Nar Kachur Essential Oil

Posted on February 20, 2026 by AyurvedicOils

Can Turmeric be white? Yes! And here it is. Much similar to Turmeric, Nar Kachur herb is known as White Turmeric. Then am I not right in calling it as White Gold?

Indigenous to India and Indonesia, Nar Kachur is a well-liked herb found all over in the Indian sub-tropical regions. Popularly known as Zedoary, the essential oil of Nar Kachur is extracted from the rhizomes of the plant Curcuma zedoaria, which is a member of the ginger family Zingiberaceae.

The world of Ayurveda acclaims this herb and its oil as an excellent digestive aid and in particular it has been used in this holistic medicinal system as a gastrointestinal stimulant. Nar Kachur essential oil is also used in the Traditional Chinese Medicine in the treatment of numerous chronic disorders including cancer.

Purchase Nar Kachur Oil – Retail – CLICK HERE

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Historical uses of Nar Kachur:

Known with many popular names across the world, Zedoary was a not so familiar herb in the Western world until it was spread across as a popular spice reminding of ginger, turmeric and mango put together.

It is known as Karchur in Sanskrit, Kachur in Hindi, Meitei Yaingang in Manipuri, Zedoary in English, Ezhu You in Chinese and Shatkachuro in Gujarati. This herb is spread across the natural beds of the Eastern Himalayan region and Karnataka and is cultivated in many countries.

The fresh Nar Kachur herb is used in Indian cooking and also in preparing pickles mainly because of its gingery-mango and energizing taste. It is locally called as amb halad where amb means mango. Indonesians use Nar Kachur paste in preparing traditional curries.

The powdered herb was used in treating menstrual pain and for regularizing menstruation. Nar Kachur is trusted to tone the uterus and benefit the reproductive system in numerous ways. The ancient people used it as a natural aphrodisiac agent for its stimulating properties.

The juice extracted from the rhizomes of this plant was used in curing infections in the urinary tract and treat other urinary disorders with its diuretic properties. It also serves as an effective remedy in treating colic and flatulence.

Zedoary or Nar Kachur is still used in the Indian folklore medicine as an anti-venom for poisonous snake bites like the Indian Cobra bites. The fresh paste of this herb has been in use for treating wounds, pain, inflammation and certain other skin problems.

Chemical constituents and therapeutic properties of Nar Kachur Oil:

Curzerene, curcumenol, germacrone, zederone, curmanolide A, furanodienone, curcumenone, beta-elemene, pyridine, tau-elemene, isocurcumenol and numerous other components form a part of Zedoary essential oil. The remedial values of this oil are stomachic, diuretic, aphrodisiac, stimulant, anti-inflammatory, carminative, analgesic and emmenagogue.

Ayurvedic health benefits of Nar Kachur essential oil:

As a member of the Ayurvedic family Adrak kul, Nar Kachur is an effective herb that treats many health conditions.

Ayurveda is a holistic healing system that trusts human beings as a part of nature and any medication for their illness are readily available in nature itself. With this underlying principle, Ayurvedic therapy revolves around natural remedies like herbs, Ayurvedic essential oils, healthy and balanced diet, yoga, physical exercises and meditation.

Every individual is diagnosed in a unique manner in Ayurveda as it appreciates individual differences and believes that every human being is made up of 3 vital energy elements known as doshas. They are vata, kapha and pitta doshas where vata represents air as its major element, pitta stands for fire and kapha signifies water.

Every person is said to have any one these doshas as a predominant dosha and this predominance determines the Ayurvedic body type, personality, character and certain other behavioral attributes.

According to Ayurveda, vata energy controls the process of metabolism and elimination of toxins from the body. Pitta influences digestion, brain power, energy creation and body temperature and kapha governs the flow of fluids in the body like blood, mucous etc, while contributing to skin health, strength and lubrication of muscles and joints.

Balance between these three doshas indicates that a person is hale and hearty and the imbalance of any one of these or all the three doshas ends up in illnesses.

Your first Ayurvedic consultation with the expert will help you identify your predominant body type, individual constitution, diet that suits your health and physical and mental exercises that would help you in preventing diseases in the future.

Nar Kachur essential oil suppresses excess vata and kapha energies and aids in increasing pitta dosha in case of deficit. This is the main reason that Nar Kachur and its essential oil are helpful in treating digestive disorders, respiratory problems and impurities in the blood while enhancing the natural health of one’s skin.

