Materia Medica
A collection of Wyrd botanicals and their expressions
A Materia Medica is a body of collected knowledge about the healing properties of plant materials. Here are the ones we work with. We include their basic composition, traditional uses, history and lore, sometimes going back thousands of years. We thoughtfully select each ingredient for superior quality, sustainable cultivation and in concert with the other botanicals in each Wyrd formula. Like us, plant allies often work better together.
The dew drops that gather on the scalloped leaves of this plant were once thought to have alchemical powers, hence the botanical name Alchemilla. The common name of Lady’s Mantle refers to the leaves resembling a cloak worn by a lady in medieval times. For centuries, Alchemilla has been taken internally to ease feminine woes, but it also has compounds useful in skincare. Astringent salicylic acid and tannins help tighten up the skin, condition it and improve the exfoliation of dead skin cells. It also contains phenolic acids and flavonoids that are powerful antioxidants that fight back against damage from free radicals.
Ambrette seed CO2 is extracted from the seeds of a Hibiscus plant native to the tropics of Asia, Northern Australia and Africa. The oil from the seed was once frequently used as a substitute in perfumes for animal musk, but has since been mostly replaced with synthetics. We still use the real deal as its exalting effects are unparalleled.
Extracted from the kernels of the Argan tree in Morocco by a co-op of Berber women, this oil has a balanced amount of oleic and linoleic acids, along with vitamins A and E. The method of harvesting Argan kernels is worth mentioning. Acrobatic goats will climb the thorny trees and swallow the nuts. They're more easily collected after being excreted on the ground. But not to worry, as the hard shell protects them from any offensize material.
Atlas cedar, is a species of tree in the pine family native to the Atlas Mountains of Morocco (Middle Atlas, High Atlas), to the Rif, and to the Tell Atlas in Algeria. Considered one of the earliest incense materials, Atlas Cedar has a warm, balsamic and woody scent. The essential oil is thought to help restlessness and encourage confidence, perhaps sharing something of the spirit of a tree that can grow to 130 feet.
Balsam fir is a North American tree, native to most of eastern and central Canada and the northeastern United States. Native Americans used Balsam fir for medicinal and therapeutic purposes for thousands of years. It contains high levels of vitamin C, along and is comprised primarily of Alpha Pinene, Beta Pinene and other monoterpenes. The abundance of monoterpenes, particularly the Pinene and Limonene, contribute to its therapeutic applications and aroma. The essential oil has an elevating coniferous scent with the same molecules you’d find in forest air.
Baobob is a long lived tree native to Africa and Tanzania. One notable specimen in Zimbabwe was 2,450 years old when it died, making it the longest lived angiosperm ever documented. The oil squeezed from the Baobob’s fruit is rich in Vitamin C with omega-3, omega-6, and omega-9 fatty acids that aid in locking in moisture.
Barberry is native to Asia, but has spread prolifically to most of Europe and North America and is now considered an invasive species. Luckily, it has many uses in folk medicine that date back 2,500 years. The fruit and bark of this plant has been used to treat diarrhea, reduce fever, improve appetite, relieve upset stomach and promote vigor. For skincare purposes, the cleansing compound Berberine found in its bark is very effective for keeping pores clean.
The word “basil” comes from the ancient Greek “basilikhon” which means “royal”. A member of the mint family, basil’s history in spiritual, medicinal and culinary traditions is indeed long and illustrious. It’s been used to prepare holy water, flavor spaghetti sauce and as fortifying tea. Essential oils in basil, including eugenol, linalool, and citronellol, help to fight inflammation and have antibacterial qualities. In aromatherapy, it is said to clear the mind and considered a natural study aid.
Native to southern Italy, Bergamot’s etymological origin is from the Italian Bergamotta, which comes from the Turkish or the “lord’s pear.” Bergamot oil is rich in linalyl acetate, a terpene also found in lavender and clary sage, with anti-inflammatory effects on skin. Aroma-Therapeutically, its lightly floral citrusy scent both calms and uplifts. Standard bergamot essential oil is photosensitizing, i.e. can cause skin to burn in the sun, so we use Bergamot FCF (furanocoumarin-free) that is safe to use outdoors.
