# Access Benefit Sharing ❉ Term

**Published:** 2025-06-01
**Author:** Roothea
**Categories:** Term

---

_
![The striking interplay of light and shadow across layered leaves mirrors the varied tones and rich textures within black hair. This composition invites reflection on ancestral knowledge and the potent botanical ingredients traditionally cherished for nourishing and supporting healthy coil definition and resilience](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/monochromatic-leaves-reveal-textural-depths-black-hair-ingredient-inspiration.jpg)

## Fundamentals

The concept of Access and Benefit Sharing, often referred to as ABS, outlines a foundational principle for interacting with the Earth’s living heritage: biological resources and the profound [traditional knowledge](/area/traditional-knowledge/) connected to them. At its very heart, this mechanism addresses how [genetic resources](/area/genetic-resources/) are sought and utilized, along with the subsequent distribution of any gains arising from their application. It is a framework ensuring that the providers of these resources, whether they are sovereign nations or indigenous and local communities, receive a fair and equitable portion of the benefits derived from their use. This could involve, for instance, a cosmetic company developing a new hair product from a plant discovered and cultivated by a community for generations.

![Gathering ancestral wisdom by the riverside, a mother shares the time-honored practice of identifying medicinal plants with her child. Baskets overflow with potential remedies, echoing centuries of traditional knowledge, holistic care, and the profound connection between heritage, hair care, and earth](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/mother-and-child-discovering-plant-medicines-legacy-along-riverbank.jpg)

## Core Principles of Equitable Exchange

Understanding ABS means acknowledging that biodiversity, while a global treasure, exists within national boundaries and is often stewarded by specific communities. Therefore, each nation possesses the right to govern access to its genetic resources. The core elements of ABS typically involve a careful process:

- **Prior Informed Consent (PIC)** ❉ This denotes the permission granted by the country or community providing the genetic resources to a user before any access occurs. It ensures that the providers are fully aware of the intentions and potential uses of the resources and agree to their collection.

- **Mutually Agreed Terms (MAT)** ❉ Once PIC is secured, the provider and user negotiate a contract that outlines the specific conditions for accessing the resources and, crucially, how the benefits will be shared. These terms define the parameters of the relationship, striving for fairness in all dealings.

- **Benefit Sharing** ❉ The benefits stemming from the utilization of genetic resources are shared. These can take various forms, monetary and non-monetary. Monetary benefits might include royalties or direct payments, while non-monetary gains could encompass technology transfer, capacity building, or shared research results.
The very meaning of ABS is rooted in recognizing the inherent value, both ecological and cultural, of these biological assets and the knowledge surrounding them. It seeks to prevent historical imbalances where resources were taken without proper acknowledgment or compensation, a practice sometimes referred to as biopiracy.

> The foundational principle of Access and Benefit Sharing ensures that the profound wisdom embedded in traditional knowledge and the richness of genetic resources are respected and their benefits are distributed equitably.

![This evocative portrait captures the dignity and grace of a Zulu woman, whose traditional attire and artful makeup reflect a rich cultural heritage. The photograph celebrates the beauty of textured hair, ancestry, and traditions passed through generations, symbolizing resilience and cultural pride](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/striking-portrait-of-zulu-woman-adorned-in-traditional-attire-and-makeup.jpg)

## An Elemental Agreement: The Convention on Biological Diversity

The Convention on [Biological Diversity](/area/biological-diversity/) (CBD), adopted in 1992, represents a cornerstone for ABS. This international agreement marked a pivotal shift, moving away from the historical notion of genetic resources as a “common heritage of mankind” to recognizing the sovereign rights of states over their biological diversity. Article 15 of the CBD specifically enshrines the principle of fair and [equitable sharing](/area/equitable-sharing/) of benefits arising from the utilization of genetic resources. The subsequent [Nagoya Protocol](/area/nagoya-protocol/) on Access to Genetic Resources and the Fair and Equitable Sharing of Benefits Arising from their Utilization, adopted in 2010, further solidified and elaborated on these principles, providing a legally binding framework for their implementation.

The Protocol specifically addresses traditional knowledge linked to genetic resources, underscoring the necessity of obtaining prior informed consent from indigenous and local communities before such knowledge is used. This emphasis on local communities signifies a deeper recognition of their profound role as stewards of biodiversity and repositories of ancestral wisdom.

![The portrait](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/monochrome-portrait-of-maasai-man-with-traditional-hairstyle-and-face-paint.jpg)

![Heritage intertwines with haircare rituals as grandmother and child collaborate on herbal remedies, a testament to holistic wellness. Transmitting ancestral knowledge enhances the child](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/generational-wisdom-black-hair-ancestral-roots-holistic-ingredient-preparation.jpg)

## Intermediate

The intermediate understanding of Access and [Benefit Sharing](/area/benefit-sharing/) moves beyond the basic definitions, delving into the practical mechanisms and the nuanced interplay of diverse stakeholders. This deeper look recognizes ABS not merely as a legal construct but as a living framework that seeks to reconcile historical inequities and honor the ancestral legacy woven into genetic resources and their associated traditional knowledge. It addresses the practical steps required for responsible engagement with biodiversity, particularly as it pertains to the realms of [traditional hair care](/area/traditional-hair-care/) and wellness.

