Ahnfeltia Concinna Sea Extract - Moisturizing complex from sea algae and phytoplankton. Comprised of vital skin nutrient proteins with key minerals, amino acids and vitamins.

Alcohol -  Alcohol is derived through the fermentation of starch, sugar and other carbohydrates. It can be used to extract and preserve botanicals. * Weleda uses organic grain alcohol cultivated in Italy. The alcohol is heated and distilled, which kills the wheat protein, known as gluten. Therefore, our alcohol is gluten-free.

Algin - Derived from the sodium carbonate extracts of brown seaweed and natural acids, this gelatinous substance serves as a natural gel base and thickener for formulations. Due to its rich consistency and makeup, it also has a moisture-preserving effect on the skin

Almond Meal - The ground extract of the almond kernel, used in face masks.

Almond Oil or Sweet Almond Oil - Excellent emollient high in oleic linoleic and other fatty acids. Ideal in the treatment of very dry, chapped skin. Healing and moisturizing, with a sweet, pleasant fragrance. Almond Oil is a classic oil of ancient Roman times. It was used to beautify the skin and treat injuries. Cultivated in Southern Europe, the Mediterranean countries and in California, it is known for having excellent penetrating properties, nourishing and pampering skin. It is particularly good for dry, sensitive skin and remains beneficial regardless of skin type or age. Almond Oil is considered a high priced oil with each kernel containing up to 60 percent oleic acid, essential unsaturated fatty acids (about 25%), sterolins (from 0.5 to 1.0%) and Vitamin E (about 10 International Units [IU] per ounce). Almond Oil was highly valued by the Egyptians for cosmetic purposes. It is known for its mildness, has excellent shelf life and imparts a soft feel to creams and lotions. It is nearly odorless. It has a similar make-up to our skin's natural sebum (which is the oil produced by the skin to protect it) and it is easily absorbed. Sweet Almond Oil contains glucosides, minerals, and vitamins and is rich in protein.

Aloe - An extraordinary desert plant containing hundreds of enzymes, minerals and vitamins, soothing and cool on the skin.  Used to stabilize Living Nature flax extract. A rich emollient known to promote healing to damaged or dry hair and skin. A natural sunscreen, soothing and moisturizing. Use for cuts, scratches, bruises sore or irritated skin, for burns, sunburns, X-ray burns.

Aloe Butter & Aloe Oil ( Oil / Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract) - Aloe butter is a proprietary cosmetic "butter" developed exclusively for cosmetic purposes. Aloe butter is an extract of aloe vera, aloe barbadensis, and is wonderful in the fact that you can have all the benefits of aloe, without having the preservatives that the FDA requires all liquid aloe to contain. Aloe oil is very similar, but it is blended with pure sweet almond oil so that it remains fluid at room temperature.

Ammonium Cocoyl Isethionate - The actual definition, from "Beauty To Die For" by Judi Vance, is: "Surfactant and cleaning agent, Extra Gentle."  Treating the coconut oils with ammonium (NOT ammonia) is an expensive way to remove the nastiest, as opposed to the Sodium.    

Annatto Extract - From a tropical tree; imparts a natural yellow-to-pink color.

Ascorbyl Palmitate - A salt of ascorbic acid (vitamin C). Used as a preservative and antioxidant.

Apricot Kernel Oil - The fine persic oil from the fruit is very rich in Vitamin A, and helps improve elasticity. Natural oil from apricot pits. An emollient similar in composition to almond oil, it has a softening effect on the skin. Helps to erase stretch marks and wrinkles. Used in some of the creams and lipsticks. 

Apricot Oil belongs to the so-called oleic-linoleic acid (triglycerides) group, all of vegetable origin, consisting mainly of unsaturated fatty acid components. These groups of oils are probably the most widely used and the most adaptable of all fats and oils. They are premium edible oils and because most contain only relatively low levels of linoleic (triunsatuated) and the other highly unsaturated acids, they have excellent odor and color stability properties. Typical examples: Almond Oil, Apricot Oil, Avocado Oil, Corn Oil, Cottonseed Oil, Olive Oil, Peanut Oil, Safflower Oil, Sesame Oil, and Sunflower Oil. Due to their emollient nature and rapid absorption into the skin, many of these Oils have found applications in cosmetic and toiletry formulations. Consumer interest in "natural" ingredients has successfully promoted the use of naturally occurring oils such as Apricot Oil. All the vegetable oils in the oleic-linoleic category are liquids. There are key differences between oleic-linoleic oils (vegetable oils), which affect their properties, and applications. Apricot Kernel Oil, for instance, is lower in saturated fatty acids than other vegetable oils, an important consideration for cold temperature stability of clear solutions, such as bath oils. Apricot Kernel Oil offers numerous potential applications for skin products due to its occlusive properties and moisturizing by preventing excessive moisture loss through the epidermis. Its smooth feel, lubricity and emollient action makes it a useful addition to many cosmetic formulations. Apricot Kernel Oil also possesses a relatively dry non-greasy feel making this oil a "plus" for use in "natural" products.

