Sunday, October 20, 2013

Moringa Oleifera Oil: Not Your Average Oil

By Lorenzo Krane


Dubbed as the "miracle plant", Moringa Oleifera has earned international fame because of its versatility in many aspects such as medicine and cuisine, and it is a known fact that almost every part of the Moringa Tree can be used. While it may seem that the leaves and pods are the more popular parts of this tree, the seeds are also highly valued as it where Moringa Oleifera Oil comes from.

When properly extracted and processed, the seeds of the Moringa Tree can yield around 38-40% edible Moringa Oil. Perhaps you might already have heard of the term "Ben Oil", and it is a common name for this oil because of its high behenic acid content. After refining, this oil is clear and odorless, and has an uncanny stability which made it highly valued oil.

The cosmetic and skin care industry highly values Moringa oil primarily because of its stability which, unlike other oils, does not go rancid easily. Its long shelf life makes it an excellent ingredient in lotions, balms, perfumes, shampoos, ointments, body oils, and face creams. Just imagine how the early Egyptians have already learned to use this oil for skin and hair care.

Because Moringa Oil has a clear texture, non-drying, and has excellent skin moisturizing properties, it is perfect as a massage and aromatherapy oil. Its long shelf-life can be attributed to its antioxidant content, making it a great ingredient in many anti-aging creams, and can help fight free radicals in the skin as well. It is also rich in Vitamins A and C, as well as Oleic, Linoleic, and Palmitoleic acids.

With its ability to stabilize and take hold of the most volatile scents, Moringa Oleifera Oil is highly prized in perfume making. This oil also contains some antibacterial and anti-inflammatory agents which can help soothe and alleviate many skin problems such as cuts, minor burns, and insect bites. It is also an excellent skin moisturizer and is commonly used in making lip balms and skin moisturizing soaps.

Moringa Oleifera Oil also goes well with cooking. As a vegetable oil, it is great for deep frying and sauteing. And because of its incredible stability, it highly regarded in the same category as olive oil, and goes perfect with salad dressings as well. Food manufacturers also make use of this oil as a natural food preservative.




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