Patchouli Essential Oil January 06 2023

Patchouli essential oil reminds us of nature with its oriental and tropical scent, a blend of woody and spicy notes. Thanks to its attractive and erotic scent, and its broad and velvety foliage, Patchouli is full of virtues. From the Lamiaceae family, Patchouli has stunning flowers ranging from white to pale mauve and oval leaves with angular stems. To produce the essential oil, the leaves are picked and then left to macerate. This fermentation phase is essential to extract this very special fragrance, which does not exist when the plant is fresh. 

This essential oil is capable of treating a multitude of ailments. The sesquiterpenes and sesquiterpenols contained in this essential oil tone the venous walls and activate the blood and lymphatic circulation, ideal for heavy legs or varicose veins. At the same time, it modulates the body's immune response, thus limiting redness and heat sensations resulting from inflammation, ideal for crevices, bedsores, eczema, acne, or oily skin. Patchouli is a tonic and a stimulant on all the functions of the organism, making it possible to maintain a good general state of shape, in particular, to stimulate the digestive functions, facilitating the normal functioning of the stomach. Patchoulol repels mosquitoes and parasites such as moths. In addition, this essential oil is a tissue regenerator, it prevents contamination of the area by bacteria and inhibits inflammation to promote healing. Finally, it stimulates the keratinocytes, cells of the epidermis producing the keratin which ensures the impermeability and the protection of the skin.

Featured in Love Mood Serum and Ylang Ylang and Patchouli deodorant

Peppermint Essential Oil January 06 2023

Thanks to its many interesting virtues against everyday problems, peppermint is the essential oil to have when you are interested in aromatherapy. Thanks to its high content of menthol, menthone, 1,8-cineole, and iso-menthone, peppermint essential oil has many virtues.

Its best-known action is probably its calming effects on migraines. Whether you have frequent migraines or you have partied a little too much, this essential oil provides a pleasant feeling of cold. You can massage your temples by diluting it in vegetable oil. Against migraines, you can use it in synergy with the essential oils of nutmeg, basil, and lavender diluted in an oily macerate of St. John's Wort for even more effect. Indeed, it is pain-relieving by local application, whether it is against headaches, muscle pain, strokes, or neuralgia.

In addition, it slightly anesthetizes the stomach lining thus preventing nausea, vomiting, or motion sickness. Tonic and stimulating in general, this hypertensive and neuro tonic oil stimulates the heart muscle and improves vigilance and concentration.

Peppermint essential oil is also great for digestion. Antispasmodic, it eliminates digestive and intestinal spasms by acting on the sphincter of Oddi and muscle contractions of the small intestine. Also, cholagogue and choleretic facilitate the evacuation of bile to the intestine and the secretion of bile by the liver. In addition, this essential oil prevents pro-inflammatory substances from forming and thus acts on repeated inflammations of the respiratory system and the colon. As a bonus, it eliminates bad breath.

Finally, peppermint essential oil is great for sanitizing your home. It has antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal, and antiparasitic properties. Indeed, it acts against many pathogenic bacteria, viruses including the herpes virus, fungi that cause lung infections, skin infections, candidiasis, and against intestinal parasites. Thus, this oil is recommended for gastroenteritis and difficult digestion.

Featured in Mint Lip Balm, Refresh Shampoo Bar and Breathe Balm

Pink Clay January 06 2023

Pink clay is a subtle blend of red and white clays for the perfect addition! Like all clays, it has effective absorption properties giving it major cleansing and purifying actions. This very soft clay, as a mask or as makeup, is ideal for scalps and sensitive skin to which it gives a healthy glow! It captures a large number of impurities, bacteria, and other parasites and captures excess sebum both on the skin and on the hair. Its naturally pink coloring is appreciated in make-up on the cheeks for a healthy glow blush. The granulometry of pink clay gives it cleansing and exfoliating properties ideal for gentle exfoliation of the skin. Clay can be used as a mask, for this, it is enough to mix it with a little hot water or vegetable and essential oils to obtain a paste. The preparation can then be applied to the skin or the hair directly. It is recommended to leave it on for 15-20 minutes making sure that the pink clay does not dry out and to do it again once a week. Pink clay is composed of white and red clay, it will promote skin regeneration and fight against rosacea, in particular thanks to its circulatory action. As a hair mask, pink clay cleanses the scalp by regulating sebum production and exfoliating to eliminate dandruff. On the lengths and ends, it helps restore shine and softness to tired hair.

Featured in Pink Blossom Face Mask

Pages Plum Kernel Oil January 06 2023

Did you know that plums are among the most ancient fruits? Archeologists have found their remains in Neolithic caves along with olives and grapes. This delicious and juicy fruit comes originally from Iran, but it is now cultivated around the world. There are at least 28 different plum varieties that offer striking colors and flavor profiles.

Our plum kernel oil is made by breaking the pits and cold-pressing the kernel to extract a beautiful golden oil. Reminiscent in the smell of sweet almonds, plum oil offers a rich marzipan-like aroma that is simply divine.

