Shea butter (Butyrospermum parkii)

Other names: Vitellaria paradoxa, Vitellaria nilotica, Butyrospermum parkii, Shea butter, Shea butter

Shea butter, also known as shea butter, shea butter or Butyrospermum parkii, is a vegetable fat produced from the nuts of the African tree Vitellaria paradoxa. This tree grows wild in the dry savannahs of Africa in countries such as Ghana, Senegal and Sudan. Shea butter is highly valued for its cosmetic properties. It is rich in vitamins A, E and F and also contains essential fatty acids, which are important for health and skin.

Shea butter is a major ingredient in many cosmetic products. It is the main ingredient in creams and body lotions, where it acts as an excellent moisturizer that hydrates and nourishes the skin. It is also often used by soap manufacturers for its moisturising and emollient properties. Shea butter is also often used in hair care products such as hair balms and masks, where it helps to restore hair and increase its elasticity and shine. Shea butter is even used in the food industry in some countries, as a substitute for cocoa butter in chocolate production.