Is Jojoba Oil a Nut Allergen?
Jojoba oil comes from the seed of the jojoba shrub, Simmondsia chinensis (S. chinensi) which is a part of the Simmondsiaceae family, native to the semi arid regions of Northern Mexico, California, and Arizona. The shrub contains seeds the size of small olives, sometimes called a deernut, containing oil-rich seeds from which jojoba oil is extracted.
About half of these seeds are made up of oil, as well as a few fatty acids such as palmitic acid, palmitoleic acid, stearic acid, oleic acid, and arachidic acid. These properties can vary based on the soil and climate in which the shrub was harvested. While jojoba oil has the word “oil” in the name, it is actually a polyunsaturated liquid wax (has more than one unsaturated carbon bond.) Jojoba oil is known as a natural hypoallergenic, and has dozens of unique properties including being non-comedogenic, antibacterial, anti inflammatory, and displays antioxidant properties.
While jojoba oil is not a nut allergen, it does not mean you cannot have a sensitivity or allergy to it. Oftentimes allergic reactions to jojoba oil during cosmetic use are caused by impurities in the product, such as mineral oil or isopropyl alcohol. Our supplier sells only 100% pure jojoba oil which is batch tested to confirm its purity. If you have any concerns or experience sensitivities, please consult with a medical professional.
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