The Healing Properties of Shea Nut Butter

Shea butter has been used in Africa for many years, primarily for its moisturizing and healing properties. The butter, either in its pure form or in any of dozens of cosmetic forms such as lotions and lip balms, also rejuvenates hair, according to TreasuredLocks.com. Full of vitamins and skin-conditioning fats, shea butter is also an anti-inflammatory and offers a mild degree of sun protection.

Protects and Conditions

• Whether in its unrefined form or as an ingredient in a commercially produced lotion or salve, shea nut butter, or shea butter, conditions and moisturizes skin exposed to wind, sun and extreme temperatures. The butter contains vitamins A, E and F, which all assist in healing and protecting skin, according to TreasuredLocks.com. These vitamins and their easy absorption also allow shea butter to help restore shine and moisture to hair.

Adds Moisture and Elasticity

• Shea butter has been proven to help treat or heal minor skin conditions, according to TreasuredLocks.com, and is most well-known for its use combating stretch marks during pregnancy. In addition, shea butter can be used on eczema, psoriasis, diaper rashes, other rashes, sunburn, cracked heels and minor burns. Dry skin, dry scalp, peeling skin (particularly after sunburn or tanning) and itchy skin can also benefit from shea butter's soothing moisture and the elasticity it can return to skin.

Reduces Inflammation

• The fats and vitamins in shea butter give it mild anti-inflammatory properties, making it beneficial for sunburns and other burns, as well as conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis. Shea butter can also help prevent sunburns, as the chemical makeup gives it low-level UV protective properties (approximately SPF 6, according to Botanical.com).