Plum kernel oil offers a rich profile of unsaturated and essential fatty acids that nourish and protect the skin. They calm irritations and strengthen the skin's hydrolipidic film to prevent skin dryness. Light in texture, the oil penetrates quickly into the skin while maintaining its silky soft. These benefits provide relief and nutrition for dry, irritated, and sensitive skin types, such as people with eczema and psoriasis.

Rich in vitamin E and sterols, plum kernel oil has powerful antioxidant properties to neutralize free radicals and fight against skin aging. Ideal in anti-aging care, it can also be sufficient on its own. It is therefore perfect for dry and mature skin.

Similarly, plum oil provides nourishment for dry, brittle, and weakened hair. Its fatty acids support hair health and soften its texture.

Featured in Rejuvenate Face Oil, Naked Cleansing Oil, Flourish Body Butter, Sense Body Butter, Nourish Body Butter

Rice Bran Oil January 06 2023

Rice bran oil is rich in unsaponifiable fatty acids with good properties for the skin, even in soap bars. It contains gamma-oryzanol, vitamin E, phytosterols, and ferulic acid. These powerful active ingredients work together in synergy as antioxidants for cell membranes. Rice bran oil leaves the skin soft without a feeling of the greasy film thanks to its penetrating power. It is rich in squalene which takes part in the skin’s lipid production. Squalene is also an antioxidant with anti-free radicals and anti-aging effects, they fight against the signs of skin aging such as age spots, dull skin, fine lines, or wrinkles. It struggles against external aggressions, in particular against pollution and tobacco additives. 

Rice bran oil is traditionally used to reduce diffuse redness and the appearance of dark circles which are due to decreased sleep, venous and lymphatic microcirculation caused by immobility of the eyelids. Calming and soothing by the presence of phytosterols, it is particularly useful for reducing the appearance of bags or dark circles under the eyes. To strengthen the attenuation of dark circles, you can mix it with tamanu oil to apply it under the eyes after a spray of immortal or witch hazel hydrosol. Thus, rice oil is particularly suitable for mature skin or skin prone to discomfort, with asphyxiated complexions, dullness, and subject to ambient pollution by the ambient air. 

The squalene also contained in rice bran oil boosts the production of sterols, a vitamin D precursor. In synergy with ferulic acid, it naturally suppresses melanin, the pigment responsible for tan and natural sun protection. In Japan, pale tan is sometimes desirable so rice bran oil is quite popular for this property. Then, the oil blocks UV rays so it’s a great sunscreen ingredient. But pay attention to avoid excessive sun exposure, even if you put on sunscreen.

This oil tends to partially solidify at room temperature. This does not alter its quality; it becomes liquid again by passing it under a trickle of lukewarm water.

Featured in Brownie Shampoo Bar, Chill Out Shampoo Bar, Refresh Shampoo Bar, Bee Happy Soap Bar, Carbon Star Soap Bar, Fjell Soap Bar, Sweet Earth Soap Bar

Rapeseed Oil January 06 2023

Rosa Damascena Essential Oil January 06 2023

The queen of flowers, as many call it, roses secrete one of the most exquisite aromatic oils known to humanity. For centuries ancient cultures and their rulers have worshiped this flower and used them in grand celebrations and various rituals. The ancient Egyptians considered roses a powerful symbol of love and beauty. They boiled the flowers into an oily residue, which they used in their beauty-enhancing rituals. Once used abundantly by Cleopatra today, this magnificent flower is cultivated only in a few places on our planet that offer the right growing conditions - Bulgaria, Turkey, Morocco, and Egypt. There are two rose species used in modern skincare, perfumery, and aromatherapy: Rose Damask (Rosa Damascena) and Rose de Mai (Rosa Centifolia). The former has a deep, potent scent, while the latter has a lighter, clean and sweet aroma. 

The Rose Valley in Bulgaria, where we source our rose oil, offers the perfect terroir conditions. With its 275 active compounds, including skin-nourishing vitamins, minerals, and protective antioxidants, our Bulgarian rose oil provides us with remarkable benefits for the body, mind, and soul.

Featured in Rejuvenate Face Oil, Pink Blossom Face Mask, Naked Cleansing Oil

Rosa Damascena Hydrosol January 06 2023

With an exceptional fragrance, Damascus Rose is known for its cosmetic as well as therapeutic benefits. Rose hydrosol has an elegant floral and slightly sweet aroma. With its humectant properties, it offers the skin deep hydration by attracting and retaining moisture in the tissue. In addition, it nourishes the skin with vitamin C and boosts collagen production, reducing the premature aging of the tissue. It also tightens the pores, making it a great skin toner. Damask Rose hydrosol is used a lot more than essential oil because it is cheaper and very effective. Hydrosol and essential have similar properties and can be used in menopause. Its soothing power calms eczema, and irritated eyes, but also stress and anxiety. Indeed, rose hydrosol is a nervous rebalancing and releases nervous tension, grief, mourning, and anger. It is also a hormone rebalancing without presenting a hormone-like risk, its slightly antispasmodic effect attenuating premenstrual pain, hot flashes, or excessive sweating. Cosmetic laboratory studies have shown that hydrosol protects cells and limits premature aging of the skin by limiting the production of reactive oxygen species on keratinocytes, and skin cells. The tightening and soothing effect of this floral water is particularly suitable for dry and mature skin, the complexion of which it improves, and the appearance of the skin in general. Finally, rose hydrosol is anti-inflammatory and reduces the dilation of blood vessels.

