Essential Oils
This precious gift from nature has been used for thousands of years, as perfume and cosmetics and for their medical and culinary applications. Essential oil is a liquid which is present in tiny droplets or sacs in the plant. It has several different properties and uses. It contains a large number of natural chemical compounds, their tiny molecular structure easily penetrates the dermis to nourish, rejuvenate and revive skin cells. They are the very heart and soul of the plant. Essential oil is primarily extracted from various parts of the plant ( from seeds, flower, bark, root, wood, resin, leaves, rind and balsam) by steam distillation, with the exception of citrus oils, which are cold-pressed from the rind.
Take a rose petal or a leaf from a rosemary plant , rub your fingers and instantly be aware of the aroma of the plant or just peel an orange.
Essential oils work together with all aspects of the body, strengthening it so that the entire body may aid in the healing and restorative process. Like all natural substances they contain spiritual force and energy that effect the emotional, mental, physical, spiritual and ethereal bodies. The world of Gaia- Mother Earth is enchanting and magical.
The following is a brief description of the nurturing properties of the essential oils that are used in formulating our products.
Carrot Seed - Daucus carota
Parts used: Wild carrot seeds- steam distilled
Carrot Seed has a warm dry ,woody-earthy aroma
Carrot Seed oil is known for its regenerative powers, wonderful for mature skin. Believed to stimulate red blood cells, adding tone and elasticity to the skin.
Chamomile ( German)- Matricaria recutita
Parts used: Flowers - steam distilled
German chamomile is a deep cobalt blue floral essential oil. The deep cobalt color is that it is high in chamazulene and alpha bisabolo ( components known for calming and healing).
This oil is wonderful for treating inflamed, irritated skin: Dermatitis, eczema, psoriasis and very active acne. Beneficial for dry, itchy, flaky skin problems.
Chamomile ( Roman)- Anthemis nobilis- Organic
Parts used: Flowers- steam distilled
Roman chamomile is sweeter smelling than the German. Roman chamomile is wonderful for calming pain and stress. Soothes headaches and migraines. Helps with insomnia, nervous, exhausation, tension and restlessness. Helps inflamed joints and muscles or joint pains. Relieves arthritis and menstrual cramps.
Clary sage- Salvia sclarea
Parts used: Flowering tops- steam distilled
Clary sage essential oil has a warm, herbal aroma.
Clary sage oil promotes the regeneration of skin cells. Wonderful on wrinkles. Helps control oily skin and hair for excessive oil secretion. But equally effective in treating dry skin and hair. Clary sage contains hormone like components, balancing female hormones. Helps eases menstrual cramps, minimize the symptoms of PMS and regulates menstrual cycles. Emotionally reduces stress and restores inner tranquility.
Avoid this oil if pregnant or nursing. Should avoid while drinking alcohol. It is also contraindicated in cases of estrogen dependent cancers.
Cypress- Cupressus sempervirens- Organic
Parts used: Needles & Twigs- steam distilled
Cypress essential oil has a smoky sweet balsamic aroma.
Cypress oil clears oily and blocked pores, promotes scar formation. Astringent. Used in blends for massage to stimulate circulation and has particular use in reducing signs of cellulite.
Frankincense- Boswellia carterii
Parts used: Resin- steam distilled or CO2 extracted
Frankincense has a sweet heavy aroma. Frankincense oil heals damaged skin, tones and rejuvenates all skin types-especially mature. Has a centering effect on the emotions. Traditionally used in spiritual growth and meditation since ancient times. Frankincense is a “ sacred oil”.
Geranium, Rose- Pelargonium Roseum- Organic
Parts used- Leaves-steam distilled
Sometimes this essential oil is listed as Geranium. It’s fresh, with a roselike, herbal aroma. Used in skin care for mature, combination and damaged skin. Helps balance sebum, anti-inflammatory. Keeps skin smooth and supple. Alleviates menopause and menstrual problems. Act as a diuretic (water retention). Good for cellulite
Be careful it can lower blood sugar. Avoid if you are hypoglycemic
Grapefruit, Pink - Citrus paradisii
Parts used: Rind- cold pressed
Pink grapefruit is fresh, bright and crisp oil, it energizes and uplifts. Used in treating oily skin and hair. I use it in my anti-cellulite blend, its toning and astringent effect are wonderful. Stimulates the lymphatic system, helping the body remove toxins.
Helichrysum- Helichrysum Italicum- Everlasting- Organic
Parts used: Flowering tops- steam distilled
Helichrysum essential oil is a strong herb that has strong anti-inflammatory properties and is wonderful for all skin types. Has powerful anti-bruise properties. Helichrysum is antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal. Regenerative it stimulates the production of new cells, treats burns, scars and acne.
