Balanos oil

Description

A semidrying oil expressed from kernels of the Egyptian tree, Balanites aegyptiaca. Balanos oil contains Linoleic acid (37-44%), Oleic acid (23-34%), Palmitic acid (12-17%) and Stearic acid (8-12%) (Serpico and White 2000). It is used in perfumes, cosmetics and cooking.

Synonyms and Related Terms

Balanites aegyptiac; aceite de balanos (Esp.)

Resources and Citations

• M.Serpico, R.White, "Oil, fat and wax" in Ancient Egyptian Materials and Technology, P.Nicholson, I.Shaw (eds.), Cambridge University Press, 2000, p. 390-429.

• A.Lucas, J.R.Harris, Ancient Egyptian Materials and Industries, Edward Arnold Publishers Ltd., London, 4th edition, 1962