Overview
Jojoba is a small evergreen plant indigenous to the southwestern United States and northwestern Mexico that produces olive-sized seeds encased in green capsule like flowers. Native Americans used the extracted oil for its therapeutic qualities and as a dietary supplement for centuries. The jojoba plant thrives in arid climates and unfertilized soil. It is used as a fungicide and pesticide to control mildew and white flies.
Availability
The cosmetic industry found the nontoxic and odorless properties of jojoba oil to be a superior alternative to whale sperm oil because of the restrictions on the importation of whale sperm oil. Worldwide commercial cultivation ensued as the properties of the plant became well known. United States and Mexican producers now export the oil throughout Europe and Japan.
Significance
Jojoba oil is actually a liquid wax that mimics sebum, the fatty substance produced by the body to protect the skin. It is cholesterol-free and requires minimal processing before use in cosmetic preparations.
Uses
While jojoba oil is most frequently used in hair, skin and personal care products, its potential lies well beyond the scope of use for cosmetic purposes. According to a report by the University of Wisconsin Cooperative Extension and the University of Minnesota Center for Alternative Plant and Animal Products, jojoba’s stability at high temperatures suggests it would work well as a high pressure lubricant for the electronic and computer industries. Its use as an inexpensive alternative to diesel fuel is also being explored.
Benefits
Jojoba is an optimum moisturizer, cleanser and topical skin treatment because it is absorbed easily into the skin without clogging pores. It is also an effective massage oil and serves as an excellent carrier base for substances that require topical application. It has potential for use as a food additive and cooking oil and is nontoxic and calorie free.
Considerations
Cultivation and availability of jojoba continues to increase, and it is likely that new uses for the oil will be developed. Cosmetics and hair products containing jojoba are widely available as of 2010. The oil can also be found in its original form at many drugstores and natural products centers.
