Cocoa butter
The Indian Mayan people were the first to discover the cocoa tree. The cocoa tree belongs to the family Malvaceae, and its scientific name is theobroma cacao. It grew in the amazon basins of southern America before being domesticated by the Olmecs in Mexico.
Cocoa butter is a type of fat extracted from the Cocoa beans. It is pale yellow and well known to make edible chocolates, some ointments, and pharmaceuticals. It has a cocoa flavor and aroma, and its melting point is just below (37 degrees) of human temperature.
What is cocoa butter good for?
Health benefits of cocoa butter.
- Skin health.
Mixed with other ingredients is used to make skin products. Applying cocoa butter on your face reduces the appearance of scars. However, it can clog the pores of your face, so it is advisable to use it in other areas. Doctors and midwives have advised pregnant women to use cocoa to prevent the formation of stretch marks.
It is known to moisturize the skin. It contains fats that form a layer on the skin and protects it’s from dryness.
- Highly nutritious
It contains a few nutrients, such as vitamin K and vitamin E. One tablespoon of cocoa butter contains calories and fats in plentiful. Vitamin e gives an even-toned face.
- Moisturize hair and protects the scalp
Are you tired of that dry hair and itchy scalp? Say no more. Apply on the hair and add moisture and nutrients. It helps give a shiny and healthy look to the hair.
- Protects from free radicals
As much as aging is inevitable, we are never ready to comply. Aging is brought about by unstable atoms caused by oxidative stress. Applying cocoa butter puts a pause on the formation of wrinkles and grey hair due to being rich in antioxidants.
- Used as food
It can be used to make chocolate since it has got an aroma and flavoring cocoa taste. Chocolate is believed to contain a high level of antioxidants. In another case, it can be used in cooking as well and especially while baking.
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