Macadamia Nut Oil: Nutrition, Skin and Hair Health Benefits and Uses.
- Zenani Sizane
- Oct 28, 2024
- 15 min read
Updated: Oct 29, 2024
Written By: Zenani Sizane
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Macadamia nuts are popularly known for their buttery, creamy rich texture and taste. Though Macadamia nuts are well-known in the culinary space, Macadamia nut oil is just as impressive as the nuts it is derived from. Macadamia nut oil is rich in a wide array of fatty acids, vitamins and minerals that are beneficial for not only skincare, but hair care applications. In this article, we will explore all the wonders and everything there is to know about Macadamia nut oil, read on to find out about this fabulous oil.
What is Macadamia Nut Oil?
Scientific Name: Macadamia Ternifolia/Integrifolia Seed Oil
Often referred to as the “Queen of Nuts”, macadamia nuts are rich and creamy in flavor and are loaded with an oil that has an amazing number of different vitamins, minerals and other nutrients. When this oil is pressed from the nuts, it can be consumed or used topically to nourish and even heal the body.
Macadamia is an evergreen tree native to Australia. Though it originated in Australia the trees also flourish in areas such as South Africa, Brazil, California, Costa Rica, Israel, Bolivia, New Zealand, Colombia, Guatemala and Hawaii. The trees love tropical climates and when grown in the right soil, they will sprout lush and glossy leaves and flaunt thick clusters of pinkish-white flowers. Their main attraction, however, is their bounty of soft and flavorful nuts.
Macadamia is a plant genus in the family of protea (Proteaceae). It is mainly its fruit, the macadamia nut of the two species macadamia integrifolia as well as macadamia ternifolia, which is known and only occurs in Queensland, New South Wales and subtropical Eastern Australia. Macadamia integrifolia grows to about 18 meters tall and has glossy oblong leaves. Macadamia ternifolia reaches 12-15 meters and has dark-green leaves.
Macadamia ternifolia grows to a height of about 4.5 meters and has dark-green glossy leaves. Depending on the variety, the trees have clusters of white, pink or pale brown flowers that produce hard-shelled brown nuts. The nuts are also known as Queensland nuts.
Macadamia nut oil is obtained from the ripe nuts of the macadamia tree. After the harvest, the oil can be used perfectly well as an edible oil or in cosmetics from which is obtained from the chestnut like its fruits with an oil content of up to 78% by gentle passing.
The oil of the macadamia nut contains a high share of mono-and poly-unsaturated fatty acids such as palmitoleic acid, a component of the skin’s own lipids in the epidermis. Moreover, the oil contains valuable ingredients such as the vitamins A, B, E and minerals. The oil has a skin smoothing, softening and regenerating effect. In cosmetic products, it is frequently used as an exclusive body oil, and hair products with macadamia nut oil are used for dry and brittle hair as well as split ends.
Technical Information on Macadamia Nut Oil:
Shelf Life | 18-24 months |
Colour | Pale yellow |
Comedogenic Rating | 2-3 |
Absorption Rate | fast |
Saponification Value | 190-220 |
Iodine Value | 70-80 |
Extraction Method | Cold Pressed |
Scent | slightly nutty |
Safety | Safe for most |
Allergies | Nuts |
Skin Feel | Smooth and Silky |
Solubility | Oil |
Origin | Australia |
Botanical Family | Proteaceae |
How is Macadamia Nut Oil Extracted?
There are four main species of macadamia, however only two of these varieties are used to create the carrier oil. These two species as mentioned are called Macadamia tetraphylla and Macadamia integrifolia and the other two fall into the endangered category or considered to be toxic. Out of the two variations, tetraphylla and integrifolia, it isn’t clear which variety is considered the optimum variety or whether their compositions are suited to particular uses.
Like most carrier oils, Macadamia nut oil is extracted using a cold pressing method. This involves using the nuts and seeds of the plant and using a cold press to extract the oil. The most popular way of extraction is although the yield isn't that high, it's the best way to get the highest quality oil. Cold pressing is the primary method commonly used to extract macadamia oil.