Featured in Hydrating Rose Mist

Rose Flower Extract January 06 2023

The rose is very popular in cosmetics and is used in compositions in different forms: floral water, essential oil, or even as a botanical extract.

In herbal medicine, they are used in herbal teas for their soothing properties in cases of stress and anxiety. You can also find oily macerates or make your own by putting dried petals into vegetable oil for a month. Then, you can apply it on your chest or your wrists for instance. Likewise, have you never seen beautiful photos of rose petal baths? While these baths are popular for their aesthetics, they also give you a wonderful feeling of relaxation. Finally, the rose brings a sweet floral scent to your cosmetic preparations or your bath.

In case of dry or irritated skin, you can apply an oily macerate or slip a few petals under a compress to benefit from the soothing effects of the rose. The rose calms itching, and skin problems such as eczema, redness, pruritus, and hives. With its soothing and tightening effect, the rose has astringent properties and it is particularly appreciated by dry and mature skin.

Featured in Naked Cleansing Oil, Pink Blossom Face Mask

Rose Geranium Essential Oil January 06 2023

With its sweet dewy and fruity scent, the essential oil of Rose Geranium is very popular for beauty treatments. It makes you forget about wrinkles, acne, herpes, and yeast infections and it is the essential oil of reference for people with diabetes. The essential oil of Rose Geranium is anti-Infectious, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, and insect-repellent thanks to its content of geraniol, citronellol, alcohols, esters, and monoterpene aldehydes. Indeed, this essence has strong antibacterial power, in particular against skin infections. It destroys the fungi produced by the yeast spores that cause many yeast infections, and it has a beneficial action against acute and chronic inflammation. Finally, the combination of geraniol and citronellol has a repellent action against all types of insects. The essential oil of Geranium Rosat is tonic, astringent, and healing because it tightens the mucous membranes and skin tissue and accelerates tissue repair, preventing inflammation to enhance the healing action. Finally, the essential oil is an antispasmodic and relaxant because it reduces the involuntary contraction of muscles by inhibiting the secretion of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter of muscle activity. By acting on ion channels and nerve receptors, it has a calming and relaxing action.

Featured in Rejuvenate Balm, Bali Balm

Rosehip Fruit Oil January 06 2023

Pressed from the fruit of wild Chilean Rosehips, the oil has been used for centuries. It is considered regenerative and nourishing because of its rich composition with compounds that benefit the skin directly. Most noteworthy of these compounds are the alpha-linoleic fatty acid, vitamins A, E, and C as well as tannins, carotenoids, and minerals. The vitamins play the role of antioxidants that delay the age-related breakdown of the cells and nourish the tissue. They also increase elastin and collagen further delaying the signs of aging.

The tannins add astringent qualities that tighten the pores and make the oil feel drier. Rosehip oil possesses a remarkable ability to regenerate damaged tissue and treat scars and blemishes. Its ability to heal and maintain the texture of the skin extends to deep wrinkles, UV damage, dark spots, and uneven pigmentation.

Rosehip oil varies in color from pale yellow to golden orange. Normally the deeper the color the richer the oil content of beneficial therapeutic compounds. On the skin, rose hip feels silky and luscious, absorbing quickly and completely - basically, the ideal face oil component.

Featured in Rejuvenate Face Oil, Bali Balm , and Repair Balm

Rosemary Essential Oil January 06 2023

Widely used in cooking, rosemary also has its place in aromatherapy. Our essential oil produced in Tunisia is obtained by distillation of the leaf.

A powerful tonic, Rosemary essential oil is reviving, refreshing, and strengthening. It offers sharp green top notes and balsamic, herbaceous undertones. The old saying "Rosemary for remembrance" proves correct. Psychologically, it is purifying and stimulating. Rosemary aids meditation by keeping the mind alert and assisting clear thought as well as inner vision. It improves concentration and creativity while strengthening the mind. In massage, it relaxes tight, overworked muscles and relieves fluid retention.

It has a reputation for improving hair growth and we used it in shampoo as a tonic for the scalp and to prevent dandruff. When used in a burner or diffuser, Rosemary prevents the spread of airborne infections.

Rich in 1,8-cineole, alpha-pinene, beta-pinene, and camphor, rosemary essential oil stimulates the mucin glands, which helps to thin mucus and facilitate its expulsion from the respiratory tract. It also has antifungal and bactericidal action. As a liver tonic, it alleviates hangovers when a few drops are added to a bath. It should be avoided throughout pregnancy, by children, and by people who suffer from epilepsy.

