The Mamey Sapote, or locally known as Zapote, native to the coastal regions of
Guatemala, is renowned for its incredibly sweet fruit, often featured in delectable
desserts. However, the true gem lies within its seed, rich in history and utility,
particularly in traditional hair care.
Historical Use of Zapote Seed
The K’iché Maya, from the area of Chichicastenango, have a long-standing relationship with the Mamey Sapote. Historically, they traded apples, pears, and peaches for zapotes from the coast. The seeds of these fruits played a crucial role in their culture, being used to prepare a special paste made from dried, roasted seeds and corn. This paste was reserved for ceremonial drinks and rituals, signifying its importance. Remarkably, the Maya also discovered that this seed paste could be used as a natural shampoo, imparting an almond scent to the hair while nourishing it.
Traditional Processing
The traditional processing of Zapote seeds is a fascinating blend of ancient wisdom and natural chemistry. The seeds are roasted in ash, and when ground into a paste, they essentially undergo a saponification reaction. This process, akin to making soap from oil and lye, releases natural surfactants called saponins. Saponins are compounds that produce lather and have cleansing properties, making them effective natural shampoos.
The Maya were, in essence, creating soap long before the science behind it was
formally understood. Today, the benefits of Zapote seed oil, also known as Sapuyul Oil, are widely recognized in the beauty industry. Rich in Vitamin A, Zapote oil strengthens hair roots, acts as an emollient, and helps detangle and add slip to hair. Its nourishing properties have made it a valuable ingredient in various hair and skincare products.
Tierra & Lava's Philosophy
We honor these traditional methods by working with the family of Doña
Juana, the last custodians of this ancient practice. By collaborating with them, we
support their community, preserving their cultural heritage and providing economic
benefits. Our commitment to sustainable and ethical sourcing ensures that the
traditional knowledge and expertise of the Maya are respected and integrated into our products.
Our philosophy to create self-care rituals that are deeply rooted in ancient Mayan healing wisdom. We believe in the power of natural beauty and are dedicated to using ethically sourced ingredients. By supporting local farmers, we help preserve traditional Mayan practices, ensuring that each product is of the highest quality from inception to the final product.
Embracing the Past for a Beautiful Future
The journey of the Zapote seed from ancient Maya rituals to modern beauty shelves is a testament to the enduring value of traditional knowledge. By combining these time-honored practices with contemporary science, we can create products that are not only effective but also honor and preserve our cultural heritage.
At Tierra & Lava, we are proud to be part of this journey, bringing the benefits of Zapote to a new generation, while continuing the time-honored traditions of the Mayan culture.
