Natural Uses for Pure Cocoa Butter

Cocoa butter is the name for the fat pulled out of cocoa beans. It is a light yellow color and used as an additive in many products. You can find cocoa butter in anything from food to cosmetics to tanning oils. It has a very distinctive aroma, flavor and consistency. Because of its smooth consistency and ability to moisturize, it is a natural choice for an additive in lotion. Cocoa butter is also a necessity in the creation of chocolate. There are many benefits to this extremely versatile substance.

Moisturizer

Cocoa butter is one of the most widely known moisturizers because of its ability to melt at body temperature. When the substance is rubbed on the skin, it is absorbed into the skin almost instantly, making the surface of the skin softer and supple. Cocoa butter is used frequently in lotions made to ease the occurrence of eczema and dermatitis. Pure cocoa butter is also said to prevent pregnant women from getting stretch marks when rubbed on the skin on a daily basis.

Aromatherapy

The aroma of cocoa butter is very pleasing to most. The use of cocoa butter in aromatherapy is said to promote relaxation and give the user a feeling of overall well being. Using cocoa butter in aromatherapy is also thought to relieve stress as well as give a boost to the immune system. It is also thought to have properties to help the body prevent cancer. There are many different preparations of cocoa butter to be used in aromatherapy, such as candles, oils, and lotions.

Pain Relief

Because it is so easily absorbed into the skin, cocoa butter works wonders in aiding to heal sunburn. It not only eases the pain of the burn, but also brings extra moisture which promotes rapid skin regeneration. It can also aid in relieving dry, itchy skin caused by eczema and dermatitis. Eczema and dermatitis are both skin conditions that can be very painful and irritatingly itchy. When cocoa butter is applied directly to the affected area, the skin will absorb it immediately, creating an immediate relief.

Prevention of Heart Disease

Cocoa butter contains a natural antioxidant called cocoa mass polyphenol (CMP) that helps regulate the body's cholesterol levels, therefore creating a safer environment in the heart. This same antioxidant has also been shown to reduce the production of T-cells in the body, which can help people suffering from overactive immune systems. The best way to benefit from cocoa butter in the manner is to consume it.