Native to Southern and Eastern Europe, and known in German as alles zutraut, meaning “capable of anything,” blue chamomile has been recorded in folk medicine use as far back as 78 AD. Among the different chamomiles, this one has the highest levels of the terpene azulene, which gives it a deep blue hue when distilled. Azulene has a soothing effect on skin and muscles, which makes blue chamomile particularly suited to topical applications. It can also be ingested in small amounts as a stress reliever. Blue chamomile contains the monoterpene Myrcene, also found in hops and cannabis, that has been researched for its powerful sedative effects.
Like Blue Chamomile, blue tansy contains high levels of azulene and bears the same indigo hue. It also has a hefty dose of camphor, whose cool soothing qualities have been shown to repair UV damage, along with the monoterpene Sabinene, an anti-inflammatory that gives pepper its spiciness. Blue tansy is mostly cultivated in Morocco
Before the use of hops, Bog Myrtle was used in medieval ales as a preservative. Used as an antidepressant since the dark ages, the unprocessed plant also has hallucinogenic properties. Viking warriors known as “Berserkers'' would lace their ale with it to whip themselves into a psychedelic frenzy before battle, hence the phrase “going berserk.” Bog Myrtle essential oil has fewer irritants than other oils like Tea Tree, with the same antibacterial qualities, so it’s perfect for acne-prone and sensitive skin. Bog Myrtle is cultivated in boggy areas of Scotland and the UK, where few other plants will grow, and supports local farmers and wildlife there.
Cacay oil comes from the seeds of the Cacay tree, harvested by hand by indigenous tribes in the Amazon. Cacay seed oil is loaded with linoleic acid, a polyunsaturated omega-6 fatty acid and one of the primary components that make up the outer membrane of healthy skin cells. The oil activates your skin’s renewal process with natural occurring Retinol (Vitamin A), a well known anti-oxidant that aids in activating the skin’s natural renewal process and reducing the appearance of wrinkles.
Grown in Japan, and harvested from the classic winter blooming shrubs, Camellia Seed oil is highly penetrating and contains Squalene, which boosts skin’s natural emollients that guard against premature aging.
Cannabidiol or CBD is a cannabinoid that occurs naturally in the cannabis plant. While the THC found in the cannabis plant is well known for the mind-altering "high" it produces, CBD is not psychoactive. However, it does seem to produce significant changes in the body and skin. Our bodies produce certain cannabinoids on their own and each of us has two receptors for cannabinoids, called CB1 receptors and CB2 receptors in our immune system, central nervous system and our skin. CB2 receptors are more common in the immune system and directly affect inflammation. CBD attaches itself to these receptors, but does not act on them directly. Instead, it seems to help the body to use more of its own cannabinoids to fight inflammation. Recently, researchers from the University of Colorado School of Medicine reviewed several studies pertaining to the effect of CBD on skin. The team found that cannabis plant extracts reduced inflammation and itch in cases of psoriasis, eczema, and allergic dermatitis when applied to the skin. In the beauty industry’s experiments with CBD, researchers have confirmed the oil’s incredible moisturizing and properties, due to its high levels of essential fatty acids. A 2014 study explored the effects of CBD on human sebocytes, the cells that create sebum. While sebum helps protect our skin, excess sebum can result in acne. The study indicates that CBD can prevent sebocytes from creating too much sebum, and therefore can help reduce oil production. We use a full spectrum CBD and jojoba blend made especially for Wyrd by Bravo Botanicals, an organic, no-till hemp farm in Vermont.
