About Jojoba Oil

Native Americans were the first to discover the many benefits of the jojoba shrub. They used it as an appetite depressant when food supply was low, and to cure kidney and liver ailments. Native Americans also used jojoba oil for skin, hair and scalp health--a practice that's continued today.

Jojoba Shrub

The jojoba shrub is native to the southwestern United States and northwestern Mexico, but is also grown in parts of South America, Israel and Australia. It is an evergreen shrub with blue-green, upright leaves that limit sun exposure. The leaves have a wax--like coating that allows them to retain water in dry heat. At full maturity, the jojoba shrub grows anywhere from 6 to 15 feet, and can live up to 200 years.

Jojoba Oil

The jojoba shrub grows flowers with small seeds that contain a liquid wax commonly known as jojoba oil. Jojoba oil is curiously similar to the sebum that skin produces naturally. This is probably the reason why skin naturally absorbs jojoba oil and does not get irritated by the substance. The oil also has natural antioxidants, vitamins E and B and other soothing ingredients that allow it to heal wounds.

Skin Benefits

Jojoba oil is absorbed quickly without clogging pores, making it an ideal option for those who suffer from acne but still wish to moisturize their skin. It allows the skin to maintain a normal pH balance, so it's evenly hydrated without being oily. Iodine is also present in jojoba, which helps prevent bacterial growth and cure fungal infections like athlete's foot. Jojoba oil's vitamin E content also helps to lighten scars.

Hair Benefits

Jojoba oil is also a common ingredient in many hair care products. It helps prevent moisture loss from hair follicles. Additionally, jojoba oil helps condition hair to reduce tangles and thwart split ends. Jojoba oil can also help break down the build up of products like mousse, gel and hairspray on the scalp.

Alternative Fuel

Jojoba oil may prove to be useful as an alternative fuel source in the future. Studies have shown that it gives off less environmentally-harmful emissions than diesel fuel. No doubt more research will be conducted on this potentially highly-profitable natural source.

Resources

• Care Fair
• UCC