Functional Components in Shea Butter

• Triglycerides with Different Chain Lengths: The fatty acids of triglycerides are mostly composite chains, and the fatty acids include palmitic acid, stearic acid, oleic acid, linoleic acid, arachidonic acid, etc. Fatty acids with different chain lengths are combined and connected to the glycerol structure (Alander, 2004).

• Fatty Acids: After the refinement of shea butter, a small amount of fatty acids remains, which helps to maintain the acidic sebum film and keep the skin in a slightly acidic state.

• Triterpenoids: Shea butter is rich in triterpenoid components, mainly including α/β-amyrin, lupeol, and butyrospermol. Triterpenoid components are the active components of shea butter and have a significant anti-inflammatory effect. They mainly inhibit inflammatory factors such as cytokines, cyclooxygenase-2 (Cox-2), and nitric oxide synthase (Inos) through the NF-κB pathway. Meanwhile, shea butter can inhibit UVB-induced photosensitivity, stimulate cell regeneration, and has anti-aging effects (Verma et al., 2012; Otuki et al., 2005; Otuki et al., 2005b).

• Natural Long-Chain Isoprenes: Shea butter contains approximately 0.16 - 0.4% of long-chain isoprenes, which have a latex structure and possess anti-ultraviolet and antioxidant effects. Shea butter has a certain sunscreen effect (Nahm, 2011).

• Vitamins: Shea butter contains trace amounts of vitamins A, B, and E. Compared with cocoa butter, shea butter contains more

Beneficial Effects of Triterpenes on health and skin

  • Triterpenes have anti-inflammatory properties and can help reduce skin inflammation, alleviate redness, swelling, and irritation.

  • They can neutralize free radicals, slow down skin aging, and protect cells from oxidative damage.

  • Triterpenes can promote skin hydration, enhance the skin barrier, and prevent water loss.

  • Certain triterpenoids help accelerate the skin healing process and reduce scar formation.

  • These compounds may also have certain antibacterial effects, helping to prevent skin infections.