The shea tree in African pharmacopoeia

Indeed, shea butter is incredibly popular in several African countries. It is truly an essential product. Widely used by local populations for centuries, it is highly valued for its soothing properties; mothers use it early on for their children. Babies are daily coated with raw shea butter and are massaged to help them relax, fall asleep, or relieve a cold. Furthermore, shea butter helps firm up babies' skin to combat irritations such as diaper rashes. Rich in oleic fatty acids, shea butter is a healthy edible fat that contains no cholesterol. Like olive oil, which we use a lot in cooking, it is employed in various dishes in West Africa; in some countries, it is used for frying, in sauces, or with local grains.