Shea is a tree native to West Africa, known scientifically as Vitellaria paradoxa. The tree produces nuts that are rich in fat, which are harvested and processed to create shea butter. This natural fat is widely used in cosmetics, skincare products, and cooking due to its moisturizing properties and nutritional benefits. The extraction of shea butter involves cracking the nuts, roasting them, and then grinding them into a paste. This paste is mixed with water and heated, allowing the fat to separate. The resulting shea butter is often unrefined, preserving its natural vitamins and antioxidants, making it popular for both personal care and culinary uses.