Crab Oil (Andiroba)

Andiroba seed oil is most commonly used as a mosquito repellent. Various parts of the plant are also used for conditions such as cough, arthritis, wounds, parasites, and many others, but there is no good scientific evidence to support these uses.

In manufacturing, andiroba is used as a solvent for dissolving and removing dyes from plants, as a lamp oil, and as an insect repellent.

How does it work ?

Andiroba contains chemicals called limonoids. These chemicals seem to repel and kill mosquitoes and other insects. Other chemicals in andiroba might help the skin to heal faster from wounds.

Uses & Effectiveness ?

Insufficient Evidence for

Mosquito repellent. Early research suggests that applying 100% andiroba oil to the skin protects against mosquito bites. But it doesn’t work as well as applying 50% DEET.

Fevers.

Herpes.

Intestinal worms.

Coughs.

Skin conditions.

Sores.

Ulcers.

Removing tick.

Skin parasites.

Arthritis.

Muscle and joint aches and injuries.

Wounds.

Other conditions.

More evidence is needed to rate the effectiveness of andiroba for these uses.

Side Effects

When taken by mouth: There isn’t enough reliable information to know if andiroba is safe or what the side effects might be.

When applied to the skin: There isn’t enough reliable information to know if andiroba is safe or what the side effects might be.

Special Precautions and Warnings

When taken by mouth: There isn’t enough reliable information to know if andiroba is safe or what the side effects might be.

When applied to the skin: There isn’t enough reliable information to know if andiroba is safe or what the side effects might be. Pregnancy and breast-feeding: There isn’t enough reliable information to know if andiroba is safe to use when pregnant or breast-feeding. Stay on the safe side and avoid use.(Source: Webmd.com)