Shea Butter Research Articles

The power of natural products against bacteria causing acne.

To determine the inhibitory effect of lemon, green tea and Shea butter on the bacteria isolated from patients with acne. This Experimental study was conducted at the Microbiology laboratory of the Department of Veterinary Medicine, Kerbala University, Iraq. From February-March/2022. Simple random sampling was used to collect the samples. The culture media was incubated aerobically for 24 hours at 37°C. Lemon, green tea and Shea butter was used to test antimicrobial activity against the isolated bacteria. Antibiotics disks of tetracyclin, methicillin, azithromycin and clarithromycin were used to compare the effect of natural products. Data was analysed using SPSS. There were 50 subjects (35 males and 15 females) included, with mean age 21±3 years (range: 19-24 years). Among the 50 swabs, 26(52%) different microorganisms were isolated. All the isolates show 100% sensitivity against lemon, and 83.3% against green tea, while all the isolates were resistant to Shea butter. The sensitivity of isolates towards the antibiotics used ranged 16.6-83.3%. While lemon and green tea could play a crucial role against different types of bacteria that caused acne, Shea butter had no role to play in this regard.

Study on the influence of oils on the formation of liquid crystal structure of hydrogenated lecithin system

ABSTRACT Hydrogenated lecithin (HLC) is a liquid crystal emulsifier which can be oriented at the oil-water interface to form a long-range ordered and short-range disordered liquid crystal (LC) structure. In this study, the effects of oils commonly used in cosmetics (white oil, squalane, caprylic/capric triglyceride, Jojoba seed oil, shea butter) on the formation of LC structure for HLC system were investigated. The results showed that the numerous LCs was formed when the mass ratio of cetostearyl alcohol/HLC exceeded 8/2 in a single oil system. Among them, the liquid crystals formed by white oil and shea butter were more orderly. Meanwhile, the content of different oils also had a certain impact on the amount of liquid crystal. In this regard, the influence of compound oil system on liquid crystal was further studied by regulating the proportion and type of oils. It was found that the LC area was the largest and the LC structures were relatively regular when squalane/caprylic/capric triglyceride/shea butter was compounded. This study provided certain experimental basis and references for the development of LC emulsion formulations of hydrogenated lecithin system.

Profitability of shea butter processing business for rural women in Borgu LGA, Niger State, Nigeria

Profitability of shea butter processing business for rural women in Borgu LGA, Niger State, Nigeria

Modelling and optimization of shea butter biodiesel engine performance evaluation using response surface methodology

In this study, the performance and emission parameters of compression ignition (CI) diesel engine powered by shea butter biodiesel blends with diesel via clay doped ionic liquid catalyst (CD-IL) were modelled, optimized and predicted using Response surface methodology (RSM) technique. Using the (American Society for Testing Materials) ASTM D 6751 criteria, the produced biodiesel's quality was successfully evaluated. The biodiesel blends (B0, B50, B100), load (100, 200, 300)kg and speeds (1400, 1800, 2200) rpm were considered as the factors while Brake thermal efficiency, Brake specific consumption, Brake power, Nitrogen oxide and carbon monoxide emission were considered as the responses of the shea butter biodiesel engine. Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray fluorescence (XRF), and Brunaeuer Emmet and Teller (BET) were used to analyze the catalyst before and after treatment to ascertain their suitability for the process. The capability of the models was evaluated using the correlation coefficient (R2) and mean square error (MSE). The second-order polynomial model is shown in the Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) with an (R2 -0.9948, Adjusted R2–0.9880, Predicted R2–0.9163) for brake thermal efficiency, (R2 -0.9908, Adjusted R2–0.9790, Predicted R2–0.8529) for brake specific consumption,(R2 -0.9988, Adjusted R2–0.9972, Predicted R2–0.9807) for brake power, (R2 -0.9995, Adjusted R2–0.9988, Predicted R2–0.9917) for Carbon monoxide emission and (R2 -0.9979, Adjusted R2–0.9951, Predicted R2–0.9659) Nitrogen dioxide emission demonstrating the model's acceptance. The optimal condition for shea butter biodiesel engine performance of brake thermal efficiency (16.3%), brake specific consumption(0.83),brake power (1.5), Carbon monoxide emission (175 ppm) and Nitrogen oxide (150 ppm) was obtained at a biodiesel blend (B50), load of 300 kg and speed of 2200 rpm. The 3D model graphs showed the process parameters impacted on the response significantly with better combustion, cleaner air.fuel ration blend, lesser friction loss and air consumption. Hence the proposed RSM modelling tool for shea butter biodiesel engine performance prediction had the best performance at (B50) (50% biodiesel and 50% diesel).