![The somber black and white tones elevate this arresting portrait of an elder adorned with traditional braids and woven headwear, a poignant reminder of cultural resilience passed down through generations, emphasizing the importance of honoring textured hair](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/resilient-elder-with-traditional-african-braids-and-woven-headdress-in-black.jpg)

## The Architecture of Ethical Engagement

Navigating the terrain of ABS requires a clear understanding of its operational pillars. These are not static directives but dynamic processes designed to facilitate respectful interaction and ensure fairness in outcomes.

- **Prior Informed Consent (PIC) in Practice** ❉ Securing PIC means more than a signature on a document. It demands a genuine dialogue with providers, whether they are national authorities or indigenous and local communities. This engagement must clarify the intended uses of the genetic resource and any associated traditional knowledge, the potential benefits, and the mechanism for sharing these benefits. For example, when a company seeks a botanical for a new hair elixir, obtaining PIC from the community that has cultivated and understood that plant’s properties for generations involves a thoughtful conversation about their traditional uses and the potential commercial journey.

- **Mutually Agreed Terms (MAT) for a Shared Future** ❉ MAT represents the contractual agreement that emerges from the PIC process. It delineates the specific conditions of access, the scope of utilization, and the modalities of benefit sharing. This document can be intricate, specifying monetary returns like royalties on sales, or non-monetary benefits such as joint research ventures, training, technology transfer, or even the establishment of community development funds. The aim is to create a partnership where both sides find value and equity in the arrangement.

- **Compliance Measures and Oversight** ❉ The implementation of ABS is reinforced by compliance measures at national and international levels. The Nagoya Protocol, for instance, obligates signatory countries to establish checkpoints to monitor the utilization of genetic resources and associated traditional knowledge. This creates a system of accountability, ensuring that agreements are honored and that benefits flow back to the rightful providers.
The journey of a genetic resource, from its source to a product, becomes a narrative of shared responsibility. This extends to the personal care and cosmetics industries, where demand for natural ingredients means increased interaction with biodiversity-rich regions.

> Access and Benefit Sharing functions as a dynamic framework, meticulously designed to ensure fair and equitable engagement with biological resources and traditional knowledge, honoring ancestral practices through structured agreements and shared gains.

![The monochrome visual invites reflection on sustainable afro wellness and the rich heritage of plant-based textured hair care, deeply rooted in ancestral knowledge and holistic practices, echoing traditions to protect and nourish natural heritage.](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/black-and-white-image-cluster-of-palo-santo-seeds-holistic-wellness.jpg)

## The Reverberations of Ancestral Knowledge in Hair Care

The connection between ABS and [textured hair heritage](/area/textured-hair-heritage/) is particularly resonant. Many [traditional hair](/area/traditional-hair/) care practices, passed down through generations within Black and mixed-race communities, rely upon specific plants and their inherent properties. These ancestral preparations were not simply cosmetic; they were interwoven with spiritual beliefs, community well-being, and identity. The knowledge of which plant treats a dry scalp, encourages growth, or provides a natural tint is often collective wisdom, refined over centuries.

For instance, the San people of the Kalahari Desert have for over 4,000 years utilized the **Kalahari melon (Citrullus lanatus)** for a myriad of purposes, including protecting their skin and promoting hair growth. They would grind the seeds into a paste for skin protection or extract oil for hair care. This deep ethnobotanical knowledge, a testament to sustained ancestral wisdom, highlights the inherent value of their practices. When modern cosmetic companies seek to incorporate ingredients like Kalahari melon oil into their formulations for moisturizing or anti-aging properties, it becomes imperative that the benefits derived from this commercialization are equitably shared with the San community.

South Africa’s National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act (NEMBA) and its Bioprospecting, [Access and Benefit-Sharing](/area/access-and-benefit-sharing/) (BABS) Regulations, established in 2008, aim to regulate access to indigenous genetic resources and ensure benefit sharing. This legal framework endeavors to address the potential for biopiracy, a historical concern where traditional knowledge was exploited without proper compensation or acknowledgment. Such legislation reflects a growing global awareness that the provenance of natural ingredients extends beyond geographical origin to encompass the human heritage of understanding and application.

![The monochromatic image conveys a sense of timeless ritual, highlighting the intentionality behind crafting herbal hair treatments rooted in cultural heritage, a deeply connected practice for textured hair health and reverence for ancestral hair care knowledge and holistic self care practices.](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/hands-preparing-herbal-hair-treatment-infusion-black-and-white-photography.jpg)

## Recognizing Collective Heritage

The principle of ABS underscores that traditional knowledge is often a collective asset, held by communities rather than individuals. This communal ownership means that benefits should flow back to the community, supporting their ongoing stewardship of biodiversity and cultural practices. It is a recognition that the “innovation” found in a new hair product might, in fact, be an echo of centuries of inherited wisdom.

The value of this wisdom is immeasurable, representing an unbroken chain of human ingenuity and resilience. Protecting this heritage involves more than just [intellectual property](/area/intellectual-property/) rights; it necessitates a recognition of cultural expressions and the deep connection between people and their environment.

