The buriti palm tree, found in the southern Amazon basin, is used in construction and culinary endeavors. Its nuts provide a rich source of beta-carotene and fatty acids, making it valuable in protecting and hydrating the skin. The tree is also used to make household items and grows best in watery areas.
Hailing from the southern Amazon basin, the buriti palm is an aesthetically pleasing tree. Elegant and known as the tree of life, the tree is used in local construction, while its fruits are a favorite in culinary endeavors. The nuts hidden within the fruit of the tree are used for multiple herbal remedies.
The buriti nut provides the richest known source of beta-carotene, a skin antioxidant. This makes the strongly scented essential oil of the walnut valuable in protecting the skin against sun damage and free radical damage. The oil, which also contains vitamin E, can help stimulate the growth of scar tissue, soothe sore skin, and treat minor cuts and burns. It may be helpful in preventing skin cancer by absorbing ultraviolet rays, making it a natural sunscreen.
The fatty acids found within the buriti nut are helpful in skin care. These help prevent the development of regenerative conditions within the body. Oleic and palmitic acids, both found in tree nuts, hydrate dry or aging skin. These acids support collagen growth and protection with their emollient properties, resulting in increased skin elasticity.
Facial oils made from the walnut can help minimize the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines, as well as soothe skin blemishes and lubricate tissue. Its essential oil also provides deep nutrition for the skin itself. Lip balms and baby care products used to soothe diaper rashes and other skin problems are also made from the mild oil.
Buriti fruit is a good source of vitamin C. The fleshy yellow fruit is often used to sweeten beverages. It is also a common ingredient in ice cream, preserves, and other sweet foods.
No known harmful effects have been found in connection with the use of buriti essential oil. However, it is a very oily product and may stain fabric or skin. If kept in a cool, dry place, the oil can have a shelf life of six months to a year. Refrigeration after opening can prolong the usability of the oil.
Used in house building, buriti is also useful for making other things. Local collectors of the tree process it to make a special type of straw. This straw is used to make many household items such as grills, ropes, bangles, sieves, skirts, and baskets. Home coverings can also be made from straw.
Also found throughout central Brazil, buriti trees can grow up to 110 feet (35 meters) tall. Scientifically named Mauritia flexuosa, Buriti trees need constant moisture and large spaces for optimal growth. This makes watery areas such as swamps and rivers a frequent habitat for the tree. The trees have large, round leaves arranged in the shape of a crown, and their yellow flowers bloom from December to April. Its shiny, chestnut-colored fruit grows from December to June.
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