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We are committed to both sourcing and only using ingredients that are 100% natural and 100% free of artificial fragrances and colourants. We use the entire plant; the flower, the buds, the seeds, the stem, the roots, the bark, the leaves and the whole fruit to provide you with nutrient rich vitamins and antioxidants in every one of our goodies. We purchase our ingredients directly from farming communities and/or partnerships with fair trade and organic suppliers throughout the world, helping to maintain economic independence and cultural survival. We support local businesses, and try our best to source from local organic farmers whenever physically possible.
Purchasing directly from Fair Trade and Organic farmers is important to us, because Organic farming has strict standards covering Animal Welfare, Energy Efficiency and Sustainability. They also do not enforce child labour under any circumstances, and of course adhere to strict guidelines relating to the treatment of their soil, including the refusal to use chemical poisons, such as: pesticides and herbicides; that are often used to "help" crops grow. As a result, our sourced ingredients are nurtured in a safe environment that is beneficial to us, the local wildlife and our beloved environment.
Aloe Vera
(Aloe Barbadensis)
Aloe Vera Barbadensis may look like a cactus but actually it's a member of the lily family close cousins to the garlic, onion, and asparagus. Aloe vera is a stemless succulent perennial herb growing from 50 cm for up to 100 cm tall.
It is green or grey-green in color with some classes exhibiting semi-opaque white spots at the base of the leaves. The leaves are very thick because they have a colourless, mucilaginous gel inside
Aloe Vera contains a veritable cornucopia of nutrition including essential amino acids and protein - the basic building blocks of skin and hair.
Our Aloe Vera is produce of the USA.
(Emblica Officinalis)
aka: Nelli, Amalaki, Indian Gooseberry, Amla in Hindi , Amalaka in Sanskrit , Amlaki in Bengali, Nellikkai in Kannada, Amala in the Nepali language
What is it?
Amla is the most common ingredient used in Indian medicine and hair care tonics. Amla fruits are also used in the culinary world for pickling, making jams and juices. Amla fruit is a major food source for the wild animals of India like the barking deer, bear and macaque to name a few. The Amla fruit is highly prized in Ayurvedic medicine for its properties and is harvested in the elevated dry deciduous forest region of India. Each Amla berry is picked by hand, left to dry in the sun, then ground by hand into powder form. Amla's dark tan colour is known to add a supple cool brown colour to fair curly hair.
Botanical Facts:
The Amla tree belongs to a tropical plant family called the Phyllanthus of which there are two varieties:
- Emblica - has an unrestricted distribution worldwide.
- Indofischeri Bennet - has a restricted distribution.
Hair Care Benefits:
Known for its cleansing, conditioning and colour enhancing properties Amla has been used for centuries in Ayurvedic hair care.
It is purported to:
- Strengthen hair from the roots
- Stimulate natural hair growth and reverse abnormal hair loss and/or breakage.
- Impart lustre
- Prevent premature greying.
- Ward off infection and keep dandruff at bay
The native Indian Amla fruit contains the highest natural source of vitamin C, tannic acid, glucose, protein, cellulose and calcium.
Medicinally Amla is beneficial:
- As a diuretic and laxative.
- An aid for the digestive system
- For the treatment of jaundice and coughs
- For the Ayurvedic preparation of Triphala (treatment of dysentery and bilousness)
- For cleansing wounds, cuts and abrasions (Amla seeds are burnt, oil is pressed from the seeds and applied to effected areas) and the leaves can be used as a mouthwash and for the treatment of sore eyes
Reference Sources:
Winston, David; Maimes, Steven (2007). Adaptogens: Herbs for Strength, Stamina, and Stress Relief. Healing Arts Press. ISBN 1594771588. Contains a detailed monograph on Emblica officinalis (Amla; Indian gooseberry; Amalaki) as well as a discussion on health benefits.
We've added fresh ground Amla powder to our bubble action Babassu shampoo bars for its excellent conditioning attributes leaving your naturally curly hair glossy, silky and soft.
Our 100% pure, freshly ground Amla powder is produce of India. Harvested by the Soliga community farmers of Southern India.
Atlas Cedarwood Essential Oil
(Cedrus Atlantica)
This soft, sweet, warm balsamic essential oil is part of the Pine family and is extracted by steam distillation from either recently sun dried twigs, wood chips or saw dust.
There are 4 different botanical names for this essential oil:
1. Cedarwood - Atlas (from Morocco)
2. Cedarwood Himalayan
3. Cedarwood Texas (Juniperus Ashei) and Cedarwood Virginian (Juniperus Virginiana) - the 2 common types of the United States.
4. Cedar from Lebanon.
When added to butters it increases the ability of the skin and/or scalp to retain water.
Cedarwood Essential Oil is also purported to relieve skin inflammation, dandruff, psoriasis and in some cases eczema.
Our Atlas Cedarwood is produce of Morocco.
Banana Powder
(Musa Sapientum)
When applied topically on the skin and/or scalp Bananas are renowned for their natural moisturising properties as well as an abundant amount of Vitamin B6 (in the form of pyridoxine which performs as a coenzyme supporting healthy skin, hair, and normal tissue cell formation). Bananas contain a natural blend of minerals, vitamins, and natural fruit sugars (sucrose, fructose and glucose) that contributes to a healthy diet and provides an excellent energy boost to those who require it.
Our humble friend, the Banana, also contains:
- Tryptophan, a rich amino acid that is extremely beneficial for both hair and skin.
- Potassium, which adds super softening properties.
- Vitamins C, A1, B12, folic acid and natural oils and carbohydrates.
Apart from all the skin softening, energy boosting properties bananas smell yummylicious too!
Our community traded 100% pure Banana Powder is produce of the Republic of Ecuador.
(Cera Flava)
A by product of the honey comb.
Beekeepers cut off the wax caps of the honeycomb cell to collect the beeswax. Beeswax varies in colour from yellowish to brownish depending on the flowering sap gathered by the bees and its associated purity. Our beeswax has been collected from the honeycomb and *not* the brood comb. Brood comb beeswax tends to be darker in colour and may contain impurities. This beautiful Somerset beeswax is the finest that I have ever encountered; it has a very fragrant scent, golden-yellow in colour and is perfectly filtered.
Wax - back in the day:
Egyptian artists used beeswax in their paintings by heating the beeswax on an iron plate to keep it liquid. Then they mixed powdered pigments with the liquid beeswax and applied it to canvas. The finished painting melted in the sun's heat and was "burned in" or blended, hence the word encaustic. Romans used beeswax to waterproof walls, beeswax is also used to make mouthpieces for the didgeridoo and by the ancient Egyptian shipbuilders.
Nowadays, beeswax is used as an emulsifier in hair and skin care, for household items and to retain the integrity of the finest woods.
Our beeswax has been organically certified by the Soil Association of the UK and is purchased directly from beekeepers in Zambia.
(Sodium Bentonite)
Quarry mined from untreated, naturally occurring deposits.
Creamy grey in colour with a very fine, velvety texture.
Odourless & Stainless.
Bentonite contains over 70 natural occurring trace minerals like:
Silica- 61.4% (required for strong healthy hair growth and skin tissue regeneration)
Aluminum- 18.1%
Iron- 3.5%
Sodium- 2.3%
Magnesium- 1.7%
Calcium- 0.04%
Titanium- 0.02%
Potassium- 0.01%
Moisture- 7.8%
pH - 8.3 - 9.1
Bentonite has a high percentage of naturally occurring Silica & Iron than most other naturally occuring clays.
Silica & Iron deficiency may lead to:
• Skin becoming loose and dehydrated
• Lack lustre hair
• Poor bone development
• Brittle nails
Effective & powerful when taken:
• Externally as a poultice, naturally curly Afro hair mask, face and body mud pack, sprinkled in the bath, and/or to reduce swelling.
• Internally as a supplement for those with mineral deficiencies.
What's in it for you?
Bentonite is packed full of minerals like Silica, Calcium, Potassium, Iron, Sodium and Magnesium.It can be used in the same way as Tuscan Green Clay.
Once combined with water, bentonite has an enormous surface area that stretches open like a highly porous sponge. The toxins are drawn into these spaces and then eliminated.
How does it do that?
"Clay has a negative electrical attraction for particles that are positively charged. Most of the toxic poisons are positively charged.
These toxins are irresistibly drawn towards the clay. The very minuteness of the particles of Bentonite gives a large surface area in proportion to the volume used, thus enabling it to pick up many times its weight in positively charged particles."
Reference: Robert T. Martin, Ph.D.Mineralogist at Massachusetts's Institute of Technology - an authority on Bentonite.
"Bentonite can absorb pathogenic viruses, aflatoxin (a mold), and pesticides and herbicides including Paraquat and Roundup. The clay is eventually eliminated from the body with the toxins bound to its multiple surfaces."
Reference: The Canadian Journal of Microbiology (31 [1985], 50-53)
Additional Sources:
Clays and Clay Minerals and The Canadian GeoTechnical Journal "Prediction for swelling characteristics of compacted bentonite" - Hideo Komine, Nobuhide Ogata
Bentonite deposits can be found all over the globe but the largest concentrations are located in the Great Plains area of North America & the mountains of Italy. Bentonite is derived from the deposits of weathered volcanic ash.
Black Pepper Essential Oil
(Piper Nigrum)
Black Pepper Essential Oil has a warm, spicy fresh scent with a slight fiery undertone and is traditionally used:
- In the food and alcohol industries.
- For medicinal purposes.
- As an aphrodisiac.
- To relieve muscular aches and pains.
- To aid circulation
- As a stimulant
Black Pepper Essential Oil has also been used in Chinese medicine for over 4000 years but it doesn't stop there.
The natural antiseptic properties of Black Pepper have been utilized extensively in Greece "for intermittent fever and to fortify the stomach. The mendicant monks of India who cover daily considerable distances on foot swallow 7-9 grains of pepper a day. This gives them remarkable endurance." We use the EU recommended amount of Black Pepper essential oil in our goodies because of its antiseptic properties, ability to retain moisture and restore suppleness to naturally curly hair. While it's stimulating and toning attributes are purported to soothe irritated skin.
Reference Sources:
- p.153 "The Encyclopedia of Essential Oils" Julia Lawless - 1992
- "Marguerite Maury's Guide to Aromatherapy" - 1989
Our Black Pepper essential oil is produce of India and steam distilled from black coloured pepper corns.
Blueberry Seed Oil
(Vaccinium Corymbosum)
aka: Northern Highbush Blueberry
Blueberry Seed Oil, is naturally cold pressed from wholesome Blueberry seeds with a slight blueberry aroma. It's rich, yet light oil that rejuvenates parched, dull, tired skin and naturally curly hair. Blueberry Seed Oil is an effective treatment for eczema, psoriasis and dry irritated scalp conditions.
Blueberry seed oil also contains two phytochemicals:
i) Anthocyanosides - strengthens collagen tissues.
Collagen is found naturally in the dermis (second layer of the skin), it's responsible for the resilience and elasticity of the skin and scalp tissues.
ii) Flavonoids - "have anti-oxidant activity. Flavonoids are becoming very popular because they have many health promoting effects. Some of the activities attributed to flavonoids include: anti-allergic, anti-cancer, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-viral."
So, forget those expensive collagen injections and Botox, save your moolla and treat yourself to our goodies that contain fresh Blueberry seed oil.