![A black and white image resonates deeply through showcasing the passing down of cultural knowledge via hands intertwining kinky hair. This familial moment celebrates heritage, highlights the intricate artistry of black hairstyling traditions, and emphasizes commitment to natural hair care within an intergenerational black family dynamic, enhancing porosity](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/generational-hands-braiding-black-textured-hair-ancestral-tradition-and.jpg)

![The image resonates with cultural authenticity, celebrating the beauty of textured hair and traditional headwear, reflecting a proud ancestral connection and inviting viewers to contemplate the interwoven narratives of identity and heritage expressed through visual artistry and nuanced compositions.](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/portrait-of-dignified-man-with-textured-hair-wearing-traditional-headwear.jpg)

## Academic

The academic understanding of Access and Benefit Sharing (ABS) transcends a simple definition, morphing into a complex legal, ethical, and socio-economic discourse. It requires a rigorous examination of its theoretical underpinnings, practical challenges, and its profound implications for global equity, particularly as it intersects with the heritage of [textured hair](/area/textured-hair/) and the [ancestral wisdom](/area/ancestral-wisdom/) of diverse communities. This academic exploration considers ABS as a dynamic concept, continuously shaped by evolving international law, scientific advancements, and the enduring calls for justice from indigenous and local communities.

![United by shared tradition, women collectively grind spices using time-honored tools, linking their heritage and labor to ancestral methods of preparing remedies, foods and enriching hair care preparations. This visual narrative evokes generational wellness, holistic care, and hair health practices rooted in community and ancestral knowledge](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/women-united-in-traditional-african-spice-grinding-ritual-black-and-white.jpg)

## The Delineation of Access and Benefit Sharing

Access and Benefit Sharing, within an academic framework, is interpreted as a regulatory and contractual mechanism established to govern the fair and equitable sharing of benefits arising from the utilization of genetic resources and associated traditional knowledge. It emerged as a direct consequence of the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) and its subsequent Nagoya Protocol. The CBD, adopted in 1992, fundamentally reoriented the global perspective on biological resources from being a “common heritage of mankind” to recognizing the sovereign rights of states over their inherent biodiversity. Article 15 of the CBD laid the groundwork for this, positing that access to genetic resources should be subject to the prior informed consent of the providing country and that benefits arising from their use should be shared on mutually agreed terms.

The Nagoya Protocol, entering into force in 2014, elaborated on these principles, creating a legally binding framework. Its significance stems from its explicit provisions regarding traditional knowledge (TK) associated with genetic resources. The Protocol mandates that access to such knowledge requires the prior informed consent of the indigenous and local communities (ILCs) holding it, along with the establishment of mutually agreed terms for benefit sharing. The interpretation of “utilization” in this context is broad, encompassing research and development on the genetic and/or biochemical composition of resources, including biotechnology applications.

The meaning of benefit sharing extends beyond mere monetary compensation, encompassing a spectrum of non-monetary benefits such as technology transfer, capacity building, participation in research, and joint intellectual property ownership. This nuanced interpretation seeks to acknowledge the multifaceted value of traditional knowledge and ensure that benefits align with the cultural and developmental aspirations of provider communities.

![The image captures women’s involvement in food preparation alongside their head coverings reflective of cultural heritage, suggesting shared ancestral knowledge, with possible references to ingredients and practices that resonate with holistic textured hair wellness and traditions of beauty within their communities.](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/women-sharing-food-preparation-ancestral-heritage-and-hair-care-traditions.jpg)

## The Interconnectedness of Hair Heritage and Biopiracy

The historical backdrop against which ABS emerged reveals a pattern of what is termed biopiracy: the appropriation and commercialization of genetic resources and traditional knowledge without adequate consent or compensation to the originating communities. This phenomenon casts a long shadow over the heritage of textured hair, which is intrinsically linked to ancestral practices and the botanical knowledge passed through generations. Many ingredients common in traditional Black and mixed-race hair care, from plant oils to herbal infusions, represent a sophisticated ethnobotanical inheritance.

When these resources or the knowledge of their use are commercialized globally without adherence to ABS principles, it perpetuates a form of economic and cultural injustice. L’Oréal, for example, a major beauty brand, has been cited in discussions surrounding [biopiracy](/area/biopiracy/) due to its patenting of Kava (<i>Piper methysticum_), a plant traditionally used by Pacific communities to reduce hair loss and stimulate hair growth, highlighting the critical need for robust ABS frameworks in the beauty industry.

> Academic analysis of Access and Benefit Sharing reveals a complex interplay of legal frameworks, ethical imperatives, and socio-economic dynamics, striving to rectify historical injustices and empower communities through equitable recognition of their inherited bio-cultural wealth.
The academic perspective underscores the complexities of attributing origin and ensuring equitable benefit sharing for traditional knowledge, especially when it has been shared across diverse communities over long periods. The challenge is to move beyond a simplistic view of intellectual property and recognize the communal and intergenerational nature of traditional knowledge. Research indicates that a significant percentage of African plants used for [hair care](/area/hair-care/) also exhibit properties relevant to general health, hinting at a holistic ancestral understanding of well-being that intertwines physical appearance with deeper physiological states.