Let’s have a look at the major Ayurvedic health benefits of Zedoary or Nar Kachur essential oil.

1. Excellent digestive aid:

Since the prehistoric period, Nar Kachur herb is used to treat problems in the digestive system especially in the gastrointestinal tract. This herb and its essential oil are said to be beneficial in treating indigestion, colic, loss of appetite, spasms, flatulence, infestation of worms, tastelessness and irregular bowel movement. It is considered as a natural aid for preventing ulceration due to stress.

Nar Kachur oil is proven safe for using it on the skin. Add 3 drops of Nar Kachur essential oil with almond oil and gently massage it on your tummy for relieving from colic, dyspepsia, flatulence, indigestion, irregular bowel movement and spasms.

You can also add 2 drops of this oil to warm bathing water for stimulating your digestion, improving your appetite and assist in expelling the worms through excretion. Adding 2 to 3 drops of Zedoary oil to your diffuser will also help in enhancing your appetite, reducing vomiting sensation and promoting speedy digestive process.

2. Treats respiratory problems:

Respiratory problems mainly occur due to the excess of kapha dosha, due to which fluids like mucous and phlegm gets deposited in the lungs and other parts of the body. It blocks the nasal passages and ends up in breathing difficulties and other respiratory disorders like cough, asthma and cold.

Adding 3 drops of Nar Kachur oil to steaming water and inhaling the medicated steam releasing the camphoraceous aroma of this oil can assist you in loosening the phlegm and mucous deposits and ease breathing. You can also add 2 drops of this oil in your rubs and gently massage it on your neck, chest and back to treat congestion, cold and blocked nose.

3. Relieves pain and inflammation:

As an effective anti-inflammatory agent, Nar Kachur oil helps in treating wounds, inflammation and certain other skin ailments. This herb was used in the Indonesian fold medicine for its effective anti-inflammatory property specifically in treating ulcerative colitis known as an inflammatory bowel disease. It was also used in protecting the lungs of the asthmatic patients by restraining the release of inflammatory mediators during the short-term treatment.

The diuretic properties of this oil supports in eliminating the excess fluids and toxic substances in the body especially in the joints causing pain and inflammation in case of rheumatism and arthritis. It is also used in reducing the body temperature during fever by promoting sweat and purging infectious microbes through urine.

Nar Kachur essential oil is also effective in treating abdominal pain, amenorrhea and certain other menstrual problems. Add 3 drops of this oil to warm bathing water or to hot compress to help relieve rheumatic pain, inflammation and menstrual discomforts. You can also blend 4 to 5 drops of Nar Kachur oil with coconut oil and gently massage it on the affected area for quicker assistance.

4. Fights against cancerous cells:

A 2013 research on ‘Zedoary oil (Ezhu You) inhibits proliferation of AGS cells’ proves that Zedoary, a Chinese medicinal herb has anticancer properties. This study concluded saying, “Zedoary oil inhibited AGS cell proliferation through cell cycle arrest and cell apoptosis promotion, which were related to Bax/Bcl-2 protein expression.”

Another study on ‘Applications of Nanoparticles in Herbal Medicine: Zedoary Turmeric Oil and Its Active Compound beta-elemene’ published in the American Journal of Chinese Medicine states that Zedoary turmeric oil has been approved by the Chinese SFDA as safe for treating various cancerous tumors that affect ovaries, brain, lungs, colon, breast, liver and certain other tissues.

Other uses:

Nar Kachur oil is also used as a mosquito repellant by applying it on the skin after blending it with almond or coconut oil. This herb has also been proved effective in the treatment of gonorrhea, erectile dysfunction, urinary problems, hiccups, blood disorders, piles and certain other skin problems. Nar Kachur essential oil is also used in soap fabrication and perfumeries.

Disclaimer:

Never use essential oils internally. Always remember to use essential oils in a diluted form as pure essential oils are highly concentrated liquids. Consult your Ayurvedic practitioner before using the right essential oil for your unique constitution and health conditions.

