shea Butter and few drops of Jasmine or Chamomile essential oil (or as per your requirement).
2. Mix both the ingredients properly to make a uniform paste.
3. Apply this paste regularly on the affected area for better results.
4. Preserve it in an airtight container for long time storage.
Tips for using Shea Butter for dry skin.
1. Take 50-55 grams of Shea Butter and few drops of Jasmine or Chamomile essential oil (or as per your requirement).
2. Mix both the ingredients properly to make a uniform paste.
3. Apply this paste regularly on the affected area for better results.
4. Preserve it in an airtight container for long time storage.
Modern Science View
Shea Butter, when used in the form of nasal drops, might provide relief from nasal congestion. It reduces the inflammation in the nasal passages due to its anti-inflammatory property. It helps to clear the sinuses by removing mucus from the nose[10].
Modern Science View
Although enough scientific evidence is not available for the role of Shea Butter in psoriasis. However, it might help in managing the symptoms of psoriasis due to its healing and soothing properties. The topical application of Shea Butter helps in reducing skin rashes and dryness[5].
Tips for using Shea Butter on psoriasis.
1. Take 50-55 grams of Shea Butter and few drops of Jasmine or Chamomile essential oil (or as per your requirement).
2. Mix both the ingredients properly to make a uniform paste.
3. Apply this paste regularly on the affected area for better results.
4. Preserve it in an airtight container for long time storage.
Tips for using Shea Butter on psoriasis.
1. Take 50-55 grams of Shea Butter and few drops of Jasmine or Chamomile essential oil (or as per your requirement).
2. Mix both the ingredients properly to make a uniform paste.
3. Apply this paste regularly on the affected area for better results.
4. Preserve it in an airtight container for long time storage.
Modern Science View
Shea Butter helps manage skin scars due to its moisturising and healing properties. It acts as an emollient that softens and soothes the skin when used in ointments[1][5].
How effective is Shea Butter?
Insufficient evidence
Arthritis, Dry Skin, Eczema, Hay fever, Insect bite, Muscle spasm, Psoriasis, Sinusitis, Skin conditions with inflammation & itching, Skin disorders, Wound healing
Precautions when using Shea Butter
FAQs about Shea Butter precautions
How to use Shea Butter
Shea Butter Paste
a. Take 50-55 grams of Shea Butter and few drops of coconut oil (or as per your requirement).
b. Mix both the ingredients properly to make a uniform paste.
c. Apply this paste regularly on the wounds for better results.
d. Preserve it in an airtight container for long time storage.
a. Take 50-55 grams of Shea Butter and few drops of coconut oil (or as per your requirement).
b. Mix both the ingredients properly to make a uniform paste.
c. Apply this paste regularly on the wounds for better results.
d. Preserve it in an airtight container for long time storage.
Frequently asked questions
Ayurvedic View
For External Use
1. Take 50-55 grams of Shea Butter and few drops of coconut oil (or as per your requirement).
2. Mix both the ingredients properly to make a uniform paste.
3. Apply this paste regularly on the wounds for better results.
4. Preserve it in an airtight container for long time storage.
1. Take 50-55 grams of Shea Butter and few drops of coconut oil (or as per your requirement).
2. Mix both the ingredients properly to make a uniform paste.
3. Apply this paste regularly on the wounds for better results.
4. Preserve it in an airtight container for long time storage.
Modern Science View
Shea Butter can be used at any time of the day. It can be used at night as feet and hand moisturiser. It is better to use Shea Butter as a skincare product during extreme cold and summer season because it provides moisture, nutrients and protection to the skin[5].
Modern Science View
Unprocessed form of Shea butter is considered the best for use. It is non-fragrant, off-white ivory or yellowish in color. Processed shea butter is generally bright white in color. However, the color may range due to the country of origin. The texture of butter should not be hard or greasy as the presence of vitamin E gives it firm yet supple quality consistency.
Modern Science View
Yes, Shea Butter helps manage cholesterol due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Certain constituents (saponins) present in Shea Butter lowers the levels of total blood cholesterol, bad cholesterol (LDL) as well as triglycerides. These constituents inhibit the absorption of cholesterol in the body and increase its excretion[5].
Modern Science View
Yes, the pulp of Shea fruit might help in constipation due to its laxative property. It helps to loosen stools and promotes bowel movement[6].
Modern Science View
Yes, Shea Butter can be taken orally as it contains various nutrients and antioxidants. It can be used in cooking and might help manage cholesterol levels[5].
Modern Science View
Yes, Shea Butter might protect the hair as it contains a good quantity of vitamins A and E. This gives it an emollient property which helps to soften and moisturise hair. Shea Butter gets easily absorbed, when applied to the scalp, and coats the hair shaft. It also helps to restore moisture lost in hair due to a number of chemical treatments like straightening, perming or curling of hair[5].
Modern Science View
Yes, Shea Butter is applied on the hair before swimming. It gets easily absorbed and coats the hair shaft. It protects the hair against salt and chlorine present in water. It might also protect the hair against damage caused by free radicals due to its antioxidant property[7][5].