A study found that among 68 African plant species identified for traditional hair care, 58 species (or 85.3%) also demonstrated potential as antidiabetic treatments, underscoring the interconnectedness of traditional applications and validating ancient holistic approaches to health. This figure profoundly illustrates the expansive, intergenerational wisdom held by indigenous communities regarding natural resources and their applications, a wisdom that often spans beyond a single utilitarian purpose to encompass broader health benefits.

_## Challenges in Implementation for Ancestral Hair Practices

The application of ABS within the context of textured [hair heritage](/area/hair-heritage/) presents unique challenges:

- **Defining “Associated Traditional Knowledge”** ❉ The Nagoya Protocol requires PIC for traditional knowledge associated with genetic resources, yet a universally accepted precise definition of “traditional knowledge” itself remains elusive at the international level. This ambiguity can complicate the implementation of ABS for communal hair care practices, which may not be formally codified.

- **Tracing the Genetic Journey** ❉ Given the historical migration and cultural exchange within Black and mixed-race diasporas, tracing the definitive “country of origin” for certain genetic resources or traditional knowledge used in hair care can be difficult. Many plants or practices have been adapted and disseminated across continents.

- **Capacity Building and Awareness** ❉ Many indigenous and local communities, while rich in traditional knowledge, may lack the legal and technical capacity to effectively negotiate complex MAT with large corporations. This necessitates robust support mechanisms, including legal aid and educational initiatives, to ensure genuine equity.

- **Historical Lineages of Hair Botanicals** ❉ The legacy of botanical wisdom within textured hair care is vast, encompassing a multitude of plants utilized for their specific properties over centuries.

- **Baobab Oil** ❉ Extracted from the majestic “Tree of Life,” baobab oil has been used in various African communities for its moisturizing and strengthening qualities for hair and skin.

- **Chebe Powder** ❉ Originating from the Basara Arab women of Chad, this blend of herbs and seeds is renowned for its ability to strengthen hair and promote length retention.

- **Fenugreek (Methi)** ❉ A staple in South Asian and some African hair care traditions, fenugreek seeds are used to address hair loss and promote thickness.
The academic discourse also highlights the role of national legislation in translating international ABS frameworks into tangible protections. [South Africa](/area/south-africa/) provides an instructive case study with its National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act (NEMBA) and the Bioprospecting, Access and Benefit-Sharing (BABS) Regulations. These laws govern bioprospecting involving indigenous biological resources and their associated traditional knowledge, mandating benefit-sharing agreements and the establishment of a Bioprospecting Trust Fund into which benefits are paid.

Such national frameworks aim to create a more controlled environment for the commercialization of biological resources, seeking to ensure that providers, particularly indigenous communities, truly benefit. The complexities of ensuring compliance and preventing clandestine biopiracy remain a significant area of academic inquiry and practical challenge for these regulatory bodies.

![Aloe vera](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/aloe-vera-slices-detail-holistic-textured-hair-care-ingredients-black-and-white.jpg)

![The Dogon man’s intense gaze and carefully braided hair, combined with the traditional mask, create a powerful visual narrative on heritage and identity. Textured hair patterns add visual depth and resonate with holistic hair care principles and styling practices in diverse mixed-race contexts](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/dogon-mans-striking-portrait-with-traditional-mask-and-braided-hair.jpg)

## Reflection on the Heritage of Access Benefit Sharing

Our journey through the terrain of Access and Benefit Sharing, particularly as it intertwines with the rich heritage of textured hair, concludes not with a final pronouncement but with a reflective pause. ABS is more than a set of legal regulations or economic principles; it embodies a profound meditation on respect, reciprocity, and the enduring value of ancestral wisdom. The principles underpinning ABS call upon us to consider the echoes from the source, the tender threads of living traditions, and the unbound helix of identity shaping futures. It is a recognition that every strand of textured hair holds within it a narrative, a lineage stretching back through time, connected to the earth and the communities who have nurtured its gifts.

The wisdom embedded in indigenous hair care practices, from the application of a particular plant oil to the communal rituals of styling, represents a profound scientific understanding developed through millennia of observation and intergenerational transmission. This knowledge is not static; it lives, adapts, and continues to inform contemporary approaches to hair wellness. Therefore, when a resource or practice from this deep well of heritage finds its way into the global marketplace, ABS serves as a moral compass, guiding us toward ethical engagement.

It invites us to ask not just what benefits can be derived, but how those benefits can truly honor the source, flow back to the communities, and contribute to the flourishing of both biodiversity and human culture. The ongoing dialogue surrounding ABS and its practical implementation for textured hair heritage serves as a powerful reminder that true progress involves not just innovation, but also reverence for the past and responsibility for the future.

