What are the Content and Properties of the Products?

Here you will find all the ingredients in the Raw Roots products.

Learn about the benefits of natural ingredients.

 

A

 

• Allantoin - Symphytum officinale. Extract from comfrey used in celltherapy treatments, face creams and suncare preparations as a healing agent and moisturizer. An antiinflammatory and antiirritant, allantoin is reported to promote skin cell regeneration. It can also be made from uric acid, but the comfrey root type is superior. The finest quality allantoin is free of pyrrolizidine alkaloids.

 

• Almond Butter - Prunus amygdalus dulcis. Butter made from sweet almond oil, a rich emollient and skin conditioner.
  Almond Meal Prunus amygdalus dulcis.

 

• Aloe Vera Juice - Aloe Vera has healing soothing, antibacterial and moisturising properties. It is used to relieve burning, itching, minor cuts and first and second degree burns. Recent studies indicate that aloe vera has the ability to accelerate cell growth in the skin.

 

• Apricot Oil - Prunus armeniaca. Essential oil from apricot pits, also known as persic oil. An emollient similar in composition to almond oil, it has a softening effect on the skin.

 

• Apricot Kernels, Apricot Seeds - Prunus armeniaca. Ground into a powdered form, these ingredients are added to exfoliating masks and scrubs for their smoothing effect on the skin.

 

• Ascorbic Acid(Vit C) Natural Vitamin C is an antioxidant and free-radical scavenger. Vitamin C is indispensable for the formation of healthy collagen, which reduces the appearance of wrinkles and keeps the skin looking young. It has been shown to inhibit skin cancer.

 

• Atlas Cedar - Cedrus atlantica. Aromatic essential oil is known for its antiseptic and calming properties on the skin and its warm, woody scent. Its use as a natural fragrance dates back to ancient Egypt.

 

• Avocado Oil - Persea gratissima. Moisturizes, nourishes, softens. Unrefined Avocado oil, which is dark green in colour, contains vitamins A, B1, B2, D, Pantothenic acid and E as well as lecithin. It is excellent for dry and wrinkled skin. A good source of vitamins A, D and E, amino acids and sterols. Herbalists traditionally have used avocado oil in hair and scalp preparations and in the treatment of chronic dry skin conditions. Easily absorbed by the skin and scalp, it is very soothing and nourishing.

 

 

B

• Beet Root Extract - Beta vulgaris. The extract or juice of beets, used as a natural red color.

 

• Bergamot Essential Oil. Pure essential oil of bergamot is expressed from the peel of the citrus fruit. It is refreshing, uplifting and can also be relaxing. It has antiseptic properties.

 

• Beta-carotene - Orange or red compounds, precursors to vitamin A, which occur naturally in plants. Essential for skin health.

 

• Biodynamic Macadamia oil. Highly nourishing oil that is suitable for all skin types, especially dry and mature skins. This oil helps reduce moisture loss from the skin and is naturally resistant to oxidation.

 

• Biodynamic Tea Tree oil  The pure essential oil from the leaves of the Tea Tree is a potent antiseptic and anti-bacterial and is excellent for the treatment of acne.

 

• Bitter Orange Extract. A natural antimicrobial with broad-spectrum activity, developed for the food industry. Biodegradable. Non-toxic.

 

• Blue Camomile  Matricaria chamomila. Also known as German Camomile, its essential oil is deep blue in color and has a lovely fragrance. An antimicrobial and tonic, very soothing to scalp and skin.

 

• Blue Cypress Oil Callitris intratropica. Essential oil widely used in Australia for its woody fragrance and germ-zapping properties. A natural disinfectant and freshener, blue cypress oil makes an excellent addition to bath products and room deodorizers.

 

 

 

C

 

• Calendula - Calendula officinalis. The common Marigold, known for its healing and analgesic properties. It is a frequent ingredient in ointments and natural deodorants. Contains saponins. Sometimes used as a natural yellow color. Soothes, heals, restores. Calendula is an excellent antiinflammatory, and is very useful for eczema, dermatitis and irritated skin in general.

 

• Camomile - Anthemis nobilis. A softening agent for rough, dry skin, used since ancient times for its calming and conditioning effects. Its soothing and hydrating properties also work well on the hair and scalp. (See also Roman Camomile ; Blue Camomile)

 

• Willow herb Epilobium angustifolium. Antiinflammatory and soothing agent shown in clinical studies to work faster and better than many hydrocortisone creams in reducing itching and irritation. A superb skin care ingredient, often used in suncare products. Contains salicylic acid.

