According to VitaminStuff.com, shea butter comes from the karite tree nut that grows wild in the western and central regions of Africa. The nut is considered a commodity, providing the area with food, medicine and income. Shea butter can help in healing burns, sores, psoriasis and dermatitis, though it shouldn't replace more conventional treatments for those conditions. It can also help reduce the appearance of scars, stretch marks and wrinkles. Create your own custom shea butter at home using your choice of essential oils and fragrances.
Step 1
Pour 2 to 3 inches of distilled water into the bottom half of a double boiler. Bring the water in the double boiler to a boil over medium heat. Melt 6 oz. to 1 lb. of unrefined shea butter into the top half of the double boiler.
Step 2
Add 4 oz. of almond, jojoba or grape seed oil to the melted shea butter. Stir the butter and oil together and add 1 tsp. of cornstarch and the contents of one vitamin E capsule. If you wish to add one or two drops of fragrance oil, add it now. Be aware that some fragrances cause skin irritation in some individuals.
Step 3
Fill an extra-large bowl with ice and water. Sit the top half of the double boiler with the shea butter mixture into the bowl.
Step 4
Mix the cooled shea butter mixture with a hand mixer set at medium speed. Continue to blend with the mixer until the butter forms peaks and becomes stiff.
Step 5
Store your homemade shea butter in an airtight container. Refrigerate to extend the life of your butter for up to 10 months.
Things You'll Need
- Distilled water
- Double boiler
- Unrefined shea butter
- Measuring cup
- Almond oil
- Jojoba oil
- Grape seed oil
- Measuring spoons
- Cornstarch
- Vitamin E capsule
- Cosmetic-grade fragrance oil -- optional
- Extra-large bowl
- Ice
- Hand mixer
- Airtight container
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