![The black and white image evokes a profound connection with natural textured hair heritage, as the woman guides the other](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/intergenerational-bonding-textured-hair-care-rituals-showcasing-black-heritage.jpg)

![The evocative black and white portrait captures the essence of cultural pride, blending henna artistry, a traditional hijab, and healthy low porosity high-density hair, symbolizing ancestral heritage and self-expression, resonating with a narrative of identity through art and spiritual wellness.](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/woman-in-hijab-with-henna-design-and-traditional-black-hair-updo.jpg)

## References

- Convention on Biological Diversity. Introduction to access and benefit-sharing. Accessed from www.cbd.int/abs/

- Convention on Biological Diversity. Nagoya Protocol on Access and Benefit-sharing and Traditional Knowledge. (2012).

- Mekonen, M. W. et al. (2025). Plants used for hair and skin health care by local communities of Afar, Northeastern Ethiopia. <i>Journal of Ethnobiology and Ethnomedicine_, 21(1), 38.

- Wikipedia. Kalahari melon oil. (Accessed 2025).

- Convention on Biological Diversity. Making the Nagoya Protocol work at the community level.

- Van Wyk, B. E. & Gericke, N. (2018). _People’s Plants: A Guide to Useful Plants of Southern Africa_ (2nd ed.). Briza Publications.

- GENRES.de. What is Access and Benefit Sharing? (Accessed 2025).

- Convention on Biological Diversity. The Nagoya Protocol on Access and Benefit-sharing. (2021).

- Roccoco Botanicals. Kalahari Melon Seed Oil And Why You Should Use It. (Accessed 2025).

- Danish Agricultural Agency. The Nagoya Protocol on Access and Benefit Sharing. (Accessed 2025).

- Convention on Biological Diversity. Nagoya Protocol on Access to Genetic Resources and the Fair and Equitable Sharing of Benefits Arising from their Utilization. (2010).

- Lancaster University. Nagoya Protocol. (Accessed 2025).

- South Africa Online. Kalahari Melon oil – Citrullus lanatus. (Accessed 2025).

- Hautala, C. (2014). Nagoya Protocol: Response to Biopiracy Becomes Effective October 2014. _Cosmetics & Toiletries_.

- International Indigenous Policy Journal. The Nagoya Protocol and Indigenous Peoples. (Accessed 2025).

- Savane. Kalahari Melon oil. (Accessed 2025).

- Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, South Africa. A business guide to access and benefit-sharing (ABS).

- Verde Marula, Ltd. Kalahari Melon Seed Oil. (Accessed 2025).

- Convention on Biological Diversity. Access and Benefit-Sharing (Nagoya Protocol and the CBD). (2025).

- Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, South Africa. The Access and Benefit-Sharing (BABS) Clearing House of the Republic of South Africa. (Accessed 2025).

- African Centre for Biodiversity. Critical overview of South Africa’s bioprospecting laws. (2016).

- SANBI. Biodiversity Collection Permits in South Africa. (Accessed 2025).

- Ndhlovu, N. et al. (2024). Cosmetopoeia of African Plants in Hair Treatment and Care: Topical Nutrition and the Antidiabetic Connection?. _Cosmetics_, 11(1), 22.

- Biodiversity Barbados. Access to Benefit-Sharing Focus Group Meetings. (2022).

- ResearchGate. A review of ethnobotanical research in southern Africa. (2002).

- Lange, J. P. & Von der Driesch, M. (2020). Facing the Harsh Reality of Access and Benefit Sharing (ABS) Legislation: An Industry Perspective. _Sustainability_, 12(11), 4434.

- Cosmetics Europe. The Application of the “EU ABS Regulation” on Compliance Measures regarding Access to Genetic Resources and the Fair and Equ. (2019).

- EUR-Lex. Compliance with rules on access and benefit-sharing arising from the use of genetic resources and associated traditional knowledge. (2020).

- Fongnzossie, E. et al. (2024). Ethnobotany and pharmacognostic perspective of plant species used as traditional cosmetics and cosmeceuticals among the Gbaya ethnic group in Eastern Cameroon. _ResearchGate_.

- IGI Global. Ethnobotanical Advancements in Contemporary Skincare. (Accessed 2025).

- ResearchGate. Biodiversity of indigenous herbal potential medicinal plants used by the tribals for hair disorders and other diseases in Melghat forest of Amravati district, India. (2025).

- Le Bail, R. et al. (2022). Hair Growth Activity of Three Plants of the Polynesian Cosmetopoeia and Their Regulatory Effect on Dermal Papilla Cells. _Planta Medica_, 88(08), 863-871.

- Dutfield, G. (2020). Benefit Sharing and Traditional Knowledge: Unsolved Dilemmas for Implementation The Challenge of Attribution and Origin. _ResearchGate_.

- Zhang, L. (2010). The Categories and Benefit-sharing of Traditional Knowledge Associated with Biodiversity. _Journal of Nanjing Forestry University (Natural Sciences Edition)_, 34(6), 118-124.

- Mouchane, M. et al. (2023). Ethnobotanical Survey of Medicinal Plants used in the Treatment and Care of Hair in Karia ba Mohamed (Northern). _Journal of Advanced Botany and Zoology_, 10(2), 200-208.

- Hamza, A. et al. (2023). Traditional Knowledge of Medicinal Plants Used for Cosmetic Purposes in The Fez-Meknes Region. _Tropical Journal of Natural Product Research_, 7(11), 5364-5370.