Carrot seed is native to Europe, but heavily naturalized throughout North America. Its documented medicinal use can be traced back 2000 years ago, where Aulus Cornelius Celsus mentioned the use of wild carrot seeds in his work ‘De medicina.’ The Romans, with their penchant for orgies, used a tincture of carrot seed as contraception. In folk medicine, it has been used to support the elimination system. Like other plants in the carrot family, the seeds are also carminative, helping settle the stomach and easing flatulence. In natural perfumery, carrot seed is used in small amounts for its dry, woody, fatty/oil character. When blended with Cedar, it can mimic the smell of orris butter, made from Iris roots. Carrot seed essential oil is useful in skincare for its high content of Carotol, a dominant sesquiterpene that addresses imbalances in the skin. *Avoid carrot seed during pregnancy and breastfeeding
Roman chamomile is native to Europe, North Africa, and some parts of Asia, and was named by a 19th century botanist who found some growing by the Roman Colesium. The word chamomile and the genus name Chamaemelum derive from the Greek word meaning "earth-apple," for its apple-like scent. Aromatically, roman chamomile has been researched for its ability to soothe anxiety. It contains high levels of an antioxidant known as apigenin. Also found in parsley, shiitake mushrooms and onions, apigenen has been shown to help treat and prevent various skin cancers and has a natural "sun blocking" or UV-protective effect. It improves the general health and functioning of the skin.
Native to Sri Lanka (Ceylon), true cinnamon comes from the bark of an evergreen tree. Its use dates back in Chinese writings to 2800 B.C. Ancient Egyptians offered cinnamon to their deities, used it to make incense, and for embalming. In the first century A.D., Pliny the Elder noted that cinnamon was worth about fifteen times the value of silver. Medieval physicians used cinnamon to treat coughing, hoarseness and sore throats. The spice was also valued for its preservative qualities for meat due to the phenols which inhibit the bacteria responsible for spoilage. Like carrots, cinnamon sticks are full of beta-carotene, a pro-vitamin that can be converted into vitamin A. Its active ingredient, cinnamaldehyde, has been shown to reduce the inflammatory response in the body. It has also been shown that cinnamon can help your body's natural response to insulin, regulating blood sugar spikes.
Native to the northern Mediterranean Basin, along with some areas in north Africa and Central Asia, Clary sage is steam distilled from the flowers of this plant in the mint family. It has been used as far back as the Middle Ages for digestive and renal complaints as well as feminine reproductive conditions. The seeds were used to treat eye infections, hence the common name “clear eye” or “eye bright.” Clary sage has a calming, cooling effect that works well on red, irritated skin or frazzled nerves.
Copaiba balsam is tapped from trees in South America much like maple syrup from sugar maples. The balsam contains high levels of beta-caryphyllene, which interacts with cannabinoid receptors in the skin, causing skin cells to produce beta-endorphins that modulate pain perception.
Cucumber Seed Oil is a natural source of erepsin and proteolytic enzymes, which treat inflamed skin. It also contains the four S's - silicon, silica, sulfur, and sterols - all of which powerfully restructure the skin tissues. And its natural Vitamin C and caffeic content reduce the swelling of puffy skin.
Native to Persia/Syria, Cypress trees were brought to the Mediterranean by the Etruscans and are often found in Greek cemeteries or symbolized on sarcophagi. Sempervirens means “lives forever” and indeed, some specimens are as old as 2000 years. The essential oil is steam distilled from both the branches and leaves, resulting in an oil with a fresh, earthy, woody aroma. It has a very high percentage of A-pinene, is known for its anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antifungal and antispasmodic properties. It has been shown to clear the sinuses and increase airflow to the lungs..
This Frankincense is distilled from wild grown trees in the Sultanate of Oman. Used for millennia by many religious, shamanistic and secular cultures, Frankincense offers many different therapeutic possibilities. It is especially valued for use in skin care preparations, to facilitate easy breathing and for overall well being. Frankincense is noted for its ability to instill deep tranquility of mind, making it ideal for meditation.
Frankincense carteri comes from wild harvested trees in Somalia. Frankincense has been traded for more than 5,000 years and was once worth more than gold. The Egyptians, who used cosmetics for both aesthetic and therapeutic reasons, made one remedy containing frankincense oil, moringa oil, ground cyprus grass and fermented plant juice. Frankincense is cytophlactic, meaning it promotes the regeneration of healthy cells and keeps the existing cells and tissues healthy.
Native to Iran, but now growing widely, galbanum is an umbelliferous flower in the carrot family. Galbanum has been used historically for rituals and religious ceremonies. The Old Testament, as well as Renaissance-era alchemical texts, describe a very particular ritual incense blend called Ketoret made with soft galbanum resin. Hippocrates used it as a medicine, and Pliny the Elder ascribed to it extraordinary curative powers, writing that "the very touch of it mixed with oil of spondylium is sufficient to kill a serpent." Egyptians used Galbanum as “green” incense and it is still used in modern perfumery to add a green note. Galbanum is thought to increase blood circulation and tone the skin.
