 The buriti palm grows throughout central Brazil and the southern Amazon basin. It is an elegant tree whose trunk can reach up to 35 meters (110 feet) in height. Frequently referred to as the "tree of life". It requires a large space, about 30 feet apart, and a constantly humid soil. The leaves are large and form a rounded crown. The flowers are yellowish, and appear from December to April. The tree bears large, long clusters of fruit, which grows from December to June, is a chestnut color and is covered with shiny scales. The yellow flesh covers a hard, oval, edible nut. The buriti grows in areas where water is abundant, and its natural habitat is along the water margins and marshes, where the soil is soft. The water carries the seeds and is the normal medium of propagation for the buriti palm.
Traditionally, the Buriti fruit has been used as a food source in particular the sap and pulp. Parts of the Buriti tree have also been used in construction and weaving. Buriti straw, after it is adequately processed, is used to cover houses and make ropes, baskets, sieves, rackets for cooking fish, skirts and for jewelry such as bracelets.
The oil extracted from the Buriti nut is the richest source oil in beta-carotene (higher than carrot oil). Beta-carotene and its breakdown product, vitamin A, collectively referred to as carotenoids, are two of the most important antioxidants for the skin. Carotenoids protect the skin against the damaging effects of sunlight for neutralizing free radicals in the skin. It can be used to treat burns, because of its soothing qualities and its ability to promote the formation of scar tissue.
As with many nuts, buriti is also an exceptional source of essential fatty acids. Essential fatty acids (EFA’s) are a type of fatty acid that the body cannot produce and which must be obtained from food or other external sources. They are important nutrients for protecting against degenerative diseases. Buriti contains a high oleic and palmitic acid that help to moisturize the skin. It has emollient properties, is a free-radical scavenger and provides protective effects (linoleic acid). This includes protecting fibroblast cells essential for supporting collagen and elastin production - keys for youthful, glowing skin.
A biologist from the Federal University of Acre, Nívea Maria de Paula Fernandes, has spent the last six years studying the economic and nutritional importance of the buriti palm (Mauritia flexuosa). Her study revealed that buriti oil has the ability to filter and absorb the ultraviolet rays which cause skin cancer. (Source: Amazon News, 28 February 2002.)
A rich and nourishing facial oil that lubricates tissues, restores elasticity and harmonizes your skin. This product is a blend of nuts, seeds and fruits that grow deep in the Amazon Rainforest. Each carefully selected oil, is rich in essential fatty acids and complements your skins natural biology, deeply nourishing tissue layers. Filled with oils such as buriti oil, brazil nut oil and rosehip seed oil-all excellent sources of EFA’s and vitamin A. Deep Nourishing Oil™:
- Easily penetrates skin layers
- Reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
- Complements the natural biology of your skin
- Breaks the cycle of dry skin-giving brilliance to dull, tired skin
- Keeps skin soft and supple with a youthful and radiant glow
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