Phytochemical profiling of wastes from the processing of shea butter (Vitellaria paradoxa) and pharmacological potentials within the paradigm of circular bioeconomy: Emphasizing antioxidant and antidiabetic applications

Shea butter is a natural fat that is extracted from the kernels of the shea butter tree, and it is widely used in food preparation, cosmetics, and therapeutic practices. Shea trees are prevalent across Africa, and the traditional extraction methods produce significant wastes. However, there is dearth of information on the phytochemical profiling of these wastes and their potential biomedical values. Thus, this study conducted a thorough phytochemical investigation of the shea butter wastes from different processing stages, including brown and black shea cakes (SNC1 and SNC2), shea nut shells (SNS), and shea nut wastewater (SNWW). By using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC–MS), the bioactive chemicals in these wastes were identified and quantified. Furthermore, the antioxidant and antidiabetic activities of the wastes were investigated for their potential pharmacological applications. The maximum antioxidant activities obtained at 60 mg/ml revealed DPPH radical scavenging of 62.34 % for SNC1, ferric reducing power of 68.13 % for SNC2, H2O2 radical scavenging of 38.46 % for SNS, and nitric oxide scavenging of 35.13 % for SNWW indicating their potentials in combating oxidative stress. Additionally, the promising anti-diabetic activity, with alpha-amylase inhibition reaching 84.74 % for SNS at 60 mg/ml highlights their potential in diabetes management. This study provides a holistic understanding of shea butter wastes, unraveling their chemical complexity and exploring their pharmacological potentials. It not only expands our knowledge of shea butter wastes, but also unlocks new avenues for utilization of the wastes in various industries, thereby contributing to waste management and sustainable exploitation of shea resources.

An Innovative Heating Solution for Sustainable Agriculture: A Feasibility Study on the Integration of Phase Change Materials as Passive Heating Elements

In this study, we investigate an innovative option for the ecological management of agricultural land. The focus is on the use of phase change materials (PCMs) for passive temperature regulation in greenhouses and fruit crop fields in order to reduce yield losses due to unforeseen late frost events. The use of PCMs represents a novel approach to enhancing crop growth and extending growing seasons without relying on conventional energy-intensive methods, providing a stable microclimate that can protect plants from cold stress. This passive regulation of temperature helps to reduce the need for fossil fuel-based heating systems, thereby lowering greenhouse gas emissions and operational costs. The application of PCMs in agricultural settings is particularly innovative as it leverages naturally occurring temperature variations to create a self-sustaining, low-maintenance solution that aligns with the principles of sustainable farming. This approach not only improves energy efficiency but also contributes to the resilience of agricultural practices in the face of climate variability. This study focuses on the possible use of PCMs in passive heating modules for the protection of potted plants in greenhouses. Various PCMs such as paraffin, beeswax, and shea butter were tested. Experiments were then conducted, using one kind of paraffin-based PCM, in a specially designed module. In addition, an FEM simulation model (CFD) was built and tested. The model was used to perform detailed analyses of the heat transfer efficiency, fluid dynamics, and overall performance of the modules. The model can also be used for optimization purposes (e.g., efficiency improvements).

