Can I use marula oil on my face?

Yes, marula oil is excellent for facial use. Despite being rich in oleic acid, it's lightweight and absorbs quickly without clogging pores. Suitable for most skin types including oily and combination skin.

Is marula oil good for hair?

Yes, marula oil is great for hair care. Its light texture adds shine and moisture without weighing hair down. Apply a small amount to damp or dry hair, focusing on mid-lengths and ends.

Can I cook with marula oil?

Only use culinary-grade marula oil for food, and only as a finishing oil. It has a low smoke point and should not be used for cooking. Most marula oil sold is cosmetic-grade for skincare use only.

Why is marula oil so expensive?

Marula oil is labor-intensive to produce. Fruits are wild-harvested, kernels must be extracted and cracked by hand, and it takes many fruits to produce small amounts of oil. Fair trade certification ensures producers receive fair compensation.

Does marula oil go bad?

Marula oil is quite stable due to its high oleic acid content and natural antioxidants. When stored properly in a cool, dark place, it can last 1-2 years. Discard if it develops an off smell or color.

🫒 Marula Oil

The light, fast-absorbing African beauty and culinary oil—nutrition highlights, uses, and sourcing.

Overview

Marula oil is extracted from the kernels of the marula fruit (Sclerocarya birrea), native to Southern Africa. Primarily known as a beauty oil, culinary-grade marula oil also exists with a mild flavor. This light, fast-absorbing oil is rich in antioxidants and oleic acid, supporting African women's cooperatives through its production.

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Key nutrition highlights

Oleic acid (omega-9): 70-78% monounsaturated fat, extremely high concentration.
Vitamin E: powerful antioxidant protection (tocopherols).
Vitamin C: present in fresh fruit, some retained in oil processing.
Antioxidants: catechins, epicatechin, and other polyphenols.
Light texture: low molecular weight allows fast absorption.
Stable oil: resistant to oxidation and rancidity.

Note: Cosmetic-grade marula oil is most common, but culinary-grade exists for food use. Always verify which type you're purchasing.

Common benefits people look for

Skincare: facial oil, anti-aging, hydration without greasiness
Haircare: shine, conditioning, frizz control
Culinary: mild finishing oil for salads (food-grade only)
Fast absorption (non-greasy)
All skin types including oily and acne-prone
Supporting African women's cooperatives

These are general wellness themes in nutrition research and traditional use—not disease treatment claims.

Common uses

Facial serum: lightweight moisturizer, absorbs quickly without residue.
Body moisturizer: all-over hydration, especially after shower.
Hair oil: apply to damp or dry hair for shine and smoothness.
Massage oil: glides easily, absorbs well.
Salad dressing: culinary grade only, mild flavor (not for cooking).
Finishing oil: drizzle over cooked vegetables or grains.

Safety & Side Effects

Edibility Classification

Conditionally Edible (Strict Form & Sourcing Required)
The fruit and seeds have traditional food uses in Southern Africa, but most commercial marula oil is formulated for cosmetic use.

Typical Uses

Ingestible Uses (food-grade only):

Traditional consumption of marula fruit and kernel oil in African cuisine
Occasional use in specialty food products

External / Cosmetic Uses:

Facial moisturizer for anti-aging routines
Hair serum for shine and hydration
Body oil for dry skin
Cuticle and nail treatment

Known or Common Side Effects

May cause allergic reaction in individuals sensitive to tree nuts or stone fruits
Rare skin irritation or breakouts in acne-prone individuals
Digestive effects if consumed in large amounts
Always verify food-grade status before internal use

SuperfoodSpace Disclosure

SuperfoodSpace Disclosure: This product is traditionally used as both edible (in specific regional contexts) and external (cosmetic applications). Only food-grade, properly sourced forms should be consumed. Most commercial marula oil is formulated for external use and is 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

Marula oil primarily comes from South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, and other Southern African nations. Prioritize:

Type clarification: verify cosmetic vs. culinary grade for intended use.
Fair trade certified: supports women's cooperatives who traditionally harvest marula fruit.
Cold-pressed: preserves nutrients and beneficial compounds.
Organic certification: ensures wild-harvesting or sustainable cultivation.
Pure vs blended: check ingredient list for 100% marula oil.
Dark glass bottles: protects from light degradation.

Storage tip: Store in a cool, dark place. Marula oil is quite stable and resistant to rancidity compared to many other oils.

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Affiliate Recommendation

Premium fair trade African marula oil products coming soon.

Disclosure: This page may contain affiliate links. If you choose to purchase, we may earn a commission at no additional cost to you.

Related Benefits

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🌊 Mineral & Trace Element Support

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Nutrition Facts

Nutrition Facts (per 100g culinary grade) — click to expand/collapse

Per 100 g (culinary)%DV*

Calories884 kcal44%

Total Fat100 g128%

Saturated Fat9 g45%

Monounsaturated Fat (Oleic)70-78 g—

Polyunsaturated Fat4-7 g—

Total Carbohydrate0 g0%

Protein0 g0%

Vitamin E30-50 mg200-250%

Note: Primarily used as a cosmetic oil. Culinary grade should be used as a finishing oil, not for cooking. Typical serving is 1 tablespoon (14g).

*% Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.

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