Thursday, March 24, 2011

Herb. Botanicals. Marine. Oh My! Oh Yes! :: What's In It? Series

I take great pleasure in the hearty aroma of infusing herbs/botanicals in the morning.  Getting a whiff of that sweetness brings about warm comfort and sometimes hunger (yeah, that rosemary makes me fantasize about all kinds of Mediterranean cuisine).

Infused in our creations, or used to enhance our creations, are the ingredients pictured.  Enlighten yourself about the benefits of each one.


KelpA large, leafy brown algae. Kelp is a good source of marine minerals, including potassium (helps with the growth of new cells), magnesium (transdermal), calcium (regulates skin cell turnover;regulates normal skin color) and iron (can help improve elasticity of skin).

Comfrey- A mildly astringent root.  Comfrey contains allantoin (skin protection;hastens growth of new, healthy tissue). It is a superb wound healing herb that is used externally for psoriasis, eczema, sores, varicose veins and ulcers, arthritis, sprains, bunions, hemorrhoids, sore breasts during lactation, and injuries, including fractures. It is particularly effective in slow healing wounds and to help repair tissue damage. Comfrey contains an excellent cell proliferant and is used to stimulate growth of new skin cells.

Lavender- A flower. Lavender is antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and anti-viral. Balancing for all skin types. Soothing in sunburn and bathing.

Peppermint- A leaf.  Regarded as the world's oldest medicine, peppermint is a hybrid mint, a cross between a watermint and spearmint. Peppermint can help sooth and relax muscles when applied to the skin (transdermal). Other health benefits: high manganese, vitamin C and vitamin A content; Trace amounts: fiber, iron, calcium, folate, potassium, tryptophan (1 of the 20 standard  amino acids), magnesium, omega-3 fatty acids, riboflavin, and copper.

Calendula- A flower. Calendula soothes, softens and heals. In cases of slow-healing wounds, as well as burns, eczema, hemorrhoids and dry skin, it is most effective. It is ideal for dry, dehydrated, irritated and delicate skin as the saponins and mucilage has humectant properties.

Rosemary- A plant. Rosemary is regarded as having super cell regenerating power.  Therefore, it is useful in treating chronic skin conditions.  Also beneficial for firming skin, relaxing sore muscles, and clearing facial skin when used as a toner. 

Yucca- A tree.  The saponins, in this native tree, bring forth natural cortisone;Reduces joint inflammation. Effective for arthritis. Effective for skin problems. 
Yummy Fact: Yucca has been used to make root beer!




To your skin health,