Marula oil is made from the nuts inside the fruit of a tree native to South Africa. The nuts are oily and white and have a texture similar to macadamia nuts though they are not quite as difficult to open. The seeds are dual, sort of like walnuts though this nut is sliced in a way that does not make the similarity obvious.
The ripe fruit is prized by both people and animals, but once it is overripe, it falls to the ground where, of course, it is easy to reach and animals gorge themselves on the intoxicating fruit.
The shell is tough, but has a little cap, like the eyes of coconuts, and when pried off, the kernel inside is accessible. It has a fruity aroma and is also very nutritious. Like most nuts, it is high in protein, fatty acids, and antioxidants. Though oily and moisturizing, marula oil is not greasy so it is an ingredient in some high end shampoos.