 

• Carrageenan. Food-grade seaweed gum obtained from Irish moss (Chondrus crispus) and other red algae. A natural stabilizer, binding agent and emulsifier. Food-grade carrageenan should not be confused with degraded carrageenan, which is a known carcinogen.

 

• Carrot Oil - Daucus carota var. sativa. The seeds of carrots yield an essential oil that is rich in beta carotene, orange or red compounds that are precursors to vitamin A and occur naturally in plants. Also high in vitamin E, it is essential to skin cell regeneration and stimulates the production of sebum in dry, scaly scalps and skin.

 

• Carrot Seed Extract. Carrot seed has regenerating and toning effects, which is excellent for mature and congested skin.

 

• Carrageenan. Gum Carrageenan is a natural gum derived from certain types of red seaweeds belonging to the Rhodophyceae family. Carrageenan is used for thickening, suspending and binding ingredients.

 

• Castile Soap. A mild vegetable oil-based soap saponified with an alkaline salt.

 

• Cedarwood Oil (Red) - Juniperus virginiana. Essential oil known for its antiirritant properties and its soothing effect on the skin and scalp. Sometimes used as a natural fragrance.

 

• Himalaya Sea Salt Hand harvested Sea salt. Natural bath crystal. High in essential minerals.

 

• Chamomile Extract Antimicrobial, calming, soothing.

 

• Chamomile Roman Essential Oil The pure essential oil Roman

 

• Chamomile flowers is antiseptic, astringent and has healing properties for dermatitis, eczema, acne and rashes. It is especially effective in treating sensitive, dry and inflamed skin.

• Citric Acid. Extract from citrus fruits used as a natural pH adjuster in cosmetics. Added to shampoos, it acts as a chelating agent, binding to chlorine and iron (from hard water) and removing them from the hair.

 

• Citric Seed Extract Derived from citrus fruit and employed as a preservative and helps adjust acid/alkaline balance.

 

• Clary Sage Oil Salvia sclera. Essential oil with astringent and anti-wrinkle properties, also used as a natural fragrance.

 

• Cocoa Butter Pressed from the delicious smelling cocoa bean. It is a rich emollient for dry skin. Softens and protects, particularly where skin is thin (eyes, lips and throat).

 

• Coconut Fatty Alcohols The long-chain fatty alcohols from coconut palm kernels, which are natural emollients. Synthetic versions of cetyl alcohol are often used in commercial formulations and should be avoided.

 

• Coconut Oil - Cocos nucifera. Rich emollient expressed from coconuts. It is naturally converted into a soap through a saponification reaction with an alkaline salt. Beware of cosmetics that bill themselves as "natural" and use a synthetically processed derivative, sodium lauryl sulfate, claiming it comes "from coconut oil." Accept nothing but the real thing in its natural form.

 

• Coco betaine - Derived from coconut oil and is used as a foaming agent.

 

• Corn Starch Cornstarch is an ultra-fine, powdery flour ground from the endosperm, or white heart, of organic corn kernels.

 

 

 

 

D

 

• D-Alpha Tocopherol (Vit E) Natural Vitamin E protects skin from damage by pollutants and is a powerful free-radical scavenger. It inhibits the formation of cancer-causing nitrosamines and has been shown to inhibit cancer directly. Research has shown that vitamin E can double the life of human cells. It is therefore an excellent weapon against premature aging and wrinkles.

 

• D-Panthenol (Vit B5) Panthenol is the provitamin of pantothenic acid (vitamin B5). It improves the moisture-retention capacity of the skin and stimulates skin regeneration. Dry skin stays supple and elastic for longer. It has an anti-inflammatory and anti-itching effect. It makes hair easier to comb, reduces hair splitting, improves the condition of damaged hair, thickens the hair and provides sheen.

 

• Decyl glycoside A "natural surfactant" (foaming agent) synthesised from glucose from sugar. Non toxic

 

• Deionized Water Purified water that has had ions removed. The deionization process also removes nitrates, calcium, magnesium and heavy metals.

 

 

 

E

 

• Essential Oils. Volatile liquids extracted from plant materials by steam distillation or expression, which contain the characteristic plant aroma. Unlike fixed plant oils (such as olive oil), essential oils evaporate at room temperature and do not leave an oily residue on the skin.