Thought for the day:

Nature always wears the colors of the spirit. -Ralph Waldo Emerson

Suggested Reading:

Gastrointestinal and Liver Disease Nutrition Desk Reference from CRC Press
The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Essential Oils: The Complete Guide to the Use of Oils in Aromatherapy & Herbalism by Julia Lawless
Way of Ayurvedic Herbs: The Most Complete guide to Natural Healing and Health with Traditional Ayurvedic Herbalism by Karta Purkh Singh Khalsa, Michael Tierra

Reference Links:

Pumpkin Seed Oil

Posted on February 19, 2026 by AyurvedicOils

There’s no Halloween without Pumpkin and there are no Pumpkin seeds without enormous healing values. These seeds are highly nutritious and the oil extracted Pumpkin seeds are often celebrated for its amazing remedial benefits to prostate problems like benign prostatic hyperplasia or BPH, diabetes, arthritis and kidney disorders.

Widely known as Pepitas, Pumpkin seeds and its oil are used and recommended in Ayurvedic healing for treating urinary problems, low bone density, arthritis, bed-wetting, joint pain, vascular diseases, controlling cholesterol levels (LDL) and for supporting the functions of the kidneys and prostate.

Purchase Pumpkin Seed Oil – Retail – CLICK HERE

Chemical constituents and therapeutic properties of Pumpkin Seed Oil:

Palmitic acid, linoleic acid, oleic acid, myristic acid, stearic acid, palmitoleic acid, linolenic acid and behenic acid are the major chemical components of Pumpkin seed oil. It also contains carotenoids like β-carotene and lutein and tocopherols including ϒ- gamma, β- beta and delta tocopherols.

Pumpkin seeds are also a rich source of zinc, proteins, magnesium, tryptopan (serotonin), thiamine and manganese.

The remedial values of Pumpkin seed oil are antioxidant, anti-arthritic, anti-parasitic, anti-inflammatory, alterative, antimicrobial, detoxifying, anti-hypertensive, emollient, nutritive, anti-inflammatory, sedative, moisturizing and tranquilizing.

Historical uses and importance of Pumpkin Seed and its oil:

Pumpkins are one among the most popular staple food and are said to have been originated in America. The term ‘Pumpkin’ is extracted from the Greek word Pepon and the meaning is ‘large melon’. Pumpkin seeds are also known as Pepitas and the Mexican Spanish term ‘pepita de calabaza’ simply stands for ‘little seed of squash’.

These petite but powerful seeds are said to have been discovered in the Mexican caves in 7,000 BC. The tribal populace of Native America, including the Aztec cultures (1300 to 1500 AD) has used Pumpkin and its seeds for food and medicinal purposes.

The greatest news is that Pumpkins have been planted in about 100,000 acres across U.S and Illinois is the leading producer of Pumpkins. China is the largest producer of Pumpkins in the world followed by U.S, India, Mexico, Ukraine and Russia.

The United States pharmacopoeia listed Pumpkin seeds as an effective medicine for treating parasites and these seeds have been used in the traditional and alternative medicinal practices for treating gastric disorders, urinary illnesses, prostate problems, tapeworms and intestinal parasites.

Pumpkin has been an excellent food for Pilgrims, especially for its high nutritious profile and its potent to stay fresh. This pilgrim verse written in circa 1633 utters all that is vital about Pumpkins.

“For pottage and puddings and custards and pies
Our pumpkins and parsnips are common supplies,
We have pumpkins at morning and pumpkins at noon,
If it were not for pumpkins we should be undoon.”

Even today Pumpkins and its seeds are used as a wholesome food by the pilgrims and have been employed as an essential part of everyday cooking across the world, including the Asian, European and Mediterranean countries.

Pumpkin seeds are loved and recommended as a healthy snack across the globe for numerous reasons and you can bank upon them during your next munch.

Ayurvedic health benefits of Pumpkin Seed oil:

Pumpkin seed oil is said to have a positive effect on all the three doshas or the fundamental energies of life.

Botanically called as Cucurbita pepo, Pumpkin like all other members of the Cucumber family, Cucurbitaceae, it is trusted as an excellent detoxifying agent in Ayurvedic healing. Thus Pumpkin and its nutrient seeds and oil are prescribed for discarding ama or toxic deposits in the system.

Ayurvedic texts prescribe its use in cleansing the bladder and other adjoining organs of the body.

The most awe-inspiring fact is that Pumpkin seeds are extremely rich in an amino acid called as tryptopan that assists in eliminating the toxins in the mind, thus assisting the treatment of stress, anxiety, trauma, anger and is also proven to enhance your cognitive abilities and tranquilize the nervous system.

