🌰 Kokum Butter

Ayurvedic butter for external skincare—composition, traditional uses, and Indian sourcing.

⚠️ EXTERNAL USE ONLY

Overview

Kokum butter is extracted from the seeds of Garcinia indica fruit, a tree native to India's Western Ghats region. Traditionally used in Ayurvedic practices, kokum butter is prized for its firm texture, excellent emollient properties, and non-greasy absorption. It's harder and more brittle than other plant butters, making it ideal for structured products like lotion bars.

For external use: Skincare formulations and topical applications.

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Key composition highlights

  • Fatty acids: stearic acid (50-60%), oleic acid, palmitic acid.
  • Texture: hard, brittle at room temperature; melting point 98-104°F.
  • Absorption: excellent skin penetration, non-greasy feel.
  • Stability: highly stable, long shelf life (2-3 years).
  • Color: white to pale yellowish.

Tip: Kokum butter's hardness makes it perfect for solid stick formulations.

Common external benefits

  • Deep moisturization without greasiness
  • Skin regeneration support (traditional use)
  • Suitable for damaged or cracked skin
  • Anti-aging skincare applications
  • Hair conditioning for dry, damaged hair
  • Soothing for minor skin irritations

These are traditional Ayurvedic external uses—not medical claims.

Common uses

  • Lotion bars: creates firm, long-lasting moisture bars.
  • Lip balm: non-greasy lip conditioning.
  • Body butter: blends well with softer butters and oils.
  • Soap making: adds hardness and moisturizing properties.
  • Anti-aging creams: traditional use for mature skin.

Safety & Side Effects

Edibility Classification

⚠️ EXTERNAL USE ONLY


Kokum butter is derived from kokum fruit seeds and is used for cosmetic applications, not for consumption. (Note: Kokum fruit itself is edible and used in Indian cuisine, but the butter extracted from seeds is for external use.)

Typical Uses

External / Cosmetic Uses:

  • Firm lotion bars and moisture sticks
  • Non-greasy lip balm formulations
  • Body butter blends with other carriers
  • Soap making for hardness and moisture
  • Traditional Ayurvedic anti-aging creams
  • Treatment for damaged or cracked skin

Traditional or Cultural Uses:

  • Ayurvedic skincare traditions from India
  • Western Ghats regional cosmetic practices

Known or Common Side Effects

  • Rare allergic reactions in sensitive individuals
  • Generally well-tolerated for most skin types
  • May be too rich for oily or acne-prone skin
  • Patch test recommended before use
  • Not for internal use—intended for topical application only

SuperfoodSpace Disclosure

SuperfoodSpace Disclosure: This product is traditionally used as external. Only food-grade, properly sourced forms should be consumed where applicable. External-use products are not intended for ingestion. Individual tolerance may vary. Consult a qualified professional before use if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medications, or managing a medical condition.

Typical origins & sourcing

Kokum butter is sourced from India's Western Ghats biodiversity hotspot. Prioritize:

  • Primary region: Western Ghats of India (Maharashtra, Goa, Karnataka).
  • Traditional processing: cold-pressed from kokum fruit seeds.
  • Sustainable harvesting: supports local communities and biodiversity.
  • Organic certification: ensures purity and traditional methods.
  • Related to: Garcinia cambogia (same family, different species).
  • Storage: very stable; lasts 2-3 years in cool, dry conditions.

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Composition Profile

Fatty Acid Profile — click to expand/collapse
ComponentRange
Stearic Acid50-60%
Oleic Acid (Omega-9)35-45%
Palmitic Acid2-5%
Linoleic Acid1-2%
Melting Point98-104°F

Note: High stearic acid content gives kokum butter its firm texture.

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