Ingredient Glossary

Ingredient Glossary

  • Ylang Ylang*

    June 15, 2009 By Canaga odorata 0 Comments

    Family Name: Annonaceae, custard apple
    Origin: Madagascar

    Ylang ylang essential oil is distilled from the Cananga tree's greenish-yellow, starfish-shaped flowers produced year-round. The fresh blossoms have traditionally been used to infuse coconut oil with their heavy fragrance. Ylang ylang is antibacterial, antiseptic and anti-seborrheic. Best for blemished, dry, mature, normal-combination, oil-rich and stressed skin, ylang oil is used to treat the following skin conditions: acne, broken capillaries, scars, seborrhea and varicose veins. Because it is bactericidal, ylang ylang also functions well as a deodorant. Classified as a euphoric, this cooling oil is calming, relaxing, sedative and a potent aphrodisiac. One of the most masculine essential oils, ylang oil is used for aggression, anger, anxiety, depression, emotional and mental fatigue, hypertension, palpitations, panic, sensuality, shyness, stress and tension.

    * Essential Oil

  • Yarrow Herb**

    June 15, 2009 By Achillea millefolium 0 Comments

    Family Name: Asteraceae, daisy
    Origin: Croatia

    The genus name of yarrow, Achillea, is derived from the mythical Greek character, Achilles, who reportedly carried it with his army to treat battle wounds. The plant has a long history as a powerful healing herb used topically for wounds, cuts and abrasions. Yarrow intensifies the medicinal action of other herbs taken with it, and helps eliminate toxins from the body. Yarrow is valued for its anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, powerful astringent and mild sedative properties. Its active constituents include: azulene, terpenes such as camphor and linalool, phenolcarboxylic acids such as salicylic acid (good for acneic skin), flavonoids, coumarins, tannins and alkamides. The flowers are rich in chemicals converted by steam into anti-allergenic compounds. The leaves and flowers of yarrow are useful for oily skin in the form of facial steams, cleansers, toners and aftershaves. Yarrow is also used to treat rashes, eczema, varicose veins and as a powerful styptic, insect repellant and blood vessel tonic. The oil is good for hair care, insomnia, bruising, scars, stretch marks and varicose veins.

    ** Herbal Extract

  • Xanthan Gum

    June 15, 2009 0 Comments

    Origin: USA

    Xanthan gum is a natural gum polysaccharide produced by a biotechnological process involving fermentation of glucose or sucrose by the Xanthomonas campestris bacteria. It is also called corn sugar gum. Xanthan gum is used as a thickener, an emulsifier and a stabilizer in cosmetics. One of the most remarkable properties of xanthan gum is its capability of producing a large increase in the viscosity of a liquid by adding a very small quantity of gum of the order of one percent. Unlike other gums it is very stable under a wide range of temperatures and pH.

  • Witch Hazel Bark**

    June 15, 2009 By Hamamelis virginiana 0 Comments

    Family Name: Hamamelidaceae
    Origin: USA

    The bark, twigs and leaf of witch hazel are valued for their anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, astringent, cleansing, deodorant, styptic and potent antioxidant properties. Active constituents include: tannins (giving it a strong astringent effect), gallic acid, flavonoids (kaempferol, quercetin) the terpene eugenol, choline and saponins. Best for combination and oil-rich skin types, witch hazel is also used to treat acne, blackheads, bedsores, eczema, hemorrhoids, insect bites, poison oak and ivy, minor injuries, skin ulcers, varicose veins and wounds. A wash from the plant can be used to treat sunburn. Distilled witch hazel is commonly available at pharmacies and applied directly to the skin. Use care when using the distilled form close to the eyes and mucus membranes as it contains rubbing alcohol that can be an irritant. It is also used as an aftershave or skin freshener. For treating dandruff and oily hair conditions, witch hazel is included in shampoos, conditioners and hair rinses.

    ** Herbal Extract

  • Water, Purified

    June 15, 2009 0 Comments

    Origin: USA

    This ingredient is specifically reverse osmosis purified H2O. The process of reverse osmosis is the most complete and safe process known to remove impurities in water. Water makes up a large part of the skin. It is also the most frequently used cosmetic ingredient. As a vehicle, it helps keep other ingredients in solution and helps spread products across the skin. As a performance ingredient, water replenishes moisture in the surface of the skin.

  • Violet Leaf, Blue**

    June 15, 2009 By Viola odorata 0 Comments

    Family Name: Violaceae, violet
    Origin: China

    Otherwise known as the sweet violet, the leaves and flowers are antiseptic, astringent, demulcent and antioxidant (rich in vitamins A and C). Its active constituents include: salicylic acid and other phenolcarboxylic acids, 10% mucilage, flavonoids, anthocyanidin glycosides, carotenoids, coumarins, a-tocopherol, peptides and 29 or 30 amino acids. One quirk of the violet is its elusive scent – along with terpenes, a major component of the scent is a ketone compound called ionone, which temporarily desensitizes the receptors in the nose; sniff all you like, you won’t get any more smell from the flower. Violets are excellent for dry, normal and oil-rich skin and are included in facial steams, cleansers, toners, lotions, moisturizers and bath herbs. Used internally, violet may help to clear the skin of acne, boils, eczema and psoriasis. The oil is good for insomnia, sluggish circulation and stress.

    ** Herbal Extract

  • Vegetable Gum (guar)

    June 15, 2009 By Cyamopsis tetragonoloba 0 Comments

    Family Name: Fabaceae, legume
    Origin: USA

    The guar bean or cluster bean is an annual bean grown principally in India and Pakistan, with smaller crops grown in the USA, Australia and Africa. Vegetable gums include derivatives from quince seed, karaya, acacia, tragacanth, Irish moss, guar, etc. They function as liquid emulsifiers, that is, they thicken cosmetic products and make them creamy. Guar gum exhibits strong water-binding capacity at low usage levels.

  • Tocopheryl Acetate aka Vitamin E

    June 15, 2009 0 Comments

    Origin: Switzerland

    Obtained by the vacuum distillation of edible vegetable oils, tocopherols act as a natural preservative (they help prevent rancidity and hence help to maintain the shelf-life of products that contain them) and important natural antioxidant. Considered an antioxidant superstar, vitamin E is a lipid-soluble vitamin that has eight different forms, of which some are known for being excellent antioxidants when applied topically to skin, particularly alpha tocopherol and the tocotrienols. However, other studies have indicated the acetate form (tocopherol acetate) is also bioavailable and protective for skin. And still other research points to tocopherol sorbate as providing significant antioxidant protection against ultraviolet radiation-induced oxidative damage. Antioxidants such as vitamin E act to protect cells against the effects of free radicals, which are potentially damaging by-products of the body's metabolism. Vitamin C and other anti-oxidants recycle vitamin E end-products back into effective suppressors of free radicals. Pointing to the significance of vitamin E for skin is an article in the Journal of Molecular Medicine (January 1995, pages 7-17) which states: “More than other tissues, the skin is exposed to numerous environmental chemical and physical agents such as ultraviolet light causing oxidative stress (free-radical damage). In the skin this results in several short- and long-term adverse effects such as erythema (redness), edema (swelling), skin thickening, wrinkling, and an increased incidence of skin cancer”. Vitamin E is the major “antioxidant protecting the skin from the adverse effects of oxidative stress including photoaging (sun damage).” Tocopherols also provide fabulous relief for chapped lips and ragged cuticles and are reported to soften and gradually fade scar tissue because they aid in tissue repair and moisturize the skin from within. Additionally, tocopherols protect fat in the body’s tissues from abnormal breakdown, increase micro-circulation, and may protect blood vessels.

  • Thyme Linalol*

    June 15, 2009 By Thymus var. linalol 0 Comments

    Family Name: Lamiaceae, mint
    Origin: France

    Linalol is a softer, non-irritating variety of the thyme plant (from the terpene alcohol linalool content). The leaves and flowers are antioxidant, antifungal, antiseptic, aromatic, astringent, circulatory stimulant, cleansing, disinfectant, refreshing and stimulating. Active constituents of thyme include: terpenes such as thymol (named for the plant), phenols, labiate tannins and flavonoids. Thyme is so powerful that during World War I it was used to disinfect soldiers’ wounds. Recommended for blemished, combination and oil-rich skin, thyme is included in facial steams, masks, cleansers, toners, bath herbs, massage oils, soaps, deodorants and aftershaves. Healing for oozing acne and rashes from poison oak, ivy, sumac or general contact dermatitis, thyme also helps treat arthritis, eczema, insect bites, psoriasis, muscle aches, poor circulation, warts and wounds, and is highly recommended in the treatment of infectious skin diseases. It is used in antifungal preparations such as salves and washes to deter athlete's foot, ringworm, scabies, crabs and lice. It is also included in anti-dandruff products such as shampoos, conditioners and hair rinses and helps keep hair dark and silky. Used in mouthwashes for its antiseptic properties, it also prevents plaque formation. According to E.S. Rohde, this enchanted herb was a favorite of the fairies. This uplifting essential oil provides emotional benefits including ease of: fear and emotional and mental fatigue.

    * Essential Oil

  • Tea, Green**

    June 15, 2009 By Camellia sinensis 0 Comments

    Family Name: Theaceae
    Origin: China

    Tea is made from the buds or leaves of the tea bush. The Chinese knew of green tea’s beneficial properties millennia ago. Green tea extract is known to be beneficial as a free radical scavenger (antioxidant) due to its high content of polyphenols such as Epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) at 15-20%, flavonoids such as anthocyanin and quercetin, and vitamin C, and is proven effective in skincare creams. Additional active constituents include: caffeine, phenolcarboxylic acids, the amino acid theanine (named after tea) and minerals. It is an energizer, has restorative powers, strengthens immune function, has antibacterial properties useful in treating infection, and is also an anti-inflammatory and demulcent. Green tea is most helpful for mature skin, couperose skin and roseacea.

