Shea Butter

Shea butter has become much more popular in our society the last few years, and thank goodness it has! Americans are learning what African cultures have known for many many years--that shea butter can do things for you that no other lotion can!

Shea butter isn't actually a lotion. It comes from the fatty inner portion of the shea nut from shea trees in Africa. The nuts are cracked open, the inner portion removed and crushed, then cooked. The cooking helps to remove any impurities or water that might be inside. The shea butter itself is scooped out and allowed to cool and solidify into what you see when you purchase your own container of shea butter.

What do you use it for? It might be easier to answer the question "what CAN'T you use it for?"
It is very commonly used in lotions and creams and hair dressings and more. Very frequently it is used by itself for a myriad of reasons, such as:

• hair & skin rejuvenation
• skin rashes
• eczema and/or psoriasis
• dandruff
• stretch marks
• burns / sunburns
• scars
• wounds
• insect bites
• frost bite
• shaving cream
• dry skin & hair

Vitamin E and essential fatty acids are found within shea butter, all of which help offer great benefits to the body. The skin is the largest organ of the body and protecting and caring for it should be a priority for all people.

One thing to keep in mind is that not ALL shea butter is created equal. Shea butter has a unique smell that is NOT perfumey. Many people don't enjoy the fragrance as it is, although it dissipates rapidly once applied to the skin. To mask the natural scent of shea butter, a lot of other chemicals may be added to shea butter, destroying some of the natural wonders held within. When choosing a product that suits you, be sure you know what you are getting. Read labels and ask questions, then enjoy the fantastic changes your skin will go through as it drinks up the health benefits contained one simple ingredient: shea butter!