Kukui Nut Oil Aleurites moluccanus


Aleurites moluccanus
Kukui nut in a lei
  • Common Names
  • Kukui Nut Oil , Candlenut, Indian-walnut, candleberry
  • Botanical Name
  • Aleurites moluccanus
  • Syn. Jatropha moluccana
  • Family
  • EUPHORBIACEAE

Medicinal Uses & Benefits of Kukui Nut Oil

remedyHow to Use| Side Effects | Plant & Garden|

How to Use: Kukui Nut Oil


Kukui oil is expeller expressed from the nuts, and is light yellow with an amber tint. The oil penetrates skin deeply to hydrate and soften and is used as an emollient in skin care. Kukui oil is used to treat a variety of skin ailments such as eczema, psoriasis and burned or damaged skin. Kukui is an excellent botanical source of fatty acids and antioxidants, as well as Vitamins A,C and E.

Preparation Methods & Dosage :This tropical wonder oil can be used in all types of body,skin and hair care. Kukui oil makes great addition to homemade creams and lotions,(add after any steps that require heat, and do not expose it to high temperatures). Use this rich oil sparingly alone for an oil treatment on dry hair and scalp, or add a few drops to your bath water.


In the Kitchen: Kukui nuts are edible and the pounded nutmeats are used to make relishes for fish.

Kukui Nut Oil Side Effects: Kukui oil has a limited shelf life, so take care to store in a cool, dry place away from heat and light.

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Plant Description


Kukui, Aleurites moluccana is the State tree of Hawaii,and grows in the rich soil of the lower slopes of the volcanos. The common name Candletree is from the practice of stringing together the nuts of the kuki and using them for torch-like lighting.

  • Flowers/Fruit/Seeds:The round nuts hold the oil producing seeds that are used in skin care
  • Plant Class:Flowering tree grows to heights of 80 ft., wide, spreading branches
  • Rhizome:
  • Leaves:Pale green, simple ovate, or trilobed.
  • Preferred Habitat:t
  • Flowering Season:
  • Distribution:Tropical

Regional Traditions :Tropical islands *


References:
books citedWorks Cited
  1. Angela Kay Kepler, Hawaiian Heritage Plants, (1998)