Lemon- Citrus limonium- Organic
Parts used: Rind- cold pressed
Lemon oil has a light, clean tangy citrus aroma. Refreshing and stimulating with astringent properties. Wonderful for acne, oily skin, brittle nails, mouth ulcers, and varicose veins. Stimulates the immune system and circulation. Great for cellulite.
Note: Photo sensitive. Do not use on skin exposed to direct sunlight.
Jasmine
There are three types of Jasmine. Jasmine is known as “ the King of Flowers”. Very feminine and exotic. Used in the finest and most well-known perfumes. It is interesting to note that it takes 8,000 carefully hand-picked blossoms to produce 1 gram (1ml) of Jasmine absolute.
Jasmine Grandiflora- Jasminum grandiflorum
Parts used-Blossoms-solvent extracted
This Jasmine is soft, sensual, and sweet, soothing with a a calming effect. Less exotic then its cousin ,Jasmine sambac, but its aroma is absolutely lovely.
Jasmine grandiflora is a beautiful dawn-blooming blossom. Much more commonly used in perfumery.
Jasmine sambac- Jasminum officianalis
Parts used- Blossoms-solvent extracted
Jasmine sambac has a deep, sensual, exotic aroma. Much stronger then its cousin Jasmine grand flora. Jasmine sambac blooms in the evening, mysteriously enchanting as the Moon. Used in skin care for dry, aggravated skin. Helpful for muscular spasms and sprains. Relieves nervous exhausation and eases stress-related conditions.Soothes menstrual pain, and is often used during childbirth.
Juniper Branch with Berry- Juniperus communis- Organic
Parts used: Branch tips with berries- steam distilled
Juniper berry has a sweet, fresh woody aroma.
Juniper berry oil is a diuretic, helps to clean lymphatic congestion and detoxifies the body. Used in ant cellulite blends.
Avoid during pregnancy or nursing. Avoid with kidney disease and acute bladder kidney infections.
Lavender- Lavandula angustifolia- Organic
Part used: Flowering tops- steam distilled
Lavender oil has a sweet, floral herbal aroma and is wonderful for all skin types. It’s antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral and anti-inflammatory in skin care. Useful in treating acne and rosacea. It soothes burns, cuts, wounds and insect bites. Eases headaches and migraines, muscular aches and tension. Helps prevent insomnia. This is one of the few essential oils that can be applied “neat”(directly on the skin). A wonderful and useful oil to have in the home.
Myrrh- Commiphora myrrha
Parts used: Resin- hydro-distilled
Myrrh another of the ancient “ sacred oils” like Frankincense. An ancient warm, rich, spicy balsamic aroma used for thousands of years. Myrrh is an effective antiviral ,antibacterial and anti-inflammatory. Heals chapped and cracked skin. A wonderful de-stress oil.
It is believed to stimulate menstrual flow and should be avoided during pregnancy.
Neroli- Citrus aurantium var amara- Organic
Parts used: Flower- steam distilled
The Neroli oil we use is from the blossom only, a beautiful blend of floral with undertones of citrus. Neroli helps balance both dry and oily skin. It tones and rejuvenates the complexion, especially dry, mature or under nourished skin. Neroli also helps calm anxiety and relieve depression.
Orange ( Sweet)- Citrus sinensis- Organic
Parts used: Peel- cold pressed
Sweet orange oil is delightfully sweet, light and cheery. It rejuvenates congested and slack skin. Uplifts depression, mood swings, anxiety and emotional stress.
Very mildly photosensitivity, avoid exposure to strong sunlight or a sunbed for 12 hours after skin application.
Palmarosa- Cymbopogon martinii- Organic
Parts used- Grass- steam distilled
A pale yellow or olive liquid with a sweet floral- rosy herby aroma--geranium like scent. Wonderful oil for acne, minor skin infections, wrinkles, scars, feet, neck and lips. I t moisturizes the skin, stimulates cellular regeneration, and regulates sebum production.
Patchouli- Pogostemon patchouli- Organic
Parts used: Grass- steam distilled
Patchouli oil, the oil of the “ 60’s “. Patchouli has a sweet, herbal-earthy aroma. Wonderful anti-inflammatory for the skin. Soothes cracked, chapped, inflamed skin. Heals acne, dermatitis and eczema. Tones and tightens skin. Helps regulate oily skin. Beneficial for dandruff. Used for anti-wrinkle. Improves the complexion of mature and dry skin.
Rose Otto- Rosa damascena- Bulgaria ( rounder aroma ) or Turkey( sweeter aroma)
Part used: Petals- hydro- distilled
Rose Otto essential oil is fresh, rich and has a deep sweet-floral aroma, a little spicy at times, I love this combination!