Ayurveda beckons Pumpkin and its seeds as livotonic, means a tonic for the liver that helps in strengthening the liver, regulates its normal functioning and support in the treatment of hepatitis, degeneration and inflamed liver conditions.

None of us can deny that every day is a new day and a new birth in your life and it’s appropriate to call it as a newer opportunity and a souvenir indeed.

The fruit of pessimism can suppress you while the seeds of optimism can impress your living. In a much similar way, disease is not a matter of agony and is instead a blessing to be happy about.

Ayurveda regards disease or sickness as an opportunity to discern the imbalance in your system. Treating the root cause of an illness can save your head now and prevent such conditions in the future as well.

Nature is the best medicine and everything present in nature is made up of five fundamental elements of Nature like earth (muscles and bone), fire (digestive fire and body temperature), water (blood and other vital fluids), air (all that we breathe) and space (spirit and soul).

Being a part of nature, any illness is an indication of being of out of balance with nature. Using natural medications can certainly assist in permanent remedy of a disease and support in leading a balanced and hearty living.

Ayurveda prescribes natural medications like herbal remedies, Ayurvedic essential oils (life force of plants), yoga (sister science of Ayurveda), meditation (tonic to the soul), Pranayama (conscious breathing technique), Abhyanga (Ayurvedic massaging), Panchakarma (detoxification practices), Dinacharya (Ayurvedic routine) and more.

Here’s the heart of this article and you’re right. Pumpkin seed oil can assist in the treatment of the following health conditions:

1. Supports in the treatment of BPH (benign prostatic hyperplasia) and certain other prostate problems:

Pumpkin seeds are the most favorite snack of men in Bulgaria, Ukraine and Turkey. These seeds are loaded with high zinc content and are responsible for supporting prostate health and aids in decreasing the size of prostrate.

Benign prostatic hyperplasia or BPH is a medical condition in men, which is characterized with enlarged or inflamed prostates. Even though it is non-cancerous in nature, BPH requires prompt medical attention. This in general enlarges in middle-aged and elderly men along with age.

Recent studies witness that the presence of cucurbitacins, a chemical component in Pumpkin seeds assist in thwarting testosterone (male hormone) into dihydrotestosterone (an associated element) that is said to encourage the production of prostrate cells.

The celebrated book ‘An A-Z Guide to Healing Foods’ by Elise Marie Collins describes that Pumpkin seed oil have been proved as an alternative remedy for treating benign prostate enlargement and its varied symptoms. Marie also suggests that the use of Pumpkin seed oil along with other natural medications like Saw Palmetto for effective treatment of prostate conditions.

What is all in Pumpkin seeds that can help in the treatment of BPH? The presence of zinc, lignans and phytosterols in these tiny little seeds has been effective in reducing the risk associated with BPH.

Various research analysis reports on the phytosterol components in Pumpkin seeds, including sitostanol, beta-sitosterol, avenasterol, campestanol, stigmasterol and campesterol are responsible for its efficacy in the diagnosis of BPH.

Ayurveda calls Pumpkin seed as Basti Shoda, which means a remedy for cleansing the bladder and the adjacent parts of the body.

Pumpkin seeds and its oil were also prescribed in Ayurvedic medicine for increasing sperm count and for treating impotence and premature ejaculation, for which it is known as ‘Virya Vardhak’, which enhances intense power and vitality.

2. Combats against cancer, diabetes and high cholesterol levels:

Pumpkin seeds have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that can help in preventing the growth and spread of cancerous cells and support the recovery of patients during their treatment tenure and healthy cardiovascular system.

The presence of phytosterol compounds in Pumpkin seeds has been associated with controlling the level of cholesterol in the system. Phytosterols work by restraining the absorption of cholesterol in the small intestine and enhance the level of HDL cholesterol.

A 2011 study on ‘The effect of pumpkin (Cucurbita pepo L) seeds and L-arginine supplementation on serum lipid concentrations in atherogenic rats’ published in the African Journal of Traditional, Complementary and Alternative Medicines, states that about 37 days of regular supplementation of Pumpkin seeds on rats that are on atherogenic diet-induced atherosclerosis showed a 78 % fall in LDL (bad) cholesterol and 47% reduction in total levels of cholesterol and a promising increase in defensive HDL cholesterol (imperative for healthy heart functions).

