Babassu Oil

What is babassu oil?

Babassu oil is extracted from the kernels of the babassu palm tree (orbignya oleifera). Our babassu is not cold pressed, it is expeller pressed and refined. It is cream in colour and has a very neutral scent. It is solid at room temperature and is a smooth consistency. 

The babassu tree is a type of palm tree that grows naturally in regions of Brazil, Mexico, Peru and Colombia.

Babassu is very similar to coconut oil and palm oil. They have similar properties as they are solid at room temperature and melt very easily. Babassu oil is often used in recipes to substitute coconut oil.

What is babassu oil used for?

Babassu oil is very moisturising, it helps protect the skin's natural barrier, and it absorbs quickly into the skin without leaving greasy residue. It is often used in cosmetic products like creams, lotion, lip balms and moisturisers. It has a low comedogenic rating between 1 and 2, and is suitable for all skin types.

Babassu is rich in lauric acid and has a lower amount of oleic fatty acids. The fatty acids can also help with moisturising and hydrating natural, dry hair. It is also used in hair care recipes due to its protective emollient properties.

When babassu is used in soap making, it increases the hardness, cleansing and bubbling effect of the soap bar.

Make your own body butter with babassu oil

Ingredients:

• Organic, unrefined shea butter 500g
• Babassu oil 500g
• Sweet almond oil 350ml
• Essential oils (optional)

Method:

1. Melt the babassu and shea butter in a bowl.
2. Once fully melted, mix in the almond oil and essential oils.
3. Leave the mixture to cool in the fridge.
4. Once it looks like it is starting to set, take the bowl out of the fridge.
5. Whisk the ingredients, using an electric whisk, until it starts to form a whipped consistency.
6. Now your body butter is ready to use!

FAQ's

What is the INCI name for babassu oil?

The INCI name for babassu oil is orbignya oleifera seed oil.

Where does babassu oil originate from?

Our babassu oil originates from Brazil.

What is the saponification value of babassu oil?

The saponification value for babassu oil is between 245.0 to 256.0, with an average of 250.

For NaOH the SAP value is 0.178 and for KOH it is 0.250