Geranium oil is an allstar of essential oils with a complex green, citrus and floral aroma that belies its multiple benefits. Studies have indicated that it may be helpful in treating anxiety, depression, infection and pain management. In skincare, Geranium is thought to have antibacterial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties that can contribute to a glowing complexion.
Native to Europe and Central Asia, but cultivated worldwide, Gold-of-pleasure has traditionally been used for oil lamps and to feed livestock. However, this crop is now being researched due to its exceptionally high level of omega-3 fatty acids, which is uncommon in vegetable sources. The oil is also very rich in natural antioxidants, making this highly stable oil very resistant to oxidation and rancidity.
Grapefruits are native to the West Indies and came from a spontaneous cross between a pummelo and a sweet orange, then brought to the U.S. in the late 1800’s. Grapefruit oils, like other citrus peel oils, have a predominance of limonene, the bright, lemony monoterpene that is refreshing to smell and cleansing when applied. Limonene is currently being researched for its role in correcting abnormal cell growth. Our grapefruit oil is from the rind and fresh fruit and steam distilled, so it is not phototoxic like most cold pressed grapefruit oil, and more mellow in aroma.
Guavas originate in central and south america and were cultivated in Peru as early as 2500 BCE. The virgin, unrefined, cold pressed guava seed oil we use has an impressive content of linoleic fatty acid. The aroma is mildly sweet and reminiscent of the fruit. Guava seed is a non comedogenic oil with emollient qualities to help reduce the appearance of scars, stretch marks and retain moisture. And it contains an array of antioxidants that fight free radicals and help maintain skin elasticity.
Green pepper essential oil is steam distilled from the unripe drupes of Piper nigrum, one of the most prized and widely used spices in the world. It has a crisper, fresher note than black peppercorn and is more difficult to find. Used aromatically, it is thought to help revive the spirits and topically, is said to tone skin.
Native to the Mediterranean, Helichrysum italicum means ‘golden sun of Italy’ and is evocative of the striking habitat of this plant in its bright maize-colored meadows. It’s common name, Immortelle, is French for ‘immortal’ or ‘everlasting’ and refers to the straw-like flowers that appear living after they are dried, retaining a bright yellow color as if frozen in time. It has a rich spectrum of pharmacologically active compounds, and has anecdotal cases of its successful use in skin care as well as its profound effects on damaged tissue. Diketones, found only in Helichrysum, are highly regarded as important constituents responsible for its many superlative skin care benefits.
Himalayan Cedars are large evergreen trees native to the Himalayas. The botanical name of deodara derives from the Sanskrit term devadāru, which means "wood of the gods." Steam distilled from the wood, Himalayan Cedar oil can help promote calm and focus when inhaled. Used in skincare, it helps balance oily skin.
Jojoba oil comes from the seed of a desert shrub native to southern Arizona, southern California, and northwestern Mexico. It makes an exceptional carrier oil because of its shelf stability. And because it has absorption properties similar to our skin's own sebum, it is ideal for keeping skin balanced and moisturized.
Grown throughout the world in rocky soil, France still produces some of the finest lavender. In aromatherapy, Lavender is one of the most commonly used essential oils due to its versatility and widely appealing scent. It can be safely applied topically to cuts, burns, bruises and insect bites. Lavender’s calming and mood-enhancing effects have been evidenced in several studies on humans. Sprinkling a little on the underside of one’s pillow can help achieve a good night’s rest. In skincare, lavender’s high level of antioxidants help protect against damaging free radicals, while its antibacterial qualities help keep skin clear.