Modern Science View
Yes, Shea Butter might help prevent the signs of ageing due to its anti-ageing and moisturising properties. These properties help soften the skin and increase the cell regeneration process. It also improves collagen synthesis which helps in rejuvenating the skin and contribute to its anti-ageing property[5].
Modern Science View
Yes, Shea Butter is a good sun screening agent as it absorbs or reflects some UV radiation from the sun and prevents it from reaching the skin. It also provides moisture and nutrients needed by skin[5].
Modern Science View
Yes, Shea Butter can be applied on lips as it contains Vitamin A and E which gives it an emollient property. It helps to moisturise and smoothen the lips. It also has antioxidant and smoothing properties which protects the lips[11].
Modern Science View
Yes, Shea butter is equally beneficial for skin and hair. Shea butter has cell-regenerative properties, which helps soften the skin and reduce wrinkles. It contains certain constituents that help in increasing collagen production, which is crucial for developing skin strength[7].
Modern Science View
Raw shea is a natural product that can be used in any type of hair. The anti-inflammatory property of Shea butter may help to reduce redness and scalp irritation without clogging pores.
Modern Science View
Shea butter gives better results when used on wet hair. It would be best to apply Shea butter directly after washing the hair, while the hair is still damp. You can apply Shea butter as a leave-in moisturizer after every wash day or you can even add it to your favorite conditioner. Applying Shea butter on dry hair may result in hardness and dryness in the hair. So, be sure to wet the hair first.
Modern Science View
Shea butter is rich in Vitamin A and E which help in skin regeneration[12]. It is a great emollient which gets quickly soaked in your skin, providing moisture to the skin cells. It can help in fading dark spots, discolorations, stretch marks, and wrinkles without clogging pores.
Modern Science View
Shea butter has anti-aging properties which may help in reducing aging and may even make skin appear smoother. However, using raw or pure shea butter directly on your face could lead to breakouts. You need to mix some carrier oil with raw shea butter before using it on the face.
Modern Science View
Yes, Shea butter has some amount of UV protection. But, it can’t be used as an alternative for sunscreen. You can use Shea butter over your sunscreen and gain an extra layer of protection from the harmful rays.
Ayurvedic View
Steps to follow while using Shea butter on the face:
Wash your face with normal water to remove dirt or excessive moisture
Take Shea butter as per your needs and mix it with any carrier oil like Almond oil
Rub this mixture with the palms of your hands then massage or apply on the face with circular motions
Wash your face with normal water to remove dirt or excessive moisture
Take Shea butter as per your needs and mix it with any carrier oil like Almond oil
Rub this mixture with the palms of your hands then massage or apply on the face with circular motions
Modern Science View
Yes, Shea butter can be used on oily skin. It is non-comedogenic which means it does not clog pores, in spite of its buttery consistency.
Modern Science View
Regular use of Shea butter can help improve dark spots. Its skin rejuvenating property keeps the skin healthy from deep within. It can be used as a moisturizer all year round. It deeply nourishes the skin making it soft and supple.
References
- Ulbricht CE.Natural Standard:Herb and Supplement Guide, An Evidence Based Reference.Elsevier;2010.
- WebMD.Shea butter: Uses, Side effects, Doses, Interactions [Internet].Atlanta [last updated in 2016].
- Foyet HS, Tsala DE, Essono Bodo JCZ, et al. Anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic activity of a methanol extract from Vitellaria paradoxastem bark. Pharmacognosy Research. 2015;7(4):367-377.
- Chen SP, Lo SF, Wang YC, et al. Validating Efficacy of Shea Nut Oil Extract in Knee Osteoarthritis Patients. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine.2013.
- Izideen Maanikuu PM, Peker K. Medicinal and Nutritional Benefits from the Shea Tree- (Vitellaria Paradoxa). Journal of Biology, Agriculture and Healthcare.2017; 7(22):51-57.
- Abidemi TA, Adebayo OJ, Idowu O, et al. Nutrient content and anti-nutritional factors in shea butter (Butryospermum parkii) leaves. African Journal of Biotechnology. 2009;8(21):5888-5890.
- Kai-Lin T, Zhong L, Santiago JL. Anti-Inflammatory and Skin Barrier Repair Effects of Topical Application of Some Plant Oils. Int. J. Mol Sci. 2018;19(1):70.
- Belibi SE, Stechschulte D, Olson N. The use of Shea Butter as an emollient for eczema. J Allergy Clin Immunol. 2009;123(2):S41.
- Israel MO. Effects of topical and dietary use of Shea Butter on animals. American journal of life sciences.2014;2(5):303-307.
- Tella A, Preliminary studies on nasal decongestant activity from the seed of the shea butter tree, Butyrospermum parkii.Br J Clin Pharmacol.1979;7(5):495-497.
- Kokil S, Kadu M, Vishwasrao S, et al. Review on Natural Lip Balm. International Journal of Research in Cosmetic Science. 2015; 5(1): 1-7.
- Megnanou RM and Niamke S. Improving the optimized shea butter quality: a great potential of utilization for common consumers and industrial. Springerplus. 2015; 4: 667
Disclaimer
The content is purely informative and educational in nature and should not be construed as medical advice. Please use the content only in consultation with an appropriate certified medical or healthcare professional.