Origin: Palm oil is an edible vegetable oil which is obtained from the fruit of oil palms. The oil palm is believed to have originated from West Africa. History reveals that the evidence of its use was found in Africa and it is believed to have been used as a staple food crop. The history of palm and palm oil is 5000 years old. Egyptian people used palm oil for religious purposes and used palm oil cake in Burial services of the people. Palm oil was considered a significant product and has high societal value. Palm oil was one of the earliest trade products from Africa.
The use of palm oil and its commercialization increased significantly because of the British revolution and it was spread in different countries. After the commercialization and expansion in different countries lead to more and more products with palm oil. Palm oil was used to make candles, lubricants, edible oil, soaps, and cosmetics, etc. European invested in Palm oil production in Africa and brought the palm oil culture back in Europe. Soon after this, it was introduced in South East Asian countries.
Scientifically: Palm oil is obtained from the palm trees. Palm is botanically known as Elaeis guineensis. Palm oil is reddish in color as it has high beta-carotene content. The crude red palm oil is filtered, refined, bleached and deodorized to form RBD palm oil which does not contain carotenoids.
Palm oil, like all other fats, is composed of fatty acids and is rich in Vitamin E. palm oil is full of Glycolipids, Phenolic acids, Flavonoids, Phytosterols, and Vitamin K. carotenoids present in palm oil, give it a color and help in protecting the skin from the sun, and blocks UV radiation.
Usage: Palm oil is used for different purposes like lubricants, oils, edible oil, soaps, cosmetics, toiletries, wax, etc. Palm oil is considered to be effective in weight loss and for increasing the body's metabolism. palm oil is used effectively for frying. Palm oil is also used in making processed food and other edible items. It is also very beneficial in treating skin ailments, wounds, etc. It is effective because of antimicrobial properties. Palm oil is also helpful in nourishing skin and hair.
Below are some DIYs with Palm oil:
- Take a few drops of red palm oil, massage it evenly over the face and neck. You can rinse after 30 minutes or leave it on overnight. This oil helps in deep nourishment of the skin, give a polished hydrated look.
- mix half a teaspoon of honey and half a teaspoon of palm oil together. Apply this mixture over the face for 10 minutes. Rinse it later after massaging it. This helps in eliminating wrinkles and fine lines.
- Apply warm palm oil directly to the hair and hair root helps in thickening of hair and promotes hair growth.
- Make a mixture of some yogurt, fresh aloe vera gel, lemon juice and a teaspoon of palm oil. Mix them together and apply on the face. This pack helps in fading scars and acne. Rinse it after 15 minutes.
- Palm oil can be directly applied to cuts and wounds. Palm oil helps in the healing of the skin.