- Mongongo oil is also high in polyunsaturated fatty acids, which are known to remain on the skin longer than saturated fatty acids (think coconut oil) or monounsaturated oils (jojoba and almond oils)
- The oil is derived from the fruit of the manketti tree (which has the ability to thrive in extreme weather conditions in Sub-Saharan Africa) and has been used for centuries in skin care
All our oils are fresh and bottled daily. Expiration date is at least 12 month from sale date
Organic Ingredients:100% Pure Mongongo/Manketti Oil
Botanical Name: Ricinodendron Rautanenii
Extraction Method: Cold Pressed
Color: Pale yellow to golden yellow liquid
Aromatic Description: Typical and Characteristic of Carrier Oils
The Mongongo tree is a large, straight-trunked, deciduous tree that grows to a height of 15m or taller. On average, each tree gives 30 kg of fruit. Each fruit contains normally one and sometimes two kernels. The species is found mainly in deep, well-drained Kalahari Sands in Southern Africa.
Traditional use
The Tonga, the Lozi and the Luvale tribes of Zambia have used the Mongongo tree and its fruit for generations. The trunk of the tree to make dugout canoes and drums, and the timber is used for carvings. The entire fruit is used. The nutritious nut is pounded and used in food. The oil is extracted and used in cooking and as a moisturiser that protects the skin and hair from the harsh conditions of the Kalahari. South of the Zambezi River the San people in Northern Botswana and Namibia have used the Mongongo fruit for centuries as their staple food.
Product applications
Mongongo oil has hydrating, regenerating and restructuring properties. Mongongo has a high linoleic acid content (between 30% and 54%), which is synthesised by the body to form part of the composition of cell membranes. The alpha eleostearic acid (C18 9c, 11t, 13t) content in Mongongo oil provides a protective film when exposed to UV rays. This makes the oil a rally nice ingredient for skin and hair care products.
