Andiroba Oil (Carapa guianensis) – Pure Amazon Seed Oil from Brazil | Made by Forest

Andiroba oil is extracted from the oil-rich seeds of the Amazonian tree *Carapa guianensis* , which belongs to the *Meliaceae* family. The brown, square seeds contain up to 60% oil. The oil is golden yellow to reddish, viscous, and has a characteristic bitter-nutty odor. It mainly contains:

• Oleic acid (Omega-9): 48–57%
• Palmitic acid: 9–28%
• Linoleic acid (Omega-6): approx. 10%
• Stearic acid: approx. 10%
• Unsaponifiables (2–5%): limonoids (especially gedunin, andirobin), sterols, triterpenes

The combination of fatty acids and limonoids makes andiroba a special raw material for ethnobotanical research, skincare formulations or traditional crafts.

Andiroba oil has been used in a variety of ways for centuries by indigenous groups such as the Munduruku, Wayãpi, and Palikur. Examples from Brazil, Peru, and Colombia:

• Insect repellent: applied to the skin, traditionally also mixed with urucum (annatto).
• After the hunt: for muscle relaxation and massage
• Wound care: external use for bruises, sprains, inflammations
• Hair and skin care: to soothe itching, insect bites, and rashes
• Home remedies: for joint pain, rheumatism (external application)
• Lamp oil: historically used as a low-soot fuel oil, mosquito-repellent

This information is based on documented cultural knowledge. The product is not approved for medical or cosmetic use in the EU.

Andiroba oil is the subject of intensive ethnobotanical and pharmacological research. Studies show, among other things:

• Anti-inflammatory action: Modulation of IL-1β, TNF-α, leukotrienes in preclinical models
• Wound healing: Promotion of fibroblast migration and tissue regeneration
• Repellent effect: Insect repellent confirmed in tropical studies
• Antiparasitic: Gedunin is effective against Leishmania; in vitro it also shows antimalarial effects.
• Anticonvulsant: GABAergic modulation by biogenic amides (in studies)
• Improvement in mucositis: Pilot study showed symptomatic relief in cancer patients

Human studies are rare, but initial clinical data are available. The effects of individual limonoids are promising – for example, gedunin as a naturally occurring inhibitor of inflammatory processes. Nevertheless, andiroba oil is not a medicine.

Origin: Wild harvested near Lábrea, Brazilian Amazon. Cooperating families sustainably harvest the fruit from the ground or rivers.

Processing: The seeds are traditionally pre-dried, lightly fermented, and cold-pressed. The resulting oil is coarsely filtered (using traditional methods with cloth filters or natural fibers) and bottled under anaerobic conditions. No additives. No heating. No refining.

Storage: Store in a cool, dry place away from light. It may partially solidify at temperatures below 18°C ​​– please allow to liquefy again at room temperature. Consume within 6 months of opening.

Analysis: An independent laboratory analysis for microbiological and chemical safety has been commissioned. Results will follow shortly on this page.

• Intended for external use only as a raw material
• Do not take
• Not a cosmetic or medicinal product as defined by EU regulations.
• Before individual application: Patch test in the crook of the arm.
• Caution if you have a nut or seed allergy
• Do not use during pregnancy, breastfeeding, or on children under 6 years of age.
• Store out of reach of children