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**UPDATE** (My "verdict"):
If you want to, buy the Ojon oil, but (in my opinion) it's frivolous. I have tried the Ojon (which would have cost me $25 for an ounce), Batana (which cost $10.30 per ounce), and red palm oil ($0.44 per ounce). The only benefit that the Ojon has over the palm oil is that it smells slightly better and doesn't stain as much. The Batana oil smelled lovely but is still kind of pricey.
I'm not saying that people aren't seeing results with the Ojon oil. I have no idea if it lives up to the hype or not. I do know that using anything consistently is bound to show some results. Ojon, Batana and palm oils are very similar in their origins. Since my goals are to nourish and moisturize my hair, the palm oil is what I choose.
If you are undecided about whether or not Ojon (or even Batana) is worth the price. I challenge you to try to research the differences in origin. Ojon does apparently have some properties that Batana and palm oil lack but how much difference does that make? I don't know but I'm not going to spend the extra dollars to find out!
There was something else I noticed when I was looking into this. A few years back (before the Ojon/Batana craze), I bought 2 jars of Nutivia palm oil. I don't remember what I paid (I believe I bought them at Walmart) but I am pretty sure I didn't pay more than 12 or o13 dollars. Currently, 2 jars of Nutivia is between $27 and $30-plus on Amazon. Walmart's prices are not much cheaper. The Juka brand is (on Walmart) a bit more affordable. Apparently, sellers know something...
I guess all I'm saying is not to follow hype or emotion when choosing products. Get what you can afford and get what works. Personally, I'm going to stick with "affordable".
(BTW - I almost didn't want to add this part because I can't remember the forum I found it in, but... In a discussion about Ojon vs Batana vs palm, one woman from Belize who mocked the Ojon craze. In her opinion, red palm oil is just as good. In my own opinion, I think the Ojon hype started (most likely) with TikTok. TikTok drives a lot of trends these days. Take that for what it's worth - just my humble opinion.)
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In a previous post, I spoke about Batana oil as if it were the same as Ojon oil. As I look deeper, I realize there are some differences. At first, the differences seem minor but I do think I should point them out. Since I opened my big mouth in the first place.
As much as I worry about AI taking over the world, I have to admit that it was by using ChatGPT that I learned about the difference between these oils. This is the "conversation" I had with ChatGPT.
I wanted to know what Ojon oil is (since it's not the exact same as Batana oil). The answer:
Ojon oil is derived from the nut of the American palm tree, scientifically known as Elaeis oleifera. Similar to batana oil, it originates from Central America, particularly the rainforests of Honduras. The oil has been traditionally used by the indigenous people, including the Miskito Indians of Honduras, for its moisturizing and hair-strengthening properties.
Ojon oil is rich in essential fatty acids, such as oleic acid and linoleic acid, as well as antioxidants like vitamin E. These nutrients make it beneficial for nourishing and hydrating both the hair and skin. In hair care, it's prized for its ability to moisturize dry, damaged hair, promote shine, and reduce frizz. It's also believed to strengthen hair strands and protect against environmental damage.
In recent years, ojon oil has gained popularity in the beauty industry and is often used as a key ingredient in hair care products such as shampoos, conditioners, and hair treatments. Its rich, emollient properties make it a favorite among those seeking natural solutions for hair and scalp health.
In answer to my next question, "So it is not the same as Batana oil?", I got:
Correct, ojon oil and batana oil are not the same, although they are similar in some ways. Both oils are derived from the nuts of palm trees native to Central America, specifically the American palm tree (Elaeis oleifera). However, they come from different palm tree species within the same geographical region.
Batana oil comes from the nut of the American palm tree and has been traditionally used by indigenous groups like the Garifuna people for hair and skin care. It's known for its moisturizing and nourishing properties.
Ojon oil, on the other hand, also comes from the nut of the American palm tree but is derived from a different species. Like batana oil, it's known for its moisturizing and hair-strengthening properties and has been traditionally used by indigenous groups in Central America.
While they share some similarities due to their origins and composition, they are distinct oils with their own unique properties and benefits.
Now I wanted to know more about the differences between the 2 oils "as far as their properties and benefits". The answer (I've added blue text to Batana and orange to Ojon):
Batana oil and ojon oil, though derived from similar sources, have some differences in their properties and benefits:
Geographical Origin: Batana oil primarily comes from Honduras, where it has been used for generations by indigenous groups like the Garifuna people. Ojon oil is often associated with the Miskito Indians of Honduras and other Central American regions like Nicaragua.
Botanical Species: Batana oil typically comes from the nut of the American palm tree (Elaeis oleifera), while ojon oil also originates from a species within the same genus, but potentially from a different palm species.
Composition: While both oils contain beneficial fatty acids and antioxidants, the exact composition may vary. Batana oil is known for its high levels of oleic acid, which is a moisturizing fatty acid, while ojon oil is also rich in similar nutrients like oleic acid and vitamin E.
Traditional Use: Both oils have been traditionally used by indigenous communities for hair and skin care. Batana oil is often used to moisturize and nourish dry, damaged hair, promote hair growth, and improve scalp health. Ojon oil is prized for its ability to strengthen hair, add shine, and reduce frizz.
Availability: Batana oil may be more widely available from specific regions in Honduras where it's traditionally produced. Ojon oil, on the other hand, has gained popularity in the beauty industry and may be found in various hair care products marketed globally.
In summary, while both batana oil and ojon oil share similarities due to their origins and traditional uses, there may be slight differences in their composition and specific benefits. Ultimately, the choice between the two may depend on personal preference and individual hair or skin needs.
To make things even more fun, both of these oils are related to the cheaper and more available palm kernel oil. When you look at the botanical names for all three, you start to wonder... Good heavens!
So there are differences - subtle but there - and I think that has something to do with the pricing I've seen. Ojon typically seems to cost quite a bit more than Batana.
In my previous post, when I talked about all the hype around Batana oil, I didn't know about these differences. I am thinking that people heard about the expensive Ojon oil treatments (there are a lot of shampoos, conditioners, and "special" applications) and realized that Batana is cheaper. I still don't know if either of these oils lives up to the hype. I have a price alert up on Amazon and eBay for some Ojon oil. If I get my hands on any, I will update this.
For now, I think it's best to stick to what you can afford. If palm kernel or Batana works for you, go for it. There are other really good oils that work as well or better (IMO), regardless of price. The beauty industry (including haircare) is driven by trends. Once people get used to Batana and Ojon, they will be on to the next hot "it" product.
Peace
--Free