Formulation and Evaluation of Lip balm prepared using beet root extract

Beetroot lip balm presents a natural and wholesome solution for lip care, harnessing the inherent benefits of beetroot extract. This lip balm stands out for its dual function of imparting a subtle tint to the lips while delivering essential moisture and nourishment. The formulation relies on basic yet effective ingredients like beeswax and coconut oil, supplemented optionally by shea butter or essential oils for added benefits and fragrance. By utilizing beetroot powder for color, this lip balm eliminates the need for synthetic dyes, appealing to those seeking a more natural approach to lip care.

DEVELOPMENT AND PERFORMANCE EVALUATION OF A MODEL CUTTING FLUID DEVELOPED FROM SHEA BUTTER OIL

This research was carried out to develop a model cutting fluid from Shea Butter oil and evaluate its performance in relation to temperature and surface roughness when compared to a commercial cutting fluid. The effectiveness of the cutting fluid was evaluated on a mild steel using a turning operation on the lathe machine. Temperature variations during the turning operation were measured using an infra-red gun thermometer while surface roughness was evaluated by employing a surface roughness tester. In this work Taguchi method was used to guide the selection of machine parameters such as cutting speed (rev/min), feed rate (mm/rev), and depth of cut (mm). Using Minitab, the cutting temperature and resulting surface roughness were measured for both the developed cutting and commercial fluids. The results obtained for the average cutting temperature of ~ 30oC and overall surface roughness value of 0.32μm for shea butter oil show a significant difference from that of ~ 35oC and 0.47 μm respectively for commercial grade cutting fluids. These results show that the shea butter oil-based cutting fluid not only exhibits great potential but also surpasses the current capabilities of commercial cutting fluids in terms of its cooling and surface finishing performances.

Impact of Different Extraction Processes on the Quality of Shea Butter (Vitellaria paradoxa) Produced by Women in the Northern Regions of Côte d’Ivoire

Aims: The objective of this study is to evaluate the influence of different extraction processes on the quality of butter produced in each region. Study Design: The production of shea butter (Vitellaria paradoxa) is an activity widely practiced in the North of Côte d’Ivoire using different processes, specific to each region. This leads to the great variability of butters on the market, calling into question the control of the quality of butter and limiting its valorization in the food and even technological fields. Place and Duration of Study: Laboratory of Food Biochemistry and Tropical Products Technology, between June 2021 and July 2022. Methodology: To do this, the physical and chemical properties of butter from four (4) regions of northern Côte d'Ivoire (Poro, Bagoué, Tchologo and Hambol) were studied to judge their qualities. These different butters were then subjected to an organoleptic test in order to evaluate their levels of acceptability by a panel trained for this purpose. Results: The results obtained reflect a significant influence of all the processes on the physical and chemical properties of the butter, particularly on the quality criteria. We observe a high level of oxidation between 10.347±0.01 meq/kg (Poro) and 10.430±0.011 meq/kg (Bagoué), an accentuated acidity where the acid number varied from 10.763±0.01 mg/g (Tchologo) to 11.373±0.01 mg/g (Bagoué), leading to high free fatty acid contents of 5.986±0.02% (Bagoué), 5.891±0.01% (Poro), 5.771±0.010% (Hambol) and 5.665±0.010 (Tchologo) and an impurity phase to monitor ranging from 0.168±0.002 to 0.192±0.001. These impurity indices mostly show non-compliance for direct consumption (category I butter). However, some conformities are recorded when butters are downgraded to category II intended for the food industry with vigilance on these said conformities. Finally, the organoleptic analysis revealed a strong correlation of the general appreciation of butters with the taste but also texture and color which were influenced by the processes. Conclusion: This study highlighted the impact of all the extraction processes on the shea butter produced in Côte d’Ivoire, particularly on the peroxide indices and free fatty acids; confirmed by sensory testing.