Nourishment and nutrients for your skin and hair
Blueberry seed oil is rich in:
Essential Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids (EFAs), Alpha linolenic acid, Tocopherols, Carotenoids, Vitamin C - required for the formation of collagen and capillaries.
Nutrients for natural hair and skin:
vitamin A IU, vitamin A RE, A - carotenoid, A - retinol, A - beta carotene, thiamin - B, riboflavin - B2, niacin - B3, niacin equivalent, vitamin B6, vitamin B12, biotin, vitamin C, vitamin D IU, vitamin D mcg, vitamin E alpha equivalent, vitamin E IU, vitamin E mg, folate, vitamin K and pantothenic acid.
Blueberry seed oil also aids in the absorption of iron and naturally occurring anti-oxidants.
|Saturated Fats
|Mono Fats
|Poly Fats
|Other Fats
|Amino Acids
|16:0 palmitic 0.02 g
18:0 stearic 0.02 g
|18:1 oleic
|18:2 linoleic
|omega 3 fatty acids
omega 6 fatty acids
The World's Healtiest Foods
There is a whole plethora of Blueberry species:
* Vaccinium koreanum
* Vaccinium myrsinites (Evergreen Blueberry)
* Vaccinium angustifolium (Lowbush Blueberry)
* Vaccinium boreale (Northern Blueberry)
* Vaccinium caesariense (New Jersey Blueberry)
* Vaccinium corymbosum (Northern Highbush Blueberry)
* Vaccinium darrowii (Southern Highbush Blueberry)
* Vaccinium elliottii (Elliott Blueberry)
* Vaccinium formosum (southern blueberry)
* Vaccinium fuscatum (Black Highbush Blueberry; syn. V. atrococcum)
* Vaccinium hirsutum (Hairy-fruited Blueberry)
* Vaccinium myrtilloides (Canadian Blueberry)
* Vaccinium pallidum (Dryland Blueberry)
* Vaccinium simulatum (Upland Highbush Blueberry)
* Vaccinium tenellum (Southern Blueberry)
* Vaccinium virgatum (Rabbiteye Blueberry; syn. V. ashei)
References Sources:
- Inhibitory effects of blueberry extract on the production of inflammatory mediators in lipopolysaccharide-activated BV2 microglia. Lau FC, Bielinski DF, Joseph JA
- Anthocyanins, phenolics, and antioxidant capacity in diverse small fruits: vaccinium, rubus, and ribes. Moyer RA, Hummer KE, Finn CE, Frei B, Wrolstad RE
Our fresh Blueberry Seed Oil is produce of the United States of America.
(Behentrimonium Methosulfate (and) Cetearyl Alcohol)
A natural and mild detangling ingredient derived from Rape Seed (Canola) oil.
Our BTMS is produce of the United States of America
Cacao/Cocoa Butter/Cocoa Solids/Cocoa Powder
(Theobroma Cacao)
From Bean to Butter:
Once the Cacao Pod is ripe the beans are extracted, sun dried, the husk separated from the nib and ground into Cocoa liquor.
The Cocoa liquor contains approx. 53% Cocoa Butter and 47% Cocoa Solids. Cocoa liquor is compressed to obtain Cocoa butter and/or Cocoa solids. (Note: Cocoa liquor contains NO alcohol).
Our Unrefined Black Cocoa Butter is created straight after the cocoa pod has germinated. The beans within the pod are roasted and the roots and shoots carbonized to create the dark colour. Black Cocoa Butter is not really black, but more a dark, rich chocolate brown. It's non greasy with a decadent chocolate scent which is velvety smooth - it literally sinks right into your skin and hair.
To make Cocoa powder, part of the Cocoa Butter needs to be removed from the Cocoa Liquor. Cocoa in its purest form contains an antioxidant called epicatechin - a major monomeric polyphenols which helps to guard skin cells from free radical damage. The Cocoa used in our Goodies provides moisture and nourishment to your whole body. Cocoa also contains a certain amount of natural caffeine that provides a stimulating effect.
We use a variety of Cocoa in our Goodies:
Certified Organic and Fair Trade Green and Blacks 100% Pure Cocoa Powder (From the Trinitario and Criollo Cocoa Beans of Hispaniola). Fair Trade Unrefined Cocoa Butter from the Indigenous farmers/producers of the Brazilian Amazon. Fair Trade Organic Unrefined Cocoa Butter and Black Cocoa Butter from farming communities in Ghana.
Fair trade means that the co-operatives and suppliers making our ingredients are paid at a fair rate and are provided with a pension plan, vacation, sick pay, family leave and overtime.
Camellia Kissi Oil or Camellia Kissii Oil
(Camellia Kissi)
Camellia Kissi Oil is a clear, viscose, light, non greasy anti-oxidant used for centuries by the Japanese to improve the overall texture of nails, hair, scalp and combination skin.
The oil is cold pressed from the seeds of the Camellia Kissi plant, using traditional Japanese methods of extraction. It's easily absorbed, has no detectable odour and gently protects without causing build up. Rich source of plant collagen that helps to prevent keloids and/or unsightly scar tissue - great for stretch marks.
This oil has traditionally been used in Japan for everything from sculpting the hair of the Geisha to cooking tempura.
The Japanese massage Camellia Kissi oil into the scalp and distribute it throughout the hair from root to tip; to lock in moisture and prevent dryness.
" "Oshima anko" (women of Oshima) were famous for their long black hair which they bound as "Inbonjiri-maki". They carry water buckets on top of their heads twice per day - in the morning and in the evening. The "Mizu-kumi Anko" (The water dipping women of Oshima) are also a famous tourist attraction. Artist: Masao Maeda 1904-1974"
Nihon Minzoku Zufu - Pictures of Japanese Native Customs
Camellia Kissi oil is rich in Oleic Acid (Omega 9) and as such is a very stable oil that resists rancidity. This emollient of unsaturated fatty acids is important to the formation and maintenance of the skin's lipid barrier. It's the primary oil that we, as humans, produce in our skin glands which is very similar to the natural oil or sebum that is produced in the sebaceous glands. Oleic acids are the most abundant fatty acids found in nature.
Camellia Kissi contains over 85% Oleic acid, even more than that of Extra Virgin Olive Oil (which contains approximately 77%).
The Department of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Chemistry at the University of California in San Francisco, USA published a document titled "Mechanism of oleic acid-induced skin penetration enhancement in vivo in humans" which stated "OA (Oleic Acid) was found to exist in a liquid phase at all levels of the SC (Stratum Corneum) spectroscopically examined."
Our Camellia Kissi Oil is produce of Oshima, Japan.
Do not confuse Camellia Kissi with other Camellia Oils as there are over 100 different species of Camellia with varying properties for example:
Camellia sinensis Oil aka: Green Tea Oil
Camellia sasanqua aka: Christmas Camellia
Camellia rusticana aka: Snow Camellia
Camellia lutchuensis
Camellia miyagii
Camellia nitidissima
Camellia nokoensis
Camellia oleifera
Camellia parviflora
Camellia pitardii
Camellia polyodonta
Camellia reticulata
Camellia rosiflora
Camellia salicifolia
Camellia saluenensis
Camellia semiserrata
Camellia taliensis
Camellia transnokoensis
Camellia tsaii
Candelilla Wax
(Euphorbia Antisyphillitica/Euphorbia Cerifera)
Comes from the stems of a small evergreen shrub. The cylindrical stems of the Candelilla produce a waxy coating that locks in moisture, which enables the shrub to adapt to the hot arid desert environment.
The method used to extract the wax does not involve any synthetic chemicals or heavy machinery just hot water. The wax is obtained by boiling the stems in water, this allows the wax to lift from the stems and float to the top it is then scooped out and air-dried until it becomes hard.
Candelilla wax is used primarily in the manufacture of chewing gum, rock candy, cosmetics, ointments, furniture polish, lubricants, Cold Process soap making and candle making. It was also used to make vinyl LPs, home insulation and coating for paper. Candelilla Wax is made up of about 29% Esters, 9% Free Acids, 51% Hydrocarbons with the rest made up of plant alcohols and cholesterols. We use Candelilla Wax in our Lippy Puckers because it acts as a sunscreen, prevents moisture loss, smoothes and conditions dry skin.
Our Candelilla Wax is produce of Mexico.
Carnauba Wax
(Copernicia Cerifera)
What is it?
Carnauba Wax, also known as Brazil or Palm Wax, is a wax made from the leaves of Copernicia Prunifera. This palm is native to the northeastern Brazilian states of Piauí, Ceará, and Rio Grande do Norte.
Botanical Facts
Known as the "tree of life", the Carnauba Tree is indigenous to northeast Brazil.
This fan palm can grow to a height of over 45 feet if left to grow unhindered for 50 years.
The Carnauba Tree features a dense, large crown of round, light green leaves.
The tree only produces wax in Northern Brazil. Trees cultivated in other areas do not produce wax.
Carnauba Wax is still used in a variety of ways:
- Polish for candy and medicinal pills
- Thickening solvents and oils
- Hardening printing inks
Medicinally beneficial for:
- Allowing skin to breathe
Carnauba Wax is known as the "queen of waxes". Although most commonly found as hard yellow-brown flakes, the wax can also be green or white. This wax is the hardest commercial vegetable wax available, and is characterized by its tough, amorphous luster. Carnauba Wax is acquired from beating the dried leaves of the Carnauba Palm and collecting the loosened wax.
Applied directly to both skin and hair, Carnauba Wax provides a rich, protective barrier that locks moisture in, whilst still allowing your skin to breathe.
Our carnauba wax is wild harvested from Brazil and expertly crafted with our world class micas creating a concealer formula that is not only effortless to apply, but super long lasting, and 100% sustainable. Beauty innovations like these help bring together the gifts of the rain forest.
Chamomile Powder
(Matricaria Recutita)
A little history for you:
Our Egyptian Chamomile contains an exceptionally high content of essential oils. It was used by ancient Egyptians, Romans and Greeks to cure a number of ailments.
Benefits: A great anti-inflammatory perfect for hypersensitive skin, broken veins & puffiness.Strengthens skin & scalp tissue. Reduces swelling & pain of the skin & mucous membranes. (excellent for eczema, skin rashes, acne, excessive acne, rosacea & allergic reactions). Brightens highlights in hair when used in a shampoo or as an herbal hair rinse. Contains traces of the essential oil called azulene (an analgesic & detoxifier).
Chamomile is a clinically proven anti-allergenic herb that gives off an abundant amount of mucilage, which softens and soothes everything it touches.
Our Chamomile Powder is produce of Egypt.
What Is It
Chlorella is a single-celled algae that thrives in fresh water. It has been around for more than 2 billion years and has been known to be the very first form of a plant exhibiting a well-defined nucleus. Its name was derived from the Greek words "chloros" which means green and "ella" which means small. This spherical-shaped algae holds green photosynthetic pigments chlorophyll-a and -b in parts of its cell called chloroplast and is 2 to 10 μm in width. Chlorella has the highest concentration of chlorophyll of any plant known to date.
Through a process called photosynthesis and the presence of water, carbon dioxide, minerals and sunlight, chlorella reproduces at an incredible rate. It's a natural food and energy source that is rich in protein and other key nutrients.