 

• Eucalyptus Oil Eucalyptus globulus. Essential oil with powerful antiseptic, antibacterial and antifungal properties. Used in cleansers, massage formulations and bath soaks for its cooling, soothing effect on the skin. Herbalists recommend a few drops of the oil in a hot bath to open up blocked sinuses and help clear a stuffy nose.

 

 

• Evening Primrose Oil - Oenothera biennis. Superb emollient and skin nutrient, high in essential fatty acids. A source of rare gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), also found in human breast milk. Extremely beneficial in the treatment of eczema and other dry skin and scalp conditions.

 

 

 

F

 

• Fatty Acids. Basic building blocks of fats and oils. Fatty acids attach to a glycerin molecule to form mono-, di- or triglycerides. (See Vitamin F .)

 

• Flaxseed Oil Linum usitatissimum. Emollient and antiinflammatory high in essential fatty acids, B vitamins, protein and minerals. Very nourishing to dry hair and skin, whether taken internally or applied topically.
  Forsythia Fruit Forsythia suspensa. Antiinflammatory and astringent, used topically as a soothing agent for the skin. The Chinese call it Lian-qiao.

 

• Frangipani Absolute - An exquisite scent, steam distilled from the frangipani blossom.

 

• Frankincense Essential Oil. The pure essential oil obtained from the resin of Frankincense bark is regenerative and astringent. It is excellent for aging skin and the treatment of wrinkles. It tones the skin and promotes new cell generation.

 

• French Cypress. The pure essential oil of the Cypress leaves and twigs and have a tightening effect on the skin in general.

 

• French Lavender. The pure essential oil from the freshly cut tops of Lavender flowers is useful for all skin since it regulates sebum production. It fosters the regeneration of new skin cells and soothes inflamed skin.

 

 

 

 

G

 

• Geranium (Rose) Essential Oil. Astringent, softens, soothes, and balances. The pure essential oil obtained from the Geranium leaf and stem is antiseptic, astringent and toning. It normalises sebum production and stimulates the lymphatic system, making it excellent for seborrhoea, rosacea and inflamed conditions.

 

• Geranium Oil - Pelargonium graveolens. Essential oil with astringent and tonic properties, an excellent normalizer for oily skin. Sometimes used as a fragrance.

 

• Ginger Zingiber officinale. Antiinflammatory and stimulant with warming and soothing properties. Used in creams, lotions and hair care products, it promotes circulation to the skin and scalp. In both powdered and essential oil form, it is an excellent ingredient for bath soaks and other personal care products. Sometimes used as a fragrance.

 

• Glycerine.  Derived from vegetable oils and is used for its ability of absorbing moisture from the air, and therefore helps keep moisture in creams and other products.

 

• Glucose. A fruit sugar from corn and grapes that soothes and hydrates the skin, encouraging moisture retention.

 

• Grape Seed Extract Vitis vinifera. One of the most powerful antioxidants around, high in proanthocyanidins, a group of bioflavonoids superior to most because they are water soluble and much more easily assimilated by the body. A hard-working free radical scavenger, it prevents skin cell damage caused by sun exposure and pollution.

 

• Grape Seed Oil. Antioxidant-rich oil cold-pressed from grape seeds.The perfect oil for the babies skin. It is the favourite oil for massage blends because of its light texture, and lack of colour and odour. It is suitable for all skin types. It is one of the highest in polyunsaturated fatty acids.

 

• Grapefruit Seed Extract.  Is a potent antibacterial and anti fungal. It can also be used as an internal medication to relieve candida infections.

 

• Grapefruit Oil - Citrus paradisi. An essential oil extracted from the peel of the fruit. Used in creams and lotions for its astringent and skin-freshening properties. Sometimes used as a fragrance.

 

• Green Clay (Montmorillonite Clay) Commonly known as French green clay, rich in minerals and other nutrients. Used in deep-cleansing face masks to draw out impurities and balance and clear the skin.

 

• Green Tea - Camellia sinensis. The benefits of green tea to the skin have been widely documented. This powerful antioxidant (20 times stronger than vitamin E) inhibits the formation of cancer-causing free radicals and helps prevent skin cell damage caused by sun exposure and pollution. An important ingredient in suncare products, as well as in creams, lotions, shampoos and conditioners. An antiinflammatory and antiirritant, it is high in xanthines, very soothing and moisturizing to both hair and skin. Powdered Matcha green tea from Japan is the finest.

