Moringa Oil – What's So Special About It
Moringa oil is one of the best oils that nature has to offer. It
basically comes from moringa trees, particularly by extraction of its seeds. The seeds of
the moringa tree can produce around 38 to 40% edible oil, and is also known as ben oil
because of the high volume of behenic acid in it. Ben oil has a clear texture, is odorless,
very stable and does not go rancid, making it perfect for making salads and other cooking
purposes. This oil, which is comparable to botanical oils such as olive and sunflower oil,
is also being used to make cosmetics, aromatherapy products, and even as lubricant in
machines.
Ben oil is widely used for making cosmetics because of its
cleansing, healing and moisturizing properties. It may be used as an ingredient in skin
moisturizers, lotions, shampoos, massage and aromatherapy oils, balms, and even as a perfume
base. Research also shows that ben oil has some anti-aging properties due to the presence of
antioxidants. Antioxidants are molecules which help thwart the effects of free radicals,
which causes damage to our skin. Moringa oil is natural cleanser – making it very effective
in cleansing and moisturizing our hair and scalp. Use it as a massage oil to relax and
rejuvenate your body.
Moringa oil has been used many centuries ago by Romans as a
primary ingredient in making perfumes, while Egyptians used them in the tombs of royalties
to give them a touch of life. With today’s modern trends and industrialization, moringa oil
still continues to prove its value, especially in the cosmetic industry. Moringa oil is an
excellent food for our skin because it is rich in Vitamins A, C and E, as well as healthy
unsaturated fatty acids. It also has some antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties which
make it very useful in treatment of insect bites, minor cuts and burns, rashes, and bruises.
The reason why moringa oil is highly prized as a base ingredient
in making perfumes is because it is able to absorb and contain even the most volatile of
scents. This is also the part where its stability and resistance to rancidity comes into
play. Through an expensive and time-consuming process called enfleurage, the fragrances of
exquisite flowers and plants can be captured, of which moringa oil is a very important
component. The perfume industry highly values this oil because of its ability to stabilize
many varieties of scents.
For people who are having problems with blackheads and pimples
can use moringa oil to clear blemishes in their skin, while also helping tighten the skin
pores. With regular use, it may help balance oil secretions in the skin, combat the effects
of pollution on the skin, keep the skin healthy and maintain its natural glow. As food,
moringa oil makes an excellent salad dressing, although it can also be used just like
regular vegetable cooking oil in sautéing and deep frying as well. You might also be
surprised to know that this oil is being used as a lubricant for fine machinery, and is even
undergoing further research due to its potential as a bio fuel.
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