Chlorella Growth Factor
The Chlorella Growth Factor or CGF is a major part of chlorella taken from its nuclei that stimulates growth. It is composed of a nucleotide-peptide complex of substances like amino acids, peptides, polysaccharides, nucleic acids, and beta glucans that provides an extra boost and replenishes the body - from head to toe. According to research, CGF is created during the most intense photosynthesis activity in chlorella that allows it to multiply quickly. CGF can only be found in chlorella.
Skin care and Hair care Benefits:
ANTI-AGEING - CGF forms key components of nucleic acids (RNA and DNA) also known as the blueprints of life responsible for cellular renewal. The nucleic acid levels decreases and significantly drops upon reaching your early twenties which can lead to inevitable skin aging. It is therefore important to have RNA and DNA supplementation that can be best achieved through CGF based products. CGF promotes rejuvenation and regeneration of the cells in the body improving overall health.
COLLAGEN – Collagen is a protein synthesized by the body that supports and keeps connective tissues together. The body produces low levels of collagen as it gets older which causes decreased joint mobility and the appearance of fine lines. According to clinical studies, expression levels of activity in collagen with the help of CGF increased by 333% when consumed at a concentration of 1%. It has also been found that CGF also protects collagen and elastic fibres from damaging enzymes.
SKIN / SCALP TISSUE REGENERATION – Clinical tests show that chlorella is an excellent firming active ingredient in terms of dermal and epidermal structure and on the epidermal-dermal junction. Any skin care or hair care product that shows 1% dermochlorella (Chlorella Vulgaris Extract) in its ingredient list can assist in improving the firmness and tone of the skin and scalp.
Source: Pierre-Yves Morvan and RomualdVallee, "Effects of Chlorella extract on skin", Personal Care Magazine, November 2007
Coffee Essential Oil
(Coffea Arabica)
When brewed, coffee has the same 4.5 pH balance as our skin, but it doesn't stop there. Coffee Oil also has antioxidant and anti mutagenic properties that reduce skin allergies and calms the scalp. It's a known stimulatant that doubles as a UV filter and helps to retain moisture.
Coffee is derived from Caffa which is a province of Abyssinia (Ethiopia). It was introduced to Arabia in the 15th century and supplied the world's coffee for over two hundred years. It wasn't until the 17th century when the Dutch introduced the humble coffee plant to Batavia. Then in 1714 it was presented to Louis XIV of France. Coffee then found it's way around the world and back again.
The most aromatic coffee beans can be found in countries like:
- Columbia
- Cuba
- Brazil
- Africa
The INCI (International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredient) of Coffee is Coffea Arabica which refers back its roots - Arabia.
Our Coffee Oil is a Fair Trade produce of Brazil.
Fair trade means that the co-operatives and suppliers making our products are paid at a fair rate and are provided with a pension plan, vacation, sick pay, family leave and overtime.
Cucumber Seed Oil
(Cucumis Sativa or Khira)
The refreshingly cool, crisp and clean effects of the aromatic Cucumber Seed Oil is a wonderful addition to our yummylicious hand made hair and skin care goodies.
Cucumber Seed oil is packed full of:
i) Ascorbic acid (Vitamin C)
ii) Caffeic acid (a powerful antioxidant, phenolic phytochemical and carcinogenic inhibitor)
Oxford Journals
Cucumber seed oil helps to prevent water retention which in turn reduces swelling under the eyes, inflamed sunburned skin and dermatitis.
The oil of the cucumber seed is an excellent natural source of silica, needed to improve the health and complexion of skin and is purported to strengthen and promote new hair growth. This is due to its naturally high silicon and sulphur content. Silica is a major building block of hair that provides elasticity whilst reducing hair loss and hair breakage.
Scrummy topical benefits of Cucumber:
- Great source of silica required to maintain and improve the complexion and health of skin cell tissues.
- Known for its anti inflammatory, soothing and healing properties.
- Helps to prevent pimples, blackheads and dry skin.
- An excellent skin and hair tonic.
- Brightens dull complexions, to give you glowing skin.
- Purported to remove dark circles from around the eye area.
- Improves dullness of the skin and minimizes the appearance of blotches and age spots.
Nutrients - Cucumbers also contain:
Brief history:
Cucumbers are available in a variety of colours (from light to dark green), shapes and sizes. The humble Cucumber is believed to originate from Northern India. However, it was held in high regard to the ancient Egyptians, Romans and Greeks who used this prized food for trade. Cucumber is now cultivated in most tropical areas around the world including but not limited to India, China, Africa, Central and South America, South East Asia and the Caribbean.
Our 100% pure Cucumber Seed Oil is steam distilled from the seeds of the Cucumber. Our Cucumber Peel Powder (10:1) is taken from the dark green flesh of ripe cucumbers, then air dried and hand ground into a fine powder.
Golden Jojoba Oil
(Simmondsia Chinensis)
Jojoba is a multi-stemmed evergreen woody shrub that produces male and female flowers on separate plants. The fruit of the female is green with elongated acorn shaped seeds that turn brown and produce the golden liquid wax. Jojoba seeds contain up to 55% oil composed of esters of mono-unsaturated fatty acids and long chain mono-unsaturated alcohols but it's not a fat or oil.
It's an odourless, colourless and very stable light moisturiser that resembles human sebum secretion and discourages blemishes.
Golden Jojoba is an ideal lubricant for skin and hair. We use Organic Golden Jojoba in our Lippy Puckers and other Goodies.
Our Golden Jojoba Oil is produce of Argentina.
Honey is one of the most naturally hydrating, acid balanced skin and hair food. It's composed of a variety of sugars or glucose (also known as dextrose), lactic acid, beta carotene and trace levels of amino acids, potassium, sodium, calcium, magnesium, iron, copper, sulphur, vitamins and enzymes.
The nutrients contained within honey are dependent on the nectar that the bees collect.
Honey's humectant properties nourish and moisturises everything it touches. In Thailand honey is used on open wounds to soften the scar tissue and encourage new skin growth. This may be due to the fact that there is a high concentration of sugars in honey that prevents the growth of bacteria on open wounds but it has never been scientifically proven.
Self preserving
The low pH of honey prevents the existence and growth of micro organisms making honey a self preserving natural ingredient.
Honey concerns
i) Honey should not be used on infants under the age of 12 months for fear of infant botulism.
Clostridium bacteria may be one of the causes of infant botulism. This bacteria is said to be found in certain types of foods like honey. Infant botulism may occur in children from the age of six months or under.
ii) If you're allergic to pollen then you may be allergic to honey - a patch test is always recommended.
Well I'll Bee!
All honey bees belong to the Apis gene regardless of whether the bee is from Sunny Africa or Bonny Scotland. Some bees have access to particular areas of fields where only one kind of flower grows.
For example:
- Clover
- Goldenrod
- Heather
- Basswood
- Chamomile
- Lavender
It is the flowering plant (nectar or plant sap) that gives honey its distinct flavour, colour, extra nourishment and/or individual beneficial properties.
Bees can also create their own blends of honey from various flowering plants in any one particular field.
Bees add a lot of moisture and enzyme compounds to nectar, the sugars of the honey nectar are broken down to form simple sugars - some of which are converted into a naturally occurring acid called glyconic acid (hydroxyacetic acid). This is what gives each particular type of honey its rich distinctiveness and flavour from mild to bland to full on powerful to sickly pungent.
(Note: There are synthetically made gluconic acids available too, so read the label and ask questions if you're unsure).
The colour of the honeys can range from deep black to beige or white. Each of the colours are created in the nectar of the plant, it is then transported back by the bee to the hive, then the bees do their natural stuff by reducing the moisture level. When the honey is darker it means that it has come from a nectar source where the flowering plant produces a darker plant sap.
Types of honey we use:
Runny (liquid extracted) honey
This is when the liquid has been hand squeezed or mechanically extracted out of the entire honeycomb. Then it's strained through a cloth to remove any particles, the actual comb is melted down and sold as beeswax because the comb can not be re-used by the bees once it has been squeezed.
Our Fair Trade runny Honey is Produce of Chile. Fair trade means that the co-operatives and suppliers making our products are paid at a fair rate and are provided with a pension plan, vacation, sick pay, family leave and overtime.
We use this in our Rhassoul Deep Condishes.
The main floral sources of the Chilean Honey we use in our Goodies are native to the Chilean Ulmo Blossom (Eucryphia Cordifolia), together with wildflowers such as Echium, Rosa, Lotus and Quilaya (Quillay). The Ulmo can be identified by its delightfully fragrant backnote, reminiscent of Violets.
Comb honey also called Chunky honey
One particular beekeeper used this method to get combed honey.
She would cut out pieces of the honeycomb, place the pieces in a glass container, then remove the white caps from each cell of the other honeycomb pieces and pour the liquid honey around the honeycomb in the glass container. This would allow the beekeeper to reuse the honey comb so that the bees can fill it up with more honey. This way the same comb is used over and over again.
Cut-comb honey
Sometimes with Acacia honey you will see that the beekeeper has left the cut honey comb in the honey jar - great marketing/selling effect because you can use the comb later for teas, lotion and potion infusions or melt it down and make your own beeswax from it.
Granulated (creamy to white in colour and firm) honey
Basically honey where sugar crystals have formed under a controlled process and then hand blended or churned to a creamy texture. The Organic Clover Creamed Honey that we use in our Lippy Pucker Original comes from the perfumed clover of Actearoa in New Zealand and has been certified Organic by the Soil Association of the United Kingdom.
Each of the hives are managed to organic standards - free from harmful chemical residue. It has a deliciously mild, buttery flavour and smooth texture perfect for our yummy Lippys.
Hydrogenated Vegetable Oil
(Glycine Soja)
This vegan ingredient is created by a chemical process called hydrogenation. A number of hydrogen atoms are added to the Soya Bean Oil this changes its chemical make-up from unsaturated to saturated (or liquid to solid). Soya bean oil is a great source of linoleic acid, protein, minerals, vitamins (A, K and E) and lecithin. We use this ingredient in our Creamy Café Latte.
Our Hydrogenated Vegetable Oil is a produce of the United States of America
Iron Oxide
Universally known as Hematite or rust, iron oxide is a naturally occurring mineral compound. Which is in fact, an oxidised iron, composed of iron and oxygen.
The utilisation of iron oxides can be traced back to ancient times where it was used in festivities and religious ceremonies as tattoo inks for face and body. This mineral provides a variety of colours and hues which can be used to add pigments to paints, concretes and beauty products. This inorganic compound has been created from purified, oxidised iron.
Iron oxides are used in cosmetic applications to provide desirable pigmentation in beauty products. Iron oxides impart colouring agents to mineral makeup and are classified into three major colour groups: the yellow iron oxide (yellow), colcothar (red), black iron oxide (black).
Unlike synthetic dyes, iron oxides are moisture resistant which means the colours it creates do not bleed or disappear. The compounds of iron oxides allow the mineral makeup to glide on the skin which allows effortless blending and buffing.
Jasmine Absolute(Jasminum Sambac)
Jasmine belongs to the same family as the humble olive, the Oleaceae plant species. Jasmine is a climbing shrub grown all over the world. The fragrant white flowers are picked at night as the darkness protects the powerful aroma. The process known as effleurage is then used to extract the precious oil, known as Jasmine absolute.
Jasmine absolute is considered to be one the most precious oils and is extremely expensive because of the abundant amount of flowers required to produce a small quantity of the dark orangey-brown, viscous liquid. Jasmine absolute has a voluptuous; intensely rich, deep, floral aroma and its flowers buds are useful for the treatment of ulcers, boils, skin and eye disorders.