- Hair.com By L’Oréal. The Importance of Indigenous Hair In Native Culture. (Accessed 2025).

- Robinson, D. F. (2025). A Regional Review of Genetic Resource Access and Benefit Sharing ❉ Key Issues and Research Gaps. _ResearchGate_.

- Taxmann. The Intersection of Traditional Knowledge and Intellectual Property Rights. (2024).

- The South Centre. Research Papers: The Nagoya Protocol on Access and Benefit Sharing of Genetic Resources: Analysis and Implementation Options for Developing Countries. (Accessed 2025).

- Blakeney, M. & Sreeram, K. (2020). _Access and Benefit Sharing of Genetic Resources, Information and Traditional Knowledge_. Routledge.

- Fondation Danielle Mitterrand. Biopiracy. (Accessed 2025).

- The Nigerian Institute of Advanced Legal Studies. Bio-cultural knowledge and the challenges of intellectual property rights regimes for african develop. (Accessed 2025).

- eGyanKosh. UNIT 4 BIOPIRACY. (Accessed 2025).

- UNSW Sydney. Patents based on traditional knowledge are often ‘biopiracy’. A new international treaty will finally combat this. (2024).

## Glossary

### [Water Access](https://roothea.co/area/water-access/)

Meaning ❉ Water Access, for those with textured hair, speaks to the considered availability and thoughtful application of water as a foundational element within a structured hair care system.

### [South Africa](https://roothea.co/area/south-africa/)

Meaning ❉ South Africa, within the realm of textured hair understanding, denotes a significant locus for expanding knowledge concerning diverse curl and coil patterns, shaped by generations of distinct cultural hair practices and communal wisdom.

### [Product Access](https://roothea.co/area/product-access/)

Meaning ❉ Product Access, within the sphere of textured hair care, goes beyond simple presence on a shelf; it speaks to the discerning grasp and adept use of specialized formulations for coils, curls, and waves.

### [Fair Benefit Sharing](https://roothea.co/area/fair-benefit-sharing/)

Meaning ❉ Fair Benefit Sharing, within the context of textured hair, signifies the equitable distribution of advantages stemming from understanding, innovations, and applications related to coily and kinky hair types.

### [Textured Hair Heritage](https://roothea.co/area/textured-hair-heritage/)

Meaning ❉ "Textured Hair Heritage" denotes the deep-seated, historically transmitted understanding and practices specific to hair exhibiting coil, kink, and wave patterns, particularly within Black and mixed-race ancestries.

### [Hair Care](https://roothea.co/area/hair-care/)

Meaning ❉ Hair Care, when understood through the lens of textured hair, signifies a mindful discipline for preserving the vigor of coily, kinky, and wavy strands.

### [Natural Hair Access](https://roothea.co/area/natural-hair-access/)

Meaning ❉ "Natural Hair Access" means the collective ability for individuals with coils, curls, and waves to genuinely connect with and properly tend to their hair's unique structure and heritage.

### [Equitable Sharing](https://roothea.co/area/equitable-sharing/)

Meaning ❉ "Equitable Sharing" within the realm of textured hair understanding denotes the considered distribution of knowledge, resources, and beneficial practices to ensure optimal hair vitality across all Black and mixed-race hair patterns.

### [Hair Heritage](https://roothea.co/area/hair-heritage/)

Meaning ❉ Hair Heritage denotes the ancestral continuum of knowledge, customary practices, and genetic characteristics that shape the distinct nature of Black and mixed-race hair.

### [Ancestral Wisdom](https://roothea.co/area/ancestral-wisdom/)

Meaning ❉ Ancestral Wisdom, for textured hair, represents the enduring knowledge and discerning observations gently passed through generations concerning the unique character of Black and mixed-race hair.

## Explore Your Heritage

### [What Historical Ingredients Still Benefit Textured Hair?](https://roothea.co/question/what-historical-ingredients-still-benefit-textured-hair/)
![The portrait offers a study in contrast and form light dances on skin and hair. Her protective braids frame a quiet grace.](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/monochrome-portrait-of-a-black-woman-with-protective-braided-hairstyle.jpg)

### [How Does Ancient Shea Butter Benefit Textured Hair?](https://roothea.co/question/how-does-ancient-shea-butter-benefit-textured-hair/)
![Embracing the ancestral heritage of holistic hair care, clear water enriches fenugreek seeds, releasing their potent benefits. This ancient ingredient nourishes Black hair traditions and mixed-race hair narratives, promoting expressive styling and resilient formations for generations.](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/fenugreek-seeds-being-dosed-with-water-drops-close-up-black-and-white.jpg)

### [Can Traditional African Ingredients Benefit Contemporary Textured Hair Health?](https://roothea.co/question/can-traditional-african-ingredients-benefit-contemporary-textured-hair-health/)
![Illuminated coils offer a glimpse into the intricate nature of Afro textured hair, capturing its inherent strength. This close-up honors the beauty of Black hair textures, celebrating ancestral identity and the profound power of embracing natural style.](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/close-up-of-kinky-hair-coils-natural-hair-texture-details.jpg)