    ** Herbal Extract

  • Tangerine, Green*

    June 15, 2009 By Citrus reticulata 0 Comments

    Family Name: Rutaceae
    Origin: Argentina**

    The tangerine is a type of mandarin orange. The tree originated in China, and was brought to Europe in 1805, then to North America where much of the world's tangerine essential oil is produced. The essential oil is cold pressed from the peel of the fruit. This wonderfully sweet, fresh citrus top-note essential oil can be beneficial to the skin by reducing stretch marks and having a positive effect on cellulite, as well as for its nutritive properties – it is a good source of vitamin C, folate, beta-carotene, B1, B2 and B3. It is soothing, refreshing and uplifting. Emotional benefits include promoting happiness, peace and ease of: anxiety, depression, grief, nervousness and stress. It can also be used as an appetite suppressant. See mandarin.

    * Essential Oil

  • Soybean Oil

    June 15, 2009 By Glycine max 0 Comments

    Family Name: Fabaceae, legume
    Origin: USA

    Soybean oil is an anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and emollient oil which contains isoflavones, saponins and is high in vitamin C. It is used in the manufacturing of soaps, shampoos and bath oils. See lecithin and natural moisturizing factors.

  • Shea Butter

    June 15, 2009 By Butyrospermum parkii 0 Comments

    Family Name: Sapotaceae
    Origin: Ghana

    Also called karite butter, shea butter is the natural fat obtained from the fruit of the karite tree in West Africa. Shea butter is a plant lipid similar to cocoa butter and is used as an emollient and moisturizer in cosmetics. It is deeply penetrating, melts at body temperature, and acts as a menstrum (a carrier for other medicinals) that releases quickly, which make it a superior moisturizer to others in its class. Its skin conditioning abilities outweigh even avocado oil (known for skin conditioning) because of the high amount of unsaponifiable fat it contains (up to 65%). It has mild antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and demulcent properties, and contains some of the same moisturizing ingredients as sebum. High in vitamin E, an anti-aging antioxidant that increases micro-circulation, it also contains the antioxidants beta-carotene and vitamin A. The EFAs contained in shea butter act as skin protectors and rejuvenators. Additionally, shea butter contains 5-10% of phytosterols that stimulate new formation and growth of cells. In Africa, its continent of origin, shea butter is widely used as a moisturizer and softener for hair. Its exceptional healing properties are exhibited by promoting and accelerating wound healing, and it is proctective against severe weather conditions. Shea butter is also naturally equipped with a sunscreen (cinnamic acid) giving it an SPF ranging from 2-6 and blocking up to 30% of UV radiation. Its cinnamic acid ester content also accounts for some of its healing properties. A high linoleic acid content makes it excellent for soothing chapped, burned, or irritated skin. Furthermore, shea butter is safe for babies. See natural moisturizing factors.

  • Sea Buckthorn Berry*

    June 15, 2009 By Hippophae rhaminoides 0 Comments

    Family Name: Elaeagnaceae
    Origin: Lithuania

    Herbalists have used sea buckthorn berry for millennia. Today bio-active substances in the oil derived from the seed and pulp are used in a variety of dermatological applications, among them anti-aging face creams, lotions and sun care products (since the extract seems to absorb UV rays). Research indicates that products containing sea buckthorn berry appear to promote cell regeneration, thus aiding in the healing of wounds and restoring skin tissue. Clinical experiments indicate that cosmetics containing sea buckthorn extracts can actually improve cell metabolism and retard skin maturation, thus slowing the aging process, possibly because of the effects of its high levels of vitamins A and E. Sea buckthorn oil has been proven effective in the treatment of the following skin conditions: acne, burns, cancer, skin ulcers and dermatitis of various forms.

    * Essential Oil

  • Sage, Rubbed and White Sage* **

    June 15, 2009 By Salvia officinalis, S. apiana 0 Comments

    Family Name: Lamiaceae, mint
    Origin: Serbia

    White sage is also known as sacred sage. The leaves and flowers of sage are antibacterial, antifungal, antimicrobial, extremely antioxidant, antiseptic, antiviral, astringent and healing. Its active constituents include: terpenes such as camphor, labiate tannins and flavonoids. Recommended for blemished, normal-oily, oily and mature skin types, sage is especially beneficial for acne, dandruff, dermatitis, eczema, hair loss and seborrhea. Healing to demanding skin, sage is included in skincare products such as facial steams, cleansers, toners, soaps and bath herbs. It has been used as a wash and salve to treat eczema, psoriasis, poison oak and poison ivy.

    * Essential Oil

    Origin: Italy

    Sage is very effective as an antiperspirant when included in deodorants. It is a common ingredient in hair products including shampoos, conditioners and hair rinses for oily hair, thinning hair, to darken gray hair and to stimulate the scalp. Sage is breath freshening when added to toothpastes and mouthwashes and helps treat gingivitis. Sage essential oil is described as a refreshing camphoraceous top-middle note with a spicy warm undertone. Its properties for mind include: antidepressant, calming, energizing, grounding and uplifting for mental strain and fatigue. Sage is also used by Native Americans to rid a place of negative spirits.

    ** Herbal Extract

  • Safflower Seed Oil

    June 15, 2009 By Carthamus tinctorius 0 Comments

    Family Name: Asteraceae, daisy
    Origin: USA

    One of humanity’s oldest crops, safflower oil is expressed from the seed of an Old World herb that has large bright red or orange flowers and resembles a thistle. There are two types of safflower that produce different kinds of oil: one high in monounsaturated fatty acid (oleic acid) and the other high in polyunsaturated fatty acids (linoleic acid and a-linolenic acid). Used in creams and lotions to soften the skin, this flavorless oil has a light texture and penetrates the skin well. Exceptionally rich in essential fatty acids, safflower oil is also used in hair care to structure sensitized hair. For massage or facial care, safflower oil has great emollient and moisturizing qualities - blend it with an oil high in vitamin E like wheat germ oil, argan oil or cashew nut oil to increase its anti-aging properties. Safflower oil is also high in the antioxidant and preservative tocopherol. See natural moisturizing factors.

  • Rosewood*

    June 15, 2009 By Aniba rosaeodora 0 Comments

    Family Name: Lauraceae, laurel
    Origin: Brazil

    Rosewood is a cell regenerator, which makes it especially good for mature, wrinkled, sensitive and acneic skin. It is also an antiseptic for acne and dermatitis. Essential oil of rosewood is uplifting and will help ease anxiety, depression, sadness, tension and headaches.

    * Essential Oil

  • Rosemary Verbenon*

    June 15, 2009 By Rosmarinus officinalis var. verbenon 0 Comments

    Family Name: Lamiaceae, mint
    Origin: France

    Rosemary verbenon essential oil is colorless or pale yellow, and has a strong, fresh, clear woody aroma. It is analgesic, antidepressant, anti-rheumatic, antiseptic, antispasmodic, aphrodisiac, astringent, cleansing, fungicidal, nurturing, regenerative, stimulant and tonic. It is known for stimulating new cell formation. Rosemary verbenon can benefit all skin types but is particularly good for wrinkled, devitalized, mature, acneic, burned, scarred and sun-damaged skin. It is also good for rheumatic and muscular pain, especially tired and overworked muscles. It has a warming effect on cold limbs and provides a stimulant for the scalp to encourage hair growth and treat dandruff and greasy hair. Its emotional benefits include an ability to clear the mind and the emotions, promoting mental clarity. It also provides an uplifting boost to confidence.

    * Essential Oil

  • Rosemary, Rubbed**

    June 14, 2009 By Rosmarinus officinalis 0 Comments

    Family Name: Lamiaceae, mint
    Origin: Croatia

    Rosemary’s Latin name translates to "dew of the sea.” It is touted as a “new generation antioxidant.” Rosemary leaves are antibacterial, antiseptic, astringent, demulcent, rejuvenating, skin conditioning and stimulating. Its active constituents include: terpenes, tannins, rosmarinol acid (named after the plant and a potent antioxidant), caffeic acid, flavonoids, sterols, the saponin oleanolic acid, lipids and salicylates. Rosemary is best for blemished, oily and dull skin and is used for the following skin conditions: acne, seborrhea and cellulite. It is widely used as in facial steams, cleansers, masks, toners, lotions, moisturizers and soaps. When used on the skin it helps to strengthen capillaries and improve sluggish and mature skin, poor circulation, arthritis, rheumatism and infection. As a bath herb, rosemary acts as a muscle relaxant and analgesic, yet revitalizes tired limbs and helps the mind to be alert.

    ** Herbal Extract

    Origin: France

    It is used in massage oils for sore muscles and cellulite. Other uses include toothpastes, mouthwashes and insect repellents. Scalp stimulating rosemary is popular in hair products in the form of shampoos, conditioners and hair rinses to help darken gray hair and improve dandruff, hair loss and premature baldness. Rosemary extract is also an excellent natural preservative and is more stable than vitamin E (a popular preservative). Essential oil of rosemary is described as a strong herbaceous, fresh camphoraceous top-middle note with woody-balsamic undernote. This energizing oil has a very old reputation for improving memory. Emotional benefits include ease of: aggression, anger, exhaustion, emotional and mental fatigue, headaches, mental strain and physical fatigue.

    * Essential Oil

  • Rosehip Seed*

    June 14, 2009 By Rosa canina 0 Comments

    Family Name: Rosaceae, rose
    Origin: Germany

    The fruit of the rose is a berry-like structure called a rose hip. Rosehip seed oil is a good emollient and contains vitamins A, D and E, antioxidant, and is among the richest sources of vitamin C of any plant. Pure rosehip oil contains around 75% fatty acids: oleic and the EFAs linoleic and linolenic, which help maintain healthy skin and supposedly reduce the appearance of pores. Rosehip oil is the only vegetable oil to contain natural tretinoin, a derivative of retinol (vitamin A) at ~125mcg per every 100g, which replenishes and helps rebuild skin tissue and is great for acne. Other active constituents include: tannins, mucilage, proteins, phospholipids, fruit acids (exfoliating), sugar (exfoliating), and carotenoids. Rosehip oil is proven to delay the effects of skin aging by aiding in cell regeneration and boosting levels of collagen to create smoother, firmer skin. It can be used to strengthen weak fingernails and thin or damaged hair and has proved useful in reducing and eliminating the effects of dermatitis, eczema, fine lines, hyper-pigmentation, lumps from scarring, over-exposure to the sun, psoriasis, scarring, skin burns, stretch marks and wrinkles.

