Pentaclethra macroloba
Other names: Pracaxi, Paroa-caxi, Pentaclethra filamentosa
Harm score: 1 (Natural substances)
Pentaclethra macroloba, also known as Pracaxi or Paroa-caxi, is a tropical tree native to South America. It often grows around the Amazon rivers and its seeds are highly sought after for extracting useful oils. Pracaxi, or Pentaclethra filamentosa as we often hear it referred to in the cosmetic world, boasts a high content of behenic acid, a key ingredient in many natural beauty products.
Due to its rich nutritional value, Pracaxi oil is used in many products, especially in the cosmetics industry. It is popular as an ingredient in shampoos, conditioners and other hair products. Its moisturizing and emollient properties make it excellent for the care of dry and damaged skin. Pracaxi oil also helps in healing scars and stretch marks. In addition, it has been shown to act as a natural UV filter, making it an ideal ingredient for sunscreens and other products that protect the skin from the sun's rays. Furthermore, this oil is used in anti-wrinkle and anti-aging products due to its vitamin E and omega fatty acid content.
Pracaxi, whether under this name or as Paroa-caxi or Pentaclethra filamentosa, is therefore widely used, especially in the cosmetics industry. Its composition is rich and easily absorbed by the body, which is why it is becoming increasingly popular among natural cosmetics manufacturers, but also among individuals who prefer natural alternatives to conventional cosmetic products. Currently, research on this tree and its useful ingredients is still expanding, so we can expect its use to become even more widespread in the future.