There are other methods being trailed to extract Macadamia nut oil and this secondary method being a solvent extraction, this involves using alcohol to draw the oil out from the nuts and seeds, however it's a slightly more invasive process and goes against traditional methods of essential and carrier oil extraction.
Fatty Acid Composition of Macadamia Nut Oil
Macadamia Nut Oil contains one of the highest sources of essential fatty acids, which are considered the “good fats”. It’s extremely rich in iron, B complex vitamins and calcium. It is also abundant in proteins and vitamins A, C and E, which are all the natural ingredients that work wonders at repairing and softening the skin and hair.
Macadamia nut oil contains unsaturated fatty acids such as oleic acid, palmitic acid, palmitoleic acid, linoleic acid, sterol compounds and also vitamin E groups. This oil can penetrate the skin and hair because the components in it are similar to the skin’s natural oils and serve to maintain moisture and nourish the skin. Macadamia nut oil is often used in skin care products as an anti-aging agent and in hair care products as a hydrating ingredient for the hair.
The oleic acid in macadamia nut oil is very good to soften the skin, for cell regeneration and to moist the skin. Phytosterols are also found in Macadamia nut oil with effective amounts which consists mostly of B-sitosterol, campesterol and stigmasterol. Macadamia oil also contains squalene which benefits cell regeneration and is useful as an antioxidant by protecting the skin from UV-induced lipid detoxification. Macadamia nut oil has a good benefit value, moreover it is safe to be made as a cosmetic product.
Here is a look at the fatty acid profile of Macadamia Nut Oil:
Macadamia nuts are rich in monounsaturated fats, and they also contain plenty of essential vitamins, minerals and antioxidants that support your overall health and well-being. Macadamia nut oil includes many antioxidants such as vitamin E and squalene. These antioxidants protect you from free radical damage-which is a very good thing, because these molecules can change the cellular makeup of proteins and alter the natural DNA. By absorbing free radicals, the antioxidants in macadamia oil ensure that your skin and hair and overall body remains healthy and in its original state.
Vegetable oils are characterized by a high share of polyunsaturated fatty acids, which are characteristic for the liquid consistency. As an admixture many vitamins, carotenoids and free fatty acids are present. The fatty acids in macadamia oil may provide moisture to the skin and hair, among other benefits. Macadamia oil is also rich in magnesium, oleic acids, calcium and antioxidants.
Macadamia nut oil contains about 60% of oleic acid, which is a moisturizing and anti-inflammatory fatty acid that is mostly suitable for those with dry and sensitive skin. The linoleic (3%) in macadamia oil helps to restore your skin’s barrier function and keeps it hydrated by reducing trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL) and the Palmitoleic (22%) is a building block for our skin and hair that works as an antimicrobial agent in the oil.
Macadamia nut oil contains H01 ratio of essential fatty acids, making it vital for heart health. Our bodies cannot manufacture the essential fatty acids, making them helpful in treating inflammatory diseases such as cardiovascular diseases and arthritis, but the great thing about this oil is that you can benefit from it if you also consume it internally as it has the perfect omega 3:6 ratio.
Palmitic Acid (C16:0) | 13% |
Stearic Acid (C18:0) | 8.5% |
Oleic Acid (C18:1) | 60% |
Linoleic Acid (C18:2) | 2.78% |
Linolenic Acid (C18:3) | 2% |
Palmitoleic Acid (C16:1) | 20% |
Lauric Acid (C12:0) | 0.7% |
Myristic Acid (C14:0) | 0.69% |
Arachidic Acid (20:0) | 3.89% |
Behenic Acid ( C22:0) | 1.17% |
Erucic Acid (C22:1) | 1.16% |
Vaccenic (C18:1) | 4% |
KEY PROPERTIES | |
Vitamin A | |
Vitamin C | |
Vitamin E | |
Magnesium | |
Squalene | |
Campesterol | |
B-sitosterol |
What is macadamia nut oil used for?