Quality Characteristics and Thermal Behavior Diversity of Traditional Crude Shea (Vitellaria paradoxa Gaertn) Butter from Burkina Faso

Quality Characteristics and Thermal Behavior Diversity of Traditional Crude Shea (Vitellaria paradoxa Gaertn) Butter from Burkina Faso

Innovation among Small-Scale Firms in Shea Butter Production in Ghana

Innovation among Small-Scale Firms in Shea Butter Production in Ghana

Emulsification of shea butter

This paper reviews the widespread application of shea butter oil as a popular natural skincare ingredient in cosmetics and personal care products, and explores the importance and application of emulsification technology in the preparation of shea butter oil. Firstly, it introduces the origin, characteristics, and multiple effects of shea butter oil in cosmetics. Secondly, it elaborates on the basic concepts of emulsification, including the types and mechanisms of emulsifiers. Subsequently, it discusses the application of emulsification technology in shea butter oil and methods for optimizing the emulsification process. Finally, it emphasizes the importance of selecting appropriate emulsifiers, controlling emulsification process conditions, and experimentally optimizing to improve the quality and stability of shea butter oil products.

The role of financial and marketing services on rural shea-producing women

Purpose: This study aims to empirically investigate the impact of financial and marketing services on shea butter production, with an emphasis on the Tolon district of Ghana, to inform evidence-based policies and practices. Research methodology: This study employed a quantitative research design, utilizing a survey approach to collect data from a sample of shea butter producers in the Tolon District of Ghana. In total, 151 Shea nut processors from Tolon, Dimabi 1, and Dimabi 2 were selected using a combination of purposive and simple random sampling techniques. Data were collected through structured questionnaires, which were subsequently analyzed using quantitative methods. Furthermore, the study employed linear regression analysis with an endogenous treatment effect model in STATA version 17 to examine the relationship between financial and marketing services, and shea butter production. Results: The empirical evidence derived from the linear regression with the endogenous treatment model indicates a statistically significant and positive relationship between financial and marketing services and shea butter production, indicating that financial and marketing services are significant factors in predicting the productivity of shea butter production. Limitations: The sample size of the study was small, which may restrict the generalizability of the findings. Contribution: This study provides novel insights into the dynamics of shea butter production in Ghana’s Tolon District by highlighting the quantitative effect of financial and marketing services on shea butter production, and the importance of improving access to these services. This study also provides evidence-based recommendations for collaborative synergies between government and non-governmental organizations to establish microfinance programs and marketing service centers to facilitate easier access to these essential services for shea butter producers.

Stretch marks: Efficacy of herbal remedies (Cocoa and shea butter, vitamin E, calendula oils) and student survey

The study sought to assess the efficacy of herbal remedies for treating stretch marks by conducting a comprehensive literature review and administering a survey to gauge the knowledge and opinions of pharmacy students. This initiative aimed to bridge existing gaps in understanding and perceptions surrounding stretch marks and available treatment modalities. The survey was conducted among 40 first-year pharmacy students and comprised two sets of questions and demographic data: knowledge-based and opinion-based. Descriptive statistical analysis and Chi-square tests were performed using SPSS software were conducted to determine statistical significance. Among the participants, 75% were female with 90% of them within the age range of 18 to 30 years. The knowledge-based survey revealed a solid understanding of aspects related to stretch marks among participants. Almost all (97%) of respondents correctly identified that stretch marks usually appear on the skin due to rapid weight changes. Eighty percent correctly acknowledged stretch marks as a type of scar, while two-thirds answered affirmatively regarding their potential to cause irritation and itching. Misconceptions were identified, such as respondents incorrectly believing that stretch marks are exclusively formed through pregnancy. In the opinion-based survey, participants expressed varying viewpoints on stretch marks and herbal treatments. Statistical analysis revealed several significant correlations between demographic factors and participants' understanding of stretch marks. The survey findings provide valuable insights into stretch mark management and students' perceptions of herbal remedies. Overall, the study underscores the significance of further research and targeted educational initiatives in dermatological conditions like stretch marks.

