The Truth About Jojoba Oil: From the The Holistic Pharmacy

Jojoba oil is a liquid wax, also called an oil interchangeably, that's extracted from jojoba seeds, and it has been used for centuries by Native American Indians. The jojoba tree is native to the Sonoran Desert in Arizona, California, and Mexico, but jojoba oil can be purchased online and in stores around the world. It's important to know what jojoba oil does before you buy it because jojoba oil isn't good for everyone. Read this article to find out if jojoba oil is right for you.

Share This Post

Jojoba oil intro | Skin treatment | Other benefits | Side effects

Jojoba oil is a liquid wax, also called an oil interchangeably, that’s extracted from jojoba seeds, and it has been used for centuries by Native American Indians.

The jojoba tree is native to the Sonoran Desert in Arizona, California, and Mexico, but jojoba oil can be purchased online and in stores around the world.

It’s important to know what jojoba oil does before you buy it because jojoba oil isn’t good for everyone. Read this article to find out if jojoba oil is right for you.

What is jojoba oil?

Jojoba oil is a type of vegetable oil that comes from the jojoba plant, also called Simmondsia chinensis.

Jojoba oil is made by pressing the seeds from the jojoba plant.

It’s a golden-colored liquid that is sometimes called jojoba wax because it has a waxy texture.

It is said to be odorless although some people describe it as having a very slight nutty smell. The oil contains many beneficial fatty acids, although these acids can vary depending on how the plant was grown.

Native American tribes initially used the oil for sores and wounds although it has found many other uses today.

The oil itself is very shelf-stable, more so than most other oils, which makes it prevalent in cosmetic products like body lotions and as a natural makeup remover.

YouTube player

Jojoba oil for the skin

Jojoba oil is a unique type of vegetable oil.

Unlike some oils, jojoba is noncomedogenic, which means it does not block pores or clog the skin’s surface so it can be used in topical application as an effective moisturizer for damaged and dry skin.

It doesn’t leave behind any greasy residue but instead acts to fill in the cracks and hydrate the skin.

Jojoba oil is also non-allergenic so it’s a good option for people with sensitive skin. The oil can be used to treat conditions such as psoriasis, eczema, acne, and rosacea.

It’s considered an emollient, which is a substance that helps to soothe and soften the skin while also unclogging hair follicles. For this reason, some people have tried to use it to prevent balding.

What are the other benefits of jojoba oil?

As noted above, the Native American tribes that first used jojoba oil used it for sores and wound healing.

Besides these uses, it has also been heralded as having a wide range of other health benefits too.

Below are some of the most common health benefits people claim from jojoba oil.

Moisturizer

As noted above jojoba oil is a great moisturizer that keeps the skin hydrated. It can help to soothe and soften dry or damaged skin.

The antioxidant properties in jojoba also help to protect against aging, which keeps your skin looking young for longer.

Jojoba oil for hair

Because jojoba oil products are often used as hair products such as conditioners, jojoba oil can help to improve the health of your hair.

The fatty acids in jojoba oil are similar to those found in human sebum and they work like a natural moisturizer for your scalp and follicles.

By keeping your hair hydrated you also reduce the chance of dry hair that will become damaged or break off. Jojoba oil can also help to reduce scalp itchiness and inflammation.

Soothes sunburns

Jojoba oil is a natural sunburn remedy. The oil helps to soothe the skin, reduce inflammation, and speed up the healing process.

It’s also said by some people to work better than aloe vera for treating sunburns.

Improves acne and rosacea

Jojoba oil can be applied directly to acne or rosacea for a quick fix.

It’s believed that it works to reduce inflammation and unclog hair follicles, which helps to get rid of blemishes on your skin quickly.

Hair loss prevention

Some people use jojoba oil as a way to prevent hair loss and it is often seen in hair care products. It acts like an emollient and is able to moisturize the scalp more effectively than other oils, which can help with hair growth problems.

Mosquito repellent

Jojoba oil is also said to be a natural mosquito repellent. While there haven’t been any studies done on this yet, it’s thought that the oil’s anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties help to keep mosquitoes away.

Are the benefits backed by science?

While many people swear by the benefits of jojoba oil, there haven’t been any extensive studies done on the oil itself.

However, many of the benefits that jojoba oil is said to have been backed by science.

