Babassu oil facts for kids
Babassu oil (also called cusi oil) is a clear, light yellow oil. It comes from the seeds of the babassu palm tree. These trees grow in the Amazon area of South America.
Babassu oil is a type of vegetable oil. It is known as a "non-drying oil," which means it stays liquid and doesn't harden when exposed to air. This oil is used in many products, like food, cleaning supplies, and skin care items.
Babassu oil is very similar to coconut oil. Because of this, it is often used in the same ways and is becoming a popular replacement for coconut oil.
What's Inside Babassu Oil?
About 70% of babassu oil is made of fats, called lipids. Here are the main types of fats found in it:
| Fatty acid | Percentage |
|---|---|
| Lauric | 50.0% |
| Myristic | 20.0% |
| Palmitic | 11.0% |
| Oleic | 10.0% |
| Stearic | 3.5% |
Two of these fats, lauric acid and myristic acid, melt at temperatures close to human body temperature. This is why babassu oil can feel solid when you first touch it, but then it quickly melts on your skin. When it melts, it can create a cool feeling. It is also a good moisturizer, which means it helps keep your skin soft and smooth.
How is Babassu Oil Used?
Besides its use in everyday products, babassu oil has also been tested as a fuel. In February 2008, a mix of babassu oil and coconut oil was used to power one engine of a Boeing 747 airplane. This was part of a special test for biofuel, which is fuel made from plants. The test was supported by Virgin Atlantic.
See also
In Spanish: Aceite babasu para niños
