Leaves on the Macadamia tree are oblong and glossy, with wavy margins. The flowers are white in color, and often hidden among the leaves. The nuts are usually allowed to fall to the ground for harvesting, and then the hard, green outer layer and much harder inner layer are both removed. They are used medicinally, and for beauty treatments and in cooking. Macadamia nut oil has a good balance of both omega-3 and omega-6 essential fatty acids. Other names for Macadamia nuts include bush nut, bopple nut, and Australian nut.
WHERE IT CAN BE FOUND:
Caribbean, Australia, China, Indonesia, Thailand, Mexico, South Africa, Central America, Hawaii, Southern California, Florida
PROPERTIES AND USE:
Anti-aging, emollient, and used to treat high cholesterol, dandruff, dry skin
TRADITIONAL PREPARATION:
Often used as massage and beauty oil, Macadamia nut oil helps to soften and soothe the skin, and condition the hair. In fact, it is frequently added to beauty products such as lip balm, lotion, body creams, scrubs, and hair care products. The oil can be used for cooking, as a substitute for any other type of cooking oil.
EMILIA’S MACADAMIA NUT OIL HAIR MASK
Despite the fact that she works outside in the sun and humidity of Guatemala, Emilia’s silver hair is surprisingly healthy and shiny. This mask is why.
INGREDIENTS:
1 banana, mashed
1 tablespoon Macadamia nut oil
INSTRUCTIONS:
• Mix well to combine.
USE:
Apply directly to the hair. Allow to sit 1 hour, and then rinse.
MACADAMIA NUT OIL
FACIAL MASKS
Emilia Aguirre is a big fan of natural facial masks, and we asked her for her favorites for three different skin conditions.
FOR DRY SKIN
1 tablespoon banana
1 tablespoon honey
1 tablespoon ripe avocado
1 teaspoon Macadamia nut oil
• Combine the banana, honey, and avocado until smooth.
• Add the oil in a slow, steady stream to emulsify.
• Emilia wears this for 5 minutes. You can also
use it in your hair.
FOR OILY SKIN
1 large strawberry, mashed
1 tablepsoon banana
1 tablespoon honey
1 teaspoon Macadamia nut oil
• Combine the strawberry, banana, and honey until smooth.
• Add the oil in a slow, steady stream to emulsify. • Wear for 5 minutes.
FOR INFLAMED OR IRRITATED SKIN
1 teaspoon turmeric
1 tablespoon Macadamia nut oil
• Mix well, and apply to skin. • Wear for 15 minutes.
