Golden-colored oil with a distinct aroma. It is highly favored for its light quality. Refrigerate after opening. It is used as a carrier oil and for superfatting. Uses: bath oils, cooking, and soap.
An oil rich in vitamins A, D, and E, all of which are nourishing to the skin. It is used as a carrier oil, in saponification, and for superfatting. Uses: cooking, massage oils, and soap.
A good, less-expensive substitute for olive oil. It contains vitamin E and is a good moisturizer. It tends to soften the soap batch, so it should be used with other oils that harden for balance. It is used as a carrier oil, in saponification, and for superfatting. Uses: cooking and soap.
An oil light in color and in scent used for its moisturizing qualities. it has a limited shelflife and must be refrigerated after opening. It is used as a carrier oil, in saponification, and for superfatting. Uses: cooking, cosmetics, and soap.
Also referred to as vegetable tallow. A universal oil, with a pale yellow hue, that adds firmness to soap. It is used as a carrier oil, in saponification, and for superfatting. Uses: cooking and soap.
Similar to coconut oil in that it gives a lot of lather. It adds hardness to the soap. It is used as a carrier oil, in saponification, and for superfatting. It is often used in rebatching or recycling a soap batch that is too soft. Uses: balms, cooking, cosmetics, and soap.
A light, almost odorless oil used for its emollient qualities. It is used as a carrier oil, in saponification, and for superfatting. Uses: bath oils, cooking, cosmetics, and soap.
An oil prized for its soothing qualities and for healing dried skin. Its high linoleic content means that it is vulnerable to spoilage. It may be easier to find in some parts of the United States than in others. It is used as a carrier oil, in saponification, and for superfatting. Uses: paint, soap, and varnish.
A light, almost odorless oil that is rich in vitamins (mainly vitamin E), minerals, and linoleic acid. It is used as a carrier oil, in saponification, and for superfatting. Uses: balms, bath oils, cooking, creams, lotions, and soap.
Functions as a protective antioxidant. Helps to protect the body from harmful free radicals that promote premature aging and degenerative disease. Does not deplete the body's antioxidant reserves like other oils do. Applied topically helps to form a chemical barrier on the skin to ward of infection. Reduces symptoms associated the psoriasis, eczema, and dermatitis. Supports the natural chemical balance of the skin. Softens skin and helps relieve dryness and flaking. Prevents wrinkles, sagging skin, and age spots. Promotes healthy looking hair and complexion. Provides protection from damaging effects of ultraviolet radiation from the sun. Helps control dandruff.
Cocoa has been used for an array of medicinal purposes. Unfermented cocoa seeds and the seed coat are used to treat a variety of ailments, including diabetes, digestive and chest complaints. Cocoa powder, prepared from fermented cocoa beans, is used to prevent heart disease. Cocoa butter is taken to lower cholesterol levels, although its efficacy is unclear.
It is also used widely in foods and pharmaceutical preparations, as well as being used as a rich moisturiser for the skin.