Featured in Refresh Shampoo Bar, Fjell Soap Bar, Sweet Earth Soap Bar, Breathe Balm

Sage Essential Oil January 06 2023

Officinal sage, an aromatic and decorative plant widespread in the Mediterranean scrub, should not be confused with clary sage, which is sweeter. The essential oil of officinal sage is a powerful antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral. Effective in case of infection, it is also expectorant and mucolytic. It is therefore prescribed in case of cough, bronchitis, sinusitis … 

Sage essential oil has hormone-like action, meaning it mimics hormones. It thus relieves painful periods, helps to regulate menstrual cycles, to fight against amenorrhea or symptoms of menopause and premenopause. It calms in particular the hot flashes, which frequent at this period of the female cycle.

Sage essential oil helps rebalance oily skin. In addition, thanks to its anti-infectious and astringent properties, it refines the skin texture and fights against acne. It also participates in skin regeneration and helps to heal. Finally, it regulates excessive appetites, facilitates the elimination of fat, and fights against cellulite.

Be careful, the essential oil of officinal sage is particularly powerful and should not be used without medical advice. In high doses, it is highly neurotoxic because of its thujone content so stick to the prescribed doses.

Featured in Relax Mood Serum and Balance Face Oil

Sea Buckthorn Fruit Oil January 06 2023

Sea buckthorn oil has been known since Antiquity under its botanical name Hippophae which comes from the Greek hippos meaning horse and phaos meaning light, shine. This designation reflects its use because according to legend, Alexander the Great used sea buckthorn to give a wonderful shine to his horses’ coats. In the 8th century, in Central Asia, it was widely used by Tibetan monks in first aid kits to treat wounds and calm irritations. Traditionally used in Europe as food, medicine, and skincare, it is still appreciated today.

Sea buckthorn pulp oil is one of the richest in unsaturated fatty acids, ideal for skin care. Indeed, it is one of the only vegetable oils rich in omega-7 palmitoleic acid, a common constituent in our adipose tissue. Thanks to its extremely high level of vitamin E, C, B1, B2, and K, carotenoids, and flavonoids, it has antioxidant, anti-free radical, and anti-aging activity. Thus, it helps to limit the appearance of wrinkles and premature aging.

Sea buckthorn oil is exceptionally nourishing, moisturizing, softening, and protective, it helps maintain skin elasticity and regenerates the hydrolipidic film. In facial care, it is suitable for all skin types. In the event of irritated skin or small wounds, it has an anti-inflammatory activity thanks to its richness in omega-3 and sterols. It soothes and repairs the skin in case of burns, sunburn, or eczema.

The orange tint of the oil comes from its high concentration of carotenoids and lycopene. It gives you a delicate and harmonious complexion and protects you against damaging UV exposure. Prefer to dilute it in another vegetable oil to avoid skin coloring.

Featured in Rejuvenate Face Oil

Sesame Seed Oil January 06 2023

Native to India, sesame has been known for at least 3000 years! It is an annual herbaceous plant of 1 to 1.5m in height giving fruits in the form of a capsule with several compartments. One capsule closes up to 200 sesame seeds. Sesame vegetable oil is obtained by cold mechanical pressing of the seeds. Sesame oil contains vitamin E, an anti-free radical antioxidant that protects cell membranes from oxidation. In addition, it contains other sesamin, sesamolin, sesamol, sesaminol, and other natural antioxidants favorable to the reconstitution of cells. Thanks to its very nourishing virtues, it allows regenerating the epidermis and thus has anti-aging virtues, helps reduce skin spots, and protects the skin from external aggressions such as UV rays. It also fights against irritation and flaking of the skin and it nourishes and strengthens the hair fiber and nails. It is rich in unsaturated fatty acids and essential to provide care and protection to the skin. Not all vegetable oils necessarily give a shiny finish, sesame oil is very penetrating and does not leave a greasy film on the skin. The unsaturated fatty acids in sesame oil give it anti-inflammatory and soothing properties that are ideal for skin conditions such as burns, cracks, chapped skin, and dermatitis or skin inflammation such as psoriasis and eczema.

Shea Butter January 06 2023

From the nuts of the Shea tree, an emblematic tree of the savannahs, Shea butter has been used for centuries by local West African populations. Its nourishing, moisturizing, and protective properties make it very popular in both aromatherapy and cosmetics. Butter is part of the family of vegetable oils because if it is solid at room temperature, it melts at around 35 ° C.

Shea Butter is recognized for its use in cosmetic care, but did you know that it can be consumed in its pure, unrefined, and unscented form? It is generally the African population who consumes the pulp of the fruits in sauce or frying. Very rich in unsaturated fatty acids, it contains "good" fats, beneficial for the cardiovascular system. However, like any product rich in lipids, its consumption should be moderate.

