Karité, also known as shea butter, is a fat extracted from the nuts of the shea tree, which is native to West Africa. It is a crucial ingredient in various cosmetic products due to its moisturizing and healing properties.
Rich in vitamins A, E, and F, karité helps in protecting the skin from the sun, preventing dry skin, and managing eczema and other skin conditions. It's also used in hair products to nourish and improve hair texture and strength.
Beyond cosmetics, karité has significant cultural and economic importance in West Africa. It's traditionally harvested and processed predominantly by women, providing them with a vital source of income and playing a role in community development.
Environmentally, the shea tree helps in soil conservation and acts as a buffer against desertification, making karité not only beneficial for personal care but also for ecological health.