
CITRILLUS LANATUS (KALAHARI MELON SEED) OIL
The botanical name of the Kalahari melon is Citrullus lanatus. Other common names are Tsamma melon and Wild watermelon. It is the biological ancestor of the watermelon, originating in the Kalahari region of Southern Africa. Unlike the common watermelon, whose flesh is sweet and red, the Kalahari melon’s flesh is pale yellow or green, and tastes bitter. A creeping annual herb, the Kalahari melon has hairy stems, forked tendrils and three-lobed hairy leaves. Its flowers are bright yellow.
The primary area of interest for use in Holistic Hair products lies in the properties of the oil from the seeds. The oil itself contains glycosides of palmitic, stearic, oleic and linoleic acids and is used for its ability to regenerate, moisturise and restructure. The high antioxidant content of the seeds allows the plant to survive in the harsh Kalahari Desert environment. Traditionally, the rich yellow oil has been used to protect hair from fading in the sun & to nourish the scalp & hair. It possesses a light texture and is non-greasy.
Key Benefits
Regenerating
Moisturising
Restructuring
Protection
Helpful for
Dryness, Inflammation, Damaged Hair
Products Containing Kalahari Melon