The lipids of shea butter constituting the majority, allow it to easily pass the skin barrier and keep the upper layer of the epidermis hydrated, effectively, and durably. Indeed, it is very penetrating and is quickly absorbed by the epidermis. Thanks to its esters, it softens the skin to make it less sensitive to external aggressions while promoting healing. It is suitable for dry and sensitive skin and hair.

It is ideal in case of crevices or chapping and dermatosis thanks to its rich and creamy texture which gives it anti-inflammatory, soothing, softening, and protective properties. It is also rich in vitamins, A, D, and E, which nourish the skin deeply and accelerate healing. Indeed, shea butter contains a lot of unsaponifiable fatty acids, lupeol, and beta-amyrin known for their anti-inflammatory properties.

Shea butter helps restore elasticity and firmness to the skin. Its application in massage activates micro-circulation and thus fights against cellulite.

Used in the prevention or after sunbathing, shea butter protects the skin from UV rays and environmental attacks. It absorbs some of the UV rays and prolongs the tan but be careful to use sunscreen, Shea Butter will only strengthen its action. The vitamin E present in this butter has an important antioxidant and cell-regenerating role to counterbalance the effects of the sun but also skin aging. Indeed, this vitamin provides the energy necessary for metabolism to produce cells in large numbers, promoting healing and cell renewal.

Featured in Chill Out Shampoo Bar, Baby Bath Shampoo Bar, Brownie Shampoo Bar, Refresh Shampoo Bar, Carbon Star Soap Bar, Fjell Soap Bar, Sweet Earth Soap Bar, Flourish Body Butter, Nourish Body Butter, and Sense Body Butter.

Sodium Bicarbonate January 06 2023

More and more of us are moving towards a more environmentally friendly lifestyle. Therefore, we hear more and more about baking soda, this white powder, natural and ecological with various uses. In the kitchen, in the household, in medicine, in cosmetics, or even in painting, it is found everywhere.

Baking soda comes as a very fine white powder that is odorless and soluble in water. To obtain it, there are two methods. On the one hand, bicarbonate is found naturally because it corresponds to nahcolite, a mineral species. However, this form is quite rare and non-existent in Europe, it is rather found in the United States. It is possible to import it, but the carbon footprint generated by transport is not worth it. Instead, manufacturers have established a process for synthesizing the called Solvay process. Baking soda is obtained from natural products: salt (sodium chloride), chalk (calcium carbonate), and ammonia. In reality, there is a slight difference between baking soda and sodium bicarbonate, the former being a byproduct of the manufacture of the latter.

The properties of baking soda are numerous, let's start with its cosmetic use. 

• The baking soda protects the enamel on the teeth and polishes them very gently to make them whiter. All you need to do is sprinkle baking soda on your toothbrush with or without toothpaste and brush them as usual. To enhance the whiteness effect you can add a drop of lemon essential oil. However, do not do this treatment more than once a week, as it may have the opposite effect and damage your teeth.
• You can use it as a mouthwash to fight bad breath and relieve minor mouth problems. In a glass of water, add ½ teaspoon of baking soda, with or without essential oils. For good breath, clove, peppermint, or lemon are recommended.
• To make a scrub, mix water or vegetable oil with baking soda to form a smooth paste. Then gently massage your previously cleansed face to remove dead cells.
• Apply a small amount of baking soda under your armpits to absorb moisture, fight perspiration and eliminate bad odors.
• If your bathwater is too hard, you can add the equivalent of half a glass of baking soda to soften it and come out with very soft skin.
• To combat itching from insect bites, and chickenpox pimples, you can apply a paste of bicarbonate of soda and water to the pimple.

There are also many household uses for sodium bicarbonate.

• Bad odors are often caused by acidic or basic substances. However, bicarbonate has a buffering power which means that it rebalances everything. Thus, it fights against bad odors. To deodorize:
• the refrigerator: place a cup inside of it
• the trash or the shoes: pour a small amount into the bottom
• the sofa or a mattress: sprinkle over the entire surface, leave to act for at least 30min then vacuum. It also helps fight allergies.
• the pipes: pour a little into the pipe, leave to act and then run the water
• and even the dog! Like dry shampoo, sprinkle it on your pet, massage well then brush.
• To unclog and clean the pipes, pour baking soda and then white vinegar. Avoid mixing the two in advance, they will lose their effect. When the excitement is over, turn on the water.
• Baking soda removes traces of limestone. To do this, pour a small amount on the sponge or directly on the surface to be cleaned.
• To remove burn marks on your dishes, simply soak baking soda and hot water in the pan, on the baking tray, or on another surface. Or, form a paste with the baking soda and water, let sit, and then clean.

Finally, baking soda can be used in cooking for medication.

• On vegetables, baking soda does two things. Before cooking, he cleans them thoroughly to remove all impurities. While cooking, it retains the color of the vegetables.
• Bicarbonate is an excellent leavening agent. It reacts with heat, beyond 70°C there is a production of gaseous CO2. So to make soft and airy cakes, you can add a small amount of baking soda to the dough.

Now that you know all the secrets of baking soda, how are you going to use it?