The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of jojoba oil can help to improve your skin health while the moisturizing effects can help to keep your hair healthy and hydrated.

The other benefits are considered anecdotal until further studies can be done.

Are there any side effects to using jojoba oil?

If jojoba oil is used on the skin, there are very few adverse effects that you have to worry about. It is considered hypoallergenic; however, some people have still had an allergic skin reaction resulting in hives and rashes.

The only real risk of using jojoba oil comes from taking it orally as a supplement because it contains erucic acid, which can cause heart damage. For this reason, it is not recommended to ingest jojoba oil.

Who shouldn’t use jojoba oil?

Pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers are safe using jojoba oil although they should avoid using it on areas that a newborn mouth may touch, for example, the nipples while breastfeeding.

If you have sensitive skin you are most likely safe using it although allergic reactions on the skin can occur.

Where can I buy jojoba oil?

Jojoba is readily available to purchase online and in health food stores, but if you’re trying to keep an eye on your budget then it might be worth looking at other alternatives before jojoba because of the high cost.

As long as what you use has a similar composition to jojoba, you’re likely to see the same effects.

Summary

Jojoba oil is a safe and natural product made from the seeds of the jojoba plant that can help your skin stay healthy and hydrated.

It works as an emollient, which means it soothes and hydrates the skin while also not clogging pores while having anti-inflammatory effects.

Other touted health benefits include treating sunburns, hair loss problems such as alopecia areata or male pattern baldness, acne, and rosacea.

Besides being an effective moisturizer and hydrating the skin, most of the benefits are considered anecdotal and need more research.

The only risk of applying it topically is that have an allergic reaction to it. Jojoba oil should not be ingested. If you have more questions or are considering using jojoba oil, please talk to your doctor, healthcare provider, or dermatologist.

References and Sources:

We are committed to providing our readers with only trusted resources and science-based studies with regards to medication and health information. 

Disclaimer: This general information is not intended to diagnose any medical condition or to replace your healthcare professional. If you suspect medical problems or need medical help or advice, please talk with your healthcare professional.

Share This Post

Pharmacists.org Discount Club

Get Started for $1.

  • Cheapest cash pay option at your retail pharmacy
  • 1,000s of drugs below $10.00 that can beat your co-pay
  • Start for $1 for your first month. Cancel anytime. 
  • Tell us your meds, we tell you the cheapest options.

Popular Destinations

Recent Articles

How Often Should You Get an Eye Exam?

Major vision problems cause an annual economic impact of 145 billion dollars per year in the United States, and vision disability is one of the top 10 disabilities among adults over the age of 18. Everyone should have their eyes checked periodically, but how often should you get an eye exam?

Read More »

Iron Infusions: Everything You Need to Know

Iron-deficiency anemia is a common condition that can cause fatigue, shortness of breath, and other health problems. If you are suffering from iron-deficiency anemia, your doctor may recommend an iron infusion as treatment. An iron infusion is a procedure in which iron is administered directly into your bloodstream. In this article, we will provide you with all the information you need to know about iron infusions including what they are, how they work, and how to prepare for them.

Read More »
what is genomic medicine

What Is Genomic Medicine?

Genomic medicine uses our genetic information to provide individualized health care. Various gene therapies can potentially cure rare diseases or conditions. Genetic testing allows people to know and understand the differences in their own genetic information. The results of genetic testing can help providers choose medications that are tailored specific genes and improve the health care of individual patients.

Read More »

Chigger Bite: Everything You Need to Know 

Do you know what chiggers are?

If not, you’re not alone. Many people have never heard of chiggers before, but they can be a real nuisance.

This article will teach you everything you need to know about chigger bites, what they are, where they live, what happens when they bite you, and how to treat them.

Read More »

Share On:

More To Explore

How Often Should You Get an Eye Exam?

Major vision problems cause an annual economic impact of 145 billion dollars per year in the United States, and vision disability is one of

The different types of lie bumps: Transient lingual papillitis, fungiform papillae, and other forms

There are many different types of lie bumps and each one has its own specific symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options available to you. We’ll discuss

Iron Infusions: Everything You Need to Know

Iron-deficiency anemia is a common condition that can cause fatigue, shortness of breath, and other health problems. If you are suffering from iron-deficiency anemia,

What Is Genomic Medicine?

