Cocoa butter has been a go-to comfort ingredient worldwide, often without people even realizing it. It’s the main component in most chocolates, giving them that smooth, creamy texture we all love. But there’s more to cocoa butter than just satisfying our taste buds. Extracted from the cacao bean of the cacao tree, it has been used for years in toiletries, medicine, food, and ointments. Here are thirteen reasons to add cocoa butter to your daily routine.
Cocoa, also known as Theobroma, translates to ‘food of the gods.’ This rich butter is a staple in skincare products and cosmetics due to its therapeutic properties. For centuries, people in Africa have used cocoa butter to protect, heal, and moisturize their skin from harsh sun and wind.
Difference Between Cocoa and Cacao
Cacao beans are found in the oval-shaped pods of the cacao tree and are the raw, unprocessed form. These beans are harvested, fermented, and dried. Once roasted and processed, they are called cocoa beans. These cocoa beans are pressed to produce cocoa butter, and the remaining solids are used to make cocoa powder. Cocoa butter is off-white or ivory and is resistant to oxidation, which preserves it longer and makes it suitable for various uses.
12 Wonderful Benefits & Uses of Cocoa Butter
1. Moisturizer
Cocoa butter is a fantastic natural moisturizer that melts just above room temperature. It’s rich in fatty acids that deeply hydrate the skin. You can make your own whipped body butter with simple ingredients like shea butter, cocoa butter, coconut oil, almond oil, and lavender essential oil. This homemade butter will leave your skin soft and healthy, perfect for combating winter dryness.
2. Hair Conditioner
Cocoa butter isn’t just good for your skin; it’s also great for your hair. A leave-in conditioner made from cocoa butter, coconut oil, vitamin E oil, and vanilla essential oil can make your hair feel and look amazing. This conditioner can be used overnight or as a styling product, promoting healthier hair and scalp.
3. Anti-aging
Rich in antioxidants like oleic acid, palmitic acid, and stearic acid, cocoa butter helps protect your skin from stressors and free radicals, slowing down the aging process and acting as a mild sunscreen. It can help reduce wrinkles and make your skin look healthier.
4. Skin Healer
Cocoa butter is a gentle, non-toxic option for reversing skin damage caused by weather, hormones, and aging. It’s popular for treating stretch marks, age spots, scars, and skin irritations like eczema and dermatitis. It’s a natural alternative to commercial ointments and creams loaded with chemicals.
5. Shaving Soap
The creamy texture of cocoa butter makes it a great addition to shaving soap, providing a smooth shave and moisturizing the skin. A simple homemade shaving soap recipe includes cocoa butter, coconut oil, and essential oils like lavender or sandalwood.
6. Soft and Full Lips
Our lips don’t self-moisturize, so we often need lip balm. Cocoa butter is an excellent alternative to chapstick, providing deep moisture and a creamy texture. You can even customize it with essential oils or colors for a personalized lip balm.
7. Relaxation
Adding cocoa butter to a warm bath can create a luxurious, silky experience. The rich scent of vanilla and chocolate helps you unwind, and adding essential oils can enhance the relaxation effect. It’s also great for a foot soak to treat dry feet.
8. Aromatherapy
The natural fragrance of cocoa butter makes it suitable for aromatherapy. It blends well with essential oils like Neroli, which combats anxiety and depression, or Mandarin oil for promoting restful sleep.
9. Boost Immunity
Some research suggests that cocoa butter can boost the immune system. Cocoa mass polyphenol (CMP) in cocoa butter may help suppress T-cell activity, reducing inflammation and promoting hormonal balance. It’s beneficial for conditions like heart disease, mood disorders, and arthritis.
10. Improves Heart Health
Cocoa butter contains healthy fats that can improve heart health. Its polyphenolic components lower inflammatory markers and help with fat metabolism, reducing the risk of heart attack.
11. Eases Constipation
Regular consumption of cocoa products, including cocoa butter, can improve bowel function and ease constipation. This is especially helpful for children with sensory processing issues.
12. Encourages Happiness
Cocoa butter in chocolate raises endorphin and serotonin levels in the brain, improving mood and helping prevent emotional swings during PMS. It also contains phenylethylamine, which acts as a stimulant, enhancing mental alertness and stamina.
Where To Buy Cocoa Butter
To experience all these benefits, try pure and natural Organic Unrefined Cocoa Butter, available on Amazon.