    * Essential Oil

  • Rose Otto*

    June 14, 2009 By Rosa damascena 0 Comments

    Family Name: Rosaceae, rose
    Origin: Turkey

    Rose otto is used in creams, lotions and soaps for its mildly astringent, mildly antiviral and bactericidal, balancing, cooling, deodorant, emollient, potent hydrating, skin conditioning and toning properties as well as its fragrance. The aroma is powerful and comforting. Recommended for dry-dehydrated, delicate-sensitive, normal-combination, tired-mature-wrinkled and traumatized skin. Rose and lavender facial cream is excellent for sensitive combination skin. Rose oil is used for cellulite, chapped skin, dehydration, eczema, sensitivity, stretch marks and wrinkles. Pure essential oil of rose is one of the most wonderful and highly prized oils included in perfumery. It takes about 10,000 pounds of roses to make one pound of essential oil, or 30 roses to make one small drop of oil. This intensely sweet, woody, deep floral top-middle note with rich spicy and honeylike undertones is known as the queen of essential oils. One of the most feminine essential oils, rose promotes unconditional love for self and others. It absorbs confusion, illness, imbalance, and negativity. It is common for heart surgeons to prescribe rose oil to their patients. Emotional benefits include enhancing: calm, compassion, confidence, femininity, fulfillment, happiness, healing, love, motivation, openness, passion, peace, rejuvenation, security, sensuality and sexuality, understanding and warmth. Further emotional benefits include reducing: anger, apathy, depression, disappointment, envy, grief, insecurity, insomnia, jealousy, loss of confidence, sadness, sexual fears, shock, shyness, stress, tension, vulnerability and feelings of emptiness. This uplifting oil also stimulates the heart chakra. See rose petals.

    * Essential Oil

  • Rose Petals**

    June 14, 2009 By Rosa centifolia 0 Comments

    Family Name: Rosaceae, rose
    Origin: Italy

    Rose flowers are used in body care for their antiseptic, aromatic, astringent, cell regenerating and rejuvenating, demulcent, hydrating and vulnerary properties. Rose is recommended for: dry-dehydrated, delicate-sensitive, normal-combination, tired-mature-wrinkled, and traumatized skin. It is particularly effective in treating eczema, broken capillaries and wrinkles. Rose is beloved for its beautiful scent, and is currently used as an ingredient in dry and mature skin products such as facial steams, cleansers, lotions, toners, moisturizers and bath herbs. Rosewater has long been used as a toner and moisturizer by beauties to soothe sore complexions. Diluted, it can be applied to cotton balls and placed on closed eyes to reduce puffiness. It also makes a lovely mouthwash. For dry hair, roses are included in shampoos, conditioners and hair rinses. The rose is a symbol of balance, love and bliss and is an ancient symbol of love and beauty. Roses have the highest vibratory frequency of any plant and provide great wound-healing properties both emotional and physical. Placing 2 roses on your bedside table is said to assist you in your dream state.

  • Rice Bran Extract**

    June 14, 2009 By Oryza sativa 0 Comments

    Family Name: Poaceae, grass
    Origin: USA

    A species of grass, rice is the world’s third largest crop. The bran, called “nuka” in Japan, is a moist inner oily layer of the rice plant and often produced as a by-product of milling in the production of the refined grain. Rice bran has some constituents that make it quite unique including: the nourishing emollient squalene, the potent antioxidant gamma oryzanol, and a rich amount of four forms of tocotrienols plus tocopherol (vitamin E). Other active constituents include: the phospholipids - phosphatidylcholine, phosphatidylethanaolamine, and phosphatidylinositol - and high amounts of oleic and linoleic acids. Rice bran has been highly acclaimed for centuries in helping to create the flawless skin attributed to Japanese women. It is a gentle exfoliant and skin softener that also prevents wrinkles, quickly heals blemishes, absorbs dirt and oil from pores, balances sebum production and moisturizes.

    ** Herbal Extract

  • Red Clover**

    June 14, 2009 By Trifolium pratense 0 Comments

    Family Name: Fabaceae, legume
    Origin: Bulgaria

    Red clover is valued for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, calming, cleansing and demulcent properties. The active constituents of red clover are flavonoids. It is an ingredient in facial steams, cleansers, lotions and moisturizers and is used as a bath herb for many skin conditions including acne, eczema and psoriasis, as well as sun and wind damage. Red clover is used in lip balms for its soothing properties. It is also included in hair products for dry or damaged hair in the form of shampoos, conditioners and hair rinses. Recommended for normal-dry, dry and irritated skin, but particularly useful for chronic skin conditions.

    ** Herbal Extract

  • Pumpkin Seed Oil

    June 14, 2009 By Cucurbita pepo var. styriaca aka oleifera 0 Comments

    Family Name: Cucurbitaceae
    Origin: USA

    A culinary specialty of Styria, Austria, pumpkin seed oil is made of the roasted skinless seeds of a special type of pumpkin, the “Styrian Oil Pumpkin”. The seeds of this pumpkin are a power food, rich in many nutrients including: vitamins A, B1, B2, B6, C, D, E and K, calcium, magnesium, selenium, zinc, other minerals, and the precious omegas: Omega 3 and Omega 6, also known as essential fatty acids. Pumpkin seed oil is one of the top three nutritional oils (hemp seed oil, flax seed oil and pumpkin seed oil) that provide the highest essential fatty acids required for healthy mind/body functioning. Pumpkin seed oil offers a practical and tasty way of supplying one's diet with the good fats for smooth skin, increased energy, maintenance and improvement of sexual health and optimum brain function. The oil also contains over 60% unsaturated fatty acid and is rich in vegetable proteins, carbohydrates, phytosterols and cucurbitin (named for the plant). All benefits listed for consumption are effective in topical application to a lesser extent.

  • Plantain Leaf**

    June 14, 2009 By Plantago major 0 Comments

    Family Name: Plantaginaceae, plantain
    Origin: Bulgaria

    This plantain, native to Europe, is not to be confused with the starchy banana. Plantain leaves are valued for their anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antiseptic, astringent, demulcent, mucilaginous and refrigerant properties. Its active constituents include: mucilage, flavonoids, phenolcarboxylic acids and saponin. Plantain helps to soothe inflammation and irritated tissues. It is a superb herb used in salves to treat wounds and damaged skin. It can be used as a poultice and/or salve for boils, bee stings and other insect bites, hemorrhoids and poison ivy. Plantain can also be boiled in milk, strained, cooled and applied to sunburn.

    ** Herbal Extract

  • Pine, Canadian*

    June 14, 2009 By Abies balsamea 0 Comments

    Family Name: Pinaceae, pine
    Origin: Canada

    The balsam fir is a North American fir, native to most of eastern and central Canada and the northeastern United States. Pine oil is an antiseptic, solvent, disinfectant and deodorant. Its properties for mind include: elevating, grounding and opening.

    * Essential Oil

  • Peppermint / Leaf* **

    June 14, 2009 By Mentha piperita 0 Comments

    Family Name: Lamiaceae, mint
    Origin: USA

    Peppermint is obtained from the dried leaves of the peppermint plant. Its properties for skin include: antimicrobial, anti-irritant, antiseptic, antiviral, astringent, cleansing, cooling, decongestant, refreshing, stimulating and tonic. The active constituents of peppermint include: menthol, terpenes, caffeic acid and flavonoids. Peppermint is best for the following skin types: blemished, dry, normal-oily and oily skin. It is a wonderful addition to baths, soaps, facial steams, masks, toners, aftershaves and as a stimulating shampoo, conditioner and hair rinse. An ideal treatment for aches and pains, it even helps with the itch of chicken pox.

    ** Herbal Extract

    Origin: France

    Peppermint is classified as a carminative herb for its use as a general digestive aid. It is also used for its breath freshening properties in toothpastes and mouthwashes, and is known to work wonders as a quick pick-me-up; perfect for hot, sweaty “summer skin.” Peppermint is described as a strong, herbaceous minty top-middle note with balsamic-sweet undertones. Cooling and hot, this energizing and stimulating essential oil helps memory and concentration and alleviates exhaustion, emotional/mental and physical fatigue, indecision, mental strain, shyness, sinuses and tension headaches.

    * Essential Oil

  • Patchouli*

    June 14, 2009 By Pogostemon cablin 0 Comments

    Family Name: Lamiaceae, mint
    Origin: Indonesia

    The god Krishna is said to “inhabit” patchouli. Patchouli oil is obtained from the dried leaves of the plant. Its properties for skin include: antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, astringent, cell regenerating, deodorizing, fungicidal and vulnerary. Patchouli oil is healing for: acne, dermatitis, eczema, fungal and bacterial infections, inflamed skin, insect bites, seborrhea, scalp disorders, scars, sores, stretch marks and wrinkles. Recommended for dry, dehydrated, tired, mature, wrinkled and oily skin. Patchouli has diuretic properties and is therefore helpful for water retention and cellulite. Additional uses include: hair conditioner for dreadlocks and insect repellant. Patchouli oil is described as a deep, woody top-middle-base note with a camphoraceous top note and musty, earthy, chocolate-like sweet undernote. One of the most masculine of the essential oils, patchouli is aphrodisiac, calming and relaxing. Emotional benefits include ease of: anger, anxiety, depression, exhaustion, fear, fatigue, indecision, shyness and stress.

    * Essential Oil

  • Palmarosa*

    June 14, 2009 By Cymbopogon martini 0 Comments

    Family Name: Poaceae, grass
    Origin: Nepal

    This herb is native to India and Pakistan and has been used since antiquity. Palmarosa oil is antiseptic, moisturizes the skin, helps to stimulate cell regeneration and is valuable in use for acne, athlete's foot, chapped skin, dehydration, dry skin, dermatitis, wrinkles, minor skin infections, scarring and sore feet. Oil of palmarosa is described as a sweet, rosy floral top-middle-base note with grasslike and honey undertones. The emotional benefits of this soothing, calming oil include ease of: anger as well as emotional and mental fatigue.

