Jojoba

Simmondsia chinensis

The liquid wax from the seeds resembles the sebum of human skin and is quickly absorbed. It is used for dry skin and hair; medical claims have been little studied.

Safety notes

Traditional use is no proof of effectiveness; if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking medication or have a medical condition, consult a doctor or pharmacist.

Preparation

External: oil in face cleansers, moisturising oil, beauty balm, bath oil, shampoo, hair oil.

Use in traditions

The O'odham, Seri and other peoples of the Sonoran Desert roasted the seeds as food and spread the oil on skin, hair and wounds. When sperm whaling was restricted in 1971, jojoba wax became a substitute for spermaceti in cosmetics and lubricants.

Applications

Use by tradition

How different herbal traditions describe this herb. Amounts are traditional guidelines checked for obvious errors; they are not medical advice. For poisonous plants no dosage is given on purpose.

Natural skin and hair care

Attributed effects

Retains moisture, calms sensitive skin, hydrates without clogging pores.

Preparation and amount

External: oil in face cleansers, moisturising oil, beauty balm, bath oil, shampoo, hair oil.

Ways to prepare herbs: Herbal oil (oil infusion)Salve and balm Steam and bath

Sources

All herbs from North America →