Shea Butter - The Gold of African Women

We cannot think of a more versatile product. One which, due to its unique properties, is universally used in cosmetics. In addition, it is equally popular with both men and women. 

Do you already know what product we are talking about? 

It is shea butter, also known as karité butter. It is a hard butter with a delicate nutty fragrance and a white-beige colour, which becomes a pleasantly soft oil when warmed in the hands. It is extracted from the seeds of an African tree, considered sacred for its longevity. It was brought to Europe in the 18th century by a Scottish traveller, and already in the 19th century it gained recognition across the continent. It owes its popularity to its invaluable nutritional qualities, working wonders for our hair, face and body.

It is native to Africa. There, it is more than just a cosmetic product. It is made by hand using traditional methods from the nuts of the Karite tree. It grows in a range from Senegal to Uganda. The production process is extremely labour and time consuming. It starts with harvesting the butter fruit, drying and separating the seeds, which are then roasted. It is interesting to note that the roasting time of the seeds determines the colour of the butter obtained later. As a result, we can find shea in shades ranging from yellow to black. Water is added to the roasted nuts and heated while crushing the mass. When we filter out the semi-finished product and cool it down, the butter is ready. To our dissatisfaction, it is often refined, as this deprives it of its characteristic aroma and colour. 

Nature's Manufaktura shea butter comes from traditional African factories. Obtaining the product from there was important to us for two reasons. Firstly, because it is free of chemical additives and does not lose many of its valuable properties (as is the case with mass production). Secondly, we support local industry and the development of local infrastructure. Thanks to this, African women have the opportunity to find legal employment, work in decent conditions and improve their lives and those of their families.

What is shea butter famous for? Be warned, the list is long. We encourage you to stock up with a cup of your favourite tea. :)

It regenerates and nourishes fantastically. It promotes faster healing of wounds. Soothes irritations. It is an excellent source of vitamins A and E, thanks to which it delays the skin ageing process by protecting it against the action of free radicals. Protects from harmful external factors - frost, wind, sun. You can find it in the composition of intensively moisturizing creams or body lotions. A natural sunscreen (SPF 6-10). It will restore shine to your hair when applied in the form of masks. It can be used as a night moisturiser, also under the eyes (reduces dark circles and puffiness). It replaces your favourite lipstick, has a firming effect and prevents water loss. It will help protect you from stretch marks or make them more shallow and less visible. It is an excellent base for first experiments in creating your own cosmetics. You can use it as a serum for dry hair ends. Applied all over the hair and left on for at least four hours, it will not only restore the shine and protect your hair from sun and frost but also moisturise your scalp. It will soothe sunburns and accelerate regeneration of damaged epidermis. It will soften calloused skin on knees, heels or elbows. If you apply a bit on your skin before spraying it with perfume, you will prolong the fragrance. Add a tablespoon to a warm tub of water and your body will stay moisturised after bathing. Apply after epilation and you will reduce the risk of irritation and eliminate the problem of ingrown hairs. Rub into nails and cuticles to make them healthier and shinier. Combined with your favourite essential oil, you can use it in a relaxing massage.  

In fact, we could go on and on. We could flood you with information on how to enjoy the benefits of shea butter. We think it's enough to point out that it can be used in body care from the feet up to the ends of your hair.

People with dry skin prone to irritation, damaged, flaky, wrinkled, atopic or with skin problems such as psoriasis or eczema will love shea butter. It is suitable for anyone with sensitive, dry facial skin. It is also a completely safe cosmetic for the care of infants and children.

Manufaktura Natura offers a valuable variety of butter, unrefined, organic. During the refining process, the butter loses many valuable properties, antioxidants and vitamins. 

Remember that the product is completely natural, with no added preservatives. It should be protected from high temperatures and direct exposure to sunlight. It is best stored in a refrigerator.