Did someone order for UV protection?
Yes, we did! And no, it’s not some pricey lotion or cream. It’s pure, it’s organic... it’s Mongongo oil. We know you’re probably thinking, “What in the world is mongongo oil?”
It’s okay, we’ll get right to that. And on the way, we’ll let you in on all the nutrients in this wonder oil and what they can do for you.
Where Does Mongongo Oil Come From
Like many famous oils, mongongo oil (Schinziophyton rautanenii) originates from Africa. It is obtained from the egg-shaped fruit of the manketti tree, which grows in Sub-Saharan Africa.
The fruit of this tree is edible and nutritious; however, the jackpot lies in the seeds of this fruit. The seed of the manketti fruit is an outstanding source of vitamin E (a chief anti-aging vitamin) and other nutrients like Omega-6, iron, zinc, copper, linoleic acid, calcium, and magnesium.
This nut, when dried and cold-pressed, produces a yellowish oil extract, which is what is called mongongo oil.
Benefits of Mongongo Oil
The weather in parts of Sub-Saharan Africa can be pretty extreme. To combat this, locals use the oil of the manketti tree on their skin and hair, for protection against the harsh sun and wind.
And now we know why:
- Mongongo oil’s high linoleic acid content makes it the perfect choice for skin hydration. This linoleic acid – which is usually present in cleansers and anti-aging creams – is especially good at soothing inflammation on the skin, making it superb at treating acne breakouts and eczema.
- The oil is equally filled with polyunsaturated fatty acids, which last longer on the skin than the fatty acids found in coconut oil and jojoba! When applied topically, these fatty acids can serve as a natural emollient and protectant. They lock-in and retain moisture, which is ordinarily lost in dry weather conditions. They also form a protective sheen on the skin, smoothing it out and giving it a softer and plumper feel.
Be gone wrinkles! Am I right?
But we aren’t done yet. In fact, we saved the best for last.
There’s another acid in mongongo oil that basically acts as your personal avenger against UV rays. Nope, we’re not kidding. The alpha-Eleostearic acid in mongongo oil turns into a shield against UV rays when you use the oil on your skin and hair! Astounding stuff.
It’s fair to say that with mongongo oil, the sun has nothing on you.
Okay, let’s move away from the skin perks a little.
Did you know that mongongo oil can repair heat-damaged and brittle hair? I bet you didn’t. Just a few drops in your conditioner or an oil massage after your wash and your hair can regain that shiny luster you crave for.
Now you know all the anti-aging qualities of mongongo oil, you can drop the overpriced jars of creams and hop on the mongongo train. Destination: Fountain of youth. Choo choo!