Known for its aphrodisiac properties Jasmine is also purported to facilitate birth and "warm the womb". Jasmine is recognised for its anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, sedative and antispasmodic properties.
Moms to be - Please Note:
Jasmine is also purported to facilitate birth and "warm the womb".
"Not for use by nursing Mothers as the smell of jasmine inhibits lactation."
Environmental Health Perspectives (ehp)"Olfaction: Anatomy, Physiology and Behavior"
by Vernon A. Benignus and James D. Prah
"bandaging the breasts with jasmine flowers to suppress lactation is a common practice among women in Kerala"
"Inhibiting effect of jasmine flowers on lactation"Indian Journal of Medical ResearchAbraham, M., Devi, N. S., Sheela, R.Dept. of Anatomy, Med. Coll., Trivandrum, India.
Our ethically harvested Jasmine Absolute is produce of Northern India
Lemon Essential Oil
(Citrus Limonum)
This refreshingly fruity essential oil is purported to carry nutrients to the hair follicles whilst controlling the natural pH of our hair and scalp. Lemon Essential Oil also stimulates the scalp and is packed full of vitamin C. It can also be used as an antimicrobial, astringent and bactericide. Lemon Essential Oil can also act as a depurative and lymphatic stimulant, getting rid of excess fluids and toxins, when used as a cellulite treatment.
Our Lemon Essential Oil is a produce of southern Italy. .
Macadamia Nut Oil
(Macadami Integrifolia)
This highly prized oil has been pressed from Macadamia Nut kernel of the tree that bears its name. It's a very stable emolient that gives coily - curly hair great sheen and softness.
Macadamia nut oil has high levels of natural antioxidants (vitamins C and E), magnesium, thiamin, omega-3-6-9 and a component of our sebum Palmitoleic Acid - said to be the key ingredient in anti-ageing creams.
Aborigines call the Macadamia Nut "Kindal Kindal" and would chill out by the east coast of Australia enjoying these yummy nuts - oh yeah!
Our Macadamia Nut Oil is produce of New South Wales, Australia.
May Chang Essential Oil
(Litsea Cubeba)
When I first set my nostrils over this fruity essential oil it reminded me of fragrances that are used in some really rather expensive parfums - I haven't yet found anything that quite matches it's unique aroma. In South East China Litsea is used to flavour tea, it is also known for it's antiviral and cell regenerative properties, this citrusy essential oil has been used in Chinese traditional medicine for hundreds of years.
May Chang is also used as an astringent to tone, cleanse and help clear acne prone skin. It has antiviral properties that help ward off viral conditions and ease the symptoms of colds and flu.
Our May Chang is produce of China.
Mica is the most common ingredient found in mineral makeup.
Its name has been derived from the Latin word "micare" which means a crumb that glitters. They are mined from igneous and metamorphic rocks and are used for various applications in the electrical, automotive, construction and industrial industry since the 19th century.
One of Mica's distinguished features is its shimmering and pearlescent appearance that remains constant even when it's being grounded into finely milled powder. It has monoclinic properties, similar to most crystals, which can reflect light off its surface which is why it also became appealing to the cosmetics industry.
Crushed and pulverised mica exhibits a very natural sheen when added to foundations, lipsticks, eyeliner, blushers, nail polish and in many different kinds of makeup products.
Powdered mica's aesthetic contribution to mineral makeup is its light-reflective quality that gives a "lit-from-within" glow that looks very natural. It is an ingredient that adds a velvety and silky feel to mineral makeup which gives a gliding effect when applied on the skin.
Mica also provides skin care benefits as it evens out the complexion and buffs away redness and pigmentation from the skin with continuous use.
Monoi de Tahiti®
(Cocos Nucifera oil and Gardenia Tahitensis)
Monoï de Tahiti is protected worldwide by an Appellation d'Origine (guarantee of Origin) designation (French decree no. 92-340)
Fabulous natural floral oil from French Polynesia.
The 2000 year old technique, called enfleurage, is the art of extracting fresh floral buds and gently macerating them in coconut oil.
The Gardenia Taitensis (Tiare) flower comes from the Rubiacea plant species.
The Tiare Tahiti blooms all year round with its snow-white petals that contrast against its glossy, dark green, smooth leaves. The Gardenia releases a unique aroma into the Coconut Oil sort of a mixture of gardenia, tuberose and a hint of apple flowers.
Monoi de Tahiti is a mixture of:
Natural chemical composition:
Tiare essential oil is rich in active ingredients, partly explaining the flower's many uses. GC/MS (gas chromatography and mass spectrophotometry) analyses have confirmed the presence of the active molecules in Monoi de Tahiti, thereby confirming the quality of the gentle extraction process.
These compounds include:
• Methyl salicylate known for its soothing properties.
• And purifying compounds, including :
- Natural Alcohols (like hexanol and phenylethyl alcohol)
- Natural Esters (ethyl benzoate and methyl salicylate, for example).
Traditional applications:
The Tiare flower is the emblem of Tahiti. It is also one of the main ingredients in French Polynesia's traditional pharmacopoeia. It is believed to effectively relieve migraine and earache, heal wounds, and even cure certain types of eczema.
"Monoi de Tahiti is the product obtained by macerating Tiare blossoms in refined coconut oil. This oil is to be extracted from mature coconuts gathered from Cocos Nucifera trees growing in the coral soil in the geographic area of French Polynesia exclusively. Only "Tiare" flower buds from the Gardenia Tahitensis species and of Polynesian origin are acceptable..."
Institut du Monoï / The Monoi Institute
Tahiti, French Polynesia
Our Monoi de Tahiti is manufactured under strict controls and has been issued with a certificate of origin by the Monoi de Tahiti Appellation D'origine. This is why only "Tiare" flower buds from the Gardenia Tahitensis species and Coconut Oil obtained from the coconuts grown exclusively on the coral soil of French Polynesia are acceptable for use in Monoi de Tahiti® Tiare.
Monoi may solidify at temperatures below 72°F (22°C).
Non-Destructive Palm Oil
(Elaeis Guineensis)
A wonderfully light and non-greasy ingredient with the consistency of Unrefined Shea Butter is extracted from wild-growing Palm trees.
Palm oil is isolated from the pulp whereas Palm Kernel oil is taken from the kernel. Both have different fatty acid properties. Palm oil is 51% saturated, 39% mono unsaturated and 10% polyunsaturated whereas Palm Kernel oil is 84% saturated, 14% unsaturated and 2% polyunsaturated. However, both contain high amounts of glycerides which is a natural conditioner that imparts incredible softness to skin and hair.
We feel very strongly about the plight of the orangutan.
Our Palm Oil supplies are sourced from plantations that:
• Use already-degraded land for palm oil production.
• Ensures that absolutely no high conservation value forests are cleared for oil-palm cultivation.
• Respects the traditional land rights of local communities.
• Does not use fire to clear areas.
• Ensures that corridors remain to connect existing forests allowing free movement of populations of animal
• Does not offer bonuses to kill orangutans.
Our supplier is one of the founder members of the RSPO and is highly responsible when sourcing Palm Oil from a non-destructive source.
At present the RSPO are working towards an internationally accepted set of criteria to assist Palm oil plantations and their associated farming communities.
Organic Andiroba Oil
(Carapa Guianensis)
This rich, light creamy oil takes it's name from Nheengatu nhandi rob, meaning "bitter oil".
Andiroba trees are part of the Mahogany family found in tropical Brazil, Guyana and Colombia.
Each Andiroba tree produces small semi-circular seeds that have similar properties to that of Neem oil but without the characteristic un-friendly scent.
How it's made:
To extract the oil from the seeds they first have to be boiled and left to ferment for approximately 25 days. The pulp is separated and shaped into a round spherical object then placed on a sloping surface in the sun (or shade) for a few weeks to allow the oil to naturally seep out. Pure Andiroba oil will congeal, like butter, in cooler climates. Simply place the sealed bottle in a bowl of warm water to liquefy. Andiroba oil contains a group of natural alpha-hydroxy acids that increases collagen and gives effective relief for certain skin ailments like psoriasis.
It's a great source of fatty acids such as:
- Linoleic, a polyunsaturated essential fatty acid required for the development of healthy skin and cell membranes, reducing puffiness and swelling. Its EFA (vitamin F) content helps to hydrate dry, parched skin.
- Palmitoleic, an unsaturated fatty acid that contains high amounts of glycerides (a natural conditioner that imparts incredible softness to skin and hair).
Due to the presence of a phytochemical called Limonoid, Andiroba oil is also been considered an anti-inflammatory.
"Currently limonoids are under investigation for a wide variety of therapeutic effects such as antiviral, antifungal, antibacterial, antineoplastic and antimalarial."
Organic Andiroba Oil will solidify into a creamy texture at temperatures below 72°F (22°C) - as per the image above.
Our Fairly Traded Organic Andiroba oil is purchased directly from the Indigenous farming communities throughout the Amazon River basin area of Brazil.
Fair trade means that the co-operatives and suppliers making our products are paid at a fair rate and are provided with a pension plan, vacation, sick pay, family leave and overtime.
Organic Virgin Argan Oil
(Argania Spinosa)
Organic Virgin Argan Oil, also known as pure unadulterated Moroccan Oil, is a centuries-old product mainly used in food, although can also be used as a skin and hair treatment. Argan Oil is made from the fruit Argania Spinosa, of the Argan Tree. Local Berber women collect these fruits directly from the tree.
The fruit is opened to obtain the kernels, which are then ground and pressed to gather the oil for use in cosmetics and cooking.
Ideal for use as an after shower, or bath, body oil to lock in moisture.
Just one pump of our organic virgin argan oil on the ends of hair saves strands from daily styling.
Whilst adding a non-greasy sheen and prolonging the time between trims by at least a couple of months.
Certified Organic Virgin (Raw) Argan Oil. Full traceability together with detailed MSDS & Certificate of Analysis available upon request.
Our Fairly Traded and Certified Organic Virgin Argan Oil is produce of the Berber Womens Co-operative of Morocco.
Each co-operative is sponsored by the Social Development Agency (SDA) with the support of the European Union and the UCFA (Union des Cooperatives des Femmes de l'Arganeraie) With the support of the Moroccan Fondation Mohamed VI pour la Recherche et la Sauvegarde de l'Arganier (Mohammed VI Foundation for Research and Protection of the Argan Tree) and UNESCO.
Note: Due to the popularity of this precious oil the Argan tree is currently classed as endangered and is under the protection of UNESCO to ensure adequate supply meets demand.
Organic Babassu Oil or Babacu Oil
(Orbignya Phalerata)
Comes from the fruits that grow in clusters and hang from the tall Brazilian feather-leaf Babassu Palm tree. During harvest time (usually around August to November) Babassu breakers collect the Babassu fruit seeds, crack them open and remove the meat which is then cold pressed into a light, nourishing, edible vegetable oil. In Brazil, Babassu oil is often used for cooking, soap making, to treat eczema, itchy, dry and inflamed skin and scalp conditions. Babassu Oil, on its own, is a great moisturizer for both dry and oily skin and *does not* leave an oily residue. In fact, it works with the body's natural oils (sebum) to leave your skin feeling powdery soft.
