Moringa, Ben Oil, The Versatile “Miracle” Tree For Skincare
Moringa (Ben Oil): The Versatile “Miracle” Tree
Native to India, cultivated worldwide. Highly stable oil for gentle skincare.
Also called the drumstick tree, horseradish tree, tree of life, or miracle tree, Moringa oleifera is prized for its nutrient-dense leaves and a uniquely stable seed oil known as Ben oil. In skincare, Ben oil is light, highly absorbent, and helps soften and soothe while forming a protective feel on skin.
Why Ben oil stands out: naturally antioxidant-rich and unusually oxidation-stable, which helps products stay fresher for longer when stored correctly.
Skin and hair benefits at a glance
- Highly absorbent emollient that helps soften and smooth.
- Comforts dryness and supports the feel of the skin barrier.
- Lightweight slip for hair glossing and scalp massage.
- Formula-friendly stability for creams, lotions, balms, and soaps.
How to use Moringa in DIY skincare
- As a carrier oil in face and body oils, serums, and balms.
- In oil infusions: steep crushed leaves, flowers, or seed powder in a chosen carrier (e.g., Ben oil, jojoba) and strain before formulating.
- In soaps and shampoos for conditioning feel and stable shelf performance when combined with good preservation practices.
- Blend for texture: pair with lighter esters for quick-dry face oils, or with butters for richer balms.
Formulation tip: start with 5–20% Ben oil in leave-on products, adjust to skin feel. Always patch test new blends.
The many uses of the Moringa tree
Beyond cosmetics, different parts of the tree are used traditionally and industrially. Uses and evidence vary by region; always research regulations and safety for your application.
Seeds
- Source of Ben oil for skincare and perfumery.
- Traditional and industrial uses include water clarification in some contexts.
Leaves
- Nutrient-dense; used as powders and infusions.
- Common in green manure, foliar sprays, and as a natural colourant in some crafts.
Bark & Pulp
- Traditional uses in dyes and tanning processes vary by region.
- Pulp reported in paper and rope-making contexts.
Seed Oil (Ben oil)
- Light, olive-like profile, valued in cosmetics and perfumery.
- Oxidation-stable which is helpful for product freshness when stored properly.
Seed cake (post-press)
- Commonly referenced as a soil amendment or fertiliser in some agricultural uses.
Important clarity: many health claims you may read about Moringa come from traditional practices or early studies. For ingested uses, especially for children, pregnancy, or if you take medication, seek advice from a qualified professional. Cosmetic products are for external use only.
Quick facts about Ben oil
- Texture: lightweight, fast-absorbing, non-waxy feel.
- Typical use levels: 5–20% in leave-on products, higher in wash-off.
- Pairs well with: jojoba, squalane, shea, light esters for silky slip.
- Storage: cool, dark place with cap tightly sealed for freshness.
Patch test first. For dietary use, consult a professional if unsure.