A 2013 study on ‘Effects of phytoestrogen extracts isolated from pumpkin seeds on estradiol production and ER/PR expression in breast cancer and trophoblast tumor cells’ by the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Rostock, Germany states “Phytoestrogens have a controversial effect on hormone-dependent tumors” and it concludes by reporting that the presence of lignans in Pumpkin seed are effective in the treatment and prevention of breast cancer.

Numerous researches suggest that the presence of omega-3 fatty acids like α-linolenic acid in Pumpkin seed oil might aid in reducing inflammation and the occurrences of chronic health problems like high blood pressure, cancer and heart diseases, quotes the University of Maryland Medical Center.

Pumpkin seeds are alkalizing in nature to the body’s natural pH levels, where most of the snack foods might cause acidity, pain and even cancer. Pumpkin seed oil is also effective in reducing the oxidative stress responsible for cancer, diabetes and other metabolic disorders.

A research study led by Tao Xia in the East China Normal University have concluded that certain compounds in Pumpkin extracts are known to encourage regeneration of damaged pancreatic cells, thus enhancing the levels of insulin in blood.

3. Assists in diagnosing osteoporosis, bone disorders and low immunity:

The most promising attribute that makes Pumpkin seed oil as an armament against osteoporosis is its high zinc, phosphorous and magnesium content, where insufficient consumption of zinc, magnesium and certain other minerals are often associated with weak bones and increased rate of osteoporosis.

Zinc plays a vital role in cellular growth, immune power, sensory functions and sleep patterns. Deficiency of zinc is characterized by acne, frequent cold and cough, depression, fatigue, poor cognitive abilities and more.

Low levels of blood of the trace mineral and osteoporosis diagnosed at the spinal and hip area were reported due to the deficient levels of zinc in the diet, states a study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition with 400 men in the sample group.

4. Alleviates stress, depression and sleeping difficulties:

Pumpkin seed oil contains numerous amino acids like tryptophan, which gets transformed to niacin and serotonin (neuro-transmitter in the brain for stirring your mood). These compounds have been proved universally for its ability to assuage stress levels, social anxiety turmoil, and depression along with fostering a tranquilizing sleep.

Sleep is nature’s medicine for repairing, healing and renovating the physical, emotional and spiritual throbbing and damages. Stress, depression, anxiety and fatigue often curtail natural sleep patterns that agonize your nights and ruin your days throughout.

By promoting a peaceful sleep at night, Pumpkin seed oil pacifies the mind, body and the soul. Stress, anxiety and depression are often the factors behind excessive loss of hair. With its potent to alleviate stress, depression and fatigue, Pumpkin seed oil can control stress related hair loss conditions like Alopecia Areata, Trichotillomania, and Telogen Effluvium.

Pumpkin seed oil promotes hair growth by augmenting the follicular strength, and natural sheen says Marnie Nussbaum, celebrated Cosmetic dermatologist. She also states that Pumpkin Seed oil curtails 5-alpha reductase enzyme. This enzyme has been proven to delay and impede the growth of hair.

Pumpkin seeds are packed with rich nutrients including vitamins A and B, zinc, protein, iron and omega-6 fatty acids that are extremely beneficial for the growth of healthy hair, nourishment of dry and scaly scalp conditions.

5. Helps mitigate kidney disorders and inflammatory conditions:

Pumpkin seeds are an excellent source of antioxidants and essential fatty acids that are proved in treating inflammatory problems by reducing inflammation, particularly in joints without any negative effects (According to a study published in the Journal of Pharmacology Research). It is mainly for this reason; Pumpkin seed oil is recommended for treating arthritis.

Frequent urination and the excess pressure to urinate recurrently are among the few symptoms of an overactive bladder. Pumpkin seeds are an excellent remedy for supporting the overall health of the excretory system and treats overactive bladder and other urinary problems effectively (With reference to the Journal of Traditional and Complementary medicine – 2014 study).

BPH (Benign prostatic hyperplasia) might also pave way for stones or calculi in the bladder and frequent infections in the urinary tract.

The presence of B vitamins, minerals, amino acids and proteins in Pumpkin seeds are also proved to maintain regular functions of the kidneys, bladder and urinary tracts by restraining surplus levels of DHEA (dihydro epi-androstenedione).

Best ways to use Pumpkin Seed oil:

The best possible ways to use Pumpkin seed oil for enhancing your health condition is to use it in an enriching massage blend with your favorite essential oils like Peppermint oil, Mace oil, Lavender oil, Patchouli oil, Ashwagandha oil, Orange oil and more, as the great news is………….. Pumpkin seed oil blends well with all the oils.

