African Botanical
Ximenia Oil
Ximenia americana · INCI: Ximenia Americana Seed Oil
A rich, restorative emollient from the hardy ximenia tree, known for bringing softness back to very dry skin.
What is ximenia oil?
Ximenia oil is a rich, golden emollient pressed from the seeds of the ximenia tree, a resilient Southern African plant that thrives in dry, exposed landscapes. It has a long history of traditional use for softening skin and hair.
The oil is high in oleic acid and also contains unusual long-chain fatty acids that give it a distinctive, cushioning slip. This makes it especially comforting on very dry, depleted skin.
In skincare, ximenia oil is valued as a restorative emollient, helping bring softness back to skin that feels rough, tight or thirsty, while leaving a smooth, conditioned finish.
Ximenia Oil benefits for skin
- Restores softness. A rich emollient that helps bring softness back to very dry, depleted skin.
- Deeply conditioning. High in oleic acid and long-chain fatty acids for a cushioned, comforting feel.
- Comforting on rough areas. Helps soften the look and feel of dry patches such as elbows and knees.
- Smooth, silky finish. Leaves skin feeling smooth and conditioned rather than tight.
- Traditionally trusted. Long used across Southern Africa for skin and hair care.
Desert provenance
Ximenia grows as a hardy, drought-tolerant tree across Southern Africa. Its seeds yield a rich oil traditionally used for skin and hair care, valued in dry regions where skin is often exposed to sun, wind and harsh water.
How Maru uses ximenia oil
Ximenia oil adds a rich, restorative layer to both Desert Rain and Desert Sunrise, helping bring softness back to very dry skin while the lighter oils keep the blend fast-absorbing.
Working alongside marula, baobab and kalahari melon, ximenia rounds out the Maru body oils so they feel deeply nourishing on the body. It features in the fragrance-free Desert Rain, the lightly scented Desert Sunrise, and The Desert Ritual duo.