This is due to its high content of Vitamin E (anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant) and Phytosterols (which stimulates the formation and growth of new cells).
Babassu Oil adds a sparkling glow to curly tresses restoring strength and elasticity from roots to tip. When used as a skin moisturiser Babassu Oil is feather light, melts to the touch and doesn't leave an oily residue.We've added it to our shampoo bars because it cleanses without drying or stripping your curls of its natural oils, leaving hair soft and noticeably strong.
Organic Bergamot Essential Oil
(Citrus Bergamia)
Bergamot grows almost exclusively in Calabria, Italy. It flowers in the spring and the end of summer with yields of small oval shaped citrus fruit. However there are a few experimental cultivations dotted around the Mediterranean and Africa.
Bergamot Essential oil is obtained by steam distillation from the pericarp (peels) of unripe fruit which produces a liquid that is yellowish-green in colour with a fresh, fruity, slightly balsamic scent.
The actual fruit itself tastes rather sour but it's the aromatic peel that is used to produce the essential oil used in Earl Grey tea, perfumes, and aromatherapy to treat depression. It is also used as a digestive aid, and has been purported to stimulate hair growth. It's a major component of the original unisex Eau de Cologne 4711 developed by Muelhens (in 1792) - sold at a shop located on 4711 Glockengasse in Cologne, Germany. Bergamot is also popular in Greece as a preserve and is used by a few Italian food manufacturers.
Traditionally Bergamot is used:
As an antiseptic
A deodorant
In perfume
As a soothing agent
As a skin and scalp conditioner
As a hair stimulant
As a treatment for blemishes and oily skin
In Pain relief
As an anti-spasmodic
and as a diuretic
Bergamot is also purported to relieve:
Intestinal cramps
Stress and nervous tension
Our Organic Bergamot Essential Oil is produce of Italy and has been certified Organic by the Soil Association of the United Kingdom.
Organic Burdock Root
(Arctium Lappa)
Burdock Root is traditionally used to promote hair growth and reduce hair from falling out but its variety of uses has made it very popular throughout the world!
The world of Organic Burdock:
The actual plant is a biennial thistle with a prickly head that would snag and catch onto any material that came near it - hair, clothes, dogs, cats you name it.
Burdock has been a favorite medicinal herb for centuries - used to alleviate many ailments. Not just that but in some parts of the world it's considered a delicacy.
In Japan, there is a local cuisine called kinpira gobo, which consists of shredded burdock, burdock actually tastes similar to it's relative, the humble artichoke.
Burdock seeds are also used in traditional Chinese medicine, and goes by the name of "niupangzi"
Here, in the United Kingdom, a company called Fentimans latched on to the wonderful goodness of Burdock and created a drink called "Fentimans Dandelion & Burdock" (it is yummy stuff indeed!).
Organic Burdock Root, what's in it for YOU?
Loaded full of calcium, potassium, amino acids, polyphenols (a natural antiseptic, anti-inflammatory & anti-oxidant derived from plants), mucilage, arcigen, essential oil, flavonoids, iron, inulin, lactone, chlorogenic acid, polyacetylenes (an effective antibacterial and antifungal ingredient), resin, tannin, and taraxosterol.
Phytosterol from the root source: Burdock Root is also rich in phytosterols and essential fatty acids (including rare long chain EFAs) required to maintain a healthy scalp and promote the growth of naturally curly, wavy, Afro textured hair.
For your hair:
Burdock root oil extract aka: Bur oil, is used as a scalp treatment to improve the strength, sheen and body of the hair. Burdock root is also purported to stimulate hair growth.
Our Organic Burdock Root is produce of Europe and has been certified Organic by the Soil Association of the United Kingdom.
Organic Carrot Root Oil
(Daucus Carota)
Stimulates the production of sebum in dry, scaly skin and scalp, also known to calm and sooth the sebaceous glands in overactive oily skin.
Organic carrot root oil is commonly used to increase the formation of new healthy skin cells
Organic Carrot Root Oil:
- Contains over 600 carotenoid - carotenoids aid in reducing UV ray and free radical damage.
- Removes toxins
- Regenerates and tones giving skin a fresher and firmer appearance.
- Stimulates and maintains the skin's elasticity
- Rich source of, Beta carotene, Vitamins E and Pro-vitamin A (3300IU per gram)
- Helps clear blemishes on the skin
- Heals dry, chapped, cracked skin.
- Purported to increase the healthy growth of natural Afro hair and naturally curly hair.
Organic Carrot Root oil is brilliant for all skin and naturally curly hair types.
For more interesting info. on the benefits of Carrots check out the Carrot Museum.
Our Organic Carrot Root oil is produce of France and has been certified Organic by the Soil Association of the United Kingdom.
Organic Castor Oil
(Ricinus Commonus)
There is so much information about this oil and its uses below is only a brief synopsis.
Castor Oil is a triglyceride of fatty acids, cold pressed from the Castor Bean and is known as a strengthening hair oil. Castor Oil has remarkable healing abilities; approximately 90% of its fatty acid content is made up of ricinoleic acid not found in any other natural substance.
Native to India where it is called "Erand" and Palma Christi (Palm of Christ) because of the shape of the leaves. Some herbalists use Castor Oil as a compress but it has other uses too.
Topically applied Castor Oil has been said to:
- Increase the flow of blood throughout the body.
- Quickly remove toxins.
- Provides softness to the ends of afro hair, nourishes the scalp and stimulates hair follicles.
Castor oil and its derivatives are used in:
- Plastic (Polyamide resin or Rilsan used for coating metals)
- Perfume and cosmetic (Emulsifiers and Deodorant)
- Textile (Surfactants, Pigment wetting agents)
- Paper (Defoamer, Water proofing additive)
- Electronics (Capacitor fluids, Polyurethane and Polyamide resins)
- Pharmaceutical
- Paint
- Ink
- Food
- Adhesive
- Lubricant
"Kastorka" - Russian for Castor Oil.
The Russians are said to use the stem of the Castor plant in the textile industry.
On the Canary Islands, Spain,
Nursing mothers make a poultice from the leaves of the castor bean which is applied to their breasts to increase milk and relieve inflammation.
In India
The seed kernals or hulls of the Castor plant are boiled in milk and water to make a drink that is said to relieve arthitis and lower back pain.
We use Organic Castor Oil, in our Goodies, as an emulsifier and humectant to add softness to hair and skin.
Our Organic Castor Oil is produce of India and has been certified Organic by the Soil Association of the United Kingdom.
Organic Coconut Nectar or Sap
commonly known as "purong tuba"
(Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Nectar)
Raw Coconut Nectar is regarded as one of the most sustainable sweeteners in the world today. Produced by local farmers, this all-natural, nutrient rich sweetener is created using freshly collected sap of coconut blossoms. The sap is gently heated at a low temperature allowing the excess moisture to evaporate leaving a completely pure and unrefined raw coconut nectar.
100% Raw Coconut Nectar is an ideal source of naturally occurring nutrients and minerals such as amino acids, iron, B vitamins, potassium and magnesium. This popular alternative to agave nectar has a very low glycaemic index of 35 which means it will not cause blood glucose level to rise.
What You Get From Raw Coconut Nectar?
- A healthy delicious sweetener with a caramel taste which can be used in your favourite shakes, smoothies and many other dessert recipes
- Low Glycemic (GI of 35)
- Nutritionally superior as it contains minerals, vitamins C and B and 17 amino acids
- Enzymatically alive with a nearly neutral pH
- 16% sucrose
- 0.5% glucose
- 1.5% fructose compared to agave nectar which is about 90%
- Great alternative for people with fructose sensitivities
- 82% FOS that improves digestive health
The Nutritional Benefits of Coconut Nectar
Calcium (Ca) – promotes overall bone health
Nitrogen (N) – is helpful in preventing and treating cardiovascular diseases
Iron (Fe) – important in the production of red blood cells
Phosphorus (P) – improves kidney functions and cellular growth
Magnesium (Mg) – helps speed up metabolism and boosts memory and cognitive abilities
Manganese (Mn) – rich in free-radical-fighting properties that eliminates the signs and symptoms of ageing
Sodium (Na) – maintains normal functioning of the nerves and muscles
Boron (B) - boosts brain function and improves alertness
Zinc (Zn) - enhances mental development
Sulfur (S) – keeps hair, skin and nails healthy, glowing and shiny
Copper (Cu) – aids in the production of melanin in the skin
Potassium (K) – assists in regulating blood sugar and reducing the occurrence of hypertension
Our Organic Coconut Nectar is produce of Sri Lanka.
Organic Copaiba
(Copaifera, Balsam Copaiba, Para Balsam, Maracaibo Balsam, Copahu Balsam, Jesuit's Balsam)
A rich natural oil with a slightly spicy somewhat woody aroma.
It has a deep natural brownish resin colour which accounts for up to 60% of this gorgeous balsam and contains the highest amounts of beta caryophyllene (55 percent) of any known balsam.
In Brazil, Copaiba is widely used for its purported antiseptic properties and as a topical antibiotic to treat skin inflammation.
Copaiba also has a high content of naturally occurring essential fatty acids (EFAs - the building blocks of healthy skin tissue) as well as an abundance of the natural germicidal agent, beta-carophyllene. The active properties of Copaiba (caryophyllene and calamenene) are the most effective and best known phytochemicals (plant chemicals) in the world.
Copaiba oil is the best known source of caryophyllene (nature's potent defender against unwanted invaders that attack our skin) - great for treating a variety of skin conditions - including topical ulcers, eczema and psoriasis.
Copaiba is derived from the deteriorated cell walls of the copaiba tree trunk. The oleoresin accumulates within the cavities over a long period of time. When it comes to harvest this rich balsam all the farmers have to do is tap or drill holes into the wood of the trunk and collect the resin that drips out. Copaiba is the most sustainable rainforest resource that is harvested without cutting through the entire tree or destroying the forest in which it grows.
Our Fairly Traded Organic Copaiba oil is purchased directly from the Indigenous farming communities throughout the Amazon River basin area of Brazil.
Fair trade means that the co-operatives and suppliers making our products are paid at a fair rate and are provided with a pension plan, vacation, sick pay, family leave and overtime.
Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil
(Olea Europaea)
Promotes sheen, a healthy scalp, adds nourishment and softness to dry hair and skin. This is mostly due to the presence of Olive oil derived squalane which contains phytosterols and oleic acid both help to retain moisture. Olive Oil contains an abundant amount of vitamin E, A, D and K.
Only carefully selected olives that contain a high concentration of natural tocopherols, antioxidants and phenols (all useful in protecting cells) are used in our recipes.
In addition, the Olive phenols present in this ingredient have been the topic of research conducted at the Department of Pharmacological Sciences, School of Pharmacy - University of Milan.
Our Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil has been certified Organic by the Soil Association of the United Kingdom and is produce of Florence, Italy.
Organic Kelp Powder
(Ascophyllum Nodosum (Linnaeus) aka: Knotted wrack or Egg wrack Le Jolis)
"Ascophyllum is very popular amongst the science community and has been claimed to be both the most active seaweed on the planet as well as the most researched by the academic community."
This edible sea vegetable is a concentrated source of minerals and vitamins.
