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.