Originating in the Middle East and North Africa, lemon balm moved very early northwest to Southern Europe and then to America by 1700. The genus Melissa is named after the Greek word for “honey bee.” The ancient Greeks believed that bees would never abandon a hive if the herb grew nearby. The last prince of Wales, Prince Llewellyn, who lived in the 13th and 14th centuries, was said to have drunk lemon balm tea every day of the 108 years he was alive. Lemon balm was used in medieval times as a strewing herb to freshen up living quarters with its uplifting scent and antibacterial qualities.. Various cultures held the belief that Lemon Balm retained mystical soothing powers. The Ancient Arab physician from the 11th Century named Avicenna also agreed that lemon balm “causeth the mind and heart to become merry.” The herb is still used commonly today in relaxing tea blends. In skincare, lemon balm contains natural antioxidants called caffeic acid and ferulic acid that neutralize free radicals, along with astringent tannins that help tone and tighten. The antibacterial qualities of lemon balm help to cleanse pores and the rosmarinic acid in lemon balm helps to dry oily skin.
This lime used for essential oils is a shrub-like evergreen tree native to tropical Southeast Asia. Its clean, uplifting scent purifies the air and is said to heighten alertness.
Jasmine oil has a long and colorful history. Ancient Egyptians used it for headaches and to help improve sleep quality. The jasmine flower appears often in stories of ancient China, Persia and Egypt. And it’s been a key ingredient in perfumery since the time of Cleopatra. Jasmine is used as a devotional anointing oil and is worn for blessings, protection and good luck. In aromatherapy, Jasmine is thought to release inhibitions and work as a potent aphrodisiac. One look at the chemistry of this seductive aroma explains a lot about its sex appeal. Amid a bouquet of complex flowery esters, including methyl anthranilate (a rare nitrogen compound associated with intense calm) is the queen of floral aromas, indole. Indole occurs naturally in human feces and, at full strength, has an intense fecal odor. At very low concentrations, it is intensely floral and also occurs in Narcissus, Honeysuckle and Neroli.
Meadowfoam seed oil is extracted from the seeds of the white, flowering meadowfoam plant native to Oregon, California and Western Canada. Made up of mostly long-chain fatty acids and antioxidants, this oil has one of the highest stabilities of any plant based oil and a long shelf life so it makes a perfect carrier oil. Meadowfoam seed oil has similar qualities to our own natural sebum, so it locks in moisture without a greasy feel.
Distilled from the flowers that bees so adore during the summer, Monarda essential oil has potent antiviral, broad spectrum antibacterial and antifungal properties and is chemically similar to Thyme, which shares the same properties. Monarda’s flowers and leaves have been used medicinally by Native American groups for treating colds, stomach pain, headache, wounds, and skin problems, among many other disorders. Monarda has an uplifting citrus-floral fragrance.
Myrrh is a gum-resin extracted from a small thorny tree native to native to Somalia, Oman, Yemen, Eritrea, Ethiopia and parts of Saudi Arabia. It was a valuable trade commodity along the ancient spice routes, with legends surrounding it. One such Syrian and Greek legend about how the tree received its name tells of King Thesis’s daughter, Myrrha, being transformed by the protective gods into a Myrrh tree to escape her father’s homicidal fury. It was believed that the tree’s resin is the tears of Myrrha. In aromatherapy, Myrrh Essential Oil is used to relieve cold symptoms. Inhaling its sedative scent is thought to lift negative moods and promote the feeling of being grounded.
Oil extracted from the roots of orchids contains mucilages, compounds with excellent water holding properties, along with anthocyanin pigments, which scavenge free radicals, and calming, anti-inflammatory phenols. No wonder the orchid flower glistens so.
A relative of mint and native to tropical areas of southeast Asia, Patchouli’s name originates from the early Tamil people of South India. Supposedly Napoleon introduced the pungent, warm, earthy scent to Europe, and it has been used extensively in western perfumery ever since. A combination of Cypress Leaf and Patchouli creates a substitute for ambergris, the once highly prized perfume material made from whale blubber. Patchouli is also an exceptional skincare ingredient, triggering cellular regeneration to renew one’s complexion.
Traditionally grown in Asian countries, Perilla was brought to the U.S. by Asian immigrants in the late 1800s. Both the young leaves and the seedlings are edible, either raw or cooked, and the oil is used in Korean cuisine. Perilla seed oil is also an excellent skincare ingredient for sensitive, acne prone skin. It is non-comedogenic and contains one of the highest proportions of omega-3 (ALA) fatty acids of any plant-based oil. Perilla seed oil also has astringent properties, minimizing pores and refining skin tone.