Other health benefits:

Ayurveda suggests the use of Pumpkin seeds and its oil for balancing excess vata and pitta doshas, especially during the fall season and discarding toxic remains in the system. Pumpkin seeds in general are known to strengthen the functions of the lungs and intestines.

The potent to relieve excess sogginess in the body, makes Pumpkin seeds a friendly all time snack for supporting human health in general. It is also used in eliminating parasites and tapeworms.

Disclaimer:

This article is meant only for the purpose of information and is not indented for the treatment of any health conditions or as a replacement for any prescribed medicines or the advice of a medical expert. We, at Essential Depot are not healthcare professionals and this information is shared only with the view of cascading the traditional wisdom of Ayurvedic healing.

Essential oils are prescribed only for topical use. This is due to the fact that 100 percent pure and organic oils are highly concentrated liquids and may cause allergic reactions when used internally.

Always speak with your Ayurvedic practitioner or healthcare expert before choosing the appropriate essential oils for your unique individual constitution and state of health. Extra care should be taken in using essential oils if it is for children, elderly populace, nursing and pregnant women.

Thought for the day:

I love the scents of winter! For me, it’s all about the feeling you get when you smell pumpkin spice, cinnamon, nutmeg, gingerbread and spruce.

– Taylor Swift

Suggested Reading:

Dr. Katz’s Guide to Prostate Health: From Conventional to Holistic Therapies by Aaron E. Katz
Pumpkin, a Super Food for All 12 Months of the Year by DeeDee Stovel
Pumpkin Seed Flour and its Micro-nutrient levels: Production of Pumpkin Seed Flour and Evaluation of its Potential to Enhance Vitamin A and Iron Levels of Maize Flour by Twinamasiko Andrew
How Does A Pumpkin Grow?: Discover the secrets about how pumpkins grow! Be inspired to plant a seed and watch the beauty unfold in your own backyard. (Country Garden Book 2) by Renae Smith
Pumpkin Seeds :Healthy and Easy Homemade for Your Best Friend by Heviz’s

Reference Links:

Organic Mango Butter

Posted on February 19, 2026 by AyurvedicOils

Mango is an epitome of love and celebrated as the king of fruits in India and Mango butter extracted from its kernel can never disappoint in amusing you with its enormous health benefits for the skin and hair.

Do you know that the very sight of the bright and glowing yellow colored mangoes can instill absolute personal and professional success? Trust me, yellow is the color of the Solar plexus chakra (Manipura), which is often associated with the inner fire and power of intellect, confidence, exuberance, decision making and optimism.

Mango is also an excellent choice for stimulating the sacral chakra (Swadhisthana), which is responsible for reproduction, vitality, creativity and sexual wellness.

Botanically called as Mangifera indica, Mango is beckoned as Aamra in Sanskrit and is known as Hridaya (supports the heart functions), Bala (strengthens the system) and Vrysya (excellent aphrodisiac that enhances reproductive functions, semen count and vitality) in Ayurveda.

Mango butter is also called as Mango kernel fat. With its exceptional moisturizing and emollient properties, this creamy butter nourishes the skin and hair from within. The easily melting quality of this butter during contact with skin makes it a vital ingredient in many sunscreen lotions, baby creams, frizz control products and moisturizing balms.

Purchase Organic Mango Butter – Retail – 3 oz – CLICK HERE

Purchase Organic Mango Butter – Retail – 8 oz – CLICK HERE

Historical importance and uses of Mango and its golden butter:

Mango is a proud member of the cashew family, Anacardiaceae. With about 1,000 varieties of mangoes grown across the world, Mango is said to have originated in the Indo-Burmese region before 5,000 years, as old as the Ayurvedic medicine. Mango is the national fruit of India.

The mango tree is a large lushes green tree seen at a height of 15–30 meters and favored for both its green and ripe fruits. It grows particularly well in well-drained sandy loam and does not favor heavy wet soils.

Mango trees thrive well in tropical and subtropical climatic conditions. The soil ph is expected to be between 5.2 and 7.5 to obtain the best results in the growing process.

The interesting historical reference is that the most renowned Mughal Emperor, Akbar the Great, planted about 100,000 mango trees in Eastern parts of India.

The flowers of the mango tree are seen growing in pretty bunches, and start to appear at the end of winter to the beginning of spring. Both the male and female flowers are both seen on the same tree.