 

• Guar Gum. A natural gum derived from the Guar plant. Used as a thickening agent

 

 

 

 

H

 

• Hamamelis Water (See Witch Hazel). Hamamelis virginiana. A byproduct of the distillation of the leaves and stems of the plant, this hydrosol or floral water is a natural astringent and tonic. An anti-irritant and anti-inflammatory, it is an excellent ingredient in facial cleansers, toners and lotions.

 

• Hops Humulus lupulus. Antimicrobial and sedative, very soothing and toning to the hair and skin. In hair care preparations, it adds body and softness and is helpful in the treatment of dandruff and other scalp conditions. Combined with chamomile, it reduces swelling and relieves itching and irritation.

 

• Horsetail (Bottlebrush) Equisetum arvense. Nutrient-rich herbal high in silica, essential to collagen production. A vegan alternative to collagen treatments, it firms and refreshes the skin and promotes healing. Often used in conjunction with coltsfoot in hair care products, it strengthens the hair shaft and adds sheen and elasticity.

 

• Hydrosols - Also known as floral waters, hydrosols are byproducts of the steam distillation of plant materials. While essential oils are concentrated forms of plant essences, hydrosols are highly diluted, made up of variable ratios of plant materials to water. To protect consumers, standards are being developed to determine an acceptable ratio. Quality hydrosols are beneficial to skin and hair, but do not offer all the synergy of natural, unprocessed plant liquids (e.g., aloe vera and orange pith juice).

 

 

 

I

• Iscaguard. Phenethyl Alcohol (and) Caprylyl Glycol. Iscaguard acts as an antimicrobial. It is a preservative free additive. It is an alternative to traditional cosmetic preservatives. It reduces irritant and sensitizing potentials.

 

 

 

 

J

 

• Jojoba Butter. Natural butter made from jojoba oil. An excellent skin emollient.

 

• Jojoba Oil, Jojoba Wax Simmondsia chinensis. Waxy oil extracted from the bean, which helps the jojoba desert plant retain water during the long summer drought. When used in cosmetic preparations, it not only acts as a humectant, but actually creates a protective film over the skin and hair shaft that helps seal in moisture. The oil is highly stable and very effective on dry skin, damaged hair and split ends.

 

 

 

 

K

 

• Kaolin  (Mt. Kaolin Clay) A fine, natural clay from Mt. Kaolin, China, known for its drawing properties. Often used in deep-cleansing face masks.

 

• Karite Butter. See Shea Butter .

 

• Kukui Nut Oil Aleurites moluccana. The oil of the kukui nut from Hawaii, rich in essential fatty acids. A natural moisturizer and skin protector.

 

 

 

 

L

 

• Lactic Acid An acid naturally occurring in milk and fruits, which produces pH levels like those of the hair and skin. A rich moisturizer.

 

• Lanolin. The oil obtained from the wool of sheep, used as an absorption base in moisturizers and hair products.

 

• Lavender-Glycerin - Lavandula angustifolia. Obtained by the maceration of lavender flowers in vegetable glycerin. Very soothing to the skin.

 

• Lavender Oil - Lavandula angustifolia. Essential oil obtained from lavender flowers. Added to skin and hair care preparations for its soothing and antiseptic properties and pleasant fragrance.

 

• Lavender Water Lavandula angustifolia. A byproduct of the distillation of lavender flowers, this hydrosol or floral water is a natural hydrating and soothing agent. An antiirritant and antiseptic, it is an excellent ingredient in facial cleansers, toners and lotions for sensitive skin.

 

• Lauryl Glycoside is a mild non-ionic surfactant designed to be used as a base for sudsing formulations such as shampoo, body washes and bubble bath. Lauryl glucoside is derived from Coconut and has an excellent and stable foam. Lauryl glucoside is useful in haircare products where it aids hair cleaning abilities.

 

• Lecithin A vegetable extract high in natural fatty acids. Most common sources are soybean oil and eggs. (See also Phospholipids .)

 

• Lemon Essential Oil.  The pure essential oil expressed from the peel of ripe lemons is astringent, antibacterial, antiseptic and cleansing. When applied to oily skin is can help reduce sebum production. Lemon oil can cause increased skin sensitivity to ultraviolet light if left on the skin. We only use citrus oils in our Miessence cleansers, because they are washed off the skin.

