Benefits of Shea Butter on Natural Hair

Shea butter  is the fat that is derived from the inside nut of a Shea tree. The fat is a off white -creamy colour which is sometimes dyed with with palm oil or the bark from the borotutu tree this giving it a yellow colour. 

Shea butter dependant on its grade can be eaten or applied  topically. Various West African communities use the fat for cooking. 

Shea butter is found predominantly  in West Africa, but is also found in the parts of the east and central Africa. 

The shea butter comes from two oily kernels within the shea tree seed. After the kernel is removed from the seed, it is ground into a powder and boiled in water. The butter then rises to the top of the water and becomes solid.

This natural fat has several usages. As mentioned, it can be used for cooking. Additionally, Shea butter  is used as sun protection, used to treat skin issues such as eczema and psoriasis. Shea butter is used to treat first degree burns, fade scares and is a used for the hair. 

Antimicrobial,  anti inflammatory, humectant and more!

The antimicrobial elements means it reduces the risk of fungi being produced on the scalp. To stops the growth of unwanted microbes. 

Anti-inflammatory is the property of a substance or treatment that reduces inflammation or swelling. Example of this may be reducing soreness on the scalp. 

Humectants are things which draw moisture to it. This is great as it will improve the moisture levels found in the hair. 

Shea butter also has vitamin A and E, both help with preventing sun damage, strengthen the strands this omitting the risk of excessive breakage. 

Vitamin A is known to help with the production of sebum (natural oil found in the scalp), sebum is vital in keeping the hair and scalp health. 

An adequate amount of vitamin A will reduce dandruff and other scalp issues. Keep stands supple which will prevent breaks and result in hair growth. 

Vitamin E can also be found in Shea butter, this Vitamin is an antioxidant, antioxidant slow down aging. In relation to hair this will increase hair growth. 

The benefits shea butter has on natural hair includes;  reduces dandruff, it's humectant properties  helps hair retain its moisture, therefore preventing breakage. The butter is rich in vitamin E, this is excellent for slowing down the aging of the hair, and reducing oxidation. 

 

Shea butter adds incredible shine to your hair over time. It also smooth and relives itchy scalp and is an excellent natural moisturizer.