Aditivos naturais: incorporando óleo de castanha de pequi em sabões artesanais

Abstract

The oil extracted from pequi nuts, Caryocar brasiliense, contains a high lipid content (55.76%) and protein content (29.24%). Its main fatty acids are oleic acid (42.47%), palmitic acid (39.49%), and linoleic acid (10.17%), which are essential for hydration and maintaining the skin's protective barrier. This oil is known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. This study aims to evaluate the use of pequi nut oil as an additive in handmade soap formulations. The oil was extracted using the Soxhlet method, with hexane as the solvent, and its moisture content, acidity index, and saponification index were determined. Following this step, two formulations were developed using a commercial glycerin soap base and different concentrations of pequi nut oil. The soaps were subjected to quality tests, including evaluations of water absorption and resistance, durability, cracking, foam height, and pH. Among the prepared formulations, the one containing 3% pequi nut oil as an additive showed the best results.