Petitgrain
A resinous oil in the same family as myrrh, Opopanax is culled from wild trees in Somalia. It is thought to induce states of calm and connect one to spiritual planes. The name roughly translates from ancient Greek into “all healing juice.” It has a deep balsamic aroma with root-like, slightly animalic and vegetal undertones.
Oil extracted from the roots of orchids contains mucilages, compounds with excellent water holding properties, along with anthocyanin pigments, which scavenge free radicals, and calming, anti-inflammatory phenols. No wonder the orchid flower glistens so.
A relative of mint and native to tropical areas of southeast Asia, Patchouli’s name originates from the early Tamil people of South India. Supposedly Napoleon introduced the pungent, warm, earthy scent to Europe, and it has been used extensively in western perfumery ever since. A combination of Cypress Leaf and Patchouli creates a substitute for ambergris, the once highly prized perfume material made from whale blubber. Patchouli is also an exceptional skincare ingredient, triggering cellular regeneration to renew one’s complexion.
Traditionally grown in Asian countries, Perilla was brought to the U.S. by Asian immigrants in the late 1800s. Both the young leaves and the seedlings are edible, either raw or cooked, and the oil is used in Korean cuisine. Perilla seed oil is also an excellent skincare ingredient for sensitive, acne prone skin. It is non-comedogenic and contains one of the highest proportions of omega-3 (ALA) fatty acids of any plant-based oil. Perilla seed oil also has astringent properties, minimizing pores and refining skin tone.
Originating in Persia, the pomegranate was brought to Egypt in 1600 BC where it became revered as an important source of food and medicine. The pomegranate was depicted in paintings in Egyptian tombs as it symbolized life after death. It represents fertility in some cultures and prosperity in others, inspired by the abundance of jewel-like arils within its sturdy red rind. Pomegranate oil is rich in polyphenols like anthocyanins, ellagic acid and other plant polyphenols that can help to detox the skin of free radicals while also repairing skin damaged from environmental factors like UV radiation.
Plum Kernel Oil is sourced from the fruit kernels of the European Plum tree native to Europe and Southwestern Asia. The modern plum is thought to be a hybrid of several Mediterranean and Asian varieties that are centuries old. The production of plum kernel oil initially began in countries such as France for culinary purposes. Eventually, the rich emollience and antioxidant profile of this fruit oil lent itself for cosmetic purposes as well. Its unique, luxurious scent conjures up images of almonds, marzipans and warm desserts. Plum kernel oil brightens and plumps skin, protects against radical damage and oxidative stress, and aids in cellular repair and skin turnover. With a high concentration of vitamin E, it can help improve skin elasticity and promote cell turnover. Our plum kernel oil is sourced from organically grown plums in France.
Prickly pear, or Opuntia ficus indica, is a genus of flowering plants in the cactus family Cactaceae. The genus is named for the Ancient Greek city of Opus, where, according to Theophrastus, this edible plant grew and could be propagated by rooting its leaves. Thanks to human migration and trade activities, the prickly pear has been distributed onto every continent, where drought arid conditions exist. This carrier oil is high in Omega 6 fatty acids which help to hydrate and restore moisture. The fatty acids replenish collagen, which is an important part of maintaining skin's elasticity. The vitamins E and K in the oil work well on skin that looks tired and dull. The polyphenols which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties help alleviate damage from the harsh sun. Prickly pear oil is a popular soothing remedy for desert dwellers.
The fruit of Roselle is gathered and de-cored two weeks after flowering, where the seeds are then cold pressed and lightly filtered, resulting in this organic Roselle Hibiscus oil. Roselle Hibiscus has a naturally gentle form of alpha-hydroxy acids (AHA), which helps speed up cell turnover, resulting in a more even looking skin tone and firmer appearance.
Rhododendron anthropogon grows in the Himalayas of Nepal and the essential oil is distilled from the flowers and leaves of wild plants. The dried leaves are also crushed by Buddhist monks, mixed with ghee, and made into sacred incense for their monasteries. In aromatherapy, Rhododendron oil has grounding, calming, and centering properties. Topically, it has significant antimicrobial properties due to abundant amounts of α-pinene, β-pinene and slightly less limonene.
