Adansonia Digitata Seed Oil is the oil expressed from the seeds of the Monkey Bread Tree or the Baobab, Adansonia Digitata L., Bombacaceae. Baobab oil (Mbuyu in Swahili) is derived from the seeds of the baobab tree, a tree that is native to Eastern and Southern Africa. Baobab oil has been part of African skin care for centuries. This rich, golden oil has a sligtly nutty smell. It has a high content of vitamins A, D, E and F (essential fatty acids). Baobab oil is said to provide impressive moisturizing benefits to the skin and hair. It absorbs quickly, improves elasticity, encourages regeneration of skin cells and does not clog the pores.

Saponification value: 205.
Iodine value: 80.
Average carbon number: 17.379.

Traditional use: An African tree steeped in mystery, legend and religious significance. The fruit provides an exquisite oil that is a rich and substantive moisturizer. The traditional method of oil extraction is by pounding the seeds. The oil thus produced is used as a rub to relieve aches, pains and rheumatism, but more especially, to treat skin complaints such as eczema and psoriasis. Baobab oil is extremely stable against rancidity. No adverse effects are reported or expected from the topical application to the skin.

(CAS: 91745-12-9; EINECS: 294-680-8)

Function: Emollient / hair conditioning / skin conditioning.

The actual or estimated LD₅₀ value: 5,000 mg/kg body weight. AICS status (NICNAS Australia): Number and description not found.

Source: Handbook Of Natural Ingredients - Anthony C. Dweck