Ahhh, the simple elements in a mixture or compound - AKA, ingredients.
Nature has its way of giving us some of the finest ingredients for our skin's health. History has shown to us the wondrous benefits of these natural ingredients for both our skin and senses, and how to use them. Some of the most beneficial are chamomile, orange, and calendula flowers, burdock root and coconut and kukui nut oil.
From the time of the early Egyptians and Greeks, chamomile flower has been hailed as a sacred herb - one that was packed with curative and healing properties. Chamomile flowers have been clinically proven to have anti-inflammatory properties. Lotions and other skin care products that are infused with chamomile are used to reduce eczema itching and other skin inflammation, and greatly help to repair skin on over-worked and over-exposed hands. The natural benefits of chamomile flower include properties such as anti-itching, soothing antiseptic, purifying, refreshing and hypoallergenic with the ability to neutralize skin irritants. In addition, chamomile flower extract helps to tone and strengthen delicate skin tissue.
Orange Flowers are known as symbols of love and fertility. The orange flower is the traditional flower of brides all over the world. These tiny white flowers have a very fragrant scent that is used often in fine perfumes. It's said that Cleopatra bathed in Orange Flowers several times a day. As a soothing and fragrant freshener, orange flowers have an excellent toning and moisturizing property that gently refines and rejuvenates the skin and refreshes the senses.
The name "calendula" refers to the plant's tendency of blooming according to the calendar, either once a month or at the new moon. The calendula flower is native to the Mediterranean and tropical countries. The delicate petals of the calendula plant, Calendula officinalis have been used for medicinal purposes for centuries. In both historic times up to the present day, calendula flower ointments, and body washes have been used to speed the healing of burns, bruises, and cuts.
The wavy, heart-shaped leaves of the burdock root have known historical applications such as skin and scalp conditions including acne, psoriasis, eczema, contact dermatitis, and wounds as well as inflammatory conditions such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and gout. A common weed native to the continents of Europe and Northern America and Asia, burdock root is widely known to be one of the best alterative and depurative (blood-purifying) agents in nature. Burdock Root is a carrot-like root from the plant Arctium lappa, a biennial herb. Burdock root beneficially influences the skin and restores it to health.
Coconut oil has been described as"the healthiest oil on earth." It helps to prevent premature aging and wrinkling of the skin, and helps to protect against skin cancer and other blemishes by keeping connective tissues strong and supple. Coconut oil helps to bring back a youthful appearance to your skin and keeps your skin soft and smooth. When used as a massage oil, it penetrates into the deeper layers of the skin to strengthen the underlying tissues. Coconut oil not only brings temporary relief to the skin, but it aids in healing and repairing and will give your skin a more even texture with a healthy "glow."
Kukui nut oil is a very effective skin softener, conditioner and moisturizer. Containing vitamins A, E, and F, which are important nutrients that help to restore the skin's normal vibrancy; it is also helpful for treating the symptoms of acne, eczema, and psoriasis. Good for all skin types, kukui nut oil was discovered by native Hawaiians many centuries ago. They used it then to protect their skin from the tropical sun and harsh winds. They noticed that Kukui Nut oil helps to soothe the skin of minor sunburns and also softens and moisturizes the skin. It is also known to rejuvenate dry skin and alleviate the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines.
Whatever your skin care needs may be, these ingredients are a sure way to go as they will all help restore your skin to its brilliance and make it as healthy as nature intended it to be.
