A product of the Jojoba plant, which is a shrubby tree, jojoba has always been a popular ingredient in the world of skincare. A waxy natural liquid derived from seeds of the Simmondsia chinensis plant, it is native to North and Central American deserts but cultivated worldwide in Chile, Egypt, and Argentina too. One of the long-lasting skin emollients, jojoba has gained immense popularity in recent years due to its numerous health and skin benefits, versatility in food applications, and fabulous nutrient profile.

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Also called goat nut, deer nut, pignut, wild hazel, quinine nut, and coffeeberry, jojoba has indeed been a sought-after plant across the globe since antiquity. The plant has a history of use in folklore to treat various scalp and skin disorders, heal wounds, soothe sore throats, and so on. The wax-like substance found in the plant is well known to promote hair growth and enhance immunity.

Nutritional Profile Of Jojoba Plant

Not only a versatile ingredient, but jojoba is also nutrient-dense and contains the following essential compounds:

Vitamin E

Jojoba oil is a great source of vitamin E. This powerful antioxidant helps protect the body from free radicals, which can be a cause of various chronic diseases. This vitamin also promotes healthy skin, boosts the immune system, and supports eye health.

Essential Fatty Acids

Jojoba oil is rich in essential fatty acids, including omega-9 fatty acids, omega-6 fatty acids, and omega-3 fatty acids. These fatty acids are crucial for maintaining healthy cell membranes, reducing inflammation, and supporting heart health.

Minerals

Jojoba oil contains various minerals such as zinc, copper, and selenium. These minerals play vital roles in enzyme function, immune system support, and antioxidant defense.

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Health Benefits Of Jojoba

Knows to possess antioxidant, anti-acne, anti-inflammatory, antifungal, antipyretic, analgesic, and antimicrobial properties, jojoba is cultivated worldwide and offers the following health benefits:

Augments Liver Issues

Jojoba oil possesses anti-inflammatory properties that make it beneficial for reducing inflammation and reducing the oxidative stress status of the liver. It has been widely used for mild to severe liver inflammation since age-old times. 

Soothes Skin Conditions

Chock-full of vitamins A and E, Jojoba extracts and oil are used to soothe various skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and sunburns. The oil's natural healing properties help calm irritated skin, reducing itching and mild to severe discomfort.

Skin Moisturization And Protection

Due to its resemblance to sebum (the natural oil produced by our skin), jojoba oil is highly moisturizing and penetrates deep into the skin, providing long-lasting hydration and locking in moisture besides improving skin elasticity and promoting a healthy, youthful complexion.

Acne Treatment

Contrary to widespread belief, applying oil to acne-prone skin can be beneficial. Jojoba oil, with its antibacterial properties, can remove excess oil from the skin and unclog closed pores, thus preventing the formation of acne.

Bolster Hair and Scalp Health

Jojoba oil nourishes the hair and scalp and acts as a natural conditioner leaving the hair soft, shiny, and manageable. Additionally, its moisturizing properties help alleviate dryness and flakiness of the scalp, reducing chronic dandruff.

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Culinary Uses 

Beyond skincare, jojoba as an oil form can also be used in cooking and food preparation. Here are some popular uses in culinary applications:

Cooking Oil Substitute

With its high smoke point, jojoba oil can be used as a substitute for vegetable oils or olive oil in cooking. Its stability under high heat makes it suitable for frying. Additionally, its mild, nutty flavor adds a pleasant taste to various dishes.

Salad Dressings

Jojoba oil can be mixed with vinegar or citrus juice to create delicious and healthy salad dressings. Its light texture and mild flavor enhance the overall taste of salads.

Baking Ingredient

Jojoba oil can be used in baking as a butter substitute. It adds moistness and richness to baked goods like cakes, cookies, and muffins. Furthermore, its natural stability extends the shelf life of baked products.

A Word Of Caution

While jojoba oil offers a multitude of health benefits, ranging from skincare to culinary applications, always remember to consult with a healthcare professional before using jojoba as a supplement especially if you have any underlying health conditions or acute allergies.

References:

Jojoba Oil: An Updated Comprehensive Review on Chemistry, Pharmaceutical Uses, and Toxicity

Author information Article notes Copyright and License information PMC Disclaimer

1Department of Pharmaceutics and Industrial Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ain Shams University, Cairo 11566, Egypt; ge.ude.usa.amrahp@dag.h

2Independent Researcher, La Route de la Haule, St. Peter, Jersey JE3 7BA, UK; ku.oc.oohay@streborggnmutua

3Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Pharmacy Program, Batterjee Medical College, P.O. Box 6231, Jeddah 21442, Saudi Arabia; as.ude.cmb@hareemas.370021

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8197201/