It's rich in iodine, calcium, sulphur, silicon, phosphorus, iron, magnesium, chlorine, copper, sodium, potassium, zinc and manganese. Kelp contains an abundant amount of B-complex vitamins as well as vitamins A, C, E, G, anti-hemorrhage vitamin K and the anti-sterility vitamin S. Kelp's unique moisturising properties are found to be stimulating, nourishing and revitalising for skin, scalp and hair follicles. This is due to its natural sulphur amino acid content, disinfectant properties and anti-inflammatory properties.
When mixed with water, kelp forms a protective nourishing gel that helps to reduce moisture loss due to natural evaporation. Kelp's organic silicon content has the potential to renew the skin's tissue - making it one of the best natural and renewable sea resources Mother Nature has to offer.
Kelp is commonly found in vitamin supplements to promote healthy hair and nail growth.
Most folks eat raw Kelp as it is purported to control the thyroid and regulate metabolism.
Kelp has been dubbed "a sustainer" for the nervous system and brain and is an essential food supplement during pregnancy.
Our Organic Kelp Powder is produce of Norway and has been certified Organic by the Soil Association of the United Kingdom.
Organic MSM
(Methyl Sulfonyl Methane / Methyl Sulphonyl Methane)
MSM originates from the ocean, in the form of plankton, which releases sulphur compounds into the water the compounds are released into the atmosphere and converted into atmospheric sulphur. This falls to earth in the form of rain which is then absorbed by plants. Plants have the ability to take in the sulphur through the roots where it is concentrated 100 fold.
MSM sulphur is a non-toxic organic white crystalline powder that is found virtually everywhere especially in our red blood cells and within the keratin fibers of protein in our hair and skin. A lack of sulphur can weaken the fiber causing irregular sebum activity on the surface of the skin and scalp which may result in dandruff, dry skin and/or brittle hair and nails. Topical application of MSM assists with the rehydration and detoxification of the cell fibres by allowing water and nutrients into the cells and toxins to flow out. This is necessary for the production of collagen and keratin - protein necessary for the health and maintenance of skin, nails and hair.
MSM Sulphur is a natural component of various foods such as fresh fruits, vegetables, dried beans, milk, eggs, tea, coffee, garlic, dried horsetail herb, chocolate, seafood, meat (approximately 2% sulphur), amino acids (L-methionine, L-cysteine, L-cystine andtaurine), wheat germ and whole grains. MSM is a sulfur compound but NOT a sulfite and should not be confused with other ingredients like sulfa or sulfate.
Our Organic MSM is produce of the United Kingdom.
Organic Papaya Oil
(Carica Papaya)
AKA: PawPaw, this light oil is pressed from the dark seeds inside the Papaya fruit. It's high in omega 6 and 9 essential fatty acids, vitamins A and C.
Papaya contains the enzyme papin, a natural exfoliant that dissolves dead skin cells which attributes to dandruff.
The Fairly Traded Papaya seeds used to create Papaya oil have been grown by farmers in the Ukambani area of Southern Africa.
Fair trade means that the co-operatives and suppliers making our products are paid at a fair rate and are provided with a pension plan, vacation, sick pay, family leave and overtime.
Organic Rosewood Essential Oil
(Pau Brasil, Pau Brazil, Aniba Roseaodora)
Rosewood Essential Oil is mostly used in the perfume industry as a Middle or Top note.
In Brazil and Peru Indigenous people use Rosewood to heal wounds and reduce skin inflammations. Rosewood Essential Oil has been credited as being an anti-fungal, antiviral, anti-parasitic, cellular stimulant and as a tissue regenerator providing effective relief for acne and dermatitis. It's perfect for combination skin (oily/dry).
Rosewood Essential Oil is wild crafted and steam distilled from the reddish bark and heartwood chippings of the medium sized evergreen tree that bears yellow flowers.
Our Organic Rosewood Essential Oil has a fresh, woody floral aroma with a spicy character that is also referred to as an anti depressant and mild aphrodisiac.
The Indigenous farmers of the Amazon River Basin, who harvest Organic Rosewood Essential Oil, do so in accordance with the strict agricultural guidelines of the Brazilian government.
To protect the future of the rain forest and preserve the way of life for the Indigenous farmers, our Organic Rosewood Essential Oil is distilled and purchased directly from a small family run plantation that reforests.
Organic Sapote Fruit Seed Oil
(Pouteria Sapota)
(aka: Zapote, Mamey Sapote, Zapayul, Sapayul)
This orange coloured, non- greasy, luxuriously soft, smooth, thick, and creamy textured oil is cold press from the large, shiny black seed of the Sapote fruit.
Rich in vitamins A, C, plant proteins, carbohydrates, iron, potassium, calcium Mamey sapote is similar in shape to an American football and grows throughout the West Indies, Central and South America. The brownish skin of the fruit is a cross between sandpaper and peach fuzz but the fleshy-pulp surrounding the seed is absolutely delicious! It's often eaten fresh and used to make sherbets, ice creams, preserves, milkshakes and smoothies. The natural scent of the Sapote Seed oil is rather a unique mixture of cherries and almonds.
According to research conducted at Purdue University
"In Santo Domingo, the seed kernel oil is used as a skin ointment and as a hair dressing believed to stop falling hair. In Mexico, 2 or 3 pulverized kernels are combined with 10 oz (300 g) castor oil for application to the hair. In 1970, clinical tests at the University of California at Los Angeles failed to reveal any hair-growth promoting activity but confirmed that the oil of sapote seed is effective in stopping hair-fall caused by seborrheic dermatitis."
Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana, USA
Our community traded certified Organic Sapote Fruit Seed Oil is produce of the Dominican Republic.
Organic Sesame Seed Oil
(Sesamum Indicum)
Aka Gingilli or Gingelly oil, which has been known from ancient Egypt to the Indian continent, as a soothing, gentle emollient. Sesame Seed oil comes from the lovely annual shrub with white bell-shaped flowers that's grown worldwide, especially in India, Africa, Europe and South America.
Rich and almost odourless organic sesame seed oil is cold pressed from the tiny sesame seeds and is very stable.
It contains an antioxidant system consisting of:
Both formed from sesamolin.
Organic Sesame Seed Oil packs a massive nutritious punch.
Just 100 grams of Organic Sesame seed oil contains approximately:
Vitamin A - 15 I.U. - to improve the texture, health and smoothness of both hair and skin
Vitamin B1 in the form of Thiamine 1.07 mg - increases the blood circulation
Niacin - 2.7 mg - a skin/scalp conditioning agent
Calcium - 580 mg - super emollient and anti-aging benefits
Potassium - 360 mg - an humectant that improves skin/scalp moisture and hair texture
It also contains linoleic acid and alpha linoleic acid as well as lecithin (found in all living organisms and is known as a moisturising emollient).
Sesame seed oil holds prominence in Ayurvedic medicine:
It's the primary oil used in the Indian massage, Abhyanga.
This massage focuses on over 100 different points of the body referred to as marma points.
Abhyanga is said to improve energy flow and help to rid the body of impurities.
The ancient massage consists of the oil being rubbed all over the body and left to soak into the skin/scalp for five to fifteen minutes before taking a warm bath or shower. This allows the oil to be absorbed, nourish and detoxify the tissue cells.
The application of warm water is important as it opens the pores, allowing the oil to permeate further into the skin's layers.
It's been cultivated for over 4,000 years and was found in Tutankhamen's tomb, in Mesopotamia.
Women of ancient Babylon ate Halva, a mix of honey and sesame seeds to prolong their youth and beauty.
Roman soldiers would eat the sesame seeds with honey to give them extra energy and strength.
Our Organic Sesame Seed Oil is produce of France and has been certified Organic by the Soil Association of the United Kingdom.
Organic Sweet Almond Oil
(Prunus Dulcis)
An emollient with a pale yellow colour and sweet odour, containing important vitamins such A and E (approx. 24 mg per 100 g) as well as potassium, magnesium, calcium, iron and zinc; the B vitamins riboflavin, niacin and folate; and phytonutrients. It's normally referred to as a carrier oil, which provides an elegantly fine texture which makes it easily penetrable and nourishing to both skin and hair. An excellent softening and soothing moisturizer for all skin types. Its main constituent is oleic acid, very similar in composition to olive oil, Oleic acid enhances the skin's penetration to moisture.
Midwives have historically used Organic Sweet Almond Oil during pregnancy and labour to keep the Mother's skin elastic and supple - preventing rips and tears of the soft skin tissues of the nether regions.
Organic method of extraction:
1. Extracted from the seeds of almond tree
2. Kernels crushed into powder form
3. The powder is cold pressed and left to "rest" for a few weeks to produce the oil
4. The oil goes through a natural filtration process
Our Organic Sweet Almond oil is produce of Italy and has been certified Organic by the Soil Association of the United Kingdom.
Organic Unrefined Cupuaçu Butter
(Theobroma Grandiflora)
This large round fruit resembles that of a pale coconut with an indescribable tart taste of both sweet and sour.
It is used in juices, jams and ice creams in Brazil.
Cupuaçu is part of the Cocoa/Cacao Butter family (Theobroma which means "Food of the Gods") but it is softer and smoother than Cocoa/Cacao Butter and has a very light scent all its own.
It is nothing like Cocoa Butter by way of colour, texture and versatility.
This semi-solid triglyceride has a high capacity for retaining moisture because of its abundant phytosterol content, yet it's not greasy at all your hair and skin just drinks in the nourishment of this natural ice - creamy scented butter. Cupuaçu is common to the Amazon, legend has it that the Tikuna Indians used to drink the juice from the Cupuaçu fruit when they performed their ritual healing ceremonies.
Our Organic Cupuaçu Butter has a nice lovely creamy scent similar to that of vanilla ice cream.
Our Fair Trade Organic Cupuaçu Butter is purchased directly from the Indigenous farming communities throughout the Amazon River basin area of Brazil.
Fair trade means that the co-operatives and suppliers making our products are paid at a fair rate and are provided with a pension plan, vacation, sick pay, family leave and overtime.
Organic Unrefined Murumuru Butter
(Astrocaryum Murumuru)
Murumuru has been known for its anti-inflammatory and bactericide properties and it's a pleasant fresh nutty scent.
This semi-golden-ivory coloured Brazilian butter is a powerful emollient packed full of Vitamin A (approximately 50,000iu of vitamin A per 100 grams to be exact) and it helps to retain moisture, restore natural sheen, softness and improve the flexibility of your hair. It does this by creating a permeable barrier that prevents moisture loss whilst keeping your skin moist and tresses hydrated and pliable. Our Organic Murumuru Butter has a soft nutty scent similar to that of freshly roasted peanuts.
Our Fair Trade Organic Murumuru Butter is purchased directly from the Indigenous farming communities throughout the Amazon River basin area of Brazil. Fair trade means that the co-operatives and suppliers making our products are paid at a fair rate and are provided with a pension plan, vacation, sick pay, family leave and overtime.
Organic Vanilla
(Vanilla Planifolia)
This thick resin with a natural yummy, sensual, aphrodisiac aroma contains the highest concentration of Vanilla available. Pure Vanilla is a great source of catechins (also known as polyphenols) and has a purifying effect coupled with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
It can take up to 9 months for the Vanilla seed to develop into a plump, green, aroma-less immature pod ready to be picked, dipped in hot water, sweated, dried, placed on trays and left in the sun for up to three hours. Then they're tucked into comfy blankets to sweat where the whole process starts again the following day. This continues until the pods are a pliable deep brownish to black colour.
