Today we try to explain what the plant Carapa Guianensis (Andiroba) is and the properties of the oil that is extracted from its fruits .
The Andiroba plant, whose botanical name is Carapa Guianensis, is an imposing tree that can reach up to 10 meters in height and is found mainly in Latin America as you can see the photos below . The oil is extracted by pressing its nuts, similar to hazelnuts but flattened in shape, which are harvested only when they fall from the plant. These nuts have properties well known to the local indigenous people, who use it for therapeutic purposes.
Fig. 1 tree Carapa Guianensis
Fig. 2 geographical area where it is located (Andiroba)
In fact, the oil contains an abundance of vitamins and minerals, including:
- Vitamin A, E and C,
- Linoleic, oleic, palmitic and stearic acids,
- essential fatty acids,
- antioxidants.
Like coconut oil, anhydroba oil also changes its consistency from liquid to solid if the temperature drops below 25 °C showing solid particles if not solidifying completely, and it too is used for various purposes.
Fig.3 as can be presented by temperature difference, this is synonymous with purity .
Properties :
Musculoskeletal pain
The main property of andiroba oil is that it is a natural anti-inflammatory, useful in relieving and soothing pain.
It is used by the indigenous people of the Amazon rainforest for decontracting massage for muscle pain, contractures, rheumatism, edema and bruising. It is also indicated for relieving chronic arthritis pain.
Skin protection
Due to its antioxidant properties, vitamins and minerals, Andiroba oil is very helpful in preserving the natural beauty of the skin. In fact, it helps fight premature aging by promoting cell regeneration.
The oil is also indicated for skin problems: having anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, it is useful for wounds and scars, but also for soothing eczema, psoriasis, dermatitis, redness and even herpes.
When massaged steadily over the body, it improves blood circulation: thus, it becomes helpful in combating cellulite that results from tissue inflammation and poor blood circulation.
Protection from the signs of aging
Amazonian women use this oil as an anti-wrinkle remedy, and it is indeed indicated to relax the skin and diminish the signs of aging. Due to the presence of essential acids and antioxidants, the oil visibly reduces wrinkles, and prevents premature aging.
In addition, these same components, stimulate the production of collagen, the structure that scaffolds the skin and prevents its decay in old age, when its production tends to decline dramatically.
By nourishing the skin down to its innermost structures, andiroba helps keep it deeply moisturized: and proper hydration helps keep the skin looking young and healthy.
Nutritive properties for hair
Like coconut oil, andiroba oil is also ideal for nourishing and caring for hair. The benefits come from the fact that it improves blood circulation in the body and even the scalp when massaged in, allowing hair to grow faster.
Used as a hair oil, it helps fight frizz and gives more shine.
Protection from insect bites
This oil also boasts a natural insect repellent effect: smeared on the skin it helps keep mosquitoes away and protect against bites. A few drops in shampoo is a lice repellent.
Pure oil can also be used to soothe any redness caused by excessive sun exposure.
Recommended Use
Body: Ideal to use as a decontracting massage oil for bruises and sprains. Also can be used to nourish very dry skin or to soothe problematic skin.
If massaged steadily over the body, it improves blood circulation: thus, it becomes helpful in combating cellulite that results from tissue inflammation and poor blood circulation
Hair: Apply as a pre-shampoo pack, combined withCoconut Oil or Shea Butter, to prevent frizz, nourish the hair, reduce hair loss and give shine .
What the fruits of the Andiroba plant look like.
