Andiroba Oil (Carapa guianensis Oil)

Description

Also known as Crabwood Oil or Amazonian Neem)

Andiroba oil is a thick, golden to pale brown oil extracted from the seeds of the Carapa guianensis tree, a large hardwood tree native to the Amazon rainforest and other tropical regions of South America. Often called the Amazonian alternative to neem oil, andiroba is a cornerstone of traditional medicine among Indigenous tribes. Its bitter, medicinal properties and insect-repelling abilities have made it invaluable for healing wounds, treating skin infections, and repelling mosquitoes in dense jungle environments.

Although it’s not typically used in standard culinary practice due to its intense bitterness, it is a superb oil for external medicinal and cosmetic use, and has gained popularity in natural skincare, massage therapy, and eco-conscious insect repellents.

Nutritional and Bioactive Composition:

• Oleic acid (omega-9): ~45–50%

• Linoleic acid (omega-6): ~30–35%

• Palmitic and stearic acids (saturated fats): ~15–20%

• Triterpenoids (limonoids like andirobin) – strongly anti-inflammatory and insecticidal

• Saponins and alkaloids – cleansing and antimicrobial

• Polyphenols and flavonoids – antioxidant properties

• Vitamin E – especially alpha-tocopherol

• No significant levels of protein or carbohydrates

The limonoids, similar to those found in neem oil, are responsible for andiroba’s powerful insect-repelling and therapeutic qualities.

Health Benefits:

Andiroba oil is used extensively for its topical and medicinal properties, especially in treating:

• Joint and muscle pain – natural anti-inflammatory and analgesic

• Arthritis and rheumatism – relieves stiffness and swelling

• Wound healing and tissue regeneration – accelerates recovery

• Eczema, psoriasis, and rashes – reduces irritation and inflammation

• Fungal infections and athlete’s foot – antifungal action

• Bug bites, stings, and skin allergies – soothing and antiseptic

• Dandruff and scalp issues – clears buildup and balances oils

• Repels mosquitoes and insects – a natural DEET alternative

• Improves circulation and lymphatic drainage – when used in massage

• Supports detoxification and drainage of stagnant fluids

In Amazonian medicine, it’s often used in compresses and salves for chronic pain and skin trauma.

Culinary Applications:

⚠️ Caution: Andiroba oil is not suitable for culinary use due to its intense bitterness and active medicinal compounds.

• Not edible in standard doses – ingestion can cause stomach upset

• Used traditionally in minuscule amounts for detox tonics by Indigenous healers

• May be encapsulated in therapeutic nutraceuticals (under supervision)

Its primary value lies in topical and therapeutic external application, not as a food oil.

Aroma, Flavor, and Texture:

• Color: Pale golden to light brown

• Aroma: Woody, earthy, medicinal, slightly nutty

• Flavor: Very bitter and acrid (not intended for eating)

• Texture: Thick, slightly sticky, but absorbs into skin well

• After-feel: Warming, soothing, with a slight tingle when applied topically

The bitterness is a marker of its high limonoid content, giving it its healing edge.

Cosmetic and Topical Use:

Andiroba oil is prized for its multi-use skin therapy potential:

• Used in healing balms and ointments for wounds, burns, and bites

• Blended into massage oils for deep tissue therapy

• **Effective against acne and clogged pores due to anti-inflammatory effects

• Soothes and rebuilds damaged skin barrier in chronic skin conditions

• Natural ingredient in artisan soaps and hair products

• Applied to scalp to eliminate lice and dandruff

• Used in beard oils and muscle rubs for its warming properties

• **Common in Amazonian beauty rituals and tribal medicine cabinets

• Forms the base of many DEET-free insect repellents

• Restores shine and softness to coarse or dry hair

It’s often combined with copaiba oil, buriti oil, or murumuru butter in Brazilian spa and skincare formulations.

Storage and Shelf Life:

• Shelf life: 12–24 months unopened, 9–12 months after opening

• Store in a cool, dark place in an airtight, non-plastic container

• Natural sedimentation may occur — gently shake before use

• Spoilage signs: rancid odor, separation, or discoloration

Despite its rich composition, andiroba oil is relatively stable due to its antioxidant content.

Sustainability:

Andiroba oil is wild-harvested or semi-cultivated sustainably:

• Seeds are collected from fallen fruits, minimizing tree disturbance

• Ethical sourcing protects Amazon biodiversity

• Supports Indigenous cooperatives and forest economies

• Zero-waste process – shells are used for charcoal, oil for balms, pulp for compost

• Grows naturally in rainforest understories, requiring no fertilizer or irrigation

It represents a model for regenerative rainforest trade that values both people and planet.

Summary:

Andiroba oil is a forest-born healing oil, richly packed with anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, and insect-repellent properties. Though not meant for culinary use, it shines in topical, cosmetic, and therapeutic applications — from calming muscle aches and arthritis to healing infected wounds and keeping mosquitoes at bay. It is one of the Amazon’s best-kept secrets, now being rediscovered by global natural wellness communities as a powerful yet sustainable botanical ally.

Quantity is 1 litre