Shea (Vitellaria Paradoxa)
Common names: karite, kade, kadanya
The Shea tree is unique to sub-Saharan Africa and grows naturally and wildly in dry Savannah belt of West and Central Africa. It is in high demand for the Shea butter extract from the Shea nut.
Shea butter has been used for thousands for years in Africa for cooking and for medicinal purposes. More recently, Shea butter has become an important ingredient for the chocolate industry as a substitute for cocoa butter which approximately 90 percent of current demand coming from the confectionary industry. Shea butter is also valued as an ingredient in the production of cosmetics and soaps as a result of its moisturizing, healing and anti-aging properties.
Shea nuts are the seeds of the shea tree (Vitellaria paradoxa), a deciduous tree native to the savannah regions of Africa. They are primarily known for producing shea butter, a valuable fat used in cosmetics, food, and pharmaceuticals. Shea trees are highly regarded for their economic and cultural importance in many African communities. Shea nuts are primarily valued for their fat content, which is used to produce shea butter. Key components include: Fatty Acids: Rich in stearic and oleic acids, making shea butter highly moisturizing. Vitamins: Contains vitamins A, E, and F, which are beneficial for skin and hair health. Anti-inflammatory Compounds: Includes triterpenes and cinnamic acid esters Uses of Shea Nuts Shea butter is widely used in cosmetics for skin moisturizers, lip balms, anti-aging creams, sun protection, and promoting hair and scalp health; in food as cooking fat, margarine, and a cocoa butter substitute in chocolate