    * Essential Oil

  • Orange, Sweet*

    June 14, 2009 By Citrus sinensis 0 Comments

    Family Name: Rutaceae
    Origin: USA

    Orange—specifically, sweet orange—refers to the citrus tree Citrus sinensis and its fruit. Oranges are believed to be the Golden Apples of mythological fame and are regarded as a symbol of fertility due to the fact that they can produce flowers and fruit at the same time. The peel from unsprayed oranges is the part used medicinally and from which the essential oil is made. Its properties for skin include: antibacterial, strong antifungal, anti-inflammatory, slightly astringent, cleansing, degreasing, lymphatic and circulatory stimulant, skin conditioning and nutritive (containing vitamins A, B, & C). The high content of bioflavonoids helps to strengthen the capillaries and tissues of the body. It is recommended for all skin types except for severely dry, but particularly beneficial for dull, stressed-out, mature and weathered skin. The essential oil is good for the following skin conditions: acne, seborrhea and cellulite. Orange flower water, made from the tree’s blossoms, is used for acne, dry and chapped skin, broken capillaries, to stimulate new cell growth (cell regeneration) and restore the skin’s acid mantle. The essential oil of the sweet orange is delightfully bright and cheery, highly antidepressant, calming, and is described as a sweet citrus top note. As a bath and massage oil it promotes relaxation and stress relief. Emotional benefits include ease of: anxiety, disappointment, emotional and mental fatigue, hysteria, nervousness and tension. The oil can be used as an appetite suppressant, to move chi and to dry dampness. The blossoms are sedative.

    * Essential Oil

  • Orange, Blood*

    June 14, 2009 By Citrus sinensis var. Tarocco 0 Comments

    Family Name: Rutaceae
    Origin: Italy

    The blood orange is a variety of sweet orange that has three types. The type native to Italy is known as Tarocco. Blood oranges have a pigment called anthocyanin not typically found in citrus, but more common in other red fruits and flowers. Anthocyanin is a powerful antioxidant flavonoid that has anti-inflammatory effects. See orange, sweet.

    * Essential Oil

  • Oats**

    June 14, 2009 By Avena sativa 0 Comments

    Family Name: Poaceae, grass

    The genus name for oats, Avena is from the Latin and means "nourishing”. Sativa, the species name, means "with a long history of cultivation". Milky oat seed (in its unripe stage) is the premier medicinal portion of the plant, but the stems are also used (known as oatstraw). The active constituents of Avena sativa include: carbohydrates, such as, b glucans, flavonoids, minerals, alkaloids and saponins. Oat seed and straw are used for skin as an alterative, anti-irritant, anti-inflammatory, demulcent, nutritive and rejuvenator. Oat is high in triglycerides and helps nourish the skin, nails, teeth, bones and hair due to its high silicon content. Oat flakes are used topically as a bath herb to soften skin and to relieve itchiness, eczema, hives, rheumatism and neuralgia, and as a mask for blackheads, dry, wrinkled and oily skin. They also relax the nerves and strengthen the nervous system, making tactile sensations more pleasurable. Furthermore, oat seed promotes the elasticity of blood vessels, and the seed or straw is used as a compress to help heal stitches. Other medicinal uses include: anti-anxiety, antidepressant, anti-insomniac, antispasmodic, aphrodisiac, blood tonic, brain tonic, chi tonic, endocrine tonic, mood elevator, nervine, restorative and sexual tonic.

    ** Herbal Extract

  • Neroli*

    June 14, 2009 By Citrus aurantium var. amara or bigaradia 0 Comments

    Family Name: Rutaceae
    Origin: Egypt

    Neroli oil is a plant oil similar to bergamot produced from the blossom of the bitter orange tree. The oil is produced by water distillation, as the blossom is too fragile to endure steam distillation. By the end of the 16th century, Anne Marie Orsini, duchess of Bracciano and princess of Nerola, introduced the essence of the bitter orange tree as a fashionable fragrance by using it to perfume her gloves and her bath. Since then, the name of Neroli has been used to describe this essence. Neroli has a refreshing and distinctive, spicy aroma and is described as a sweet, bitter, floral citrus top-middle note. Neroli oil is a classic element in fragrance design and one of the most commonly used in the industry. The oil is also edible. The active constituents of neroli include: terpenes such as linalool and flavonoids such as naringin. Neroli can be used on all skin types, but is best for blemished, mature, normal-combination and especially sensitive skin. Its antimicrobial properties are preservative. It is good for the following skin conditions: dehydration, cellulite, stretch marks and sensitivity. Neroli is balancing, soothing, warming and energizing to the soul as well as the skin. Used in aromatherapy and massage, it is considered to have a soothing effect on the nervous system and is considered to be a sedative for emotional shock or grief while also uplifting and stimulating the heart chakra. Emotional benefits include ease of: anxiety, depression, grief, hysteria, nervousness, panic, shock, shyness and tension.

    * Essential Oil

  • Marshmallow Root**

    June 14, 2009 By Althaea officinalis 0 Comments

    Family Name: Malvaceae
    Origin: Italy

    Malvaceae, the family name of the marshmallow plant derives from the Greek word malake, or “soft,” referring to the soft, mucilaginous character of the plants. The genus name is the Greek word althea, which means “to heal”. The root of marshmallow is used in beauty care for its anti-inflammatory, emollient and thickening properties. Marshmallow is soothing due to its content of mucilage, flavonoids and anthocyanidins. Other active constituents include: phenolcarboxylic acids and amino acids. Good for all skin types, it is particularly beneficial to very sensitive, dry, weather-beaten, chapped or sun-damaged skin and is an excellent anti-inflammatory for acneic skin. Skin conditions marshmallow is particularly helpful for include: eczema, psoriasis, sunburn, windburn, wounds and varicose veins. It also soothes insect stings (especially wasps), provides relief for skin infections, and has the ability to draw out poisons and debris from a wound. Marshmallow root makes a great compress to reduce inflammation of the eyelid. It is used in dry skin treatments as a bath herb, facial steam, cleanser, moisturizer, lotion, soap, wrinkle cream and salve. For dry hair, the soothing properties are nourishing when used in shampoos, conditioners and hair rinses. Additionally, it is found in many hair styling products for all hair types.

    ** Herbal Extract

  • Mandarin, Green and Red*

    June 14, 2009 By Citrus reticulata 0 Comments

    Family Name: Rutaceae
    Origin: Italy

    Pressed from the peels, mandarin is a beautiful oil for spas. An immune and lymphatic stimulant, mandarin also supports tissue regeneration and detoxification, reduces scarring and stretch marks, and is used to nurture dry, mature, wrinkled and dull skin. Mandarin is a wonderful cooling oil for the skin, aiding in balancing oily skin and healing acne, spots and puffiness. It is believed to improve one’s mood and relieve anxiety and stress. Other properties for mind include: calming and relaxing. See tangerine.

    * Essential Oil

  • Linden Flower**

    June 12, 2009 By Tilia europaea 0 Comments

    Family Name: Malvaceae
    Origin: Croatia

    The linden flower is used cosmetically for its antiseptic and sedative qualities. Its main active constituents are flavonoids and glycosides. Linden helps to leave the skin smooth and soft, and minimizes wrinkles. It also helps to heal blood vessel walls and is used to clear acne and rashes as well as to treat burns. Linden is included in facial waters, facial steams, masks, lotions, moisturizers, soaps and relaxing bath herbs, as well as in shampoos, conditioners and hair rinses. Another use is as a nervine proscribed by herbalists in treating restlessness, hysteria, headaches and stress.

    ** Herbal Extract

  • Lime / Peel*

    June 12, 2009 By Citrus limetta 0 Comments

    Family Name:Rutaceae
    Origin: South Africa, Ivory Coast, Mexico

    Lime is a useful cooling, toning and astringent oil for skin care blends. It is also used for varicose veins. Lime is refreshing, especially in hot weather. It inspires the mind and elevates the spirit with its aroma, a fresh, sharp citrus top note. Additional properties for the mind include: antidepressant, energizing and relaxing.

    * Essential Oil

  • Licorice Root**

    June 12, 2009 By Glycyrrhiza glabra 0 Comments

    Family Name: Fabaceae, legume
    Origin: Spain

    Licorice has a long and highly valued record of uses. For example, it remains one of the most important herbs in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). Among the most consistent and important uses are as a demulcent (soothing, coating agent), which makes licorice perfect for sensitive skin. Licorice root is a very effective anti-inflammatory and anti-irritant, which inhibits the breakdown of cortisol produced in the body. It is also antiviral, antibacterial, antifungal, and a potent antioxidant. Its active constituents include: triterpene saponins (such as glycyrrhizin, glabridin, soya saponins), flavonoids, coumarins and terpenes. Licorice extract is thought to have a depigmenting effect as well as an inhibitory effect on melanin synthesis as a result of its ability to act as a tyrosinase inhibitor. Its uses include treatment for: chronic fatigue syndrome, cold sores, eczema, fibromyalgia, menopause and peptic ulcers.

    ** Herbal Extract

  • Lecithin

    June 12, 2009 0 Comments

    Source: Soy
    Origin: USA

    Lecithin is usually used as a synonym for phosphatidylcholine, a phospholipid found in the membranes of plant and animal cells and part of the vitamin B complex. A major source of lecithin is soybean oil. It is needed by every cell in the body and is a key building block of cell membranes; without it, they would harden. Lecithin protects cells from oxidation and largely comprises the protective sheaths surrounding the brain. It can be totally metabolized, so it is virtually non-toxic to humans. Lecithin is used commercially for anything requiring a natural emulsifier and/or lubricant from pharmaceuticals to protective coverings. It is a natural antioxidant and emollient used in eye creams, liquid powders, hand creams, lotions, soaps and many other cosmetics. Lecithin is so widely used in cosmetics because it absorbs well without feeling greasy or heavy. Phosphatidyl inosital, another phospholipid constituent of lecithin, is a water-binding agent. See soybean oil and natural moisturizing factors.