Macadamia nuts are rich in nutrients, including heart fatty acids and potassium. For this reason, many people believe that macadamia oil has a range of health benefits. It is high in monounsaturated fats; these are healthy fats that lower cholesterol. It is also high in antioxidants which fight free radicals which are dangerous atoms that cause damage to your cells.
Macadamia nut oil is extremely versatile and can be used for a variety of purposes such as for cooking and as well as skin and haircare. A person can use macadamia nut oil as a substitute for other oils in a variety of dishes. It has a higher smoke point than oils such as olive oil and it is perfect for cooking methods such as sauteing, roasting and grilling. Macadamia nut oil has a smooth buttery flavor and may also be used in baking and deep frying, but it also works great as a salad dressing and a great alternative for butter.
Consuming macadamia nut oil may support heart health, due to its high levels of monounsaturated fats. Monounsaturated fats can lower levels of bad cholesterol, which, in turn, can reduce a person’s risk of heart attack and stroke.
Macadamia nut oil is an ingredient in many skin care products and has shown to have several benefits for the skin. Due to the vitamin E present in macadamia nut oil, it has antioxidant properties that can help prevent premature formation of wrinkles on your skin by keeping your skin hydrated and supple. It is also used for treating scars and stretch marks, by healing and repairing scars as it contains high levels of linoleic acid which has restorative and skin nourishing properties.
Macadamia nut oil is used in hair care as well for various reasons. The oil is used to deeply nourish and protect your scalp and locks in the nutrients that soften your hair and adds a natural shine to your hair. It has the ability to regulate oil production on the scalp, which then keeps the scalp and hair moisturized at all times. It can especially help those with oily hair types and minimize the overproduction of sebum, which will help reduce dandruff and flakiness.
Skin Benefits of Macadamia Nut Oil
Anti-aging
Macadamia nut oil is one of the highest sources of palmitoleic fatty acids, with a concentration between 16-23%. Our bodies naturally produce palmitoleic acid as a component that works to replenish moisture both in skin and hair. As we age, the amount of palmitoleic acid naturally decreases and that’s where macadamia nut oil can make a difference, as the palmitoleic acid in it is vital for delaying premature aging. Applying macadamia nut oil topically will improve your skin’s palmitoleic acid levels and decrease the rate at which your skin deteriorates, keeping it tight and discouraging wrinkles from forming.
Balances Oily Skin
Macadamia nut oil contains copious amounts of linoleic acid, which has skin rejuvenating properties. It is incredibly hydrating for your skin, helping to prevent trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL) from the delicate tissue. Linoleic is also helpful in balancing sebum production on oily skin types, creating a natural protective barrier. Its chemical profile is very similar to that of human sebum, and it has a non-greasy feel on your skin, which gives the oil an excellent, workable protective film.
Anti-inflammatory
There are many phytosterols in macadamia nut oil, which are mostly made up of B-sitosterol. Phytosterols are the building blocks of our cellular membrane and structure, and they behave like cortisone to reduce itchiness, redness and inflammation. Plant sterols also work like cholesterol in our skin, which is why macadamia nut oil has extraordinary skin penetration abilities.
Moisturizers the Skin
Macadamia nut oil contains squalane and omega-9 oleic acid. Together, they assist with cell regeneration while they also soften and hydrate. Squalane is a lighter, more absorbable, but very powerful moisturizer. Macadamia nut oil helps dry and cracked skin to regenerate, making it more resilient and strengthening the skin’s structure, it smoothes fine lines and wrinkles and leaves the skin feeling supple and soft.
Full of antioxidants
Macadamia nut oil is excellent for all skin types and is rich in potent antioxidants and essential fatty acids. It is packed with palmitoleic acid, a vital fatty acid that decreases in content as skin ages, making macadamia a true superfood for your skin. Macadamia nut oil contains antioxidants like polyphenols as well as amino acids and flavones, which protect the skin barrier from free radicals and environmental stress which deteriorates the barrier over time.
Suitable for all skin types
Macadamia nut oil is highly emollient and deeply moisturizing and has a very good stability at temperature. The High emollients and the high quantity of omega-7 make it perfect in skincare where it is very compatible with most skin types. Macadamia nut oil is hypoallergic, which means that it won’t irritate those with sensitive skin, nor will it clog pores for those with oily and combination skin.