Rose is a calming and supporting oil. The ultimate beauty woman’s oil. Tones and rejuvenates all skin types, especially dry, sensitive and mature skin. Helps balances female hormones, regulates the menstrual cycle, eases the discomfort of PMS and menopause, Helps treat grief, hysteria or depression. Rose essential oil is very expensive , yet exquisite, a deep true rose aroma. An aphrodisiac oil.
As one says, ’ A Rose, is a Rose, is a Rose….”The essential oil of the goddess. My favorite oil, enchanting and sensual.
Rosemary Cineole- Rosemarinus officianalis var Cineole- Organic
Parts used: Flowers and leaves- steam distilled
Rosemary oil is fresh and stimulating. Used in our blend for cellulite. Eases muscular aches and pain, poor circulation. Used for acne, stimulates the scalp and treats dandruff. Treats respiratory conditions. Stimulating for the mind and brain.
Avoid with high blood pressure, and people who suffer from epilepsy. Avoid if pregnant.
Sandalwood- Santalum album ( India or Australia )
Parts used: Wood- steam distilled
Sandalwood oil is rich and sweet, known to aid to meditation and as an aphrodisiac. Balances both dry and oily skin. Beneficial for sensitive skin. Useful in treating acne. Soothes dry, chapped skin and improves the texture of all skin types. It relaxes stress, soothes irritation, and lifts depression. A truly beautiful oil.
Vetiver- Vetivera zizanoides- Organic
Parts used: Roots- hydro- distilled
Vetiver a deep smoky earthy-wood aroma with a sweet undertone. Wonderful for a man’s cologne.
Vetiver oil balances sebum production. Treats both oily and dry skin. A smooth and sweet oil. Vetiver is grounding and balancing. Helpful with anxiety.
Avoid if pregnant.
Ylang Ylang- Cananga odorata- Organic
This oil is distilled in fractions, means that distillation is stopped at various stages.
Ylang Ylang oil is sweet, little sticky, spicy and floral. Helps balance sebum production and helpful to oily skin, fights the bacteria that often contributes to acne. Emotionally calm anger, releases tension, lifts depression and mood swings. Eases PMS and lowers blood pressure. Also, an aphrodisiac oil.
Caution:
Essential oils should be treated with respect, and should never be used directly on the skin “ neat” ( straight from the bottle). Essential oils are not intended for use in treatment in any specific medical condition.
Always dilute essential oil in a carrier oil.
Carrier Oils
Essential oils are too powerful to be used at full strength or undiluted (neat) put directly on the skin. For this reason we use vegetable oils to dilute them. These are called carrier oils. Essential oils are oil soluble (they dissolve in oil ), but not in water.
It is important to use cold-pressed carrier oils and/or organically grown.
The following is a brief description of the carrier oils that are used for their skin care benefits in formulating our products.
Argan Oil- Angania spinosa kernel oil- Organic
Used for centuries by Moroccan women. This oil is known as, “Liquid Gold”. Very rich in Omega 6 (polyunsaturated fatty acids ) including linoleic acid, ,and Vitamin E. Famous fir its pure natural hydrating and revitalizing properties. An anti-wrinkle product made by Mother Earth. Wonderful for dry skin as it softens and prevents aging caused by extreme climate conditions. Also wonderful for all types of skin. A great moisturizer for silky smooth skin. Beneficial for dry hair and nail care. Used in my “ I” Eternal Beauty Face Serum product.
Almond Oil- Prunus dulcis- Organic
Great for all skin types. Derived from the ripened, pressed kernel. Good for eczema. Helps relieve itching, soreness, dryness, and inflammation. Softens, soothes, and re-conditions the skin . A good massage oil. Goes rancid quickly.
Apricot Kernel Oil- Prunus armeniaca
Rich in minerals, vitamins, especially Vitamin A.
Great for all skin types. Rich and nourishing. Softens and protects skin. Helpful for premature, aged, inflamed, sensitive, delicate or dry skin.
Avocado Oil- Persea Americana- Organic
A rich oil has high amounts of Vitamins A,B1,B2,D, E and amino acids.Nourishes dry, dehydrated skin, eczema and solar keratosis.
Evening Primrose Seed Oil- Oenothera biennis- Organic
Helps prevent premature aged skin. Aids in healing scars and wounds. Helpful with psoriasis and eczema. Has a very short shelf life.
Hazelnut oil- Corylus avellana
Rich in vitamins, minerals, proteins, oleic and linoleic acid.
Superb for oily skin, slightly astringent. Helpful for acne. Tones and tightens skin, maintains firmness and elasticity. A cell regeneration and stimulates circulation.