 

• Lemon Myrtle Essential Oil  Astringent, antibacterial, repairs The pure essential oil of Lemon Myrtle leaves and twigs is a potent antibacterial and antiseptic. It is excellent for acne conditions and oily skin.

 

• Lemon oil. The pure essential oil expressed from the peel of ripe lemons is astringent, antibacterial, antiseptic and cleansing. When applied to oily skin is can help reduce sebum production.

 

• Lemongrass - Cymbopogon citratus. Antimicrobial and antifungal often used as a fragrance. Has antioxidant properties. An excellent normalizer for oily skin.

 

• Lime Oil - Citrus aurantifolia. Essential oil extracted from the peel of the fruit. A natural antiseptic and tonic, often used as a scent.

 

 

 

M

 

• Macadamia Nut Oil - Macadamia ternifolia. An excellent moisturizer and protector for hair and skin. High in essential fatty acids, its natural affinity to human sebum makes it an excellent skin care ingredient.

 

• Magnolia Blossom Extract Magnolia acuminata. Natural tonic and anti-irritant added to face creams for its slight bleaching effect on the skin. Sometimes used as a fragrance.

 

• Mandarin Orange Peel Extract (Ju pi/chen pi) Citrus reticulata. Natural anti-inflammatory is known to improve skin and scalp circulation. Has a slight bleaching effect on the skin, helping fade freckles and other skin imperfections.

 

• Mango Butter - Mangifera indica. Butter made from the seed of the mango, similar to jojoba butter. An excellent moisturizer.

 

• Manuka - Leptospermum scoparium. Analgesic, antifungal and antibacterial. Used by New Zealand's Maori people for its medicinal properties, this herbal has five times the antiseptic properties of tea tree oil and has a pleasant, honey-like fragrance.

 

• Marigold. See Calendula

 

• Moroccan Clay (Rhassoul Clay) is a high-quality soothing clay for external use that stores indefinitely if kept dry. It is sourced from the Atlas Mountains in Morocco and is often used in spas for skin and hair. It is also called Ghassoul Clay, Red Clay, and Red Moroccan Clay.

 

• Mineral Water Water drawn from a spring, either naturally carbonated (such as Perrier) or still (such as Evian).

 

• Mint Any of a variety of aromatic plants (genus Mentha) used as a natural antiseptic and freshener. Sometimes added as fragrance. (See also Peppermint ; Spearmint .)

 

• Myrrh Essential Oil  The pure essential oil obtained from the resin from Myrrh tree has excellent anti-aging and anti-wrinkle properties. It is astringent (tones the skin) and promotes new cell generation. A superb moisturizer and freshener with skin-regenerating properties. Ideal for sensitive skin. Often used as a fragrance.

 

• Myrtle Herb Extract Myrtus communis. Aromatic stimulant and mild tonic sometimes used in suncare products for its soothing effect on sun-irritated skin.

 

 

 

N

 

• Natural Flower Oil. Oil extracted from flowers and used in synthetic-free perfumes and colognes. A natural fragrance.

 

• Neem Extract.  Natural insect repellent from the oil of the leaves of the neem tree.

 

• Neroli Essential Oil.  Extracted by steam distillation of orange blossom petals. Neroli is known to regenerate skin cells and improves the skin elasticity. It is also good for preventing acne, scarring and stretch marks.

 

• Nettle (Stinging Nettle) Urtica dioica. Excellent tonic and astringent, rich in phosphates and trace minerals. Promotes circulation to the skin and scalp and is said to stimulate hair growth, especially when combined with horsetail and coltsfoot. Its high silica and sulfur content make it very nourishing to the hair and scalp, and an excellent addition to products for thinning hair.

 

• Non-GMO. Not containing any genetically modified substances.

 

 

 

O

 

• Oatmeal Avena sativa. Natural cleanser and toner, its mild exfoliating action makes it an excellent addition to facial masks. Has a slight bleaching effect and is said to help fade age spots and other skin imperfections and to even out skin tones.

 

• Oat Protein - Avena sativa. Natural humectant clinically proven to increase hydration. Used in skin care products to smooth fine lines and wrinkles.

 

• Olive Extract  Repairs, tones, firms, and anti-oxidant. Olive extract is a unique anti-oxidant from the olive leaf. It protects both your skin and the polyunsaturated oils in our products from free radical damage. It reduces skin damage caused by pollution and UV radiation, therefore protecting the skin from photo aging. It also improves skin hydration and elasticity.

