Yangu Carrier Oil - Information Page

Yangu Oil – Calodendrum Capense (Cape Chestnut) Seed Oil

Product Identification

NCI Name: Calodendrum Capense (Cape Chestnut) nut/seed oil
Synonyms: Yangu seed oil, Calodendrum Capense seed oil, Cape Chestnut Oil
CAS Number: Unspecified (68956-68-3)
Extraction Method: Cold-pressed (max. 45°C) in a mechanical press, filtered without chemical treatment
Parts Used: Whole fruit seeds
Origin: Kenya

Common Names:
Cape chestnut, Wild chestnut (English); Umbhaba (Xhosa/Zulu); Wildekastaiing, Kaapsekastaiing (Afrikaans); Molalakgwedi (Northern Sotho); Muvhaha (Venda); Mbhovha (Tsonga).

Characteristics

  • Appearance: Clear, translucent, pale yellow to golden oil

  • Texture: Dry-touch, fast-absorbing, lightweight, and non-greasy

  • Odour: Delicate, slightly sweet, hazelnut-like aroma that quickly dissipates

  • Quality: 100% pure and natural, cold-pressed carrier oil

  • Composition (Fatty Acid Profile):

    • Oleic acid (Omega‑9): 46.8%

    • Linoleic acid (Omega‑6): 29.4%

    • Palmitic acid: 19.7%

    • Stearic acid: 3.5%

    • Vitamin E (natural antioxidant)

  • Storage: Keep below 20°C in a cool, dark place away from heat and sunlight

Description and Benefits

Yangu oil, extracted from the seeds of the Calodendrum Capense tree, is a prized African dry oil highly valued for skincare and haircare. Naturally rich in essential fatty acids and Vitamin E, it helps maintain the skin’s moisture barrier, regulate sebum production, and support healthy, radiant skin.

Because of its light texture and non‑comedogenic nature, Yangu oil is especially suitable for oily, combination, acne-prone, and sensitive skins. It absorbs instantly without leaving an oily film, offering a smooth, matte finish.

In haircare, it is beloved for moisturising, detangling, and taming frizz, making it ideal for dry, curly, coily, and Afro‑textured hair. Its use across generations in African communities highlights its reliability as a natural skin and hair protector.

Yangu oil is also used in aromatherapy, massage blends, and natural cosmetic formulations, both as a base oil and as a balancing, nourishing enhancer in blends.

Key Properties

  • Hydrating and moisturising

  • Nourishing and protective

  • Anti-inflammatory and calming

  • Antioxidant and rejuvenating

  • Cleansing, antibacterial, antifungal

  • Sebum‑regulating and mattifying (reduces shine)

  • Non‑comedogenic (rating 0)

  • UV‑protective potential (traditional use)*

*Yangu oil may provide some natural UV shielding but should not replace sunscreen for high protection needs.

Skin Benefits

  • Oily/Acne‑Prone Skin: Balances oil production, clears blemishes, and reduces inflammation.

  • Dry/Dehydrated Skin: Restores suppleness and helps retain moisture.

  • Mature Skin: Improves elasticity and protects from oxidative stress.

  • Sensitive Skin: Soothes irritation and supports skin barrier repair.

  • Combination Skin: Provides hydration without heaviness, leaving a matte finish.

Use in serums, creams, lotions, after‑sun care, and cleansing formulations.

Hair Benefits

  • Deeply moisturises and nourishes dry, brittle, or colour‑treated hair.

  • Smooths frizz and defines curls and coils.

  • Supports scalp health and combats dryness and dandruff.

  • Strengthens weak hairlines and prevents breakage.

  • Suitable for pre‑shampoo treatments, leave‑in conditioners, masks, and styling oils.

Can be used alone or blended with oils like Marula, Argan, Jojoba, or Coconut.

Suggested Uses

In Skincare:

  • Apply pure on face and body for daily hydration.

  • Blend into serums or moisturisers for balancing and anti-aging effects.

  • Combine with clay and arrowroot powder for a mattifying mask.

In Haircare:

  • Add to conditioners, masks, or oils for hydration and shine.

  • Use warm as a hot‑oil treatment or apply to ends to prevent breakage.

  • Create pre‑poo and leave‑in sprays with aloe vera or hydrosols.

In Aromatherapy and Massage:

  • Blend 20% Yangu oil with 60% light base carrier (e.g., Grapeseed, Apricot Kernel) and 20% targeted oils (Tamanu, Evening Primrose, Arnica) plus essential oils for fragrance or specific benefits.

In Natural Cosmetics:

  • Ideal base for body oils, lotions, and soaps.

  • Mix with Shea, Mango, Marula, or Baobab oil for African-inspired blends.

Safety and Precautions

  • For external use only.

  • Perform a patch test before first use.

  • Store away from heat, light, children, and pets.

  • Do not use undiluted on skin when combining with essential oils—always dilute appropriately.

  • Avoid during the first trimester of pregnancy and breastfeeding.

  • Discontinue use if irritation occurs and seek medical advice if needed.

For essential oil safety and dilution guidelines, visit:
How to Use Essential Oils Safely