What to know about Simmondsia chinensis (jojoba) before using it medicinally

Simmondsia chinensis, commonly known as jojoba, is a herb that has been prized for its numerous health benefits, which include reducing inflammation, promoting skin health, and supporting the immune system.

Native to the deserts of North America, this drought-tolerant herb is also a popular choice for gardeners due to its ease of cultivation and versatility. From a botanical perspective, Simmondsia chinensis is a shrub-like plant with a distinctive trunk and branches, belonging to the Buxaceae family and characterized by its single seed pods and evergreen leaves.

The herb has been used for centuries in traditional medicine by various cultures, including the indigenous peoples of the Americas, who valued it for its emollient and antioxidant properties.

This article explains the medicinal, horticultural, botanical, and historical aspects of Simmondsia chinensis.

What are the medicinal properties of Simmondsia chinensis?

Simmondsia chinensis helps with wound healing, skin conditions, and inflammation. The plant's extracts are used to reduce pain, itching, and redness. It also exhibits antimicrobial and antioxidant properties.

The active constituents of Simmondsia chinensis include triterpenoids, particularly betulinic acid and lupeol. These compounds contribute to the plant's medicinal properties, including anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities. The plant's extracts also contain phytosterols and phenolic compounds.

The leaves, seeds, and oil of Simmondsia chinensis are used for medicinal purposes. The leaves are used to make infusions for skin conditions and wounds. The seeds are used to produce oil, which is used in topical applications for skin and hair care.

Improper use of Simmondsia chinensis can cause allergic reactions, such as skin irritation and anaphylaxis. Excessive consumption of the plant's oil can also lead to gastrointestinal upset. Ingestion of large quantities of the plant's seeds can cause vomiting and diarrhea.

Precautions when using Simmondsia chinensis medicinally include proper identification of the plant, as it can be confused with other species. The plant's oil and extracts should be used in moderation, and individuals with allergies or sensitivities should avoid using it. Additionally, pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult with a healthcare professional before using the plant medicinally.

What are the horticulural aspects of Simmondsia chinensis?

Simmondsia chinensis grow well in well-drained soil with a pH between 6.5 and 7.5. Full sun is required for optimal growth, with temperatures ranging from 65°F to 100°F (18°C to 38°C). Annual rainfall is minimal, requiring supplemental irrigation. Water requirements are low due to its drought tolerance.

For optimal growth, plant jojoba seeds 1/4 inch deep in well-drained soil during the spring or fall. Space plants 10-15 feet apart, allowing for a mature height of 10-15 feet. Young seedlings are sensitive to frost and require protection. Mulching around plants helps retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Harvesting typically occurs between 5-7 years after planting, when the plants reach 2-3 feet in height. Jojoba seeds are typically harvested by hand or mechanically, as over-handling can damage the plant. Seeds are then cleaned and dried to 6-7% moisture content for oil extraction.

Common pests affecting Simmondsia chinensis include aphids, whiteflies, and spider mites. Root diseases such as phytophthora and pythium can also occur, particularly in waterlogged soil. Regular monitoring and integrated pest management practices can help mitigate these issues and ensure healthy plant growth.

What are the botanical aspects of Simmondsia chinensis?

Simmondsia chinensis is a dioecious shrub or small tree, evergreen in nature, with a sprawling or erect growth habit, typically growing up to 1-5 meters in height, and with a trunk diameter of up to 10 cm.

The taxonomical classification of Simmondsia chinensis is as follows: Kingdom: Plantae, Clade: Angiosperms, Clade: Eudicots, Order: Sapindales, Family: Simmondsiaceae, Genus: Simmondsia, Species: S. chinensis. This classification indicates its unique position in the plant kingdom.

There are two main variants of Simmondsia chinensis: S. chinensis var. chinensis, which is the most common form, and S. chinensis var. leucotricha, which has a distinct white or yellowish pubescence on its stems and leaves. These variants have been identified based on morphological differences.

Simmondsia chinensis is native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico, specifically in the Sonoran Desert and surrounding areas. Its distribution is restricted to dry regions with hot summers and mild winters. It is commonly found in sandy or well-drained soils.

The life cycle of Simmondsia chinensis consists of a slow growth phase during the first two years, followed by an accelerated growth phase, typically reaching its maximum height after 10-15 years. The plant can live for up to 200 years, and it produces flowers in late summer, with seeds ripening in autumn.

What are the historical aspects of Simmondsia chinensis?

Simmondsia chinensis is a desert plant native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico, used historically for its oil-rich seeds to nourish and moisturize skin and hair. The seeds were crushed for oil, which was used in rituals and ceremonies. The oil was also used in traditional medicine.

In Native American mythology, jojoba seeds are associated with fertility, abundance, and protection, often depicted in petroglyphs. The seeds are also believed to possess healing properties, used to treat a range of ailments, including wounds, skin conditions, and digestive issues. The plant is considered sacred by some tribes.

Jojoba seeds hold symbolic meanings in various cultures, representing longevity, prosperity, and good fortune. The plant is also associated with the concept of "abundance" in some traditional practices, signifying the cycle of life, death, and rebirth. The seeds' ability to retain water is also seen as a metaphor for self-sufficiency and adaptability.

Historical texts, such as the writings of Spanish conquistador Francisco Vázquez de Coronado, mention the use of jojoba seeds in traditional medicine and rituals. The 16th-century Spanish botanist Francisco Hernández documented the plant's properties and uses in his book "Rerum Medicarum Novae Hispaniae Thesaurus". The seeds' medicinal properties were also described by the 18th-century Swedish botanist Pehr Kalm.

Archaeological findings, such as petroglyphs and artifacts, demonstrate the significant role of jojoba seeds in the lives of ancient cultures. Excavations at ancient Native American sites, such as the Hohokam ruins, have yielded jojoba seeds, highlighting their importance in traditional medicine and rituals. The plant's oil was also used to preserve artifacts and tools, ensuring their longevity.