 

• Olive Oil - Olea europaea. Rich emollient high in oleic acid, very beneficial to the skin. Used in skin care preparations for thousands of years for its softening and smoothing properties.

 

• Olive Oil Castile - Olea europaea. Olive oil saponified with an alkaline salt becomes an excellent soap, mild and soothing to the skin. True olive oil castile soap should contain at least 40% pure olive oil.

 

• Orange, Sweet Essential Oil. The pure essential oil expressed from the peel of ripe oranges is astringent, antibacterial, antiseptic, toning and cleansing. Orange oil can cause increased skin sensitivity to ultraviolet light if left on the skin. We only use citrus oils in our Miessence cleansers, because they are washed off the skin.

 

• Orange Blossom Oil (Neroli) Citrus aurantium. Aromatic oil obtained from orange blossoms, often used as a fragrance. A mild astringent.

 

• Orange Oil. See Sweet Orange Oil.

 

• Organic Rosehip Oil. Rosehip Seed oil is used to reduce scarring and facial lines, soften scars and retard premature aging. It is high in vitamin F (essential fatty acids).

 

• Organic Safflower Oil. Used often in massage oils and as a carrier for essential oils. Can be useful blended with any of the oils on this page. Spreads easily and is suitable for all skin types. Safflower oil is expressed from safflower seeds. It has one of the highest linoleic acid contents of all known oils. Safflower oil has superior skin compatibility and increases the moisture content of the skin (skin hydration is proportional to the level of linoleic acid in the skin).

 

• Organic Sesame oil ( Sesamum Inicum ) High in mineral content and usedconsisting essentially of oleic and linoleic acids and very beneficial to the skin.

 

• Organic Vanilla extract. Derived from the vanilla bean and used for its greattaste and aroma.

 

 

 

P

 

• Palm Oil - Elaesis guineensis. Oil obtained from the seeds or fruit of the palm tree. Saponified with an alkaline salt, it is used in the manufacture of bar soaps.

 

• Palma Rosa Oil Cymbopogon martinii. Essential oil used for its pleasant scent and hydrating and tonic effects on the skin.

 

• Panthenol  (Vitamin B-5) Natural hair thickener that helps give hair body and hold. An excellent hydrator, it helps nourish and strengthen the scalp and promote hair health. Also used as a natural skin hydrator, it is sometimes known as Pantothenic Acid.

 

• Patchouli Pogostemon cablin. Aromatic essential oil used as a fragrance for its rich, herbaceous scent, and as a fixative in perfumes and soaps. The pure essential oil of Patchouli leaves is used to treat dry, mature or wrinkled skin, to rejuvenate, invigorate and restore.

 

• Peppermint Oil - Mentha piperita. Excellent antiseptic frequently used in shampoos and rinses for its toning effect on the scalp, and in bath oils for its warming/cooling properties on sore muscles. A natural antiinflammatory, very soothing to the skin and scalp.

 

• Pimenta Leaf Oil - Pimenta officinalis. Essential oil from the leaves of an evergreen tree indigenous to the West Indies. An antiseptic and astringent, it also acts as a scalp tonic. Often used as a flavoring agent or fragrance.

 

• Pine Needle Extract (Pine-tree) Abies siberica. The extract of pine-tree leaves, often blended with witch hazel, red vine and other herbals for its tonic, antiseptic and stimulating effect on the skin. Combined with hops, rosemary and horsetail, it makes an excellent addition to celltherapy moisturizers.

 

 

 

Q

 

 

 

R

 

• Roman Camomile Oil - Anthemis nobilis. Known for its antiinflammatory and skin-soothing properties, its use in hair and skin care goes back to ancient times. Brings out highlights in lighter hair.

 

• Rose Geranium Pelargonium roseum. Essential oil used in skin care for its soothing and aromatic properties. (See also Geranium .)

 

• Rosemary Extract - A potent natural antioxidant, protecting our oils from rancidity. Extracted from the fresh leaves of the herb. It’s properties are antibacterial, soothing and wound healing.

 

• Rosemary Oil - Rosmarinus officinalis. Essential oil beneficial to both hair and skin for its antioxidant, toning and purifying properties. In hair care products it is said to stimulate hair follicles to grow and encourage circulation to the scalp. Used in hair rinses, particularly in combination with sage, it soothes and conditions the scalp and helps remove buildup and prevent flaking.

