Many centuries ago, in the rainforests of the Amazon, the indigenous people of the region discovered the remarkable properties of a “Buriti Oil”. The indigenous tribes, including the Yanomami and Kayapo, held deep reverence for the Buriti tree, considering it sacred and a symbol of life and vitality.
The indigenous people of the Amazon had a profound understanding of the healing powers of nature and passed down their knowledge from generation to generation.
They discovered that Buriti Oil was not only an excellent source of nutrition but also possessed exceptional benefits for the skin and hair. They started incorporating the oil into their beauty rituals, using it to protect their skin from the harsh tropical elements and to maintain their lustrous, healthy hair. It’s thought they also used it as a natural sunscreen, shielding their skin from the intense Amazonian sun.
Word of this incredible oil soon reached the outside world, captivating the attention of scientists and beauty enthusiasts. Studies revealed that Buriti Oil is packed with antioxidants which help to protect the skin from free radicals and environmental damage. Its high content of essential fatty acids nourish and moisturise the skin and hair, keeping it soft and supple.
As the demand for natural and sustainable beauty products grew, the indigenous tribes formed cooperatives to sustainably harvest the seeds and extract the precious oil, ensuring that the process respected the delicate ecosystem of the rainforest.
Today we will explore the success of Buriti Oil, highlight the importance of indigenous knowledge, sustainable practices and how Buriti Oil can be used to enhance formulations in the cosmetics industry today.
The sustainable production of Buriti Oil?
O&3’s Cold Pressed Buriti Oil is a top three seller from our Amazonian range; this raw material is wild harvested in the Amazon from a tree locals refer to as the “tree of life” which thrives in the wetlands of the Amazon basin. The seed is then gently cold pressed for its nutrients. Full of goodness, this oil can be found as one of the latest super fruits in the market, mainly due to its high essential fatty acid & carotenoid content, which includes beta-carotene.
The Brazilian Amazon’s towering Buriti palms shape the landscape, their massive trunks soaring up to 30 meters high with broad, fan-like fronds atop. But it is the fruit of this “water palm” that is most prized – ellipsoid seeds with a glossy, scaly reddish-brown that glistens in the light of the rain forest.
Buriti palms are not cultivated but grow wild along rivers, streams, and in flooded areas. They occur in isolated stands or cluster into communities wherever the soil is saturated. Parrots, rodents, and flowing waters spread the seeds far and wide, allowing new palms to sprout in distant sites.
During the rainy season months of December through to June, the Buriti harvest becomes the main occupation for riverside dwellers. As the fruits ripen, their seeds gradually detach and fall to the ground, where they are gathered, washed, and promptly processed before spoiling. A single Buriti palm can yield about 160 kg of fruit across four large clusters. From this, 20% is dry fruit mass – around 32 kg – containing up to 3 kg of precious oil.
The Buriti harvest seamlessly complements the Açaí harvest later in the year, providing a sustainable economic resource. By purchasing Buriti oil and other Amazonian oils, consumers can actively contribute to the protection and, ultimately, the sustainable use of the tropical forests.
O&3’s Cold Pressed Buriti Oil is wild harvested in the Amazon from a tree locals refer to as the “tree of life”.
What are the natural properties of Buriti Oil?
Buriti Oil is revered for its rich composition of essential fatty acids, vitamins, and antioxidants. The oil is also a natural source of vitamin E, known for its skin-nourishing and protective properties. Its emollient nature helps to moisturise and soothe the skin, making it an excellent choice for dry and sensitive skin types. Additionally, Buriti Oil is rich in oleic acid, which aids in maintaining the skin’s elasticity and promoting a youthful appearance.
How can Buriti Oil be incorporated into cosmetic products?
The remarkable properties of Buriti Oil make it a sought-after ingredient in various cosmetic products. Here are a few examples of our favourite formulations to incorporate Buriti Oil into and allow it to take centre stage:
Facial Serums and Oils
Buriti Oil’s lightweight texture and high nutrient content makes it an ideal ingredient in facial serums and oils as it provides intense hydration, nourishment, and protection against environmental stressors, leaving the skin looking radiant and rejuvenated.
Body Lotions and Butters
Buriti Oil’s moisturising properties make it an excellent addition to body lotions and butters as it can be used to help replenish dry skin, restore elasticity, and promote a healthy, glowing complexion all over the body.
Hair Care Products
Buriti Oil is cherished in the realm of hair care. It can be found in shampoos, conditioners, and hair masks as it can aid in moisturising and revitalising dry, damaged hair, while also promoting shine and manageability.
What other natural oils blend well with Buriti Oil?
To enhance the efficacy of Buriti Oil and create incredible skincare formulations, it can be blended with other complementary ingredients. Here are a few examples of ingredients that it can be blended well with:
Combining Buriti Oil with rosehip seed oil creates a potent blend of antioxidants and essential fatty acids. This combination helps to rejuvenate the skin, fade scars, and combat signs of aging.
The lightweight and non-greasy nature of jojoba oil make it an ideal partner for Buriti Oil. Together, they deliver deep hydration and balance to the skin, making it suitable for both oily and dry skin types.
Blending Buriti Oil with lavender essential oil adds a soothing element to skincare products. This combination can help calm irritated skin, reduce inflammation, and promote a sense of relaxation.
O&3’s Thoughts…
The story of Buriti Oil and its connection to indigenous people showcases the profound relationship between people and nature. It also reminds us of the wisdom embedded within indigenous cultures and the importance of respecting and preserving their ancestral practices for generations to come.
Buriti Oil has gained renewed popularity in the modern world. Its abundance of vitamins, antioxidants, and essential fatty acids make it a valuable ingredient in cosmetic formulations. With its diverse benefits and compatibility with other oils, Buriti Oil offers endless possibilities for creating exceptional cosmetic products.
Why O&3?
As marketing leaders in zero-waste natural ingredients and quick lead times of only 3-5 days, O&3 could be your one-stop shop for natural ingredients as you can rely on our commitment to quality, sustainability, and ethical sourcing.
We are always looking for new ways to ensure that our natural oils are of the highest quality while minimising our impact on the environment. Cold-pressed oils are known for their high nutritional value. The absence of heat during extraction helps preserve the natural vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and beneficial compounds present in the source material – making cold-pressed oils the natural choice.
For more information about how having O&3 as your supplier would give you access to premium ingredients that support your company’s mission, head over to our website, Instagram, Facebook or LinkedIn.
Our products
Buriti Oil, Cold Pressed
Vegan
Cruelty-Free
Zero Waste
Unveil the secret of Buriti Oil, Cold Pressed – a centuries-old beauty treasure revered by Indigenous tribes. Packed with antioxidants and essential fatty acids, it protects and nourishes skin and hair. Discover its magic now!
Please note that the views/opinions expressed in this blog are solely our own. It is the responsibility of our clients to conduct the necessary testing to substantiate any claims and ensure compliance with industry standards for every ingredient. We will not accept any liability for claims made based on our content.