If you should have nut allergies, please take note.
Jojoba Oil- Simmondsia chinensis- Organic
Rich in minerals ,plant wax, and myristic acid.
An excellent non-greasy carrier oil is actually a liquid wax ester. A natural anti-oxidant. Mimics sebum. Excellent for nourishing the skin. Healing for inflamed skin, ,eczema, and psoriasis. Helps control acne and oily skin. Useful for treating arthritis and rheumatism. Useful for all skin types. A wonderful oil.
Olive Oil- Olea europaea ( Extra Virgin or Extra Light)
Rich in proteins, minerals and vitamins.
A helpful oil for acne, inflamed skin, bruises and sprains. Soothes and conditions the skin. Helps rheumatic conditions .Wonderful for hair and nail care.
Pomegranate Seed Oil- Purica granatum-Organic
This oil is high in flavonoids and Pucinic Acid-helps heals inflammation and reduce swelling. Rich and high in anti-oxidants ( such as polyphenol ) fights free radicals and promotes skin regeneration. Moisturizes the skin improving elasticity, reduces wrinkles and prevent aging.
Pumpkin Seed Oil-Cucurbeta pepo L- Organic
Pumpkin Seed Oil is one of the most nutritious oils. Rich in Omega-3 and Omega -6,fatty acids, Vitamins A,C,E and zinc. Has a pleasant nutty aroma. Used in skin care for dry, mature and damaged skin. A wonderful emollient, with restructuring properties.
Rosehip Seed Oil- Rosa mosqueta- Organic
Rich in linoleum acid, oleic acid, GLA and palnatric acid.
A superior oil. Extremely high in essential fatty acids. Useful for dry, weathered skin, dull skin, scars, wrinkles and premature aging. Avoid with oily or acne-prone skin.
Squalene or Squalane
Squalane is a “ specialty oil”, just like rosehip seed oil. All- vegetable product, extracted from olive oil- a powerful moisturizer that provides a barrier preventing transdermal water loss. Wonderful for dry, chapped or scaly skin. Avoid with oily or acne-prone skin.
Tamanu Oil ( Foraha) - Calophyllum tacamahaca- Organic
This is a very wonderful and useful oil. Great for damaged skin, scarring, minor cuts, arthritis, sciatica, and rashes. Has a pain relieving effect. Recommended for herpes or shingles, especially when you blend it with Ravensara Aromatica essential oil.
If you should have nut allergies, please take note.
Vitamin E-Tocopherol
Valuable natural anti-oxidant and preservative produced from vacuum distillation of vegetable fats. Certified Kosher and certified GMO free soy or sunflower sources.
Pearl Powder
Pearl powder is a finely milled powder made from freshwater pearls which contain a number of amino acids ( eight of the amino acids are “ essential” - in other words they cannot be produced in the body, but are required for health and several minerals). It is considered by its proponents to help improve the appearance of the skin. Pearl powder heals blemishes and maintains the health of the skin by participating in the metabolic activities of the skin. The pearl promotes the regeneration of new cells and makes the skin smooth, fine, elastic and naturally beautiful. Pearl is one of the great secrets of the most beautiful women in the Orient. One hundred percent pure pearl powder is one of the ingredients in our, “ I” Eternal Beauty Face Serum and Body Oil.
Pearl powder is made from crushed pearls not shells.
Perfume
The word perfume comes from the Latin “ per fumum”, which literally means, “through smoke”. The first perfumes were in fact, incense offerings used in rituals and in honor of the goddesses and gods. The ancient Egyptian, Greek, and Roman civilizations highly prized aromatic plants. In Egypt, fragrances were considered sacred and it was believed that their use drew them closer to their goddesses and gods. Later the Greeks and Romans transformed perfumes into items for personal hygiene. Aromatics then evolved into common use in medicine and finally with development of culture, into perfumery.
The attraction to a specific scent is completely personal. There are many wonderful and beautiful books on the alchemy and history of perfume.
Hydrosol ( Flower water ) Hydrosols are the aromatic waters produced by the steam distillation of botanical material, a by-product of the essential oil.
Hydrosols have similar properties to essential oils, but are much less concentrated. Their aromas are mostly mild and subtle, with wonderful and magical therapeutic properties. Hydrosol are packaged in spray bottles and can be used as facial toners, body perfume, air freshener or spray them in your surroundings to energize or relax your mind and body
Please remember to store your precious hydrosols under refrigeration . True natural hydrosols contain no preservatives and should be treated as perishable. All our hydrosols are organic. Our hydrosols come in a 4oz. Cobalt blue glass bottle sprayer. |