 

 

 

 

S

 

• Safflower Oil - Carthamus tinctorius. Cold-pressed from safflower seeds. Rich in skin-soothing oleic acid and vitamin E.

 

• Sage Oil - Salvia officinalis. A purifier and tonic, its antibacterial action makes it ideal for sensitive skin or scalp and antidandruff preparations. It is often combined with rosemary in hair and skin care products, and like rosemary, it has antioxidant properties and is very beneficial to the skin and scalp.

 

• Sage Extract - Extracted from the fresh leaves of the shrub. Its properties are antibacterial, soothing, deodorant and strengthening. Traditionally used in mouthwashes to soothes and heal mouth ulcers.

 

• Sandalwood Oil - Santalum album. One of the oldest fragrance components, this aromatic essential oil has been in use for over 4000 years for its deep, woody, long-lasting scent. In recent years, the Indian sandalwood tree has become endangered. We use only farmed, sustainable Australian sandalwood in our products.

 

• Saponin. Natural glycoside that foams in water. A natural detergent.
  Sarsaparilla Root Smilax utilis. Mild, natural detergent and skin purifier. Contains saponins.

 

• Sea Buckthorn Oil - Hippophae rhamnoides. Richest herbal source of antioxidant vitamins E and A (beta carotene and other carotenoids), which help prevent the formation of free radicals. This nourishing oil is also high in essential fatty acids, particularly rare palmitoleic acid, a constituent of the skin's sebum.

 

• Sea Salt. Mineral-rich salt naturally obtained from sea water. Used in bath soaks and body scrubs for its softening effect on the skin.

 

• Shea Butter - Butyrospermum parkii. Moisture-rich butter obtained from the nuts of the Mangifolia tree in Central Africa, also known as karite butter or African butter. A superb emollient, high in fatty acids and other nutrients, it is an ideal ingredient for skin moisturizers, sun care products and hair conditioners.

 

• Silica. A mineral used in creams and lotions as a thickener and stabilizer. In suncare products, it works synergistically to increase the efficiency of sunscreen ingredients. Like talc, silica can cause serious damage to the lungs when the dry ingredient is inhaled, but is safe when applied topically.

 

• Sobitan Olivate, Cetearyl Olivate.  Non ionic, not ethoxylated, PEG-free, self-emulsifying system derived from olive oil. Soften and hydrates the hair.

 

• Sodium Cocoate Coconut oil (Cocos nucifera) saponified with an alkaline salt. A lathering agent in soaps. (See also Coconut Oil .)

 

• Sodium Hydroxide. An alkaline salt obtained when electrolysis (positive and negative poles) is applied to sea water or salt water. Chlorine collects at the positive pole, and sodium hydroxide collects at the negative pole.

 

• Sorbitol. A white, sweet, crystalline alcohol found in certain berries and fruits. Used as a moisturizing agent, and as a sugar substitute.

 

• Spearmint Oil - Mentha spicata. Essential oil used for its stimulating and tonic properties and refreshing fragrance.

 

• Squalane. A saturated hydrocarbon found in human sebum, added to cosmetics for its emollient and bactericidal properties. Squalane is typically obtained from shark liver oil, but the identical substance can be derived from olives. Olive oil squalane is more stable and much more compatible with the skin than its shark-derived counterpart.

 

• St. John's Wort - Hypericum perforatum. Although this calming herb is best known as a natural antidepressant, its oil form is an excellent emollient and skin softener, widely used in sun and skin care products for its healing properties on dry, irritated skin. Also beneficial to damaged hair and dry scalp. Not phototoxic when used topically.

 

• Sucrose. A derivative of cane sugar. Hydrates and encourages moisture retention in the skin.

 

• Sunflower Oil  - Helianthus annus. The extract from sunflower seeds, a rich emollient high in linoleic and oleic essential fatty acids. A good base for massage oils and lotions.

 

• Sweet Almond Oil - Amigdalus communis, var. dulcis. Excellent emollient high in oleic, linoleic and other fatty acids, ideal in the treatment of very dry skin. Soothing and moisturizing. A good absorption base.

 

• Sweet Orange Oil - Citrus sinensis. Essential oil expressed from the peel of sweet oranges (Navel, Jaffa, Valencia). An antiinflammatory, antibacterial and antifungal used for its refreshing properties and pleasant scent. Contains flavonoids and vitamins A, B, C and E.