Featured in Ylang Ylang and Patchouli Deodorant, Vetiver and Lemongrass Deodorant

Sodium Hydroxide January 06 2023

Sodium hydroxide better known as caustic soda seems to mismatch with other natural ingredients? In fact, this is authorized in organic products because it doesn’t pose any problems under the conditions of the regulations. In addition, this ingredient is essential to produce soaps. The making process to produce soap is a chemical reaction called saponification. During this process, soda completely reacts with fatty acids from oils or butters to produce natural glycerin and soap. The first way to saponify, used by the industry to make soap faster is to heat the preparation. With this method, at the end of the hot process, the soap is ready to use. But oils and butters are denatured and lose some of their properties with heat. The second way that we use at Neven, is cold saponification. After the making, the reaction continues for a month so it is absolutely not possible to use the soap during this period. But as a result of this process, the soap is naturally rich in glycerin which gives smoothness and hydration to your skin. Furthermore, vegetable oils and butters contain an unsaponifiable fraction which means these compounds don’t react with soda. These substances are very interesting because they have desired properties like antioxidant, nourishing, emollient, softening, and protective effects. Therefore the formula of the soap will give it unique properties that are not found in the industrial process. 

Featured in Baby Bath Soap Bar, Brownie Soap Bar, Chill Out Soap Bar, Refresh Soap Bar, Bee Happy Soap Bar, Carbon Star Soap Bar, Fjell Soap Bar, Sweet Earth Soap Bar

Spirulina Extract January 06 2023

Spirulina is a seaweed widely consumed as a food supplement thanks to its nutritional properties. Its richness in proteins, minerals, trace elements, essential fatty acids, and vitamins is highly beneficial for the body. If this alga is beneficial when ingested, it is just as beneficial when applied to the skin. Spirulina is a spiral-shaped cyanobacterium - a sustainable bioactive microalga - commonly known as blue algae for its concentration of phycocyanin, a blue pigment. It grows naturally in freshwater lakes, between 20 and 40°C, at a pH of 9 to 11.

If spirulina is so beneficial, it is because it has no cellulose wall, its cellular content and its active ingredients are therefore more accessible. Its content of amino acids, vitamins, and antioxidants also makes it interesting for slowing down the appearance of wrinkles or for strengthening hair. Indeed, spirulina is rich in phycocyanin, beta-carotene, zinc, and above all in vitamin E which are natural antioxidants. Those molecules fight against free radicals and reactive aldehydes which can be in the body, responsible for premature skin aging.

In addition, spirulina has exceptional revitalizing, fortifying, and nutritive properties. It improves the suppleness and elasticity of the skin and helps prevent the appearance of wrinkles.

In addition, this algae promotes healthy sun protection, to treat skin pigmentation disorders often associated with skin aging and exposure to UV rays from the sun. Thanks to flavonoids and triterpenoids, spirulina has an anti-inflammatory power that helps to heal minor wounds

Then, by its richness in beta-carotene - the precursor of vitamin A - spirulina accelerates, intensifies, and prolongs tanning. The B vitamins promote the growth and good health of hair and nails, while minerals such as calcium enhance their quality and beauty. Finally, spirulina brings a pretty bluish-green tint to your cosmetics but only use it in low doses in leave-on products because it can color the skin.

Featured in Refresh Shampoo Bar

Starch January 06 2023

Starch is a complex carbohydrate made up of many glucose molecules. It represents a reserve of energy for the plants which contain it but also for us, the consumers. In food and cosmetics, starch is a thickener and viscosity enhancer, useful to make a paste. Starch has a significant absorbent power to fight against humidity and sweat. This is why it is often used in the composition of natural deodorants. The thinner the particle size, the more the product absorbs water and makes the product thicker. For instance, rice starch is thinner than corn starch so you need less rice starch than corn starch for the same result. These absorbent properties give the starch a mattifying power which can be appreciated in makeup compositions with a matt effect. As a powder, starch fits in the small hollows of the skin like fine lines, wrinkles, and blemishes. Therefore, it minimizes their appearance. This property is beneficial for anti-wrinkles cosmetics, serums that smooth the skin, or lipsticks to hide the fine lines of the lips.

Featured in Ylang Ylang and Patchouli deodorant, Lemongrass, and Vetiver deodorant

Tamanu or Calophyllum Inophyllum Seed Oil January 06 2023

Tamanu or foraha oil is pressed from the nuts of a large tropical evergreen tree found throughout the Pacific basin. It is historically known to be a potent remedy within many cultures such as Tahiti, Hawaii, Samoa, India, and Madagascar where all of the tree parts have been used in healing traditions since ancient times. Tamanu oil possesses anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and analgesic properties while being non-toxic and non-irritating. Because of its unique composition, It can reportedly penetrate all three layers of the skin where it rapidly regenerates new skin, repairs nerves, and diminishes scarring. Tamanu has been proven useful in treating open wounds, eczema, psoriasis, burns, fissures, and infections. Among the exceptional components that make its composition unusual are the unique calaphyllic fatty acid as well as glycolipids, phospholipids, and a phyto-healing compound called calophyllolide. With its highly therapeutic properties, tamanu is often referred to as "green gold. " It has a thick, yet silky texture and dark green color. Tamanu offers a characteristic healing scent that resonates in salves and soaps with pleasant, pungent, and nutty notes. You may find it in our repair salve as well as in some of our therapeutic soaps/shampoos.

