Shea [Vitellaria paradoxa]
Shea Butter [Vitellaria paradoxa] is a multi-purpose all natural oil derived from the seed of the shea tree.
Shea butter is traditionally used in medicines, particularly for the preparation of skin ointments, and is used to treat inflammation, rashes in children, dermatitis, sunburn, chapping, irritation, ulcers and as a rub for rheumatism. It is effective for improving a number of skins conditions, including blemishes, eczema, and dermatitis. Allantoin, its unsaponifiable compound, is responsible for the anti-inflammatory and healing effect on the skin.
Recent studies confirm that Shea nuts are safe for nut allergy sufferers, as the principle immune molecule that would usually invoke an allergic response, immunoglobulin E, barely binds to the shea protein. (Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, December 13, 2010: http://www.reuters.com/article/idUSTRE6BL4SP20101223)
Shea butter has unparalleled moisturising properties that are similar to the oils produced by the sebaceous glands in the skin. The positive biochemical and physiological effect that shea butter has on skin injuries makes this ingredient ideal for wound healing.