This wonderful oil can also be used as a facial and body cleanser, moisturizer and under eye treatment, because it can hydrate without causing any breakouts. Macadamia nut oil is also a very capable anti-aging ingredient, full of antioxidants, essential fatty acids and other nutrients that nourish, protect and hydrate the skin. Macadamia nut oil contains the perfect balance of nutrients, essential fatty acids and antioxidants that help fight many skin ailments and help to keep your skin as radiant and smooth as possible.
Haircare Benefits of Macadamia Nut Oil
Hydrates and Moisturizes
By regulating the oil production of the scalp, macadamia oil may help to keep the scalp and hair moisturized. By enabling natural oil production, it helps to keep the scalp hydrated. Macadamia oil also contains linoleic acid which helps restore skin barrier function and reduces trans epidermal water loss. Macadamia nut oil’s oleic acid content control’s oil production and promotes skin regeneration, improving the health of the scalp. This oil works well for those with wavy, curly and coily hair texture because of the moisture and shine properties.
Regenerates scalp skin
The oleic acid found in macadamia oil works to regenerate the skin of your scalp. Oleic acid works to soften the skin, regenerate skin cells, moisturize the skin, and is a natural anti-inflammatory agent. In nourishing the skin of the scalp, macadamia oil may boost the overall health of your hair from the roots. Macadamia nut oil’s unique composition separates itself from other natural oils in that it is similar to sebum, which is our scalp’s natural oil. Due to this, when applied directly on the scalp and all throughout the hair, Macadamia oil easily infuses into each strand, completely rejuvenating it from root to tip.
Tames and Controls Frizz
No one wants to deal with dull, frizzy hair, thankfully the properties in macadamia oil have the ability to control and smoothen frizzy hair. This is because it coats the strands with nourishing vitamins and fatty acids that help to return hair cuticles and the rest of the strands to their normal structure.
Prevents Breakage
Each strand is protected by overlapping layers of cuticle to maintain moisture and prevent hair damage, however, when those cuticle layers are stressed by environmental or biological factors, they separate. The separation of cuticle layers results in brittle hair and breakage by penetrating the scalp and hair follicles to improve hair strength and elasticity.
Macadamia Nut Oil Vs Other Oils for Hair
The oil contains one of the highest sources of essential fatty acids. It is extremely rich in iron, phosphorus, palmitoleic acid, B-complex vitamins and calcium. It is also abundant in proteins and vitamin E, which are two natural ingredients that work wonders at repairing and softening skin and hair. The nutrients in macadamia oil, particularly the proteins, penetrate hair follicles to increase elasticity and strength. The proteins in the oil can also help repair some of the damage done to the proteins that make up the hair itself. So, not only does it help to reduce the chances of breakage, but it also restores already broken follicles so that hair is left supple and in good condition.
Due to similarity with sebum, macadamia oil is the ultimate natural treatment for your scalp. If you have a dry or flaky scalp, applying macadamia nut oil by rubbing it in small circular motions with the tips of your fingers will help keep it properly regenerated due to the oleic acid component that works as an anti-inflammatory agent softening the skin. The oil’s powerful elements permeate hair pores and broken follicles, rapidly restoring them. It also has reconstructive properties that make it a great agent in treating dry ends and fixing hair damage, whatever your hair porosity might be.
Macadamia nut oil can even soften thick, coarse hair, as the proteins help to strengthen and promote healthy hair. Despite being widely recommended for curly hair, macadamia oil is generally safe for all hair types, with dry and damaged hair reaping the most benefits.
Macadamia Nut Oil Substitutes
Sea Buckthorn Seed Oil - Both macadamia nut oil and sea buckthorn oil are high in palmitoleic acid and linoleic acid. Sea buckthorn oil makes a great substitute for macadamia nut oil due to the similar fatty acid composition as well as its anti-inflammatory and anti-aging properties.