Genomic medicine uses our genetic information to provide individualized health care. Various gene therapies can potentially cure rare diseases or conditions. Genetic testing allows

Chigger Bite: Everything You Need to Know 

Do you know what chiggers are? If not, you’re not alone. Many people have never heard of chiggers before, but they can be a real

What Are the Benefits of Manuka Honey?

Manuka honey is a unique type of honey that is produced in New Zealand and Australia as it is made by bees from the

How Often Can I Take Tylenol?

Tylenol, also known by the generic name acetaminophen, is a popular over-the- counter (OTC) drug that is classified as an analgesic (pain reliever) and

Coffee: Potential Benefits and Adverse Effects

In this article, we will explore coffee's history, its potential benefits, and if it is safe for everyone to consume.

Parosmia: What it is, Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment

Parosmia is an olfactory disorder where you have a distorted perception of smell and you may smell odors differently than you should. It can

What Is Levofloxacin?

Improper prescription and use of antibiotics over the past several decades has led to a rise in drug-resistant bacteria, many of which do not

Brown Recluse Spider Bites: What You Need to Know

In this article, we will discuss the symptoms of being bitten by a brown recluse spider, when to seek medical attention, and how to

What Is the Drug Levofloxacin Used For?

One powerful fluoroquinolone antibiotic, levofloxacin, is used to treat and prevent a number of serious infections that cannot be treated with other medications. So,

Comparison of Azithromycin and Clarithromycin

Azithromycin and clarithromycin are both macrolide antibiotics used to treat a number of different bacterial infections, including upper respiratory tract infections, lower respiratory tract

MCHC: What It Is, Symptoms, Causes, Treatment, and More

Mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC) is a measure of the average amount of hemoglobin in red blood cells with hemoglobin being responsible for transporting

What are the Symptoms of Coffee Withdrawal?

Due to the prevalence of coffee, tea, soft drinks, and energy drinks, caffeine is one of the most popular drugs in the world and

Everything You Ever Wanted to Know About Quercetin

This article will answer all your quercetin-related questions such as what quercetin is, how much quercetin you should take daily, what are the beneficial

How Much Does the Shingrix Vaccine Cost?

The Shingrix vaccine was approved for use in preventing shingles in 2017, and older Americans aged 50 and older are strongly advised to receive

All You Need to Know About Ringworm: Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment

Ringworm is a fungal infection that can be seen on the skin. It can affect both children and adults, but it's most common in

CBD Oil: What You Need to Know

CBD oil is a popular natural remedy used for many common ailments. CBD is short for cannabidiol and it is one of over 100 chemical

The Top 7 Best CBD Lotions of 2023

CBD, or cannabidiol, is a cannabinoid that is found in cannabis and hemp plants. It has many supposed beneficial properties for the skin, making

CBD Topical Cream for Blemishes

If you are tired of dealing with sore, spotty skin and it is a problem that you still experience on a daily basis, now

CBD Hype: Is it Worth Buying?

The triumphant stories of many novel medications can be rooted in someone’s misfortune. Such was the story of 5-year old Charlotte Figi, who back

How to Break a Fever: Recommended Tips to Beat the Body Heat

If you are desperate to learn how to break a fever, you may be surprised to discover that there are many home remedies  you

Clindamycin vs Azithromycin: Which is Better?

Both clindamycin and azithromycin belong to a class of drugs called macrolide antibiotics, and are associated with a relatively low risk of side effects.

The Responsible Way to Take Prescribed Antibiotics

When we go to the doctor and are prescribed medication, it is important to take it exactly as prescribed. However, when it comes to

What Is Eliquis?

Many people don’t think about blood clots on a daily basis, but if you’ve ever had a blood clot, then you know just how

Everything You Need to Know About Wormwood

Wormwood is a plant that has been used for thousands of years as a natural remedy. Its name comes from the Anglo-Saxon word wermode

First Oral Medication Approved for the Treatment of Spinal Muscular Atrophy

There are a few treatment options available for spinal muscular atrophy, but recently the U.S. Federal Drug and Administration (FDA) approved the first oral

Grapefruit Juice and Drug Interactions

Grapefruit juice, and other fruit juices, can interact with certain medications. Learn about the interaction of grapefruit juice with different drugs and how to

White Bumps on Your Tongue: What Are They and When You Need to Worry?

If you are worried about white bumps on your tongue, it's important to know that many people experience this issue at some point in