Arnica - One of the most widely used plants for its effect on the skins surface capillaries for bruising. It contains the same constituents as the New Zealand plant KOPATA.

Astaxanthin - Function: Astaxanthin, which is famous for making wild salmon look pink or red, traps more types of free radical molecules that are destructive to cells than any other antioxidant.  Astaxanthin is a strong weapon in the battle against free radicals and the many age-related diseases associated with them. Thus, it is used in the most effective anti-aging skin care creams and supplements.

Characteristics: Astaxanthin is a red pigment occurring naturally in a wide variety of living organisms. Most crustaceans, including shrimp, crawfish, crabs and lobster, are tinted red by accumulated astaxanthin; the pink flesh of healthy wild salmon is a clear example. Benefits: Astaxanthin is a powerful biological antioxidant, especially effective at preventing lipid peroxidation, with up to 500 higher efficacy than vitamin E, and up to 10 times stronger than beta-carotene. Like other products of wild salmon such as DMAE, it is a common ingredient in effective anti-aging creams and supplements.

Avocado Oil - This oil is extracted directly from the dehydrated flesh of the avocado fruit, used for its lovely texture and softness on the skin.  Easily absorbed by the skin, it is a good source of vitamins A D & E, amino acids and sterols. Known to accelerate healing, recommended for chronic eczema and other skin disorders. Restorative.

Azulene Oil - It is a part of the chamomile essential oil which is specifically produced by distillation.  Azulene is particularly good for inflamed skin.

Benzoin Gum - From the plant Styrax Benzoin, the gum has been used for centuries as an antiseptic and bacteriacide. A natural antioxidant and it has preservative properties. Promotes healing.

Beta Glucan - A free radical scavenger agent, which protects and stimulates specific skin metabolism.  Vegetable based ferment extract.  Not all B-Glucans are alike either.  The OE plant-based polysaccharide is a superior Poly B-1-3 Glucopyranose.  Studies confirm that it makes skin more resilient; decreases the effects of inflammation; has been compared to hydrocortisone; helps improve collagen synthesis dramatically; and inhibits UV damage and the appearance of skin aging.

Beeswax - Natural beeswax has been used for centuries in the formulation of creams; a natural emulsifier, used in our creams and for its softness in our lipsticks. Beeswax is the oldest and purest wax in the world. Beeswax is deep in color consisting of a rich, sweet, floral, honey aroma. At honey harvest time the honeycombs are carefully opened to allow for honey to drain from the comb. The bees seal the honey into the combs with wax "capping" placed over every cell filled with honey. This "capping" is removed at harvest and is used in the production of beeswax. It is typically uses as a perfumery base in a variety of products.

Bentonite - See Stearalkonium Bentonite

Borage Oil - An anti-inflammatory, soothing oil high in gamma-linolenic acid, highly beneficial to the skin. Increases the protecting function of skin cells and reinforces the skin as a protecting membrane. Recommended in face oils for its rejuvenate power. Keep refrigerated.

Brassica Campetris/Aleurites Fordi Plant Oil Copolymer - A conditioning agent derived from a vegetable oil; improves hair "comb through" and reduces static. A combination of two Chinese botanicals which are related to the mustard family.

Cajeput - Reduces inflammations, good for sore muscles and rheumatic pains. Antispasmodic. Good for insect bites, oily skin and spots. Held in high regard in the East.

Calendula - Known for its healing and analgesic properties. Use for burns, cuts, eczema, greasy skin, inflammations, insect bites, rashes and wounds, varicose veins. Otherwise known as Pot Marigold. Pot Marigold is an annual herbaceous plant approximately 10 to 20 inches in height. Pot Marigold, belonging to the Asteraceae family, has rough, hairy and ramous stem bearing alternate, whole or slightly dentate leaves. The flower heads are singular in dimension with yellow-orange flowers. The fruits are bristles with thorns on their dorsal side. The chemical composition of the Pot Marigold is fairly well known because it is a well-studied plant. Pot Marigold was very famous in folk medical field because of its sudorific and depurative properties, used to cure skin diseases, scrofulous affections, uterus and the congestion of abdominal viscera. It was also used against hysteria and various nervous illnesses due to its antispasmodic virtues, including its stimulating and antiscorbutic properties. Pot Marigold flowers are sought for a variety of medicinal values. As folk remedies, it was used as menstrual pain relief, especially when pain was accompanied by or the result of anemia. It is a very efficient anti-infection product, which clean ups and heals skin diseases. Further, it is used in eye baths against ophtalmia as well as to dress burns and infected wounds and against various skin diseases such as acne, impetigo, ulcers, eczema, including corns and warts. Even in pharmaceutical medicines of today, Pot Marigold is used for similar remedies. Pot Marigold permits faster healing of sores. It is used to clean small wounds (after soap and water cleaning), treatment of dermatological disorders and as protective treatment of cracks, scratches, chapped skin and insect bites, including sun burns, superficial and not extensive burns and rashes. Further, it is also used for temporary relief of sore throat and/or transient huskiness.