Grapeseed Oil - Grapeseed oil is an oil rich in antioxidants like Vitamin E, as well as polyphenols, and like macadamia nut oil, it protects against free radical damage and helps to prevent chronic diseases.
Jojoba Oil- macadamia nut oil and jojoba oil are similar in the sense that they both contain high amounts of Vitamin E and that they are oils that resemble human skin sebum, therefore these oils both have moisturizing properties that can keep the skin supple.
Meadowfoam Seed Oil - Meadowfoam seed oil is an oil that is compared to Jojoba oil and also closely resembles the human skin sebum, making it an excellent moisturizing agent like macadamia nut oil and butter.
Squalane Oil - Squalane is one of the most potent antioxidants found in macadamia nut oil, making a powerful agent against free radical and oxidative stress. Squalane and macadamia nut oil work well in shielding our skin from aging prematurely.
Macadamia Nut Oil is edible!
Macadamia nut oil is great cooking oil as well, it is very versatile and can be used in different cooking methods, from creating sweet to savory dishes. It is said to have a smooth buttery flavor and is good for roasting, baking, used as a salad dressing and even for deep-frying. Macadamia nut oil has a high smoke point that is between 210 Celsius to 234 Celsius.
Macadamia nut oil is high in monounsaturated fats, these are the good fats that have been shown to lower cholesterol levels and good for your heart health. This oil can be used in different marinades, salad dressing, stir-fry recipes and it is often a good replacement for butter in baking.
Macadamia Nut Oil Side Effects
Macadamia nut oil is a safe ingredient for most people to use on their bodies and to consume. It is always recommended that you consult with a medical professional, if you are uneasy with trying products. It is possible to have an allergic reaction to macadamia nut oil if you are allergic to tree nuts, although this particular oil contains less of the tree nut proteins that triggers a reaction. It is safe to do a patch-test on a small part of your skin before trying a full application.
Disadvantages of Macadamia Nut Oil
Though macadamia nut oil is seldom associated with allergies, they can cause an allergic reaction to those who are allergic to tree nuts. Macadamia nut oil allergies are relatively rare but they can be serious. Macadamia nut oil is a nutrient dense ingredient and is associated with many health benefits, however because it is high in monounsaturated fats, which are good fats, when consumed in high amount it can actually lead to weight gain and high cholesterol levels.
To avoid weight gain and high cholesterol levels, it is important to consume macadamia nut oil in moderation and to also eat a well-balanced diet, that includes more fruits and vegetables and also make sure that you lead an active lifestyle, so that the nutrients in macadamia nut oil can work in your favor.
Environmental Benefits and Sustainability
Sustainability is always a cause of concern when it comes to the production of natural ingredients. With the growing demand for natural skin and hair care products, it is essential to ensure that we do not cause any damage to the planet. Macadamia nut production is considered to be environmentally friendly and sustainable due to its ability to help reduce greenhouse gas emissions through carbon sequestration. The macadamia nut trees absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and store it in their biomass, thereby reducing the amount of carbon in the atmosphere.
Many macadamia nut farms are found to use efficient water and energy practices, like collecting rainwater for irrigation, which reduces their reliance on groundwater sources, which can reduce their carbon footprint. Some macadamia nut varieties are drought-tolerant, requiring less water than other crops.
Macadamia nut farming also has a positive impact on soil health and erosion prevention. it also helps to preserve and promote biodiversity in several ways, for instance, many macadamia nut farms use shade-grown farming techniques, which involve planting other trees and crops alongside macadamia trees. this provides a habitat for wildlife and helps to preserve native vegetation. Macadamia nut farming is also less intensive, which allows more space for wildlife.
Final thoughts
Macadamia nut oil is definitely a natural ingredient to try, and its versatility and multiple health benefits allow you to be as creative in how you want to use it in your recipes, and even skin and hair care formulations. It is really an exceptional ingredient for your overall wellbeing, and we love nothing more than a natural ingredient that is suited for different uses. We hope you try and let us know down in the comment section your experiences with this wonderful oil.
References:
Anti-Inflammatory and Skin Barrier Repair Effects of Topical Application of Some Plant Oils (mdpi.com)
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