  • Lavender, Wild*

    June 12, 2009 By Lavandula mailette 0 Comments

    Family Name: Lamiaceae, mint
    Origin: France

    See lavender flower, sweet.

    * Essential Oil

  • Lemongrass* **

    June 11, 2009 By Cymbopogon citratus 0 Comments

    Family Name: Poaceae, grass
    Origin: Italy

    The leaves of lemongrass are an important aromatic and powerful antiseptic agent. Additional properties for skin include: antimicrobial, mildly astringent, deodorizing, detoxifying and disinfecting. Best for normal to oily, and oily skin, lemongrass is also good for mature, sagging and devitalized smoker’s skin (helps to eliminate wastes).

    * Essential Oil

    Origin: India

    It is a tonic for open pores. In the form of facial steams, cleansers, soaps and bath herbs, lemongrass is used for oily, acneic skin and to fight skin infections. Lemongrass is excellent for oily, dandruff and blond hair when used in shampoos, conditioners and hair rinses. The essential oil (also known as citronella) is used in deodorants, perfumery, insect repellents, and cures for athlete’s foot. Good for stress, lemongrass is calming. The essential oil is also used as an appetite suppressant.

    ** Herbal Extract

  • Lemon Balm Herb**

    June 11, 2009 By Melissa officinalis 0 Comments

    Family Name: Lamiaceae, mint
    Origin: Croatia

    Also referred to as Melissa, this fresh, citrus herb was included in Carmelite Water, a popular toilet water used by men and women of culture during medieval Europe. Its properties for skin include: antiseptic, antiviral, cleansing, demulcent, healing, pH balancer and rejuvenating. It is used in treating: acne, dermatitis, eczema, insect bites and rashes. Lemon balm is best for blemished, irritated skin. Its active constituents include: terpenes, which produce relaxing qualities, hydroxycinnamic acid derivatives such as rosmarinic acid, and flavonoids. The leaves have been used as a compress or poultice for boils, shingles, insect bites, in facial steams and toners for blemishes, and as a rejuvenating agent. The diluted essential oil is used topically on herpes lesions. It is also included in perfumes, bath oils and massage oils. Its properties for mind include: appeasing, comforting, soothing and uplifting. Emotional benefits include ease of emotional shock or grief, depression and insomnia.

    ** Herbal Extract

  • Lemon*

    June 11, 2009 By Citrus limon 0 Comments

    Family Name: Rutaceae
    Origin: Italy

    Lemon essential oil is obtained by cold press of the peel. Its properties for skin include: antiseptic, astringent, bactericide, detoxifying, cooling, healing, lymphatic stimulant and rejuvenating. The active constituents in lemon oil include: terpenes, flavonoids (such as hesperitin and naringenin, coumarins, carotenoids and citric acid. Lemon oil is good for the following skin conditions: acne, seborrhea, wrinkles and warts. It also brightens dull skin and reduces cellulite and varicose veins. Best for blemished, normal- combination and oil-rich skin types. What makes the properties in lemon oil noteworthy is that they are combined with a delightful aroma and work synergistically on a therapeutic, aesthetic and emotional level. Lemon’s aroma is described as a fresh, light citrus top-note. Its properties for mind include: calming, energizing, relaxing, stimulating and uplifting. Emotional benefits include ease of: aggression, depression, fatigue and tension.

    * Essential Oil

  • Lavendin*

    June 11, 2009 By Lavandula hybrida sumian 0 Comments

    Family Name: Lamiaceae, mint
    Origin: France

    See lavender flower, sweet.

    * Essential Oil

  • Lavender Flower, Sweet* **

    June 11, 2009 By Lavandula angustifolia 0 Comments

    Family Name: Lamiaceae, mint
    Origin: France

    The word “lavender” is actually derived from the Latin lavare meaning "to wash" as this herb has such a long tradition in cleansing. This species is known as English lavender. Its properties for skin include: anti-inflammatory, anti-irritant, antimicrobial, strongest gentle antiseptic, astringent, cell regenerating, cleansing, demulcent, deodorant, healing, rejuvenating, and balances sebum production. The active constituents of lavender include: terpenes such as linalool, lavandulyl acetate (named for the plant), tannins, flavonoids and phytosterols. Lavender can be used by all skin types and is safe for everyone including children and pregnant women, but is best for blemished, delicate-sensitive, oil-rich, pale-devitalized and traumatized skin. It is also used in treating almost any skin condition including: acne, allergies, anxiety, athlete’s foot, blackheads, bruises, burns, chapped skin, dehydration, dermatitis, eczema, inflamed skin, muscles aches, sagging skin, seborrhea, sensitivity, spider veins and stretch marks.

    * Essential Oil

    Origin: France

    It is a remedy for sunburns and burns, prevents wrinkles and scarring, and soothes and heals insect bites. Lavender oil is one of the only essential oils that can be applied undiluted, or “neat,” to the skin. It also helps to prevent infection; for example, a drop or two of undiluted lavender essential oil can be applied topically to dispel a pimple before erupting. Lavender is used in skin formulas as facial steams, cleansers, toners, lotions, soaps, massage oils and foot soaks. Misting oneself several times daily with lavender water helps to moisturize the skin and improve one's mood. The aroma of lavender is described as a smooth, sweet floral top-middle note with an herbaceous undertone. Lavender oil is a potent healing agent both mentally and physically. Its properties for mind include: calming, relaxing, clarifying, stimulating, healing and appeasing. Emotional benefits include ease of: anxiety, depression, hysteria, impatience, fatigue, shock, suspicion and tension. As a powerful relaxant it is used to treat insomnia just place some on a white pillowcase before bed.

    ** Herbal Extract

  • Lavender Alcohol

    June 11, 2009 0 Comments

    Origin: USA

    Alcohol is used here as a skin toner, absorption aid, preservative, carrier for aroma and suspension agent. This particular alcohol is 100% organic grain (U.S. grown corn) alcohol. There has been no addition of petroleum during its making (the main cause of alcohol drying the skin), or any other chemical that would disturb its integrity. In fact the only other ingredient added to denature it (a legal necessity, making it undrinkable) is lavender. See lavender flower for other benefits.

  • Lady's Mantle**

    June 11, 2009 By Alchemilla vulgaris, A. occidentalis, A. xanthochlora 0 Comments

    Family Name: Rosaceae, rose
    Origin: Europe

    The genus name, Alchemilla is from the Arabic, alkemelych, meaning "alchemy," as alchemists believed that the morning crystal dewdrops in this plant, which they called "Heaven’s Water" held magical powers to help them in their work. This herb was used to staunch bleeding on the battlefields of the 15th and 16th centuries. At one time, the astringent effects of this plant were marketed as a virginity restorative. To the Icelandic people, Lady’s Mantle has been long considered sacred. The leaves and flowering shoots are used as an anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, astringent, styptic, tonic and vulnerary for skin. Its high tannin content gives it constricting properties, thus reducing the appearance of large pores, and its flavonoid content gives it anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Lady’s Mantle is used in lotions to soften rough skin or minimize enlarged pores and birthmarks. The juice or teas of Lady’s Mantle is applied to acne and used as a facial steam for acne. It is also used as an eyewash for conjunctivitis, a mouthwash for sores or after dental extraction, and as a gargle for laryngitis.

    ** Herbal Extract

  • Jojoba Seed Oil

    June 11, 2009 By Simmondsia chinensis 0 Comments

    Family Name: Simmondsiaceae, jojoba
    Origin: USA

    Jojoba is a shrub native to the Sonora and Mojave deserts. Is grown for the non-comedogenic, antibacterial liquid wax (commonly called jojoba oil) in its beanlike seeds. This waxy substance is rare in that it is an extremely long (C36-C46) straight-chain wax ester and not a triglyceride, making jojoba and its derivative jojoba esters more similar to sebum and whale oil than traditional vegetable oils. In other words, it is not an oil at all. Bearing this remarkable similarity to the oil produced by our own glands, it is well absorbed by and extremely beneficial to our skin for its emollient properties and natural moisturizing factors. It even has some natural sun protection. Jojoba oil is easily refined to be odorless, colorless and oxidatively stable, and is often used in cosmetics as a moisturizer and carrier oil for essential oils. Mexicans and Native Americans have long used jojoba oil as a hair conditioner and skin lubricant. It is a particularly effective treatment for “crows feet,” wrinkles, stretch marks and dry skin. Additionally for our environment, it has potential use as both a biodiesel fuel for cars and trucks, as well as a biodegradable commercial lubricant.

  • Horsetail Herb**

    June 11, 2009 By Equisetum arvense 0 Comments

    Family Name:Equisetaceae, horsetail
    Origin: Bulgaria

    The above ground portion of horsetail is used cosmetically for its nutritive properties. Its active constituents include: flavonoids, caffeic acid derivatives, sterols, rare carboxylic acids such as equisetolic acid (named after the plant), and saponins. It is used in facial steams, toners, lotions and bath herbs. Horsetail is astringent and antioxidant, and as a result is excellent for oily skin and enlarged pores as well as edema (water retention). It is also used in shampoos, conditioners and hair rinses for oily hair and dandruff as well as to strengthen fragile hair. Drinking horsetail regularly as a tea is said to help strengthen the growth of hair and nails and prevent brittleness.

    ** Herbal Extract

  • Hempseed Oil

    June 11, 2009 By Cannabis sativa 0 Comments

    Family Name: Cannabaceae
    Origin: Canada

    Hemp oil is from the seed of the hemp plant that contains between 25-35% oil by weight, and which has the highest and most complete profile of essential fatty acids of any oil. Both the complete protein and the oils contained in hempseeds (rich in linoleic and linolenic acids as well as small amounts of GLA) are in ideal ratios for human nutrition as well as beneficial to the skin. Hempseed oil is used in cosmetics as an emollient. Antimicrobial properties make it a useful ingredient for soaps, shampoos and detergents. Hempseed oil also provides some natural sun protection.