Vanilla planifolia may cause irritation in overly sensitive skin.
Our new fair trade suppliers are certified Organic by the Soil Association of the United Kingdom.
Produce of Uganda and Madagascar
Fair trade means that the co-operatives and suppliers making our products are paid at a fair rate and are provided with a pension plan, vacation, sick pay, family leave and overtime.
Organic Virgin Coconut Oil
(Cocos Nucifera)
Cold pressed from fresh coconut meat contained within it's outer shell the Coconuts used are from the traditional Palms organically grown in Fiji - no hybrid varieties are ever used.
The Coconut meat is hand picked and gently heated at a temperature that *does not* exceed 60°C.
It has a free fatty acid level below 1%, which is well within the stability criteria for vitamin E and other natural tocopherols.
No deodorization
No hydrogenation
No refining
No chemicals added
No bleaching
Our Fair Trade Organic Virgin Coconut Oil (or VCO) has an irresistibly yummy aroma, pure white in colour and is good for you both inside and out.
In India, VCO is gently messaged into the scalp and is said to promote strong healthy tresses.
"Virgin Coconut Oil (VCO) is the only oil found to reduce the protein loss for both undamaged and damaged hair. This is due to the fact that VCO is a triglyceride of lauric acid (principal fatty acid). It has a high affinity for hair proteins and because of its low molecular weight and straight linear chain, VCO is able to penetrate deep inside the hair shaft and carry nourishment along with it. "
J. Cosmet. Sci., 54, 175-192 (March/April 2003)
"Effect of mineral oil, sunflower oil, and coconut oil on prevention of hair damage"
AARTI S. RELE and R. B. MOHILE, Research and Development Department,
Nature Care Division, Marico Industries Ltd., Mumbai, India.
Accepted for publication April 29, 2002.
The caprylic acid found in coconut oil is said to be effective against fungus, planter's warts and athlete's foot.
Fractionated Coconut Oil (Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride)
Contains only medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) from the organic virgin coconut oil - this makes it a very stable liquid oil.
Fractionated Coconut Oil is produced by way of hydrolysis of organic virgin coconut oil it is then steam distilled to isolate the medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs).
Sebum is made up of medium chain fatty acids/medium chain triglycerides creating an anti-microbial layer that protects our skin and scalp from Bad bacteria and prevents infections. If your skin is dry - then putting an oil high in medium chain fatty acids/medium chain triglycerides will protect against dryness.
Cetearyl Alcohol is a fatty alcohol derived from Coconut Oil. We use this ingredient in our Goodies as an emulsifier, emollient and thickener.
Our Fair Trade Certified Organic Virgin Coconut Oil is produce of the Taveuni Island of Fiji and has been certified Organic by the (OGA) Organic Herb Growers of Australia.
Fair trade means that the co-operatives and suppliers making our products are paid at a fair rate and are provided with a pension plan, vacation, sick pay, family leave and overtime.
Organic Watermelon (Kalahari) Oil
(Citrullus Vulgaris)
Watermelon oil is easily absorbed, dissolves excess sebum and adds a rich sheen to hair. It has a high content of Vitamin C, Omega 6 and 9 essential fatty acids (EFAs) so you can be sure to get your RDA (recommended daily application) of nutrients. The seeds are hand picked out of the melon, left to dry in the sun and cleaned ready for the cold pressed extraction of oil. The oil from the seeds contain up to 57% oil and 34% protein.
The Fairly Traded Watermelon seeds used to create Watermelon oil are produce of Africa.
Fair trade means that the co-operatives and suppliers making our products are paid at a fair rate and are provided with a pension plan, vacation, sick pay, family leave and overtime.
What It is?
Medicinal, Skincare and Hair Care Benefits
1.) Panthenol is a very popular ingredient in the hair care industry as it is generally included in many formulations of almost all hair products available on the market today. This vitamin works by coating the hair strand to provide significant volume and fullness to hair. When panthenol coats the hair, it works as a humectant which draws and seals moisture deep into the hair cortex and keep it hydrated. It also penetrates the shaft to strengthen the hair to avoid the most common hair problems like breakage, split ands and hair fall caused by thermal styling products. Panthenol patches up and repairs parts of the hair that are severely affected by the harsh chemicals from perming and colouring products.
2.) Panthenol works as a handy solution to unhealthy, breakage-prone fingernails. It forms a protective barrier on the nail plate making it strong, sturdy and chip-free.
3.) 'Lip plumpers' also enjoy the contribution of panthenol in their formulations because of its natural skin plumping action that doesn't not irritate or sting the lips like what most chemical-based 'lip plumpers' can do. This same plumping action is also being utilized by many anti-aging products for it makes the skin appear smoother and firmer which reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
4.) Hand creams and moisturisers infused with panthenol is very helpful during the cold months for this vitamin deeply moisturizes the skin. It helps the skin maintain optimal health to heal blisters, sores, chapping and cracked skin caused by the unforgiving low temperatures and dry air of the winter season in no time.
5.) Pantothenic acid is being used in the pharmaceutical industry for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis. It has also been found to lower cholesterol levels in the blood.
Peppermint Essential Oil
(Mentha Piperita)
This rich sweet and stimulating scent is said to be a hybrid mint cross of the watermint and spearmint.
It also soothes itchy skin, is a mental stimulant to improve concentration, deodorizer, vapourizer (when used with Marjoram and Lavender), vermin deterrent (when used with Eucalyptus), relieves headaches and clears the mind (according to research conducted by the British Medical Journal in 1879).
It's been used in everything from breathe fresheners to candy to food.
Our Peppermint Essential Oil is produce of the United States of America
Pink Grapefruit Essential Oil
(Citrus Paradisi)
Not to be confused with Grapefruit Seed Extract.
The naturally refreshingly, sweet, uplifting and citrusy aroma of Pink Grapefruit Essential Oil is most definitely unmistakable.
Pink Grapefruit essential oil is cold expressed from the fresh peel of the Grapefruit and packed full of vitamin C.
Pink Grapefruit Essential Oil is renowned for its purported ability to:
- Promote and stimulate healthy hair growth
- Combat acne.
- Reduce the amount of oily build up on skin and scalp.
- Strengthen the entire body.
- Tone and tighten the skin.
- Alleviate athlete's foot.
Pink Grapefruit essential oil is even purported to reduce cellulite.
Our Pink Grapefruit Essential Oil is produce of Israel.
Rhassoul Clay
(Hectorite / Moroccan Lava Clay)
Rassoul or Ghassoul or Moroccan Clay is a mineral extracted from the Atlas mountains of Morocco and comes from the Arabic phrase meaning "to be washed"
Rhassoul contains natural silicon, magnesium, iron, calcium, potassium and sodium - with a deep cleansing, anti-microbial action that does not irritate the sebaceous glands. In fact, it regulates the amount of sebum secreted from the scalp.
Rhassoul contains a high percentage of naturally occurring trace minerals like magnesium, and calcium
Silica- 58% (required for strong healthy hair growth and skin tissue regeneration)
Aluminum- 2.47%
Iron- 0.64%
Sodium- 2.3%
Magnesium- 25.2%
Calcium- 2.34%
pH - 6.9 - 7.5
Clays and Clay Minerals
Rhassoul holds significant importance in Moroccan society, today. It's a traditional part of the Moroccan bride's dowry and it is said that the King of Morocco has his own private stash put aside just for the needs of his Court.
Our Rhassoul Clay has been certified by Ecocert and is produce of Morocco, North West Africa.
(Santalum Spicatum)
This warm, rich, sweet-woodsy scent has been used in Chinese medicine to treat dry skin. In India, Sandalwood is usually combined with Rose essential oil to create the scent of aytar and in Ayurvedic tradition it is used to treat respiratory infections. Sandalwood is also used in food, soft drinks and alcoholic refreshments. However, in our Goodies we use Sandalwood for its stimulant and antiseptic properties.
Our Sandalwood is harvested by the Indigenous Aboriginal farmers of Western Australia. This ensures:
1. An environmentally sustainable economic base for the Aboriginal people.
2. Responsible sourcing and environmentally sustainable harvesting practices.
3. A fair wage for the Aboriginal farmers who harvest the Sandalwood.
Aboriginal culture is said to be the oldest continuous living culture on the planet and is often referred to as a culture of "oneness with nature".
We are proud to support the Aboriginal farmers of Western Australia.
Sericite is a fine grained mineral that applies with a silky matte finish on the skin. It is often compared to mica due to their similarities in shape and chemical makeup however; sericite has a smoother and softer texture than mica because it has significant hydration in its composition. Sericite is widely used as a base for mineral makeup like eye shadows and foundations, as replacement for talc, because of how it reflects light in order to minimize the appearance of wrinkles, fine lines and pores without clogging the pores.
Sericite is a mineral which exemplifies similarities with white mica in terms of shape and chemical structure. Its name was derived from the Latin word "sericus" which describes the silky attributes of rocks with rich amounts of sericite in them.
It comes in a silver white powder form which is being used as an extender to mineral makeup because of how it makes mineral makeup glide on smoothly on the skin while blurring out the appearance of pores, fine lines and other skin imperfections.
Additional Information:
Sericite mica is a natural powder (aluminium potassium silicate) similar to white mica with a fine grain size and silky shine.
We use untreated sericite mica because it is colourless and will increase the translucency of our foundation, giving you a more natural look. Sericite reflects light to reduce the appearance of large pores and fine lines that won't clog your pores. We use it in our fair to dark foundations colours and will continue to use it in our new eye shadows shades
- Is great for light to medium coverage, throughout the day, and is suitable for normal to dry skin.
- Offers very little opacity (or whiteness) and is used to o make a colour lighter, to cover up imperfections.
- Is virtually colourless and increases translucency. Used on its own, as a base, it's almost invisible once it's applied.
- Eliminates the ashy-dull colour that can occur when an untreated sericite product absorbs the sebum (the skin's natural oil).
- Offers great "slip" and glides on effortless, feeling silky as you apply it and continuing to do so long after application.
- Remains on your skin and offers great adhesion.
- Helps keep a consistent makeup colour throughout the day and will not blotch regardless of excessive sebum excretion.
Sweet Almond Wax
(Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis)
The same extraction methods, that are used for Organic Sweet Almond Oil, are used to obtain the Sweet Almond Wax.
However, the ripe seed of the Sweet Almond tree are used to release the fixed hard solid fat.
The fat is then filtered and dried to produce blocks of wax.
Our Sweet Almond Wax is produce of a family farming community of Southern France.
Titanium Dioxide
Titanium Dioxide (also known as Titanium Oxide) is a naturally occurring mineral that is obtained from the principal mineral sources of titanium e.g.: ilmenite, anatase and rutile.
It is mined for a wide range of applications in the food, plastic and cosmetics industry because of its resistance to corrosion and ability to protect products from the harmful effects of ultraviolet (UV) rays. It's also a highly reflective mineral, think of a sparkling diamond with reflective like properties.
it decreases the chances of free-radical production in the deeper layers of the skin. Titanium dioxide is a core component for sunscreen and makeup products in order to protect the skin from the damaging effects of ultraviolet (UV) rays. It is also used to add substantial opacity and white pigmentation to cosmetics.
Titanium dioxide is used to provide significant sun protection in mineral makeup because of its outstanding ultraviolet (UV) light absorbing properties that prevents wrinkling and hyperpigmentation from sun damage.
