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Babassu oil is a tropical oil made from the seeds of the babassu palm, a tree native to the rain forests of South America.
Packed with antioxidants and healthy fats, it can boost the health of your skin and hair, moisturizing them without causing you to feel greasy or develop acne.
However, the oil also has some potential drawbacks.
In South American countries like Brazil, to which the babassu palm is native, the plant’s oil is commonly used for cooking and even as medicine.
Locals use it to heal minor wounds, such as cuts and scratches, and treat leukorrhea — vaginal discharge that is associated with hormonal imbalances.
Babassu oil is also turned into biofuel that can be used as an alternative to diesel fuel.
However, in the United States, it’s most commonly utilized as an ingredient in hair and skin care products, such as lotion, shampoo, and makeup.
Anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and wound-healing properties
Babassu oil and other parts of the plant are used for various medicinal purposes in South America, such as to treat skin conditions, wounds, inflammation, and stomach problems (1Trusted Source, 3Trusted Source).
The oil is rich in antioxidants, which are compounds that can help reduce cellular damage caused by harmful free radicals.
In addition, babassu oil is antibacterial. One test-tube study noted that it killed certain harmful bacteria like Staphylococcus aureus, which causes staph infections.
Components of the babassu plant, including its oil, are also anti-inflammatory and can promote wound healing.
In one study, rats that had babassu extract applied to a wound healed faster than a control group.
Rich in healthy fatty acids
Like coconut oil, Babassu oil is a plant-based oil rich in saturated fats, making it solid at room temperature.
However, these fats melt quickly at body temperature. As such, they’re a widely used ingredient in skin care products.
The main fatty acids in babassu oil are lauric and myristic acid, which are both saturated.
Still, the oil contains oleic acid, a monounsaturated fat that’s also found in olive oil and credited with many of olive oil’s health benefits.
These fatty acids are anti-inflammatory, potentially immune-boosting, and moisturizing, making them great for your skin and hair.
What’s more, lauric acid is antibacterial and has been shown to cause cancer cell death in animal and test-tube studies.
Moisturizing for your skin and hair
Similarly to coconut oil, babassu melts at body temperature, allowing your skin to absorb it very well.
Yet, unlike coconut oil, it’s lightweight and not greasy, making it ideal for use on your skin.
What’s more, it does not appear to cause acne.
In addition, babassu oil causes a refreshing, cooling sensation when it’s applied to the skin, as it melts rapidly.
Lastly, it can add volume to dry, flat hair without weighing it down.
Source: Healthline.com