The dew drops that gather on the scalloped leaves of this plant were once thought to have alchemical powers, hence the botanical name Alchemilla. The common name of Lady’s Mantle refers to the leaves resembling a cloak worn by a lady in medieval times. For centuries, Alchemilla has been taken internally to ease feminine woes, but it also has compounds useful in skincare. Astringent salicylic acid and tannins help tighten up the skin, condition it and improve the exfoliation of dead skin cells. It also contains phenolic acids and flavonoids that are powerful antioxidants that fight back against damage from free radicals.
Rosehips can be found in many parts of the world but are native to Europe, Asia and Northern Africa. The rosehip seed CO2 is a carrier oil renowned for its many benefits for the skin due to the presence of Vitamins A and E and all three essential fatty acids: Alpha-Linolenic Acid (Omega-3), Linoleic Acid (Omega-6) and Oleic Acid (Omega-9). All of these constituents have proven beneficial for damaged skin. Rosehip seed CO2 more closely resembles what is found in the raw plant material and has a longer shelf life than cold pressed carrier oils, which one should beware of as that can go rancid quickly!
Red Rose, White Rose
We use organic Rosemary extract as a natural preservative.
Sacha inchi is the seed of a perennial plant that grows in the highlands of Peru and has been cultivated and used as a food source for 3,000 years in the Amazon rainforest. The fruit that these seeds grow in is inedible, but when lightly roasted with low heat the seeds take on a crisp nutty flavor and are highly nutritious. Sacha inchi seed soil, pressed from the seeds, is rich in omegas 3, 6, and 9, alpha tocopherol vitamin E and carotenoids or vitamin A. Topically, these nutrients help even skin tone and reduce the appearance of scarring and wrinkles. One thing that makes sacha inchi oil special is its high essential fatty acid content – 93%. 35% of that fatty acid content is linoleic acid making it about 32% of the oil. Linoleic acid is the oil most recommended for acne-prone skin. This is because research has shown that acne sufferers have a lower concentration of linoleic acid on their skin's surface, which could be contributing to their clogged pores. Sacha Inchi is the perfect oil for oily skin, as it moisturizes, while unclogging pores.
Native to Asia and Europe, sea buckthorn is a thorny shrub that is widely distributed from China, India, Mongolia and Russia. For over a thousand years, preparations made from sea buckthorn fruit have been used medicinally in Mongolia, China, and Tibet. The first documented benefits of sea buckthorn were recorded in the classic 8th century CE Tibetan medical text rGyud Bzi (The Four Books of Pharmacopeia). Young branches and leaves were used in ancient Greece as horse feed, which resulted in weight gain and a healthy shine to the horses’ coats, and accounts for the genus name, Hippophae, or “shining horse.” It is rich in vitamin C, vitamin A, both alpha- and beta-carotene, vitamins B1, B2, and B6, vitamin E, fatty acids and flavonoids, Omega 3, 6, 9 and rarest Omega 7 and about 190 bioactive compounds, making for a highly effective skincare ingredient.
Slippery elm has been used as an herbal remedy in North America for centuries. Native Americans used slippery elm in healing salves for wounds, boils, ulcers, burns, and skin inflammation. It was also taken orally to relieve coughs, sore throats, diarrhea, and stomach problems. When applied topically, its gel-like consistency works as an emollient that soothes the skin. Slippery elm also has anti-inflammatory properties and contains antioxidants, both of which boost skin health.
Believed to be the oldest of the Mints, Spearmint has been used for centuries for its digestive benefits, often being served with or after meals to prevent or relieve gas, bloating, nausea, and indigestion. Used topically and cosmetically, the antioxidant quality of Spearmint Essential Oil reduces the appearance of wrinkles and skin imperfections and it is believed to increase skin’s resilience and elasticity. The sweet, invigorating scent of Spearmint has a balancing and uplifting effect, which makes it ideal for enhancing focus and positivity.
