What You Need to Know About Marula Oil

The marula fruit tree (Sclerocarya birrea) is indigenous to regions of southern Africa. These trees once grew only in the wild and were uncommon, but they are now cultivated.

Long ago regarded as sacred, the marula tree was associated with fertility and harmonious marriages. The fermented fruit was also believed to inebriate elephants, which seem to relish its sweet flavor as much as humans do.

Various parts of the marula tree are utilized in African cuisines and traditional remedies. Each marula fruit holds a tough brown nut that encases soft, white kernels.

Marula oil is mainly cold-pressed from these kernels, though oil can also be derived from the nut’s outer shell. Marula oil is protein-rich and readily absorbed, which makes it an effective treatment for skin and hair.

Marula oil smell

Marula oil is often used as a base note in fragrances, body creams, and soaps. It carries a fruity, floral aroma with a warm, nutty undertone.

Marula oil benefits

Marula oil is a relatively recent addition to the beauty oil market. Its light consistency and high moisturizing qualities have made it a sought-after remedy for skin, hair, and nails.

Marula oil appears in a variety of cosmetic formulations and can also be bought as a pure oil. Its beneficial constituents include:

• amino acids like L-arginine and glutamic acid, known for hydrating and anti-aging effects
• fatty acids such as palmitic, stearic, oleic, and myristic acids, which provide emollient and moisturizing properties
• antioxidants, including phenolic compounds and vitamins E and C, that combat free radicals and may protect skin from damage caused by UV exposure and environmental pollutants

Marula oil on face

Because marula oil is lightweight and fast-absorbing, it makes an excellent moisturizer for dry or mature skin. It may help smooth and soften fine lines, reduce the chance of stretch marks, and maintain skin hydration and nourishment. It also works well as a lip conditioner.

There’s no definitive scientific proof that marula oil treats conditions like eczema or psoriasis. Still, anecdotal reports suggest it can ease the irritation, itching, and dryness that sometimes accompany these disorders.

Marula oil for acne

Marula oil can be a suitable hydrator for oily complexions and acne-prone skin because it’s non-greasy.

It has antimicrobial qualities and may help combat bacteria that play a role in the development of pimples, whiteheads, and blackheads.

Marula oil for hair

Marula oil can nourish hair from the roots to the ends without leaving it overly oily. The oil’s hydrating, moisturizing, and occlusive attributes make it useful for dry, frizzy, or fragile hair.

Marula oil for nails

Marula oil helps keep nail beds and cuticles flexible, which may lower the chance of hangnails and painful, cracked skin around the nails.

How to use marula oil

Marula oil lends itself to many applications. These include:

Shampoo

There are a number of shampoos infused with marula oil. Alternatively, you can add a few drops of cold-pressed marula oil to your regular shampoo or use it as a pre-wash treatment.

Hair conditioner

Apply marula oil to the ends of your hair to combat split ends and dryness, or massage it into the scalp to alleviate dandruff. Try working it through your hair before heat styling, or use it as an anti-frizz shield in humid or rainy conditions.

Facial moisturizer

Whether your skin tends toward oiliness or dryness, marula oil can serve as both a daytime and nighttime moisturizer. A small amount is sufficient. Because it soaks in quickly, it can be applied before makeup.

Skin lotion

Marula oil can be used as a whole-body skin conditioner. Apply generously after showering, or use it before sleep on dry areas like elbows, knees, and the back of the ears.

Nail treatment

Massage marula oil into cuticles after removing nail polish, which can dry the nail area. It also makes a good overnight treatment to soften nail beds.

Safety precautions

There are no widely reported, specific risks tied to marula oil. However, individuals with nut allergies might react to marula.

If you’re worried about a possible sensitivity, perform a patch test before regular use:

• Place three or four drops of marula oil on the inside of your forearm.
• Wait 24 hours.
• If you don’t notice hives, redness, or irritation, it’s likely safe for you.

Avoid getting marula oil in your eyes.

Takeaway

Marula oil is abundant in antioxidants, essential fatty acids, and amino acids. It’s widely used in skincare formulations and appears to benefit oily, acne-prone, dry, and aging complexions. It’s also effective at maintaining hair softness, suppleness, and moisture.