### [Do Plant-Based Ingredients Truly Benefit Textured Hair?](https://roothea.co/question/do-plant-based-ingredients-truly-benefit-textured-hair/)
![This powerful monochromatic portrait captures the profound cultural heritage of an Indigenous woman, her face paint symbolizing identity and belonging, while the carefully arranged feather adornments accentuate the natural beauty of her textured hair, echoing ancestral connections and resilience in the face of adversity.](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/striking-portrait-indigenous-woman-face-paint-feathers-cultural-heritage.jpg)

### [How Did Moroccan Hammam Rituals Benefit Textured Hair?](https://roothea.co/question/how-did-moroccan-hammam-rituals-benefit-textured-hair/)
![Hands engage in the mindful preparation of a clay mask, a tradition rooted in holistic wellness, showcasing the commitment to natural treatments for nourishing textured hair patterns and promoting scalp health, enhancing ancestral hair care heritage.](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/hands-mixing-natural-clay-mask-in-bowl-for-holistic-hair-wellness.jpg)

### [What Scientific Properties of Desert Plants Benefit Textured Hair Heritage?](https://roothea.co/question/what-scientific-properties-of-desert-plants-benefit-textured-hair-heritage/)
![Amidst the tranquil setting, a young child with textured spirals finds harmony in nature, their contemplative gaze fixed on a bird](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/child-gazing-at-bird-nest-in-tree-textured-hair-detail-black-and-white.jpg)

### [How Do Amazonian Oils Benefit Textured Hair Heritage?](https://roothea.co/question/how-do-amazonian-oils-benefit-textured-hair-heritage/)
![Captured in stark monochrome, the image tells of Ethiopian heritage through a woman preparing coffee with tightly coiled braids, adorned in traditional jewelry, a cultural ritual reflecting deep roots and beauty with expertly crafted detail, celebrating ancestral traditions and holistic hair care.](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/ethiopian-woman-prepares-coffee-beans-displaying-intricate-braided-hairstyle.jpg)

### [What Historical Cleansing Practices Benefit Textured Hair Today?](https://roothea.co/question/what-historical-cleansing-practices-benefit-textured-hair-today/)
![Camellia seed oil, a legacy for textured hair wellness, embodies ancestral care and moisture. Its monochrome elegance connects historical beauty rituals to today](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/camellia-seed-oil-black-and-white-still-life-textured-hair.jpg)

### [Why Do Ancestral Practices with Natural Oils Benefit Textured Hair?](https://roothea.co/question/why-do-ancestral-practices-with-natural-oils-benefit-textured-hair/)
![Captured in monochrome, the wood hair fork embodies the intersection of tradition and modern design. A symbolic nod to ancestral heritage styling, this handcrafted piece resonates with contemporary holistic care, preserving the legacy of textured hair through artful form and mindful practices.](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/monochrome-wood-hair-fork-heritage-styling-in-black-and-white.jpg)

