Shea Butter
Arguably, Shea butter is West Africa’s most common beauty ointment. The Shea tree grows predominantly in the dried savannah belt of the sub-region. Shea butter is used traditionally for soothing dry skin, for protection in cold as well as in the preparation of several other medicines. Since it is rich in Vitamin A, shea butter is good for the skin, hair and nails. Shea butter is famous for its effectiveness in reducing and eventually removing scars, stretch marks and wrinkles. Shea butter also works wonders on the hair, stimulating hair growth and protecting your hair's natural luster.
Additionally, Shea butter brings much needed respite against some of the worst cases of psoriasis and eczema and other skin conditions.
It comes as neither a surprise nor a secret that the cosmetic industry is heavily indebted to Africa. The ingredients used in manufacturing some of the most popular beauty products can be easily found within the continent. Also, knowledge of the preparation of quite a large percentage of these modern beauty solutions are collected from Africa and other indigenous cultures around the world.
This article will focus on a few beauty solutions from West Africa. These herbs, fruits and oils have been used for generations to improve health and beauty.
Moringa Oil
Affectionately called the “tree of life”, the amazing benefits of Moringa are well documented. For many years, West Africans have used Moringa oil to cure various conditions. Moringa is packed with numerous essential vitamins and oleic acid. This oil has been known to work wonders on the skin and overall well-being.
Almond Oil
Almond essential oil can be applied to all skin types. Its benefits include curing rashes, itchy and dry skin. This pale yellow oil moisturizes and improves the complexion of your skin, making it soft, smooth and glowing.
Almond oil has been used by West Africans for many centuries to enhance beauty. This oil is renowned to be efficacious in curing numerous hair and skin conditions, as well as in improving the general appearance. Almond oil is gotten from cold pressed almond kennels and is reputed for its ability to naturally improve the general health. Almond is packed with essential minerals needed for our bodies to function optimally. These essential minerals include Vitamins D, E, calcium and magnesium among others.
Castor Oil
Castor oil is an extract of castor beans, which is grown in West Africa. Like the other plants on this list, castor oil has been used for many generations as a beauty solution. Castor oil is particularly good for dry skin and makes both skin and hair soft.
Aloe Vera
Hailed first by the ancient Egyptians as the “plant of immortality”. For over 500 years , aloe vera has been a source of nutrition and healing to humans and animals. Aloe vera is made up of over 200 different healing essential components including amino acids, minerals, enzymes, vitamins and fatty acids. It’s no surprise that aloe vera is included in many beauty solutions.
Aloe Vera is made up of 99% water and can be used both internally and externally. This plant has numerous benefits including boosting the immune system, alkalizing the body, aiding digestion and detoxification and improving cardiovascular health. Aloe Vera also works wonders on the skin and is a major component of most cosmetic solutions.
Coconut Oil
Another home grown natural beauty solution from West Africa is coconut oil. Coconut oil is extracted from the kernel of coconut. This oil is widely used in preparing food, in medical procedures and in the cosmetic industry. Scientists have discovered that people from regions in west Africa (and other locations around the globe) where coconut oil is traditionally used in the preparation of food are much healthier than people from other areas where this isn't used. Coconut oil is also beneficial for athletes as it has the ability to boost one's energy levels.
In a recent study, scientists also noted that coconut oil is effective in bringing relief to persons suffering from alzhiemer and hyypothyroidism. Coconut oil is usually prescribed as an alternative to other highly saturated oils for persons on a weight loss program.