Slice Of Nature

Tuesday, February 15, 2011

What is baobab oil?

Baobab oil is extracted from the seeds of the fruit of baobab tree which is found in Eastern andSouthern Africa. The extraction involves cold pressing of the seeds and filtration. Cold pressing ensures that the valuable nutrients in the oil are not destroyed making it organic. Baobab oil is semi–fluid golden yellow in color with a gentle scent. It is known to be rich in Vitamin A, D, E, F, oleic acid, linoleic acid and Omega 3, 6 and 9 fatty acids. These nutrients give itsmoisturizing qualities to the skin and hair.

Baobab oil has been used for centuries to improve elasticity of the skin and encourage regeneration of skin cells. It is easily and quickly absorbed and does not clog pores. The omega fats in the oil make it useful in treating acne, eczema and psoriasis. It also known to reduce scarring from acne, heal scars and stretch marks, reduce signs of aging and improve the skin tone. It also alleviates pain from burns. Baobab oil is used in small quantities in carrier oils like creams, lotions, body butters and other skin care products.

It is also used to moisturize dry and brittle hair. The vitamin A, E and F in the oil aid in soothing itchy and irritated scalps, reducing hair breakage as well as regeneration of hair follicles. As a conditioner, apply it after shampooing your hair and leave it for 30 minutes then rinse it off. As a leave in conditioner, rub a small amount of the oil in your palms and massage it in your hair. You can also choose to mix a few drops of the oil in your normal hair conditioner. 


SliceofNature sells great high quality organic and pure baobab oil.

Monday, January 31, 2011

What is African sage?

African Wild Sage also known as leleshwa, is a small tree or shrub common in the Great Rift Valley of Eastern Africa. Leleshwa oil is obtained through steam distillation of the flowers and fresh leaves of the leleshwa shrub. This condensation process is safe and completely organic. The oil is a pale greenish/yellowish liquid and mobile at room temperatures. Research has proven it to be more effective in cleansing the skin than Tea Tree oil. Its scent is herbaceous with a floral camphor note to it.

Benefits and uses
Leleshwa oil has powerful antiseptic, antifungal, anti-acne and anti-dandruff properties. It is good to note that application of this oil is only safe in small quantities unless diluted with a carrier oil or a solubilized solution. It is great when used in lotions, creams, masks, soaps, cleansers, shampoos and gels. It is also used in detergents as a natural disinfectant (non toxic and non irritant). Leleshwa oil is also great in aroma therapy for the treatment of anxiety and headaches. It is also used as a relaxation oil and great for soothing sore legs and feet.  Used in a diffuser, it promotes sleep, clears most stagnant residual odors in a room and acts as an insect repellant. It also reduces transmission of infectious diseases like colds and flu. Aromatherapy is however not recommended for pregnant women in the first three months.