shea butter nilotica
We are all familiar with shea butter, but do you know shea butter nilotica? It is an important cosmetic raw material and has many positive properties. For example, it has a moisturising effect and regulates the moisture content of our skin, making it appear softer and smoother. It is used very successfully in the form of ointments, skin creams and body butters, especially for damaged and dry skin.
Expectant mothers use it to prevent stretch marks. Shea butter is obtained from the nuts of the Vitellaria paradoxa, or shea tree, and usually from the subspecies “Vitellaria paradoxa subsp. paradoxa”, which is found in western tropical Africa as far as Ethiopia. However, there is another subspecies: “Vitellaria paradoxa subsp. nilotica”, which is found exclusively from Sudan to Uganda.
Due to the special climatic conditions in the area of distribution, the shea butter nilotica obtained from this subspecies contains less stearic acid and unsaponifiable components, but more unsaturated oleic acid. The oleic acid content of shea butter nilotica is between 45 and 65 per cent, while the stearic acid content is between 25 and 45 per cent. It is also worth mentioning the high linoleic acid content, which can be as high as nine per cent.
What are the differences to “normal” shea butter?
Overall, shea butter nilotica has a slightly softer consistency and does not form as thick a film on the skin, so it feels lighter and more delicate. Shea butter nilotica also has a more subtle scent than West African shea butter. Most people describe the subtle nutty scent and hint of chocolate as very pleasant.
Although shea butter nilotica does not have quite as strong a restructuring and regenerating effect due to its composition, it does score points for its pronounced cell-protecting properties, as it contains a high proportion of catechins. Catechins belong to the group of flavonoids and are therefore secondary plant substances.
They are antioxidants and effectively help the body to neutralise harmful radicals that can cause premature ageing of the skin and promote the development of cancer and cardiovascular diseases. Shea butter nilotica thus compensates for its somewhat less pronounced restructuring and regenerating effect with its ability to protect cells.
Shea butter nilotica and its use in cosmetics
The antioxidant and cell-protecting shea butter nilotica is perfect for the care of dry, irritated and chapped skin. It does not leave a greasy feeling on the skin and is quickly and easily absorbed. It is also very easy to process. In balms and emulsions, it serves as a very well tolerated and natural, nourishing active ingredient, but also as a consistency enhancer. For cosmetic formulations, we only use shea butter nilotica in organic quality, which is certified by BIO and COSMOS as well as NATRUE and KOSHER. We also work with suppliers who place a high value on aspects such as sustainability and compliance with social standards. Since shea butter nilotica only rarely causes allergic reactions, it is also suitable for sensitive skin.
Shea butter nilotica
INCI: Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter
CAS number: 194043-92-0, 91080-23-8
Extraction: from the shea nut of Vitellaria paradoxa subsp. nilotica
Appearance: light yellow
Melting point: 24 to 28 degrees Celsius
Composition: oleic acid 45 to 65 %, stearic acid 25 to 45 %, linoleic acid 4.0 to 9.0 %, palmitic acid 2.0 to 7.0 %, arachic acid < 3.0
Shelf life: at least 2 4 months
Effect: antioxidant, cell-protecting
Other special features: compared to shea butter from the Vitellaria paradoxa subsp. paradoxa subspecies, it has a softer and lighter texture and a weaker odour
Shea butter nilotica: wonderfully soft and extremely effective
Shea butter is an important traditional cultural asset in Africa. This applies to both subspecies, although they differ significantly in their composition. The very good, cell-protecting and antioxidant properties make shea butter nilotica an excellent active ingredient for dry, irritated and cracked skin. It is quickly absorbed, does not leave a greasy residue and leaves the skin feeling pleasantly light. Can you imagine using this high-quality shea butter in organic quality for your cosmetic formulations? Cosmacon will be happy to help you.
We buy this special shea butter from AOT and will be happy to ask them for more information if you need it:
All Organic Treasures GmbH
Organic Oils & Fats / Organic Proteins
Am Mühlbach 38
87487 Wiggensbach
Phone: +49 (0)8370/ 92280-0
Mail: info@aot.de
Web: http://www.aot.de
Literature/Information:
Abdel-Razek AG, Abo-Elwafa GA, Al-Amrousi EF, Badr AN, Hassanein MMM, Qian Y, Siger A, Grygier A, Radziejewska-Kubzdela E, Rudzińska M.Foods. 2023 Apr 12;12(8):1626
Treesh SA, Saadawi SS, Alennabi KA, Aburawi SM, Lotfi K, Ben Musa AS.Open Vet J. 2021 Jan;10(4):431-437
https://www.aot.de/kosmetik-sortiment/sheabutter-nilotica-bio-kosmetik.html