This same quality also prevents mineral makeup from oxidizing or turning orange under ultraviolet light. This ingredient works as a natural opacifier to increase the coverage of mineral makeup which effectively conceals blemishes and skin imperfections. In addition, titanium dioxide also acts as a colourant which gives a creamy pearlescent sheen to beauty products.
We do not use nano-sized titanium dioxide in any of our products.
Unrefined Shea Butter
(Butyrospermum Parkii)
Rich in essential fatty acids, Vitamins A, E and F - Shea Butter heals, soothes and protects everything it touches restoring elasticity to skin and lustre to stressed tresses.
It's the fatty acid that gives Shea Butter its unique healing properties. The Shea nuts are boiled, sun dried, crushed and hand blended to extract the liquid fat then it is sifted by hand and simmered to a low temperature, once cooled it is stirred by hand to form Shea Butter. No machinery, solvents or hexane are used in this process.
Our Fairly Traded Unrefined Shea Butter is a produce of Ghana, West Africa.
Fair trade means that the co-operatives and suppliers making our products are paid at a fair rate and are provided with a pension plan, vacation, sick pay, family leave and overtime.
Vegetable Glycerin
This clear viscose liquid is an emollient that helps to balance and maintain moisture levels. Vegetable Glycerin is also part of the skin's natural lipid structure.
The glycerin we use in our Goodies is certified kosher and derived from coconut, palm kernel oil and palm oils.
Our Vegetable Glycerin is a produce of Germany.
Vetivert Essential Oil
(Vetveria Zizanoides)
Cuscus Grass, Khus Khus, Khus-Khus, Vetiver Grass, Vetiver Root, Vetivergrass
Vetivert is part of the Poaceae (referred to as grasses) family of herbs.
Cultivated vetivert grasses grow in plains and low hills of Indonesia.
The Vetivert grass is extremely robust and has long thin leaves with spongy-like roots and tiny brownish purple flowers. Vetivert essential oil is naturally steam distilled from its vigorous grass roots.
Vetivert essential oil has a deep sweet, masculine, woody aroma which is known to impart tranquil properties hence the reason why Vetivert is used extensively in meditation.
Vetivert increases blood flow throughout the body with its naturally warming attributes and is also known as the "oil of tranquility" in parts of India and Sri Lanka. When Vetivert is added to a nice hot bath it is said to alleviate stress, aches and tension of the joints.
However, Vetivert is traditionally used in India as a fixative for very expensive perfumes and creams. Suitable for oily and acne skin types.
Our Vetivert essential oil is produce of the Indonesian island of Java.
Virgin and Refined Mango Butter
(Mangifera Indica)
Offers extreme moisturising, healing and emollient properties rich in Vitamin A, Vitamins C, K and E and Selenium. It also helps to protect skin, hair and scalp from harmful UV rays. Our Virgin Mango Butter is obtained from the fruit kernels of the Mango and has been filtered by hand thus retaining it's pleasant, light, fruity scent and creamy orange colour.
What's the difference between Refined Mango Butter and Virgin Mango Butter?:
Virgin Mango Butter has been filtered and has retained more of a fruity scent than the Refined Mango Butter which has been filtered and deodorized.
There is also a colour and texture difference with the Refined Mango Butter being white and soft in texture whereas the Virgin Mango Butter retains its orangey colour similar to the flesh of the Mango fruit with a hard texture.
We use Virgin Mango Butter in our Virgin Mango Butter Coconut Whip and Refined Mango Butter in our Babassu Shampoo Bars.
Both our Virgin and Refined Mango Butters are produce of the state of Maharashtra in Western India.
Vitamin E
(Mixed Tocopherols 1000iu)
A powerful fat-soluble antioxidant that is present in cell membranes to protect cell lipids from potential damage. Mixed tocopherol are naturally occurring tocopherol vitamins that are vacuum distilled from Sunflower.
Mixed tocopherol should not to be confused with its synthetically man-made cousin - tocopheryl/tocopherol acetate.
We pack our goodies full of d-alpha, d-beta, d-gamma and d-delta tocopherols (1000iu) gluten free, wheat free, yeast free, dairy free and corn free.
Wheat Germ Oil
(Tritricum Vulgare)
Wheat Germ oil contains a high content of vitamin E, up to 60% linoleic acid and up to 20% oleic acid. The Wheat Germ Oil that we use is cold pressed from the germ of the wheat hence the reason why it takes a lot of wheat germ to make just 10 grams of the oil.
When applied topically:
- Wheat Germ oil repairs damaged and over processed hair.
- With regular use Wheat Germ oil is purported to promote quick and healthy hair growth.
- Wheat Germ oil softens and regenerates skin/scalp cell tissues.
- Wheat Germ oil is also successfully used to help reverse the effects of wrinkles.
When taken internally wheat germ oil helps:
- To maintain healthy bones
- To maintain spine
- The development of muscles.
- Prevent eczema
- Indigestion
Due to its high tocopherol content, an antioxidant, wheat germ oil has the possibility of removing cholesterol deposits from the arteries as well as anticoagulant properties.
Beneficial properties include:
Vitamin E, A, D, proteins, Lecithin, and Squalene, Phospholipids, naturally occurring plant steroids (2.5-3% sterol esters) in particularly beta-sitosterol, campesterol (which controls skin inflammation), B complex vitamins (required for the healthy growth of skin and hair) and folic acid.
It also contains Octacosanol, a unique compound, which is purported to aid in:
1. Lowering cholesterol
2. Improving energy in muscles
3. Enhancing endurance and stamina
4. Balancing metabolism
5. Strengthening the body's central nervous system.
Wheat Germ Oil contains up to 75% Essential Fatty Acids (originally recognized as Vitamin F) triacylglycerols, linoleic acid, oleic acid, palmitic acid, and linolenic acid Phospholipids, Steroids (steroids controls inflammation)Tocopherols - vitamin E, alpha- beta- and gamma-tocopherol, alpha-tocotrienol, beta-tocotrienol (super antioxidant)
If you are allergic to Wheat, Gluten or suffer from Coeliac/Celiac please avoid Wheat Germ
Ylang Ylang Extra Essential Oil
(Cananga Odorata)
Scent description
Balsamic slightly spicy with a creamy top note and sweet, soft, floral middle note.
This is a rich and seductive floral note specific to the first distillation of the freshly picked flowers.
On the Molucca Islands, Ylang Ylang is used as a scalp stimulant to encourage hair growth. It's also known to have "aphrodisiac" powers.
There is a tradition in Indonesia where the drooping yellow flowers of the Ylang Ylang tree are handpicked and spread across the marriage bed of newlyweds.
Our Ylang Ylang Extra Essential Oil is produce of Indonesia.
Zinc Oxide
Zinc Oxide is an earth mineral that comes in a velvety soft ivory-white powder. It has been a vital ingredient of many medicines and beauty products for generations because of its natural skin-friendly properties. This mineral is endowed with a sun-protective barrier that lays on top of the skin to absorb both UVA and UVB rays.
Zinc Oxide has a number of healing agents which are widely used in topical ointments for treating skin inflammations, minor bacterial infections, burns and baby bottom rashes.
Known for its phenomenal healing properties, Zinc Oxide is an essential ingredient of mineral makeup. This earth mineral naturally possesses anti-inflammatory, anti-septic and anti-microbial properties which are extremely beneficial to all skin types, especially sensitive skin.
Zinc oxide works to treat inflammation of rosacea and is purported to target acne causing bacteria by increasing the acidity of the pH level so they can no longer live and thrive on the skin.
This popular mineral makeup ingredient is insoluble in water which means it adheres to the skin very well and enhances mineral makeup's longevity.
We do not use nano-sized zinc oxide in any of our products.
Anita Grant Ltd is not responsible for content on external websites.
The data provided above is for informational purposes only & should in no way be construed as medical advice. If you are pregnant, please consult your GP or medical practitioner prior to using essential oils. Each individual is unique as such skin and/or hair may react differently to a particular ingredient. It is recommended that you read the directions carefully and perform a patch test on your inner elbow. If you have any questions regarding our ingredients please contact us. The information contained within is intended to educate the consumer on the benefits of each specific natural ingredient and is not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any disease or illness.


text:
News 12 at 6 o'clock/Tuesday April 9, 2013
AUGUSTA, Ga. (WRDW)--It's Masters week, which should mean pretty bad traffic. But things have been running smoothly and some behind-the-scenes technology is partly thank.
A master control--for Masters traffic.
"We've got cameras up and down Washington Rd. and we basically monitor that, along with the deputies in the street so we can manage the traffic and try to balance the flow into the lots," said Steve Cassell, a Richmond Co. traffic engineer.
For one week the Georgia Department of Transportation teams up with Richmond County Traffic and Engineering to get high tech, using a control center to monitor the roadways for folks headed to The Augusta National.
And more than 50,000 cars will pass by the Masters every day this week.
"Between about 7:30 am and 9 am is about as busy as it's going to get," said Cassell. "Then it starts to taper off after 9:15 am."
Steve Cassell has been working the Masters week traffic control for more than six years now.
He says now they've got the process streamlined, dispersing traffic and using traffic cameras.
If the flow slows down, engineers can switch how much green time drivers get.
"That's why we close the I-20 ramp because everyone wants to get off at Washington Rd, but if we could force them to go around Riverwatch Pkwy, we can balance and spread everybody and it just...makes it a lot smoother," said Cassell.
The team's also using the web to provide real-time roadway information.
And drivers appreciate the effort.
"The traffic was not bad," said Hank Hammon, a Masters patron. "We came in from North Augusta and we went through downtown and came up from Broad St. and it was very easy getting in."
"We're excited, we liked it," said Bill and Margie Shulby, Masters patrons. "It was good and parking was easy, it was much easier than other years."
Follow the Augusta traffic engineering on Facebook and Twitter: @ARCTraffic
View live traffic cameras at augustatraffic.com

subset: commoncrawl


text:
"When I was texting with my mom about the ring, I was insane about keeping my phone by my side. One night when I was washing dishes, I accidentally left it on the dinner table. I heard it buzz and dove across the room, dish gloves and all, to swipe it before my girlfriend could see. I don't think it set off any alarm bells, but I basically freaked." —Mike P.
"I ordered my girlfriend a ring from Tiffany.com, and the package—a small shipping box discreetly labeled TSC—arrived when we were both home. When she asked, 'What is that?' I mumbled something about a phone charger and tossed it aside as if it was something random and not a multi-thousand dollar piece of jewelry. But really, who does that? Everyone opens packages the second they arrive." —Steve K.


text:
Rick Alan
In most children, chickenpox is mild and will naturally go away on its own. In these cases, treatment focuses on relieving the symptoms.
Treatment may involve the following:
There are no surgical options for the treatment of chickenpox.
Chickenpox (varicella). Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website. Available at:
http://www.cdc.gov/chickenpox/. Updated April 25, 2013. Accessed May 30, 2013.
Galil K, Brown C, Lin F, et al.
Hospitalizations for varicella in the United States, 1988 to 1999.
Pediatr Infect Dis J. 2002;(10):931-935.
Ratner AJ.
Varicella-related hospitalizations in the vaccine era.
Pediatr Infect Dis J. 2002;(10):927-931.
Last reviewed March 2015 by David L. Horn, MD, FACP
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
Copyright © EBSCO Publishing. All rights reserved.