  • Grapefruit, Ruby / Pink / White*

    June 11, 2009 By Citrus paradisi 0 Comments

    Family Name: Rutaceae
    Origin: USA

    The essence of grapefruit, also known as shaddock, is obtained by cold press of the peels. Properties for the skin include: antibacterial, antioxidant and detoxifying. Grapefruit is used for the following skin conditions: cellulitis, dull skin, toxin buildup and water retention. It tones the skin and tissues, promotes hair growth, and can be diluted in the bath to assist with: cellulite, colds and flu, lack of energy, jet lag, muscle fatigue, overweight, headaches, moodiness, and mental and physical tiredness. Described as a sweet, sharp citrus top note, its energizing fragrance provokes euphoria and helps to stimulate self-esteem. Grapefruit oil clears the mind and uplifts the spirits; it is refreshing and reviving, especially when feeling down.

    * Essential Oil

  • Gotu Kola Herb**

    June 11, 2009 By Centella asiatica 0 Comments

    Family Name: Zingiberaceae, ginger
    Origin: Sri Lanka

    The above-ground portions of Gotu Kola are used for their rejuvenating properties such as strengthening connective tissue and stimulating collagen production. It also promotes wound and scar healing by stimulating cellular mitosis; increases protein growth in the skin; and promotes tensile integrity of the tissue. Gotu kola is used topically to help burns, eczema, psoriasis, varicose veins, and in scalp oils to deter baldness. Its properties for skin include: antibacterial, antisporiatic, vulnerary, and contains many antioxidants. Gotu kola’s active constituents are gingerols, which have analgesic, sedative, antipyretic (fever reducing) and antibacterial effects; and saponins (also called triterpenoids), which beneficially affect collagen, flavonoids and terpenes. It is often used in baths, salves, lotions and moisturizers. It may also be taken internally in the form of tea, tincture or capsules to treat age spots, burns, dermatitis, eczema, leprosy, psoriasis and scars (even the keloid variety). Gotu kola even boosts mental activity, and helps nervous disorders.

    ** Herbal Extract

  • Glycerol / Sucrose Stearate

    June 11, 2009 0 Comments

    Origin: USA, Japan

    Glyceryl Stearate is an emulsifier, emollient and thickener. See glycerin.

    Sucrose Stearate is a mixture of sucrose (sugar) and stearic acid.

    Stearic Acid is a white, waxy, natural fatty acid widely used in hand creams and lotions, protective creams and soaps (among many other products). It is the major ingredient used in making bar soap and lubricants, and is an emollient, emulsifier and thickener.

    Sucrose is sugar, a preservative, antioxidant, exfoliant, demulcent and substitute for glycerin. It is a monosaccharide and as such has water-binding properties.

  • Glycerin, Vegetable also Glycerol

    June 11, 2009 0 Comments

    Origin: Indonesia

    Glycerin is an oily, clear, sweet, thick liquid obtained by adding alkalis to fats and fixed oils. It is a solvent, emollient and skin softener in many cosmetics as well as a humectant properties) and therefore helps keep moisture in creams and other products as well as on the skin. In fact, glycerin attracts just the right amount of moisture to maintain the skin’s homeostasis and fills in the intercellular matrix of the skin (thus plumping it up in a good way). Its presence in the intercellular layer helps other lipids do their job better and is actually present in all natural lipids. It also helps products spread better and is a menstrum, which helps with the absorbability of medicinal plants.

  • Ginger Root*

    June 11, 2009 By Zingiber officinale 0 Comments

    Family Name: Zingiberaceae, ginger
    Origin: Nigeria

    Ginger root is analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, invigorating and warming. Its active constituents include: terpenes such as gingerols zingiberene and shogaols (named after the plant), and fatty acids. In addition to its application for skin, these properties make ginger root beneficial for aching muscles, arthritis, migraines and poor circulation. When taken orally, it is a digestive tonic, supports a healthy cardiovascular system and is anticarcinogenic. Ginger’s aroma is described as a spicy, sharp, warm top-middle note with a hint of lemon and pepper, and its effects are energizing and stimulating for poor memory. Emotional benefits include ease of: emotional and mental fatigue, fear, physical fatigue and shyness.

    * Essential Oil

  • Geranium*

    June 11, 2009 By Pelargonium graveolens 0 Comments

    Family Name: Geraniaceae
    Origin: Madagascar, Egypt

    Geranium has great value in skin care and can be used on any type of skin. Properties for skin include: analgesic, anti-irritant, antimicrobial, potent antioxidant, antiseptic, astringent, balancing, cell-regenerating, cicatrisant, demulcent, rejuvenating and warming. It is commonly used for these particular skin conditions: acne, blackheads, cellulite, dehydration, erythema, seborrhea, sensitivity, spider veins and stretch marks. Geranium is also an excellent and effective remedy for burns and wounds and can be used in the treatment of inflammation due to its mild, soothing effect. Its action on the nervous system is pronounced; it’s a sedative with uplifting characteristics. Geranium is a stimulant of the adrenal cortex and can be used to balance the production of androgens or octoroons, such as occurs during menopause. It is also great for the time of menstruation. Geranium is a good insecticide due to its terpene content and is particularly effective as a mosquito repellent. Described as a minty-fruity floral top-middle note with rosy undertones, geranium oil is an important perfume ingredient, and one of the most feminine of the essential oils. Its properties for mind include: balancing, calming, cooling, refreshing, relaxing, soothing and uplifting. It promotes feelings of happiness and peace, and eases anxiety, depression, panic, stress and tension.

    * Essential Oil

  • Frankincense*

    June 11, 2009 By Boswellia carterii or B. thurifera or B. sacra 0 Comments

    Family Name: Burseraceae
    Origin: Oman

    The essence of frankincense is distilled from the resinous "tears" that the tree produces in order to cicatrize the small wounds on its trunk and branches made to ripen the precious substance. Probably for this reason frankincense has an incredible cicatrisation power on wounds and lesions of various kinds on human skin. It is also referred to as olibanum, which is derived from the Arabic al-luban (“the milk”), a reference to the milky sap tapped from the tree. Frankincense has been used in cosmetics since antiquity for wrinkles and skin infections. The active constituents of frankincense include: terpenes, mucilage and boswellic acids (named after the plant). Its properties for skin include: anti-aging, antiseptic, anti-wrinkle, rejuvenating, revitalizing, stimulating,vulnerary and warming. It is also good for stretch marks. Olibanum is described as a rich, oriental base note, with citrus, spice and incense undertones. Diffused in the air, frankincense possesses extraordinary antiseptic properties and is purifying as much for the spaces in which we occupy as for our minds. Additional properties for mind include: calming, energizing, fortifying, grounding, relaxing and stimulating. It helps to ease anxiety, depression, disappointment, fatigue, fear, grief, impatience, insecurity, loneliness, nervousness, panic attacks, stress and tension.

    * Essential Oil

  • Fennel Seed* **

    June 11, 2009 By Foeniculum vulgare 0 Comments

    Family Name: Apiaceae
    Origin: Hungary

    The seeds of fennel are used for their anti-inflammatory, deep-cleansing, detoxifying, revitalizing, antimicrobial and circulatory stimulant properties. The active constituents of fennel seed include: terpenes, fatty acids, protein, flavonoids, phenolcarboxylic acids and coumarins. Best for normal to dry and mature skin, fennel seed is used in facial steams, cleansers, soaps, anti-wrinkle creams and lotions. It also helps to calm unevenly colored or blotchy skin. A cool fennel seed tea compress is used to reduce puffiness on closed swollen eyes and as a tonic for chapped skin.

    * Essential Oil

    Origin: Egypt

    Fennel is used in salves to heal bruises. Described as a sweet, floral top-middle note with an herbaceous spicy undertone, essential oil of fennel is energizing, stimulating, warming, and eases fear. It is used widely in perfumes and to scent haircare products. Essential oil of fennel is also often used in toothpastes and mouthwashes. Chewing a few fennel seeds after a meal helps freshen the breath. It is also an insect repellant.

    ** Herbal Extract

  • Evening Primrose Oil

    June 11, 2009 By Oenothera biennis 0 Comments

    Family Name: Onagraceae
    Origin: China

    Otherwise known as sundrops, the oil of the mature seeds of evening primrose contain approximately 7-10% gamma-linoleic acid (GLA), a rare essential fatty acid that is a cell regenerator, anti-inflammatory and is very emollient. It also contains terpenes and is astringent. Evening primrose oil is a popular ingredient in organic cosmetics. It acts on the mind to relieve anxiety and sedate. Medicinally, it is recommended for infantile eczema, painful breasts, arthritis, neurosis and reputedly lowers cholesterol. The roots and shoots can be eaten. At one time it was used to ease bruises and speed the healing of wounds. One of the common names of Oenothera, “Kings cure-all,” reflects the wide range of healing powers ascribed to this plant. Evening primrose oil is also shown to have sun protectant properties.

  • Elder Flower and Elderberry**

    June 11, 2009 By Sambucus nigra, S. Canadensis 0 Comments

    Family Name: Adoxaceae, moschatel
    Origin: Croatia

    The flowers of the elder are used for their anti-inflammatory, emollient and mild astringent properties. Its active constituents are terpenes, flavonoids, phenolcarboxylic acids (such as caffeic acid and ferulic acid), mucilage and tannins. Elder is healing for injuries, infection and various skin conditions. Elder blossoms are used for both oily and dry skin in facial steams, cleansers, scrubs, lotions, moisturizers, soaps, toners and salves. Elderflower water is a classic herb used as a toner and reputed to be one of the beauty secrets of many women. It makes a good aftershave tonic and has been used to calm sunburn, reduce enlarged pores and reduce eye puffiness when used as a compress. Elder also makes a relaxing bath herb and benefits dry hair when used in shampoos, conditioners and hair rinses. When used internally as a tea or tincture, elder helps to clean the pores from the inside.