Featured in Bali Balm and Repair Balm

Tea Tree Essential Oil January 06 2023

Tea tree oil is one of the most famous essential oils to treat acne. And it's true, tea tree essential oil is highly bactericidal (from an EO concentration of 1%), but also bacteriostatic. It even acts against microorganisms resistant to antibiotics and bacteria responsible for acne. But this is not the only purpose of it. Tea tree essential oil is an antifungal agent that destroys the fungi that cause the following yeast infections: candidiasis, athlete's foot, and onychomycosis. It is also an antiprotozoal and antiparasitic that destroys the trichomonas vaginalis, which causes some vaginal infections. It is also an antiparasitic helping to fight against lice, mites, mites, and ticks. In addition, it is antiviral activity against many viruses, including HSV (herpes) and Influenza (flu). It is an antiseptic to have with you in case of a wound or a minor ailment, moreover, the small size of essential oil bottles fits easily in a first aid kit, backpack, or purse. You can apply tea tree oil directly on a small surface: a spot, an insect bite, or a wound for instance. Tea tree oil is very versatile and can also be beneficial in cases of tooth abscess, yeast infection, digestive infection, tonsillitis, bronchitis, common cold, ENT infection, shingles, ringworm, scabies, tooth pain, radiotherapy burn, and psoriasis. Finally, tea tree oil is also a very good essential oil to clean your house with natural products, thanks to its antibacterial property, your equipment will be clean and sanitized.

Featured in Balance Face Oil

Thyme Borneol Essential Oil January 06 2023

Thyme borneol also called thyme with savory leaves is a shrub that grows on the stony and dry soils of Morocco. The essential oil of thyme with savory leaves is highly concentrated in borneol, alpha terpineol, thymol, camphene, and carvacrol. Carvacrol is a powerful bactericide that helps fight all types of infections including nosocomial infections - infections contracted during a stay in a health establishment - caused by very resistant bacteria. In addition, borneol and terpineol will fight against the development of bacteria sensitive to penicillin. The thymol present will fight against parasites present in the body such as helminths and protozoa. Then, borneol is a powerful immunomodulant that stimulates or slows down the responses of the body's immune system. Thyme borneol essential oil is a powerful tonic, the terpenes stimulate many functions of the body and help to maintain a good general state of shape and to fight against mental, physical, or sexual fatigue. Finally, this essential oil will stimulate sexual functions and therefore sexual desire in addition to increasing the tone of the muscles of the uterus.

Featured in Breathe Balm

Turmeric Powder January 06 2023

Did you know that some spices have as many benefits in food as in cosmetics? Turmeric is a perfect example to illustrate that. Turmeric powder is made from the roots or rhizomes of the plant of the same name. Its antioxidant power protects cells from free radicals and fights against lipid oxidation of the membranes of our cells. Thereby, it prevents skin aging and wrinkles thanks to its inhibitory action on the activity of elastase - an enzyme responsible for signs of aging. Plus, it revives dull skin by giving a healthy glow. Turmeric is part of pre-wedding skincare in India, especially during the Haldi ritual. Turmeric paste is applied to the skin of the bride and groom to make them glow. Turmeric also soothes delicate skins and scalps and makes supple and shiny hair by facilitating the cleaning of dead cells. Turmeric improves skin elasticity and activates blood micro-circulation, ideal for reducing dark circles and reducing puffiness under the eyes due to fatigue. Curcumin is antiseptic, anti-inflammatory and healing, helping to fight the proliferation of bacteria responsible for the inflammation responsible for acne pimples. Its anti-inflammatory properties help reduce the inflammation of acne leading to redness and pimples. The effect of turmeric on acne is even more effective when combined with apple cider vinegar, which has astringent effects, as well as honey. Likewise, it helps reduce skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis. The feeling of well-being is even better in association with honey providing a feeling of freshness and calming the itching. Finally, turmeric has healing properties, ideal for acne marks, hyperpigmentation, and stretch marks. But be careful with turmeric because it contains curcumin, a powerful dye. If you use too much of it, it can dye your skin or your hair with a yellow tint which can take time to go out.

