Marula Oil: Preserving our South African biodiversity heritage

 Marula tree (Sclerocarya birrea)

The Marula tree (Sclerocarya birrea) holds a special place in South Africa’s natural and cultural history. For generations, rural communities have harvested its sun-ripened fruit and carefully extracted the oil, using it to nourish skin and hair.

With its subtle, nutty aroma and deeply hydrating properties, marula oil is far more than a modern beauty trend. It is part of our heritage. Scientific research now confirms what traditional knowledge has long understood: marula oil is rich in antioxidants, essential fatty acids, and skin-supporting vitamins that help restore hydration, protect against environmental stress, and promote healthy-looking skin.

That is why marula oil is a key ingredient in the Upenya Youth Skincare Range, honouring African botanical wisdom while supporting the needs of teen skin.

Why ABS matters for marula oil

Different industries use genetic resources in many ways, but all rely on clarity and fairness in how those resources are accessed. The Nagoya Protocol on Access and Benefit Sharing (ABS) provides an international framework that ensures genetic resources and traditional knowledge are used transparently and ethically.

ABS creates value chains that connect communities, researchers, governments, and businesses, ensuring that benefits are shared fairly from source to market.

Marula trees are native to the southern African savannah, an ecosystem rich in biodiversity. Without responsible sourcing, increasing demand could place pressure on both the species and the landscapes that sustain it. For this reason, ABS compliance is not optional—it is essential.

What ABS-compliant sourcing means

Biodiversity safeguarded

Marula fruit is harvested in harmony with natural cycles, protecting ecosystems and preserving the savannah for future generations.

Community empowerment

Local knowledge and traditional practices are formally recognised. Communities who have stewarded marula for generations are fairly acknowledged and economically included.

Ethical innovation

Brands such as Upenya can responsibly use marula oil in skincare while supporting people, biodiversity, and long-term sustainability.

ABS ensures that heritage ingredients are not extracted at the expense of the environments and communities that sustain them.

At Upenya, marula oil is more than a functional ingredient. It represents our commitment to:

• Ethical sourcing through ABS-aligned value chains

• African botanical science rooted in evidence and tradition

• Barrier-supportive skincare suitable for acne-prone and sensitive teen skin

By choosing marula oil that is responsibly sourced, we honour South Africa’s biodiversity while delivering gentle, effective skincare.

Learn more about ABS and marula oil

If you would like to explore how access and benefit sharing protects biodiversity and supports ethical sourcing, the following resources offer valuable insight:

1. Convention on Biological Diversity - ABS Information Kit

2. Business Guide to ABS (BioInnovation Africa)

3. South Africa’s Biodiversity Act & ABS Regulations

4. Accessing international markets for Marula fruit & oil

   
   

Conclusion

Marula oil is not just an ingredient, it is a symbol of South Africa’s living biodiversity and cultural knowledge. Through ABS-compliant sourcing, we ensure that this golden legacy continues to benefit ecosystems, communities, and future generations.

At Upenya, preserving our natural heritage and nurturing young skin go hand in hand.