---

## Raw Schema Data

```json
{
    "@context": "https://schema.org",
    "@type": "BreadcrumbList",
    "itemListElement": [
        {
            "@type": "ListItem",
            "position": 1,
            "name": "Home",
            "item": "https://roothea.co/"
        },
        {
            "@type": "ListItem",
            "position": 2,
            "name": "Term",
            "item": "https://roothea.co/term/"
        },
        {
            "@type": "ListItem",
            "position": 3,
            "name": "Access Benefit Sharing",
            "item": "https://roothea.co/term/access-benefit-sharing/"
        }
    ]
}
```

```json
{
    "@context": "https://schema.org",
    "@type": "Article",
    "mainEntityOfPage": {
        "@type": "WebPage",
        "@id": "https://roothea.co/term/access-benefit-sharing/"
    },
    "headline": "Access Benefit Sharing ❉ Term",
    "description": "Meaning ❉ Access Benefit Sharing governs the fair and equitable sharing of gains from genetic resources and traditional knowledge, safeguarding ancestral hair heritage. ❉ Term",
    "url": "https://roothea.co/term/access-benefit-sharing/",
    "author": {
        "@type": "Person",
        "name": "Roothea",
        "url": "https://roothea.co/author/roothea/"
    },
    "datePublished": "2025-06-02T04:25:01+08:00",
    "dateModified": "2025-06-02T04:25:01+08:00",
    "publisher": {
        "@type": "Organization",
        "name": "Roothea"
    },
    "articleSection": [
        "Term"
    ],
    "image": {
        "@type": "ImageObject",
        "url": "https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/striking-portrait-of-maasai-woman-displaying-traditional-hairstyle-and.jpg",
        "caption": "This evocative portrait invites contemplation on Maasai beauty ideals the short, meticulously coiled hairstyle is a profound expression of cultural identity and ancestral heritage, while her direct gaze and traditional adornments narrate stories of resilience and the enduring strength of indigenous traditions."
    }
}
```

```json
{
    "@context": "https://schema.org",
    "@type": "WebPage",
    "@id": "https://roothea.co/term/access-benefit-sharing/",
    "mentions": [
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/traditional-knowledge/",
            "name": "Traditional Knowledge",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/traditional-knowledge/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Traditional Knowledge, in the context of textured hair, represents the collected practical understanding passed down through generations within Black and mixed-race communities."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/genetic-resources/",
            "name": "Genetic Resources",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/genetic-resources/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Genetic Resources, when considered for textured hair, denote the inherent biological blueprint passed down through familial lines, defining the unique structural attributes like curl configuration, strand density, and porosity."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/biological-diversity/",
            "name": "Biological Diversity",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/biological-diversity/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Biological Diversity, when considered for textured hair, gently guides our understanding of the varied genetic expressions that shape each unique strand, curl pattern, and scalp environment, particularly within Black and mixed-race hair lineages."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/equitable-sharing/",
            "name": "Equitable Sharing",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/equitable-sharing/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ \"Equitable Sharing\" within the realm of textured hair understanding denotes the considered distribution of knowledge, resources, and beneficial practices to ensure optimal hair vitality across all Black and mixed-race hair patterns."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/nagoya-protocol/",
            "name": "Nagoya Protocol",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/nagoya-protocol/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ The Nagoya Protocol, a gentle international accord, carefully shapes how the botanical assets that support our textured hair formulations are accessed and used."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/traditional-hair-care/",
            "name": "Traditional Hair Care",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/traditional-hair-care/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Traditional Hair Care, for those with textured hair, gently points to time-honored methods and routines passed down through generations, often rooted deeply within cultural practices of Black and mixed-race communities."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/benefit-sharing/",
            "name": "Benefit Sharing",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/benefit-sharing/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Benefit Sharing, within the tender sphere of textured hair understanding, speaks to the thoughtful reciprocation of value derived from knowledge, practices, or botanical resources."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/textured-hair-heritage/",
            "name": "Textured Hair Heritage",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/textured-hair-heritage/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ \"Textured Hair Heritage\" denotes the deep-seated, historically transmitted understanding and practices specific to hair exhibiting coil, kink, and wave patterns, particularly within Black and mixed-race ancestries."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/traditional-hair/",
            "name": "Traditional Hair",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/traditional-hair/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ \"Traditional Hair\" refers to the enduring practices and styling approaches, carefully carried across generations within Black and mixed-race communities, which express a deep cultural lineage and practical understanding of textured hair."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/access-and-benefit-sharing/",
            "name": "Access and Benefit-Sharing",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/access-and-benefit-sharing/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Access and Benefit-Sharing, within the realm of textured hair care, describes the balanced understanding and equitable exchange surrounding the utilization of genetic resources and associated traditional knowledge."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/intellectual-property/",
            "name": "Intellectual Property",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/intellectual-property/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Intellectual Property, within the gentle care of textured hair, signifies the original thoughts and structured approaches that spring forth from individual wisdom and collective heritage."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/ancestral-wisdom/",
            "name": "Ancestral Wisdom",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/ancestral-wisdom/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Ancestral Wisdom, for textured hair, represents the enduring knowledge and discerning observations gently passed through generations concerning the unique character of Black and mixed-race hair."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/textured-hair/",
            "name": "Textured Hair",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/textured-hair/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Textured hair describes the natural hair structure characterized by its unique curl patterns, ranging from expansive waves to closely wound coils, a common trait across individuals of Black and mixed heritage."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/biopiracy/",
            "name": "Biopiracy",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/biopiracy/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Biopiracy, when considered within the delicate landscape of textured hair understanding, refers to the unconsented appropriation and commercial exploitation of traditional botanical knowledge or cultural practices originating from Black and mixed-race communities."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/hair-care/",
            "name": "Hair Care",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/hair-care/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Hair Care, when understood through the lens of textured hair, signifies a mindful discipline for preserving the vigor of coily, kinky, and wavy strands."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/hair-heritage/",
            "name": "Hair Heritage",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/hair-heritage/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Hair Heritage denotes the ancestral continuum of knowledge, customary practices, and genetic characteristics that shape the distinct nature of Black and mixed-race hair."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/south-africa/",
            "name": "South Africa",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/south-africa/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ South Africa, within the realm of textured hair understanding, denotes a significant locus for expanding knowledge concerning diverse curl and coil patterns, shaped by generations of distinct cultural hair practices and communal wisdom."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/water-access/",
            "name": "Water Access",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/water-access/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Water Access, for those with textured hair, speaks to the considered availability and thoughtful application of water as a foundational element within a structured hair care system."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/product-access/",
            "name": "Product Access",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/product-access/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Product Access, within the sphere of textured hair care, goes beyond simple presence on a shelf; it speaks to the discerning grasp and adept use of specialized formulations for coils, curls, and waves."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/fair-benefit-sharing/",
            "name": "Fair Benefit Sharing",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/fair-benefit-sharing/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Fair Benefit Sharing, within the context of textured hair, signifies the equitable distribution of advantages stemming from understanding, innovations, and applications related to coily and kinky hair types."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/natural-hair-access/",
            "name": "Natural Hair Access",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/natural-hair-access/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ \"Natural Hair Access\" means the collective ability for individuals with coils, curls, and waves to genuinely connect with and properly tend to their hair's unique structure and heritage."
        }
    ]
}
```


---

**Original URL:** https://roothea.co/term/access-benefit-sharing/