Featured in Bee Happy Soap Bar

Vetiver Essential Oil January 06 2023

Vetiver is a plant from Sri Lanka whose roots can reach 3 meters deep! According to the Sri Lankan legend, it would thus draw the "life force" of the earth. Its essential oil with a woody scent is widely used in perfumery and helps to relax and de-stress and calm insomnia. Vetiver essential oil is highly concentrated in sesquiterpenes and sesquiterpenols which tone the venous walls and activate blood and lymphatic circulation. These properties are particularly helpful in the case of edema, varicose veins, and phlebitis. You can massage your legs to improve their effects but be careful, phlebitis can be serious and massage not recommended, always seek advice from a health professional. Vetiver is endocrine rebalancing, stimulating the endocrine glands responsible for hormone production. It causes or promotes menstruation by stimulating blood flow in the uterus. Vetiver is an immunostimulant, increasing the body's defenses against pathogens agents, and anti-inflammatory, modulating the body's immune response to an attack suffered thanks to sesquiterpenes, thus limiting the redness and sensations of heat resulting from the inflammation. Be careful, this essential oil must be diluted in vegetable oil before skin application or with other essential oils before diffusion and it is reserved for adults and adolescents.

Featured in Relax Mood Serum, Lemongrass and Vetiver Deodorant

Vitamin E January 06 2023

Vitamin E also called tocopherol is an essential ingredient for natural oil-based cosmetics. Vitamin E is considered a natural conservative because it is a powerful antioxidant extracted from sunflower oil. Antioxidants prevent a natural reaction called rancidity. During this reaction, fatty acids composing oil lipids are modified by dioxygen. The fatty acid loses one hydrogen atom with an electron creating a water molecule and an unsafe free radical. A cascade of reactions ensues producing reactive aldehydes. The danger of both molecules isn’t limited to vegetable oils, it also damages our body. Without antioxidants, free radicals and reactive aldehydes accumulate in the oil and then, into the body, causing tissue injuries and degenerative diseases. Antioxidants block the action of free radicals on the skin - a consequence of rancidity, pollution, or UV exposure for instance. Otherwise, vitamin E maintains the elasticity and hydration of the skin by strengthening the skin’s hydrolipidic film. It means that vitamin E forms a protective barrier around your skin cells to retain their natural hydration and protect it from external aggressions.

Furthermore, it improves skin microcirculation and the appearance of dark circles or puffiness is mainly attributable to poor blood circulation and lymphatic tissue dysregulation. These last 3 properties help to prevent wrinkles and premature skin aging. Finally, vitamin E has anti-inflammatory activity by reducing cytokine levels, useful in case of sunburn or erythema for instance.

Featured in Rejuvenate Face Oil, Balance Face Oil, Love Mood Serum, Relax Mood Serum, Mint Lip Balm, Blood Orange Lip Balm, Cocoa Lip Balm, Soothe Balm, Repair Balm, Breathe Balm, Rejuvenate Balm, Bali Balm, Flourish Body Butter, Sense Body Butter, Nourish Body Butter, Ylang-Ylang and Patchouli Deodorant, and Vetiver and Lemongrass Deodorant

Ylang Ylang Essential Oil January 06 2023

Is there a better smell than Ylang Ylang to give yourself a boost? This oil with a powerful and voluptuous fragrance is known to act against stress and restlessness and for its tonic, regulating, and regenerating effects. It is also well-known as an aphrodisiac for men and women.

Ylang Ylang, a tree that grows in Asia and Madagascar offers sweet fragrance flowers. The term Cananga comes from the Indonesian name of the tree “kenanga”. On one hand, Ylang Ylang oil helps regulate heart rate, especially for people with tachycardia or high blood pressure. It also helps to calm anxiety attacks or excessive stress. On the other hand, it gives you a boost, invigorates, and helps to fight physical or mental fatigue. Finally, Ylang Ylang helps you to transform your negative energy into a positive strength. This oil slows down hair loss so you can add one drop into your shampoo or 1 drop into your hair mask and let it stand for an hour. You can also use our jojoba, avocado, or argan oils as a hair mask. Finally, one of the most famous uses for Ylang Ylang is its aphrodisiac power. This potential is due to toning molecules: linalool, moterpene, and sesquiterpene alcohols which stimulate the production of dopamine, a neurotransmitter involved in the neurological processes of pleasure. Thanks to its relaxing action on the central nervous system, Ylang Ylang essential oil fights against the drop in libido caused by stress. In synergy with Ginger, Fragrant Verbena, and Cinnamon essential oils for men and synergy with Neroli, Geranium Rosat essential oils for women, Ylang Ylang can be mixed with hazelnut oil massaged in the lower back. However, be careful with essential oils, especially with Ylang Ylang. This oil has to be mixed with other essential oils during diffusion to avoid headache and nausea, the maximum recommended dosage is one drop of Ylang Ylang with 7 to 10 drops of other fragrances. In the same way, for a skin application, the maximum recommended dosage is one drop of Ylang Ylang with 5 drops of vegetable oil. 

Have you heard of Ylang Ylang Extra, I, II, III, and Complete? This designation depends on the duration of the flower distillation. The essential oil we use is the Ylang Ylang Extra, extracted in the first half-hour of the distillation process, it is the most expensive but above all the most fragrant. Ylang Ylang I, II, III, and Complete are distilled longer and longer and their effects aren’t identical even if they are similar.

Featured in Balance Face Oil, Love Mood Serum, Sence Body Butter, Ylang-Ylang, and Patchouli Deodorant