One of the oldest-known, rarest and most precious of oils, the roots and rhizomes for the production of the Spikenard oil we use are sustainably wild harvested in the mountains of Nepal by a conservation-oriented team specializing in endemic plants of the region. Spikenard is a flowering plant from the same botanical family as Valerian, often found growing on north-facing rocky slopes in the Eastern Himalayas of Nepal, Tibet, China and India. The Christian gospels describe Mary’s anointing of Jesus’ feet with an ointment of Spikenard. It’s also mentioned in the Divine Comedy: He tastes, but tears of frankincense alone/ And odorous amomum: swaths of nard/ And myrrh his funeral shroud. Spikenard was used by ancient Egyptians in an aromatic blend called kyphi with other oils like saffron, juniper, myrrh, cassia and cinnamon. As a Valarian family member, Spikenard can induce a restful sleep and is ideally applied at night.
You can find borage growing in gardens all over, as it's a wonderful pollinator magnet for fruits and vegetables. Higher in gamma-linolenic acid/Omega 6 than any other naturally occurring oil, Borage seed oil is a star in stimulating and regenerating skin cell activity.
it's a rainy day, sunshine girl. it's a rainy day, sunshine baby
it's a rainy day, sunshine girl. it's a rainy day, sunshine baby
sweet
Tobacco’s history goes back thousands of years in the cultures of the Native peoples of the Americas – the smoke from the dried leaves was and still is respectfully used, sometimes with other herbs, for spiritual and ritualistic purposes, healing and purification ceremonies, and to induce trance states and visions. It was only after the dried herb became a processed commercial interest that deleterious effects became prevalent. A tiny amount of tobacco absolut adds warmth, depth and character to perfume blends and pairs beautifully with lime.
Holy Rama
The dew drops that gather on the scalloped leaves of this plant were once thought to have alchemical powers, hence the botanical name Alchemilla. The common name of Lady’s Mantle refers to the leaves resembling a cloak worn by a lady in medieval times. For centuries, Alchemilla has been taken internally to ease feminine woes, but it also has compounds useful in skincare. Astringent salicylic acid and tannins help tighten up the skin, condition it and improve the exfoliation of dead skin cells. It also contains phenolic acids and flavonoids that are powerful antioxidants that fight back against damage from free radicals.
The dew drops that gather on the scalloped leaves of this plant were once thought to have alchemical powers, hence the botanical name Alchemilla. The common name of Lady’s Mantle refers to the leaves resembling a cloak worn by a lady in medieval times. For centuries, Alchemilla has been taken internally to ease feminine woes, but it also has compounds useful in skincare. Astringent salicylic acid and tannins help tighten up the skin, condition it and improve the exfoliation of dead skin cells. It also contains phenolic acids and flavonoids that are powerful antioxidants that fight back against damage from free radicals.
The dew drops that gather on the scalloped leaves of this plant were once thought to have alchemical powers, hence the botanical name Alchemilla. The common name of Lady’s Mantle refers to the leaves resembling a cloak worn by a lady in medieval times. For centuries, Alchemilla has been taken internally to ease feminine woes, but it also has compounds useful in skincare. Astringent salicylic acid and tannins help tighten up the skin, condition it and improve the exfoliation of dead skin cells. It also contains phenolic acids and flavonoids that are powerful antioxidants that fight back against damage from free radicals.
The dew drops that gather on the scalloped leaves of this plant were once thought to have alchemical powers, hence the botanical name Alchemilla. The common name of Lady’s Mantle refers to the leaves resembling a cloak worn by a lady in medieval times. For centuries, Alchemilla has been taken internally to ease feminine woes, but it also has compounds useful in skincare. Astringent salicylic acid and tannins help tighten up the skin, condition it and improve the exfoliation of dead skin cells. It also contains phenolic acids and flavonoids that are powerful antioxidants that fight back against damage from free radicals.
The dew drops that gather on the scalloped leaves of this plant were once thought to have alchemical powers, hence the botanical name Alchemilla. The common name of Lady’s Mantle refers to the leaves resembling a cloak worn by a lady in medieval times. For centuries, Alchemilla has been taken internally to ease feminine woes, but it also has compounds useful in skincare. Astringent salicylic acid and tannins help tighten up the skin, condition it and improve the exfoliation of dead skin cells. It also contains phenolic acids and flavonoids that are powerful antioxidants that fight back against damage from free radicals.