    ** Herbal Extract

  • Dandelion Root**

    June 11, 2009 By Taraxacum officinale 0 Comments

    Family Name: Asteraceae, daisy
    Origin: Italy

    Often seen as a weed and closely related to chicory, dandelion has a long history of medicinal use. The leaves are used to purify the blood and aid in treating anemia, probably for their high iron content. The root is sold as a drug in Canada and is a powerful diuretic. Its active constituents include: terpenes, sterols, carotene, flavonoids, phenolcarboxylic acids and coumarin derivatives such as umbelliferone. It is also used to treat edema (water retention) and is a rich source of vitamins and minerals such as vitamins A, D, C, various B vitamins, iron, silicon, magnesium, zinc and manganese. These give dandelion valuable nutritive and antioxidant properties to the skin.

    ** Herbal Extract

  • Damiana Tea**

    June 11, 2009 By Turnea diffusa 0 Comments

    Family Name: Turneraceae
    Origin: Mexico

    Damiana is a shrub native to Central and South America that blooms with small yellow flowers. Its active constituents include: numerous small amounts of terpenes, the antimicrobial substance arbutin and alkaloids. Damiana is also high in phosphorus, which may contribute to its energizing ability. Its leaves are used for their medicinal effects that range from stimulant to anti-depressant to yang tonic. Damiana has been hailed as an aphrodisiac since ancient times, particularly by the native peoples of Mexico. Other folk uses have included treating asthma, bronchitis, neurosis and various sexual disorders. It has also been promoted as a euphoria-inducing substance at various times and improves orgasmic ability, boosts nerve sensitivity and strengthens the reproductive system.

    ** Damiana Tea

  • Comfrey Leaf**

    June 11, 2009 By Symphytum officinale 0 Comments

    Family Name: Boraginaceae, forget-me-not
    Origin: Croatia

    The leaves and flowers of this perennial herb are used topically for their anti-irritant, antiseptic, emollient, mucilaginous and regenerative properties, as well as being a powerful anti-inflammatory. Comfrey’s active constituents are: alkaloids, mucilage, saponins, tannins, terpenes, sterols, phenolcarboxylic acids (such as salicylic acid and caffeic acid), amino acids and vitamin B12. Comfrey is also high in allantoin, which stimulates new cell growth. This results in promoting the swift healing of damaged or injured tissues. In fact, comfrey is one of the most favored herbs to treat wounds and abrasions in the form of salves and poultices because it proliferates cells. Excellent for dry skin, comfrey is used in soaps, lotions, moisturizers, salves and bath herbs. Recommended for dry hair, comfrey is used in shampoos, conditioners and hair rinses. Medicinally, it is used for broken bones, rashes, sprains, bruises, severe burns, eczema and psoriasis.

    ** Herbal Extract

  • Coconut Oil

    June 11, 2009 By Cocos Nucifera 0 Comments

    Family Name: Arecaceae, palm
    Origin: Vietnam, Brazil

    Coconut oil is the non-volatile plant kernel oil of the coconut palm. The coconut has degreasing and cleansing properties and lathers readily, which is why cleansing agents are frequently derived from coconut oil and it is such is a common surfactant. Coconut oil is one of the heaviest and fattest of the plant oils, which makes it more emollient than other plant oils, but also possibly more comedogenic. For this reason, coconut oil is best for cleansers and body creams. See natural moisturizing factors.

  • Cocoa Butter

    June 11, 2009 By Theobroma cacao 0 Comments

    Family Name: Malvaceae
    Origin: Ghana

    Also called theobroma (“food of the gods”) oil, cocoa butter is the solid edible natural fat of the cacao bean, extracted during the process of making chocolate and cocoa powder. It is one of the most stable fats known, containing natural antioxidants that prevent rancidity and give it a shelf life of two to five years. It is used for its smooth texture in various foods, as well as in cosmetics and soaps, pastes and emollient creams. Cocoa butter softens and lubricates the skin, and melts at body temperature making it good for massage creams.

  • Clove*

    June 11, 2009 By Syzygium aromaticum 0 Comments

    Family Name: Myrtaceae, myrtle
    Origin: Indonesia

    Distilled from the dried flower buds of the evergreen tree Syzygium aromaticum, clove oil is also found under the name Eugenia caryophyllata. Cloves are used for their, anesthetic, antimicrobial, antiseptic, astringent, detoxifying, and warming properties. Active constituents include: terpenes, flavonoids, tannins, phenolcarboxylic acids and sterols. It is included in skin preparations such as soaps, toners, lotions, perfumes, powders and aftershaves. Because clove is also antifungal, it is used in salves to treat athlete's foot. It is also used in shampoos, conditioners and hair rinses, especially for brunettes and redheads. Clove is often used to flavor toothpastes and freshen the breath. The essential oil of clove is an aphrodisiac and is included in perfumes for its sensuous scent, which is described as a warm, sweet, spicy middle note. Additional properties for mind include: anti-anxiety, energizing and intellectually stimulating for nervous fatigue and poor memory.

    * Essential Oil

  • Citric Acid

    June 11, 2009 0 Comments

    Origin: China

    Citric acid is a weak organic acid found in a variety of fruits and vegetables, most concentrated in lemons and limes where it can comprise as much as 8% of the dry weight of the fruit. One of the most widely used acids in the cosmetic industry, it is derived from citrus fruits by fermentation of crude sugars and is employed as an acid-alkali balance adjuster, an antioxidant, an astringent, an exfoliant (it is an alpha-hydroxy acid), a preservative, a sequestering agent and a foam inhibitor. Additionally, it serves as an environmentally benign cleaning agent.

  • Cinnamon Cassia* **

    June 11, 2009 By Cinnamonium cassia or Cinnamonium aromaticum 0 Comments

    Family Name: Lauraceae, laurel and Fabaceae, legume
    Origin: Indonesia, China

    The bark of this evergreen tree is often confused with true cinnamon (Cinnamomum zeylanicum), but is actually cassia. Its properties for skin include: antifungal, antiseptic, anti-yeast, mildly astringent, detoxifying, parasiticidal and warming. Cinnamon is used in facial scrubs, soaps, cleansers, masks and lotions. Its pungent aroma is described as a sweet, spicy middle note, and is desirable in perfumes and aftershaves. Considered an aphrodisiac, the essential oil is included in massage oils for lovers.

    ** Herbal Extract

    Further effects on the mind include: promoting happiness and peace, and combating stress. Excellent for brunettes and in preventing baldness, cinnamon is used in shampoos and hair rinses. It freshens the breath when included in toothpastes and mouthwashes and promotes a rosy complexion when used internally.

    * Essential Oil

  • Chamomile, Roman*

    June 11, 2009 By Athemis nobilis 0 Comments

    Family Name: Asteraceae, daisy
    Origin: England, France

    Roman chamomile is a miracle worker. Its numerous properties for skin include analgesic, anti-allergenic, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, anti-irritant, antioxidant, antiseptic, calming, demulcent, healing and sedative. It is a powerful treatment for various skin ailments including acne, allergies, arthritis, dermatitis, eczema, erythema, inflammation, irritation, psoriasis, rashes, sensitivity, spider veins, sores and wounds, and is also a great tissue regenerator. Particularly recommended for dry, dehydrated, delicate, sensitive, oil-rich and blemished skin, chamomile is beneficial for all skin types. Chamomile’s aroma is described as a fruity warm floral, herbaceous middle-base note with potent properties for the mind including: relaxing, cooling and calming. Emotional benefits include realization of personal growth and ease of aggression, anger, anxiety, fear, grief, hysteria, impatience, irritability, loneliness, nervousness, panic, stress and tension.

  • Cardamom*

    June 11, 2009 By Elettaria cardamomum 0 Comments

    Family Name: Zingiberaceae, ginger
    Origin: Guatemala

    Cardamom is one of the oldest essential oils known. Egyptians used it in perfumes and incense, and also chewed the seeds to keep their teeth white. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), cardamom has long been described as a Qi tonic, not only warming and invigorating to the lungs, spleen and nerves, but also having an effect on the spirit or mind, similar to that of basil, removing listlessness and depression often found in chronic Qi deficiency conditions. Its main properties for skin are antiseptic and cleansing. Cardamom oil’s aroma is described as a warm, spicy middle-base note with the following properties for mind: energizing, stimulating and aphrodisiac. It is also used to combat fatigue and stress.

    * Essential Oil

  • Caprylic / Capric Triglyceride

    June 11, 2009 0 Comments

    Origin: USA

    Caprylic / Capric Triglyceride is an oily mixture of glycerin with caprylic and capric acids derived from coconut oil. It is skin conditioning and used as an emollient to prevent water loss from the skin. See glycerin.

    Capric Acid is a type of carboxylic acid, abundant in nature, as is malic acid (from apples) and lactic acid (from sour milk). Caprylic Acid is a long-chain fatty acid found in coconuts and breast milk. In cosmetics it is used as a surfactant and thickening agent. It is known to have antifungal properties and thus is often recommended by nutritionists in the treatment of candidiasis, and is also used in the treatment of some bacterial infections.

  • Calendula Flower* **

    June 11, 2009 By Calendula officinalis 0 Comments

    Family Name: Asteraceae, daisy
    Origin: Egypt

    The beautiful yellow flowers of the calendula plant (also known as the pot marigold) are used on the skin for their antifungal, antiseptic, astringent, demulcent and vulnerary properties. Its active constituents include: high amounts of flavonoids which are anti-inflammatory and antibacterial, arabinogalactans, saponins (such as oleanolic acid, beta-carotene and other carotenoids), terpenes, polysaccharides, polyacetylenes and phenolic acids. "Where calendula is applied, no pus will form," is an old adage that has been past on through generations, hence calendula’s reputation for healing cuts, bruises, rashes and irritated skin.

