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There are many natural oils that can be used for skin and hair care, but one of the lesser-known oils is iluppai oil. This oil is derived from the seeds of the Machuca indica tree. Iluppai oil benefits include softening the skin, reducing fine lines and wrinkles, and providing a natural glow to the skin. The oil is also said to help with skin diseases such as eczema and psoriasis.1
Iluppai ennai or mahua oil is extracted from the flowers of the tree Madhuca longifolia and is used extensively in Tamil Nadu, India for hair care. It has been used for centuries as a natural conditioner and softener, and is known to make hair shinier, softer, and more manageable. With a similar composition to sesame oil or gingelly oil, iluppai ennai is also used for cooking in some parts of India.2
Iluppai oil has a wide range of health benefits. In India, it is used to treat various diseases, chronic bronchitis, nervous system issues, and even diabetes. Studies have shown that iluppai oil is effective in treating psoriasis, eczema, and other skin diseases.3
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The madhuca indica tree is found in tropical regions of India, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh. In the indian subcontinent, tribal women from the tribes of rajasthan, Uttaranchal, and madhya pradesh have been using the oil to protect their skin and hair from the harsh desert conditions for centuries. As an hair oil, it is used to protect the hair from damage caused by environmental factors such as heat, dust, and wind. It is also said to help prevent hair loss.4
Iluppai oil is also used in Ayurvedic medicine. In Ayurveda, iluppai oil is used for massage and is said to be helpful in treating joint pain, stiffness, and muscular aches. It is also used as a natural laxative. Also known as butter tree oil, the medicinal properties of this oil make it not only great for health problems but also great for skin care.
Iluppai oil has the following properties, which help to make it a beneficial oil for your skin5:
- Amino acids – this means it has the ability to penetrate deep into the skin, which helps to hydrate and nourish the skin.
- Vitamins A and C – these vitamins help to boost collagen production, which helps to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
- Antioxidants – this help to protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals.
- Stearic acid – helps to keep the skin soft and supple.
- Polyunsaturated fats – this also helps keep your skin supple, soft, and hydrated
11 Iluppai Oil Benefits
1. Moisturizes Dry Skin
The organic acids present in iluppai oil make it an excellent moisturizer for dry skin. The bark of mahua tree is rich in tannins, which help to keep the skin hydrated. Common uses of mahua oil include treating dry skin, chapped lips, and cracked heels.
2. Reduces Fine Lines and Wrinkles
Iluppai oil is rich in vitamins A and C, which are essential for collagen production. Collagen is responsible for keeping the skin firm and elastic. As we age, our collagen levels start to decline, which leads to the formation of fine lines and wrinkles. The antioxidants present in iluppai oil benefits help to protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals, which can also lead to the formation of fine lines and wrinkles.
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3. Treats Skin Diseases
The antifungal and antibacterial properties of iluppai oil make it an effective treatment for skin diseases such as psoriasis, eczema, and acne. The oil helps to soothe inflammation and itchiness caused by these conditions. The emollient properties of iluppai oil benefits help to keep the skin hydrated and prevent the recurrence of these conditions.
4. Gives a Natural Glow to the Skin
Iluppai oil is rich in fatty acids, which help to keep the skin soft and supple. The vitamins present in the oil help to brighten the skin and give it a natural glow. As a good source of antioxidants, iluppai oil helps to protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals.
5. Reduces Dark Circles
Iluppai oil is rich in fatty acids and vitamins, which help to keep the skin nourished and hydrated. The antioxidants present in iluppai oil benefits help to reduce the appearance of dark circles. The oil also helps to reduce puffiness around the eyes.
6. Fades Stretch Marks
Stretch marks are common during pregnancy and after weight loss. Iluppai oil is rich in fatty acids, which help to keep the skin hydrated and prevent the formation of stretch marks. The vitamins present in the oil help to fade existing stretch marks.
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7. Heals Wounds
The antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties of iluppai oil make it an effective treatment for wounds. The oil helps to speed up the healing process by preventing infection and reducing inflammation. Tissue inflammation is a major cause of scarring, so iluppai oil can also help to prevent scars.
8. Reduces Cellulite
Iluppai oil is rich in fatty acids, which help to break down fat cells and reduce cellulite. The antioxidants present in the oil help to eliminate toxins from the body, which also helps to reduce cellulite.
9. Soothes Sunburn
Iluppai oil is rich in fatty acids, which help to soothe sunburn. The antioxidants present in the oil help to protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals. The oil also helps to keep the skin hydrated and prevent peeling. The monounsaturated fatty acids present in iluppai oil benefits help to reduce inflammation and redness caused by sunburn.
10. Reduces Joint Pain
When combined with body heat, iluppai oil helps to reduce joint pain. The oil penetrates deep into the muscles and joints, which helps to soothe inflammation and pain. The fatty acids present in iluppai oil help to lubricate the joints and reduce stiffness.
11. Reduces Acne
A popular mixture of neem oil, illuppai oil, castor oil, and coconut oil is used to treat acne. The antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties of these oils help to reduce acne. The iluppai oil helps to keep the skin hydrated and prevent the recurrence of acne.
12. Treats Scalp Conditions
Iluppai oil is rich in fatty acids, which help to nourish the scalp. The oil also has antifungal and antibacterial properties, which help to treat scalp conditions such as dandruff and psoriasis. The emollient properties of iluppai oil help to keep the scalp hydrated and prevent the recurrence of these conditions.
13. Promotes Hair Growth
Iluppai oil is rich in fatty acids, which help to nourish the scalp and promote hair growth. The vitamins present in the oil help to strengthen the hair shaft and prevent breakage. The oil also helps to keep the scalp hydrated and prevents dandruff.
There are a variety of formulations that include natural mahua oil, cocoa butter, butter tree essential oil, and sunflower oil that are available for purchase. This medicinal plant oil should be used as directed on the label or as prescribed by your ayurvedic doctor.
How To Use Iluppai Oil
The nutritional value of iluppai oil makes it a healthy addition to your diet. The oil is rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. It is also low in saturated fat and cholesterol. Iluppai oil can be used in cooking, as a salad dressing, or as a moisturizer for the skin.
When used topically, iluppai oil can help to treat a variety of skin conditions. The oil is rich in fatty acids, which help to keep the skin hydrated. The antioxidants present in iluppai oil help to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. The oil also helps to reduce stretch marks, scars, and cellulite.
Iluppai oil can also be used to treat scalp conditions such as dandruff and psoriasis. The oil is rich in fatty acids, which help to nourish the scalp. The emollient properties of iluppai oil help to keep the scalp hydrated and prevent the recurrence of these conditions.
Iluppai oil is a versatile oil that can be used for a variety of purposes. The oil is rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. It is also low in saturated fat and cholesterol. Iluppai oil can be used in cooking, as a salad dressing, or as a moisturizer for the skin.
Iluppai oil can be purchased online or at your local Ayurvedic store.
