Botanical Name: Moringa Oleifera.
Family Name: Moringaceae.
Common Name: Moringa, Behen Oil, Bel oil.
INCI: Moringa Oleifera Seed (Moringa) Oil.
Extraction Method: Cold Pressed.
Parts Used: Seeds.
Appearance: Yellow.
Country of Origin: India.
Comodogenic index: 2
Moringa oleifera is native to the sub-Himalayan regions of India, Pakistan, and Nepal but is now cultivated worldwide in tropical and subtropical regions, including Africa, Southeast Asia, and Central America. The seeds are contained in long, drumstick-shaped pods that mature once the tree reaches full bloom. Traditionally, the seeds were hand-harvested, sun-dried, and cold-pressed to extract the precious oil.
Moringa oil has a rich history: it was highly prized in ancient Egyptian, Greek, and Roman civilizations. The Egyptians used it as a natural preservative for perfumes and ointments, as it resists rancidity even in hot desert climates. In Ayurvedic medicine, Moringa oil was applied to heal minor cuts, soothe dry skin, and nourish the scalp. Historical texts also describe its use as a massage oil for royalty due to its smooth texture and ability to absorb quickly without leaving a greasy residue.
Moringa seed oil, often called “ben oil” or “behen oil,” is a lightweight, highly stable, and nutrient-dense oil pressed from the seeds of the Moringa oleifera tree. Revered as the “Miracle Tree,” Moringa has been cultivated for centuries across South Asia and Africa, where every part of the tree—leaves, pods, seeds, and roots—has been used as food, medicine, or cosmetic ingredient. Moringa oil stands out for its exceptional shelf stability, rich antioxidant profile, and unique balance of fatty acids, making it one of the most versatile oils for skin, hair, wellness, and even culinary applications.
Main constituents of fatty acids:
1)-Oleic Acid: 65-85%
2)-Behenic Acid: 3-10% ( A rare saturated fatty acid responsible for the oil’s remarkable stability and silky feel).
3)-Palmitic Acid: 2-10%
4)-Stearic Acid: 2-8%
5)-Arachidic Acid: 2-5%
6)-Palmitoleic Acid: 1-5%
7)-11-Eicosenoic acid: 0.5-4%
8)-Linoleic Acid: Max 2%
9)-Alpha-Linolenic Acid: <0.5%
Zeatin – A plant hormone unique to Moringa that is believed to promote cellular regeneration and anti-aging benefits.
Moringa oil is pale yellow, with a light, almost nutty aroma. Its viscosity is medium-light, and it spreads smoothly, leaving a satin finish on the skin. Thanks to its high oxidative stability, it can remain fresh for months or even years, which is why it has long been used as a natural preservative for perfumes.
Moringa seed oil has become a star ingredient in modern beauty formulations. Here’s why:
1. Skin Moisturization and Repair
Rich in oleic acid, Moringa oil penetrates deeply, softening and hydrating dry skin without clogging pores. It helps improve the appearance of fine lines, rough patches, and loss of elasticity. Its anti-inflammatory properties make it suitable for those with sensitive or reactive skin.
2. Anti-Aging Benefits
The combination of vitamins A and E, along with plant sterols, helps neutralize free radicals and stimulates collagen production. This reduces the visible signs of aging, such as wrinkles, sagging, and age spots.
3. Acne and Oil Regulation
Despite its richness, Moringa oil is non-comedogenic and can help rebalance sebum production. Its antibacterial properties support clearer skin, making it suitable even for acne-prone individuals.
4. Massage and Aromatherapy
Because of its smooth glide and long shelf life, Moringa oil is a favorite base oil for massage blends and essential oil dilutions. It provides a luxurious, silky slip and leaves the skin nourished after treatment.
Hair and Scalp Benefits:
Moringa oil is excellent for hair care due to its ability to deeply penetrate the scalp and hair shaft:
Strengthens Hair Follicles – Reduces breakage and supports hair growth.
Moisturizes Scalp – Relieves dryness, flakiness, and itching.
Protects from Environmental Damage – Forms a barrier against pollution and UV exposure.
Adds Natural Shine – Leaves hair silky and manageable without weighing it down.
Comodogenic index:
-Comedogenic level 0: it is non-comedogenic and does not cause pore clogging.
-Comedogenic level 1: there is a small (very low) possibility that the ingredient is comedogenic and may clog pores.
-Comedogenic level 2: in most cases, it will not clog pores. The possibility that it may clog pores is moderate to low.
-Comedogenic level 3: they have a medium chance of clogging pores, depending especially on the skin type.
-Comedogenic level 4: the chance of clogging pores, regardless of the skin type, is quite high.
-Comedogenic level 5: they tend, in almost all cases, to clog skin pores. In fact, very few people tolerate the oils found here.