    * Essential Oil

    Origin: Spain

    Topically, calendula flower soothes burns and sunburn. As a bath herb, calendula flower is used for dry skin. Used both internally and externally, calendula helps to increase peripheral circulation. It is also used internally to improve skin conditions such as acne, boils, eczema and psoriasis. A common ingredient in cosmetics, calendula is used in facial steams, cleansers, lotions, moisturizers, soaps and salves. It is gentle enough to use in products such as eye creams and baby care products, and can even help relieve cradle cap and diaper rash. Calendula is also used in shampoos, conditioners and hair rinses, especially for blondes.

    ** Herbal Extract

  • Burdock Root**

    June 11, 2009 By Arctium lappa 0 Comments

    Family Name: Asteraceae, daisy
    Origin: Italy

    Burdock root has many properties useful for skin including: antifungal, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and demulcent. It contains polyacetylenes which are antimicrobial, mucilaginous and polyphenols. In skincare it is often added to facial steams, cleansers, lotions, toners and salves. Burdock root is used especially for the treatment of oily skin and may be used both internally and externally for skin conditions such as acne, eczema and psoriasis. It is also added to shampoos, conditioners and hair rinses, and can be especially beneficial for dandruff. Medicinally, burdock root is used to treat painful joints, inflammation and purifies the blood.

    ** Herbal Extract

  • Birch Bark**

    June 11, 2009 By Betula alba 0 Comments

    Family Name: Betulaceae, birch
    Origin: Bulgaria

    An ancient remedy, the herbal extract of birch bark is obtained from the European white birch tree. It is high in betulin and betulinic acid, flavonoids and terpenes, all powerful phytochemicals. Its properties for skin include: analgesic, potent antioxidant, astringent, circulatory stimulant, cleansing and freshening. Birch bark extract is good for bathing skin eruptions.

    ** Herbal Extract

  • Bergamot*

    June 11, 2009 By Citrus aurantium subsp. bergamia 0 Comments

    Family Name: Rutaceae
    Origin: Italy

    The bergamot orange is small and roughly pear shaped. Its essential oil is derived from the cold pressed peel of nearly ripe fruit of the bergamot tree. The essence of bergamot is used in wide measure for skin and is one of the main ingredients of traditional cologne waters. Properties for skin include: antiseptic, balancing, deodorizing, refreshing, stimulating, vulnerary and warming. Bergamot is used in treating the following skin conditions: acne, blackheads, cellulite, sagging skin and seborrhea. The aroma of bergamot is described as a fresh fruity, sweet citrus top note. Properties for the mind include: antidepressant, balancing, calming, harmonizing, refreshing, uplifting and overall emotional wellbeing. Emotional benefits include ease of: aggression, disappointment, distress and grief. In fact, wearing the scent of bergamot aids in reopening the heart when it is closed from the pain of grief. Furthermore, bergamot essential oil is one of the most useful in the neuro-psychiatric field for the cure of neuroses, depressions and anxious states. Its solar aroma has the power to temper the emotional excesses, to encourage confidence in oneself and to re-emerge suffocated vitality. It has also been known to improve lack of appetite and morning laziness in adolescents.

    * Essential Oil

  • Beeswax

    June 11, 2009 By Cera alba 0 Comments

    Origin: Canada

    Beeswax is a product made by bees to build the walls of their honeycomb. The substance is secreted by virgin honeybees in the form of thin scales and is practically insoluble in water. Beeswax is not absorbed into the skin, so it primarily protects the surface of the skin and traps water on the surface. It is a thickener but is primarily used as an emulsifier. Beeswax is used in many cosmetics including baby creams, moisturizing creams, eye creams and protective creams. It can be comedogenic on the face, so is best used on the body. Beeswax is also a natural sun protectant.

  • Basil, Sweet*

    June 11, 2009 By Ocimum basilicum 0 Comments

    Family Name: Lamiaceae, mint
    Origin: Egypt

    Also known as Albahaca, sweet basil is a unique member of the mint family. It is considered the “king of herbs” by many cookery authors, and in addition to its culinary use, sweet basil has a long history as a medicinal herb. For example, the Greek physician Dioscorides prescribed sweet basil for headaches. Some of basil’s active constituents are: terpenes, methyl cinnamate, tannins, flavonoids and caffeic acid. The essential oil of sweet basil has excellent cleansing properties, is particularly effective against cellulite, and stimulates healthy hair growth. Used in massage oil, sweet basil has a warming effect. In modern aromatherapy, it is used to cheer the heart and mind and has a spicy, sweet herbaceous top-middle note with anise-like undertones. This oil is stimulating, warming and energizing, yet at the same time soothing and calming. Its aroma helps relieve sorrow, melancholy, emotional/mental/physical fatigue and eases indecision. See basil linalol.

    * Essential Oil

  • Basil Linalol*

    June 11, 2009 By Ocimum basilicum 0 Comments

    Family Name: Lamiaceae, mint
    Origin: Egypt

    Basil is used on the skin for its antiseptic, antifungal and circulatory stimulating properties in applications such as treating acne, insect bites, ringworm, and also as an insect repellent. The linalol variety contains a terpene alcohol of which vitamin E is a main constituent, thus making it more healing for the skin. The essential oil of basil is often added to facial steams, cleansers, toners, hair rinses, soaps and perfumes. In hair products basil adds a delightful scent, improves hair growth and tames tangles. It makes an excellent energizing bath herb. Basil is stimulating to the mind and used for nervousness and exhaustion. See basil, sweet.

    * Essential Oil

  • Argan Oil

    June 11, 2009 By Argania spinosa 0 Comments

    Family Name: Sapotaceae
    Origin: Morocco

    The argania tree, also known as the Moroccan ironwood tree, is a thorny evergreen tree native to southwestern Morocco and grown for its plum-sized fruits. Inside the fruits large seeds containing highly esteemed oil are found. The seeds are pressed to obtain argan oil, an expensive and highly useful cooking oil with a nutty flavor. It is used much like olive oil and has a similar fat content. But cooking is not all that argan oil is good for. It is also great for the skin and hair. Argan oil is very emollient (similar to peanut oil, but without the allergen) and rich in naturally occurring antioxidants such as flavonoids and tocopherols that have anti-inflammatory properties. In fact, it contains 56 mg/Kg of polyphenols, double the amount of tocopherols (620 mg/Kg) than olive oil (320 mg/Kg), and linoleic acid comprises 34% of its total fatty acid content. Its anti-aging and skin restructuring properties coupled with a high vitamin A and vitamin E content make it a wonderful skin and haircare product ingredient.

  • Aloe Vera

    June 11, 2009 By Aloe vera, a. barbadensis 0 Comments

    Family Name: Asphodelaceae
    Origin: Mexico

    Aloe, the most popular botanical ingredient in skincare formulations, is the expressed juice of the plant leaves. Aloe vera contains 99.5% water, and is by nature very hydrating, and cinnamoyl esters. Important properties for skin include: anti-irritant, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, demulcent, healing and softening. For centuries, aloe vera has been used for treating burns, injuries, wounds and skin disorders. It is also used for arthritis, pain relief, to counteract wrinkles, and as a simple hydrating mask.

  • Olive Oil

    June 11, 2009 By Olea europaea 0 Comments

    Family name: Oleaceae
    Origin: Tunisia

    Olive oil is extracted from the fruit of the European olive tree. ‘Virgin’ means the oil was produced by the use of physical means only - no chemical was involved. The term virgin oil referring to production is different from “Virgin Oil” on a retail label. Extra-virgin olive oil comes from the first pressing of the olives, contains no more than 0.8% acidity, and is judged to have a superior taste. There can be no refined oil in extra-virgin olive oil. This emollient plant oil has anti-aging properties and contains saponins. Some tests show that topically applied olive oil can protect against UVB damage. It is a good antioxidant as well as a good moisturizer. In penetrating power it is superior to mineral oils. Many soaps, creams, anti-wrinkle products and massage oils include olive oil as an ingredient. See natural moisturizing factors.

  • Coconut Oil

    June 11, 2009 By Cocos Nucifera 0 Comments

    Family Name: Arecaceae, palm
    Origin: Vietnam, Brazil

    Coconut oil is the non-volatile plant kernel oil of the coconut palm. The coconut has degreasing and cleansing properties and lathers readily, which is why cleansing agents are frequently derived from coconut oil and it is such is a common surfactant. Coconut oil is one of the heaviest and fattest of the plant oils, which makes it more emollient than other plant oils, but also possibly more comedogenic. For this reason, coconut oil is best for cleansers and body creams. See natural moisturizing factors.

  • Ascorbic Acid

    June 11, 2009 0 Comments

    Family Name: Vitamin C
    Origin: China

    Ascorbic acid is a water-soluble organic acid with strong antioxidant and preservative properties for cosmetic and nutritive uses. It is a common form of vitamin C, a nutrient essential for life and used by the human body for many purposes. To the best of scientific knowledge, all animals and plants synthesize their own vitamin C except for humans and a small number of animals. Vitamin C is the skin’s most important water-soluble vitamin; it protects skin from environmental stresses, sun damage and the causes of aging, softens, evens skin pigmentation, exfoliates dead skin cells, protects against capillary damage and heals. Furthermore, it is needed for the production of collagen in the connective tissue. It also possesses well-documented immune stimulating properties and helps improve blood flow to the skin. See tocopherol.

  • Almond Oil

    June 11, 2009 By Prunus amygdalus dulcis 0 Comments

    Family Name: Rosaceae, rose
    Origin: USA

    The almond is the fruit of the almond tree. The oil made from this fruit is quite emollient and gentle for the skin. It can be used daily for most skin types, and is generally safe for baby skin. Sweet almond oil, also called oleum amygdalae, contains 24% linoleic acid, an incredibly high amount of the antioxidant EFA. This makes it one of the most antioxidant oils in use for skin. Sweet almond oil has a long historical use that includes restoring itchy, dry and inflamed skin as well as being a simple emollient. Additionally, it is used by many massage therapists as a lubricant, and is widely used as a carrier for essential oils. Modern manufacturing uses include perfumes, hair creams, nail whiteners, nail polish remover, eye creams, moisturizers and soaps. One of the most popular cuticle oil treatments lists it as their only ingredient. See natural moisturizing factors.