The flowering stage in the tree is noticed at different months of the year in different regions of India, as they favor certain specific climatic conditions. A specific variety of mango called Neelum is seen to grow two crops in a year in Kanyakumari, but only once a year in the Northern regions of India.

Along with Jackfruit and Banana, Mango is cherished as one among the three imperial fruits in Tamilnadu, India and is popularly called as Maa, Pala and Vazhai (Mango, Jackfruit and Banana).

The fruit of the mango tree, which is the most cherished part of the tree, is an egg shaped fleshy drupe. These fruits are green in color and turn yellow when ripe.

They are approximately 8-12 cm long and are seen in shapes of round, heart shaped, oval, or kidney shaped. The flesh is white and tart to taste when unripe and is bright yellowish orange and sweet when ripe with a flat pit in the middle.

Mangoes are mostly available in the months of April and May and nearly 210 species of the fruit are harvested during the season. Most of them are exported around the globe. The skin and the pulp of the mango form 85% of the fruit and the seed makes 15%. The raw or green mango is used in making chutneys and pickles, and the yellow is used most commonly in desserts.

Mango butter contains a natural polyphenol known as Mangiferin. It has been used since the primordial times for treating inflammation and pain with its analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties.

Mangiferin is used as an antioxidant in the brand name Vimang and is used in Sri Lanka to deal with diabetes in the brand name Salaretin.

Extraction of Mango butter:

The seeds of the mango fruit are first collected and washed with water immediately after collection. Later the seed are then sundried to reduce the moisture content to 12-15%. Later they are roasted in a drum roaster and the hull is mechanically removed, or sometimes manually removed by beating them with wooden clubs.

The separated pieces are then sent to a hammer mill where they are made into pellets in a pellet making machine. They are then cooled in a cooler and brought to room temperature. Next they are transported to the solvent extraction plant.

The processor is then used to produce flakes by crushing the seeds using a flaking roller mill and thus Mango butter is extracted. Mango butter is solid at room temperatures and melts at 35-43 °C, thus making it the most appropriate butter for sunscreen creams, moisturizing products, baby lotions and hair care items.

Composition and properties of Mango butter:

Chemical constituents of Mango fat are palmitic acid, stearic acid, oleic acid, arachidic acid and linoleic acid. The butter has antioxidant, emollient; wound healing, anti-aging and regenerative properties.

A 2013 study on the ‘Protective Nature of Mangiferin on Oxidative Stress and Antioxidant Status in Tissues of Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Rats’ published in ISRN Pharmacology states that “Mangiferin reveals a broad range of pharmacological effects, including antidiabetic, antitumor, antiviral, immunomodulatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant activities.”

Health benefits of Organic Mango butter:

The butter obtained from the pressed seed of the kernel of the Mango Tree is one of the highly prized butters and is looked for in the industry cosmetics to be used as a major ingredient that forms the base for soap making and products that deal with body care.

The most prominent uses of Mango butter are:

With its rich Vitamin A, C and E, Mango butter combats the damage of free radicals and guards the skin from sun damages.
Works as an excellent scalp moisturizer with high level of fatty acids.
Acts as an effective sunscreen agent and heals sunburn, wounds and other infections.
Nourishes the scalp, locks natural moisture in the hair, fights hair fall and is a boon to dry, dull and lifeless hair.

Excellent antioxidant that combats free radicals thus fights aging and sun damages:

Mango butter is rich in antioxidants and with the presence of enormous nutrients, including Vitamins A and E. These constituents help in keeping the skin healthy and young, supporting it to fight against the damage of free radicals and aging.

A 2013 study by the Medical University of Wroclaw on ‘Mangiferin – a bioactive xanthonoid, not only from mango and not just antioxidant’ have stated that Mangiferin is a natural polyphenol extracted from plant, especially the mango tree (Mangifera indica).

Various other pharmacological studies have witnessed that Mangiferin portrays various activities including, “analgesic, antidiabetic, anti-sclerotic, antimicrobial and antiviral, cardio-, hepato-, and neuroprotective, anti-inflammatory, anti-allergic, MAO inhibiting and memory improving, as well as radio protective against X-ray, gamma, and UV radiation.”

This research also concludes about various other studies that have proved the ability of Mangiferin to restrain the growth of cancerous cells and cancerogenesis. Owing to its ultra violet radiation-protecting properties and antioxidant ability, Mangiferin is used in the manufacturing of cosmetics and skin care products.

