Description
Natal mahogany is an evergreen tree of eastern and southern Africa, common in coastal Mozambique. Its fruit splits to reveal black seeds almost covered in a bright red coat. Rural women gather the seeds from wild trees, then dry and clean them before pressing. Mafura butter is pale golden to tan, soft at room temperature and melts at around body temperature. It is mainly made of palmitic and oleic acids and has a light, earthy scent.
Details
| Botanical name | Trichilia emetica (Natal mahogany) |
|---|---|
| Origin | Mozambique, South Africa |
| Part used | Seed |
| Extraction | Pressed from the seed |
| Texture | Soft, rich, low melt |
| Ingredients | 100% mafura seed butter |
In southern Mozambique, mafura has long been rubbed into hair and skin and used for soap and candles.
How to use
- Body: warm a fingertip amount and smooth over dry skin.
- Hair: work a small amount through dry ends.
- DIY: melt into body butters and lip balms.
Store below 25°C (77°F). It softens in warm rooms; this is normal.
FAQs
What does mafura butter smell like?
Lightly earthy.
Is it hard like shea?
No. It is softer and melts at around body temperature.
Where does it come from?
Wild Natal mahogany trees in Mozambique and north-eastern South Africa.
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.