 

• Sweet Orange - The pure essential oil expressed from the peel of ripe oranges is astringent, antibacterial, antiseptic, toning and cleansing.

 

 

 

T

 

• Tea Tree Oil - Melaleuca alternifolia. Essential oil with powerful antiseptic and germicidal properties, similar to eucalyptus oil. Due to its strong odor, it must be used in small amounts in cosmetics, but makes an excellent addition to dandruff shampoos and therapeutic masks and moisturizers and is excellent for the treatment of acne.

 

• Thyme Extract - Extracted from the leaves and flowering tops of the shrub. Thyme is antimicrobial, astringent and expectorant. Traditionally it has been used as a gargle for sore throats and for soothing coughs.

 

• Titanium Dioxide Naturally occurring mineral that actually deflects the sun's burning rays off the skin, offering significant protection from damaging UVA/UVB rays. Often combined with Padimate O, it is a superb ingredient for sunblocks.

 

 

U

 

• Urtica Dioica - (Stinging Nettle) Excellent tonic and astringent, rich in phosphates and trace minerals. Promotes circulation to the skin and scalp and is said to stimulate hair growth, especially when combined with horsetail and coltsfoot. Its high silica and sulfur content make it very nourishing to the hair and scalp, and an excellent addition to products for thinning hair.

 

 

 

V

 

• Vanilla Extract - Extracted from the cured vanilla pods. Vanilla is warming, soothing and an aphrodisiac. It also tastes and smells delicious!

 

• Vegetable Glycerin. Rich humectant, emollient and lubricant naturally extracted from vegetable oils, used in cosmetic formulations for thousands of years. (Synthetic glycerin, otherwise known as propylene glycol, is highly irritating to the skin and scalp and should be avoided.)

 

• Vitamin A. Antioxidant vitamin widely used (both internally and topically) in the treatment of acne and other skin conditions. Its topical application promotes the formation of new skin cells and helps regulate oil secretion in the sebaceous glands. Particularly beneficial for dry or sun-exposed skin, it is often found in sun protection creams for its antioxidant properties and its soothing and hydrating effect on the skin. (A deficiency of vitamin A in the body reduces the mucopolysaccharides in the skin, which accelerates the skin's aging process.) Also used as a natural preservative in cosmetics.

 

• Vitamin C  Powerful antioxidant and nutrient, very beneficial to the skin. Plays an essential role in building collagen, the connective tissue that makes up 70 percent of our skin. Vitamin C is also a natural preservative, protecting both the oil and water phases of cosmetics.

 

• Vitamin E  (d-Alpha Tocopherol) The most potent antioxidant vitamin around, it protects skin from cancer-causing free radicals and is essential for proper utilization of oxygen in the tissues. In cosmetics it also acts as a natural preservative, protecting the oil phase in creams and lotions.

 

• Vitamins A, C and E Their combined action, blended with citrus seed extract, makes an excellent natural preservative.

 

 

W

 

• Witch Hazel  Hamamelis virginiana. A byproduct of the distillation of the leaves and stems of the plant, this hydrosol or floral water is a natural astringent and tonic. An antiirritant and antiinflammatory, it is an excellent ingredient in facial cleansers, toners and lotions.

 

 

 

X

 

• Xantham Gum  A gum produced by the pure culture fermentation of a carbohydrate also called 'Corn Sugar Gum' . It is used as a non-toxic thickener and stabiliser.

 

 

 

 

Y

• Yarrow Achillea millefolium. Extract from the flower heads of this ancient herbal, a known anti-inflammatory and anti-irritant. It also adds sheen to the hair and has a firming action on the skin.

 

• Yucca Root Yucca schidigera. Mild, natural detergent used in shampoos and soaps for its foaming and purifying abilities. Contains saponins.

 

 

 

Z

• Zingiber Officinalis - (Ginger). Anti-inflammatory and stimulant with warming and soothing properties. Used in creams, lotions and hair care products, it promotes circulation to the skin and scalp. In both powdered and essential oil form, it is an excellent ingredient for bath soaks and other personal care products. Sometimes used as a fragrance.

 

• Zinc Mineral essential for growth and skin cell regeneration. Promotes healing. Often prescribed orally to help control some forms of acne.

 

• Zinc Oxide Occurring in nature as zincite, this water-insoluble substance makes an excellent sunblock, protecting skin from UVA and UVB rays.