How to read a dilution percentage is on Aroma Science.
It is not a liquid oil. It is a soft fat from Africa — Shea Butter.
Anne Kennedy likes it for body butters, because the moisture hold is excellent. It is solid at room temperature and melts as soon as it meets skin, leaving a nourishing film.
1. Why refined?
Unrefined shea smells strongly of smoke and earth, and the colour is deep yellow. Refined shea is ivory and has little odour of its own, so it suits an aromatherapy balm and does not cover the essential oils.
2. What it does
- Holds water: it keeps moisture in and softens dry skin, especially elbows and heels.
- Soothes: Valerie Ann Worwood notes anti-inflammatory and protective traits, suited to damaged skin.
3. Two classic blends (with sources)
Blend 1: Basic Hand Butter Balm
- Who: hands after housework, winter cracks, hangnails.
- Source: The Complete Book of Essential Oils and Aromatherapy, Valerie Ann Worwood (Page 443)
- Shea butter: 14g (the original uses cocoa butter; the book notes shea as a very good substitute)
- Jojoba oil: 30ml
- Beeswax: 14g
- Essential oil: Benzoin or Myrrh, 10 drops.
- How: melt together over hot water. For dry, cracked hands.
Blend 2: a lavender and thyme body butter
- Who: very dry skin on the body, or muscles that want easing.
- Source: Aromatherapy for Beginners, Anne Kennedy (Page 31)
- Shea butter: 1/2 cup
- Coconut oil: 1/2 cup
- Essential oils: lavender 30 drops + thyme 20 drops.
- How: whip until fluffy. Apply over the body after a bath. It nourishes, and it can ease tiredness.