Marula Oil

Specifications

A natural, cold pressed, light textured oil that is easily absorbed into skin. Rich in vitamins C + E & natural antioxidants

PRODUCT DESCRIPTION

High in essential fatty acids (Omega 9 oleic & Omega 6 linoleic) that deeply hydrate skin & reduce redness while protecting against the elements, especially in cold & dry weather conditions.

Marula Oil also softens the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles & helps improve skin elasticity for a more youthful appearance. For all skin types.

The fruit of the marula is about the size of a plum with a leathery skin that is butter yellow when ripe. The scented juicy white flesh clings to a hard brown stone, inside which are two or three seeds that are so rich in oil that even a squeeze with the hand can release a rich yield.

The flavour of the fruit has been compared with a cocktail of guava, lychee, apple and pineapple, and is popular not only with people but also with elephants which have been known to travel miles to gorge on the fruit. The popular African liqueur Amarula is based on the marula fruit. The marula harvest takes place between February and June.

TRADITIONAL USES 

Marula’s healing oil has long been used as a cosmetic by Southern African women who massage it into their hair and onto the skin of their face, feet and hands. Its moisturising properties make it especially popular as a treatment for dry, cracking skin. In Swaziland it is used traditionally by pregnant women and new mothers to reduce stretch marks.

Archaeological evidence confirms that the marula tree has been part of the Southern African way of life for thousands of years; hoards of Stone Age marula stones have been found in Zimbabwean caves with carved tools and piles of shells close by. Similar tools are used to this day to crack the stones and extract the oil-rich seeds.

Marula oil is a popular ingredient for skincare products because it naturally softens, nourishes and revitalises the skin. It is easily absorbed and contains high proportions of oleic acid and linoleic fatty acid, making it ideal for topical application. It is high in natural antioxidants and one of the most stable oils available, being ten times more resistant to oxidation than olive oil.

Marula oil has also been shown to improve skin hydration and skin smoothness, and to reduce redness. In studies it performed better than sweet almond oil for each of these properties.