Blending Mango butter with natural oils like Jojoba oil can elevate its beneficial quotient to the skin in terms of enhancing the natural sebum secretion in the skin and making it look younger and softer.

It can also aid in lessening wrinkles, fine lines, crow’s foot and sagging skin, thus granting firmness by boosting the suppleness and elasticity of the skin surface.

Natural moisturizer that promotes cellular regeneration:

Mango butter is much similar to Shea and Cocoa butter but it is light and varies in its fatty acid content. The butter is fatty and sweet in its natural form, making it the best additive used in body care and cosmetic products.

The butter of mango is rich and creamy, which is hard at room temperatures and exhibits natural emollient properties. It is a rich source of essential fatty acids and has been traditionally used in the rain forests and tropics for its soothing and moisturizing properties. For this reason it has been used in lotions and creams to serve as a moisturizer and mild lubricant for the skin.

The moisturizing and emollient properties of the oil help restore moisture and promote cell regeneration again facilitating younger looking skin. The butter can also be used to treat diseases like eczema, skin rash, insect bites, and poison ivy as well.

Applying Mango butter on your skin as a massaging aid can assist in the production of collagen, which is responsible for the verve and vitality of the skin surface. It helps in diminishing acne scarring, fading stretch marks and scars.

Mango is called as ‘Varnya’ in Ayurveda for its ability to enhance the natural glow and fairness of the skin. It also assists in opening blocked pores of the skin, thus releasing impurities from the skin surface.

Mango butter is non-greasy and it easily penetrates into the skin, helps repair dry skin, mature skin conditions, eczema and dermatitis. You can also blend Mango butter with few drops of skin enriching oils like Lemon oil or Patchouli oil and guard yourself against UV radiation and changes in weather conditions.

Nourishes the scalp and locks natural moisture in the hair:

The high level of fatty acids present in mango butter makes it suitable to be used as a moisturizer on the scalp as well. The lack of moisture in hair can lead to hair damage through breakage, and hair fall.

Regular application of Mango butter on the scalp and hair can preserve and seal the moisture content in the hair making it lushly healthy and protecting it from drying.

Since Mango butter contains huge amounts of vitamins such as A, C, and E, and also antioxidants, it can enrich the root of your hair, strengthen the hair follicles, and add up to its volume and control frizz and breakage.

Mix 5 drops of Rosemary oil with a tablespoon of Mango butter and massage it gently on your scalp. Wrap your hair with a warm towel and let this blend penetrate deeply into the scalp for about an hour. Wash it with a mild shampoo for controlling dandruff, dry and itchy scalp conditions.

Since vitamins A and C have positive effect and direct relation to the growth of hair, it’s quite obvious that Mango Butter can contribute to healthy hair. The butter naturally helps protect the skin and the hair from the sun’s rays giving protection as an extremely effective sunscreen to the skin and the scalp also.

Disclaimer:

This information is only meant for educational purposes. It is not prescribed for diagnosis or as a substitute for prescription medicines or professional medical advice. We are not healthcare experts and this information is shared only with the idea of enlightening the healing wisdom of Ayurveda.

Organic butters and essential oils are only for topical application and not for ingestion. Consult your Ayurvedic expert/ medical professional prior to choosing the appropriate essential oils or organic butters for your unique individual constitution or Prakriti and your Vikruti or current state of health.

Thought for the day:

Never lose an opportunity of seeing anything beautiful, for beauty is God’s handwriting.

-Ralph Waldo Emerson

Suggested Reading:

Organic Body Butter Made Easy: Nourish, Hydrate and Heal with Luxurious Homemade Body Butter Recipes by Karina Wilde
Antimicrobial and antioxidant potency of Mangifera indica L. stem: Ethnopharmacology by Kalpna Rakholiya, Mital Kaneria, Sumitra Chanda
The Aromatherapy Encyclopedia: A Concise Guide to Over 395 Plant Oils by Carol Schiller, David Schiller
Organic Body Care: 101 Homemade Beauty Products Recipes-Make Your Own Body Butters, Body Scrubs, Lotions, Shampoos, Masks And Bath Recipes (organic … homemade body butter, body care recipes) by Gabrielle Landreau
Natural Butters To Make Skin Care Products (How To Make Natural Skin Care Products Series Book 18) by Miriam Kinai

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