Formulation and Evaluation of Herbal Lip Balm

Abstract: All lip balms, including those referred to as salves or butters are meant to keep lips safe. They have a moisturizing component that stops water loss, such lanolin, shea butter, or petroleum jelly. Lip balm has wax added to help it adhere to lips. Lip balms are products that are put to the lips to shield them from the elements and stop them from drying out. There are a lot of chemical-based lip balms on the market right now from brands like Nivea, Himalaya, Blistex, The Body Shop, and so on. Since lipstick is a cosmetic form akin to lip balm, references to lipstick in the cosmetic literature apply despite the paucity of data on this type of formulation reported in the literature. It is important to distinguish lip balm from lip gloss, as the former is a product meant for use by both sexes. It's important to balance the concentration of the primary ingredients, such as butters, oils, waxes, and other excipients, while making lip balms. To guarantee they have healthy, radiant skin, many people look for anti-aging creams, weekly facials, daily skin washes, and a host of other goods

Utilization of shea butter waste-derived hierarchical activated carbon for high-performance supercapacitor applications

In this work, carbonization and subsequent activation procedures were adopted to synthesize waste shea butter shells into oxygen-rich interconnected porous activated carbon (SAC_x, x is the mass ratio of KOH used for activation). The SAC_1.5 electrode material showed outstanding electrochemical performance with high specific capacitance (286.6 F/g) and improved rate capability, owing to various synergistic effects originating from a high specific surface area (1233.5 m2/g) and O-rich content. The SAC_1.5-based symmetric device delivered an impressive specific capacitance of 91.6 F/g with a high energy density of 12.7 Wh/kg at 0.5 A/g. The device recorded 99.9 % capacitance retention after 10,000 charge-discharge cycles. The symmetric supercapacitor device successfully lit an LED bulb for more than 1 h, signifying the potential of bio-waste as an efficient carbon precursor for electrode material in practical supercapacitors. This work offers an efficient, affordable, and environmentally friendly strategy for potential renewable energy storage devices.

Effect of Silica and Alumina Nanoparticles Addition on the Dielectric and Rheological Properties of Shea Oil Methyl Ester

Study’s Excerpt/Novelty This study introduces a novel green nanofluid by incorporating shea methyl ester (SME) with surface-modified Al2O3 and SiO2 nanoparticles, addressing the environmental concerns associated with mineral-based transformer oils. The research highlights that SiO2 nanoparticles significantly enhance the dielectric properties of the base oil while minimally impacting its viscosity, suggesting improved insulation performance. This innovative approach offers a sustainable alternative with superior electrical characteristics, potentially transforming the application of transformer oils in the industry. Full Abstract The increasing environmental and utility concerns of mineral-based transformer oils have impelled research into alternative insulation liquids. This study developed a green nanofluid using a two-step approach, incorporating shea methyl ester (SME) derived from shea butter oil and surface-modified Al2O3 and SiO2 nanoparticles. The dynamic viscosity at 25 °C and dielectric properties of the developed nanofluid were investigated in the frequency range of 0.1–15 kHz. Adding nanoparticles into the SME noticeably increased the oil's viscosity, with SiO2 nanoparticles having the least effect on the base liquid's viscosity. The addition of 0.6 wt% of Al2O3 nanoparticles increased the dielectric loss of the SME at all frequencies (0.1–15 kHz), while the addition of 0.6 wt% SiO2 filler nanoparticles reduced the loss of the base oil at frequencies beyond 4 kHz indicative of an improved electrical property. Adding Al2O3 and SiO2 to the base SME oil obtained higher relative permittivity values. This study successfully developed an SME and single nanoparticle-based nanofluid, incorporating a 0.6 wt% weight fraction of surface-modified Al2O3 and SiO2 nanoparticles. The addition of these nanoparticles increased the dynamic viscosity of the base methyl ester oil, with approximately 43% and 36% increases, respectively. The nanofluid developed by incorporating SiO2 nanoparticles showed promising dielectric performance for its application as an insulation liquid.

Investigation of Potentially Toxic Elements (PTEs) Concentrations in Natural and Synthetic Product Cosmetics Used in Lagos, Nigeria

The use of cosmetics in their various forms has been historical and still trending. Potentially toxic elements (PTEs) have been found to be critical constituents of these cosmetics, though as either functional ingredients or as impurities. This has raised health concerns such as; in kidney failures, heart diseases and birth defects. This study investigate the presence and levels of certain indexed PTEs in both natural and synthetic cosmetics and their associated health implications on users in Lagos State, Nigeria. Three natural product cosmetics namely; palm kernel oil (PKO), shear butter and ‘tiro’ labelled as NC1, NC2 and NC3 respectively, and five brands of synthetic product cosmetics (SPCs) labelled as SC1, SC2, SC3, SC4 and SC5 were selected for analysis based on questionnaire response to cosmetic use among Badagry women. The metal analysis done using ICPOES showed that NC3 is PTEs laden; Mn (38.132 + 8.195) ppm, Ni (42.04 + 2.331) ppm, Pb (65.341 + 3.064) and Zn (92.89 + 6.62) ppm. Mn concentration is the highest amongst all the SPCs, ranging from 17.56 + 2.09 ppm to 29.04 + 0.012 ppm. Ni concentration ranged from 0.506 + 0.073 ppm to 9.88 + 1.43 ppm. The presence of these PTEs could be attributed to unintended contamination from raw material or product processing, or deliberately added as part of the required ingredients as in the case of some synthetic cosmetics. The level of PTEs in the synthetic cosmetics were below the permissible limits set by WHO. However, the risk of bioaccumulation exists due to continuous use over time.

Development and evaluation of anti-hemorrhoid alum suppositories

Rectal suppositories of Alum were prepared using different bases and polymers like Shea butter, and PEG-4000 and its effect on the In-vitro release of Alum was studied. The Agar-based suppositories were non-disintegrating, and non-dissolving, whereas PEG-4000 based were disintegrating and dissolving. The Fusion Method and Trituration Method were used for the formulation of the suppositories. In-vitro tests were carried out on the formulations. All the formulated suppositories were tested for several physical parameters namely weight variation, drug content of suppositories, disintegration test, and dissolution rate. The PEG-4000 and Shea butter suppositories were of macro melting range, disintegration, and liquefaction time.

Oil produced from Ghana Shea Nut crop for prospective industrial applications

Though little research has been done, shea nut oil (Shea Butter), is a promising shea product with great potential for use in industrial shea product manufacture. To assess the oil obtained from the shea nuts for personal, commercial, and industrial use, this study focuses on the extraction process, the optimal solvent for extraction, thermodynamics and kinetic studies, and characterization of the oil. Using different solvents as well as extraction temperatures and times, the oil was extracted using the solvent extraction method. Moreover, models of thermodynamics and kinetics were used in examining the Shea nut oil extraction at different durations and temperatures. At the highest temperature of 333 K (at 130min), the highest oil yields of 70.2 % and 59.9 % for n-hexane and petroleum ether, respectively, were obtained, following first order kinetics. For both petroleum ether and n-hexane, the regression coefficient (R2) was 1. For the extraction with n-hexane and petroleum ether, the mass transfer coefficient (Km), activation energy (Ea), entropy change (ΔS), enthalpy change (ΔH), and Gibb's free energy (ΔG) were, respectively, (0.0098 ± 0.0061 and 0.0123 ± 0.0084) min−1, 74.59 kJ mol−1 and 88.65 kJ mol−1, (−236.15 ± 0.16 and −235.63 ± 0.17) J/mol K, (71.88 ± 0.06 and 85.94 ± 0.06) kJ/mol, and (148.75 ± 1.52 and 162.46 ± 1.52) kJ/mol. These values favor an irreversible, forward, endothermic, and spontaneous process. Gas chromatography analysis was used to identify the principal fatty acids in the oil, which include stearic acid (52 %), oleic acid (30 %), and linoleic acid (3 %), as well as various minor fatty acids. The oil's potential bonds and functional groups were identified using Fourier Transform Infrared analysis, and the physicochemical parameters such as the iodine value, peroxide value, acid and free fatty acid values were found to be within acceptable ranges for use in domestic, commercial, and industrial settings.