Calophyllum - An emollient derived from a tropical hardwood tree in New Zealand. This oil is known for its moisturizing, therapeutic and fragrant properties.

Camellia Oil or Virgin Camellia Oil - Camellia is a Tea Tree from the mountains in South-East Asia. It is cultivated in western Japan where winters are cold and dry, blossoming all through winter even under the snow.

The Camellia Tea Tree or shrub grows to a height of approximately 8m in the wild, but can be less than 2m high when cultivated. Its evergreen leaves are silky and soft when very young and become tough and glabrous with age. It produces 1.5 to 2cm in diameter white flowers with 7 to 8 petals. The fruit is a capsule, which contains a big oleaginous seed. The Japanese have always used Camellia Oil for skin care and essentially for hair and scalp care. Women from the island of Oshima where Camellias have always been very abundant are reputed to have the most beautiful hair. Camellia Oil can also be applied on the face, on the neck and on the hands, thus causing western women to be jealous of the "peach skin, the long and curved nails" of Japanese women. Camellia oil is also used in medicine where it is an excipient and in food, as a good dressing for salads and as fat for frying. With other oils, it makes the famous Japanese fried dish called tempura. As a compound of the oily phase, Camellia Oil has excellent skin and hair conditioning properties. It moreover presents skin restructuring and moisturizing virtues and is also used for its nail strengthening property. Given these properties, it is a good active ingredient in:

• Nourishing shampoos and lotions for dry, damaged and delicate hair and after-sun products for thin and normal hair
• Body moisturizing after-sun milks
• Emollient gels for around the eyes
• Softening hand creams
• Nail strengtheners
• Restructuring creams for damaged skin
• Moisturizing creams for dry skin
• Products for normal and mature skin

Camellia Oil can be used in any cosmetic product as an active principle or as a carrier in the oily phase, without any proportion limit.

Candelilla Wax -  An extract from the candelilla plant, used in our lipsticks to add body and for its low melting point.

Candida Bombicola Extract - Micro-plant that feeds and stimulates the skin's natural defense.

Canola - Very light and odorless, and penetrates easily, a good massage oil base. Its high linoleic acid content prevents rancidity.

Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride - Oily fatty acid made by combining glycerin with caprylic and capric acid. Derived from coconut oil. Used as a vehicle to disperse pigment.

Carnauba Wax - Derived from the leaves of the Brazilian wax palm tree. Used as a texturizer. Used in our lipsticks to add body and for its low melting point. 

Carrageenan - Natural thickening agent.

Carrot Oleoresin - An oil derived from the seed head, it is very rich in Vitamin A, and has a wonderful warm orange color. One of the richest oils available. Rich in beta carotene and vitamins A & E, highly beneficial to hair and skin. Topical application of this oil promotes the formation of new cells and stimulates the production of sebum in dry, scaly scalps and skin.  Carrot Oleoresin is an extraction of cultivated carrots into vegetable oil. Carrot is a member of the Umbelliferae family (also called the Parsley family) of chiefly biennial or perennial herbs of north temperate regions. Most umbelliferaes are characterized by aromatic foliage, a dry fruit that splits when mature, and an umbellate inflorescence (a type of flattened flower cluster in which the stems of the small florets arise from the same point, like an umbrella). The seeds or leaves of many of these herbs have been used for centuries for seasoning or as greens. The common garden Carrot (Daucus carota sativa) is a root crop, probably derived from some variety of the wild Carrot. In antiquity several types of Carrot were grown as medicinals, and in Europe Carrots have long been grown for use in soups and stews. The custom of eating Carrots raw as a salad has become widespread in the 20th cent. Carrots are a rich source of Carotene (Vitamin A), especially when they are cooked. Several types of Carrot have also been cultivated since ancient times as aromatic plants. Some are still planted as fragrant garden ornamentals, such as the button snakeroot and sweet cicely. Carrots are rich in B-Carotene (A pro-vitamin), a vitamin essential for the skin. The application of the A Pro-Vitamin in an oily solution, provides great penetration into skin tissue. Although, B-Carotene is essential for regular treatment of normal skins, it is also great for restoring metabolic disorders associated with dried skin. In both the food and cosmetic industries, the natural source of A Pro-Vitamin or as natural coloring.

Castor Oil - Castor oil is extracted from the seeds of the castor plant. Castor oil is commonly used commercially in 50% of lipsticks in the United States. This is due to the fact that it creates a protective barrier on the skin and is very soothing. Castor oil is part alcohol and part oil. It is mainly composed of ricinoleic acid (87%), a fatty acid with a unusual molecular structure. Also known as Palm Christi Oil.

Cedarwood, Red - Mild, sweet and woody aroma. Antiseptic, eases respiratory ailments. Use for acne, dandruff, eczema, greasy hair, insect repellent, oily skin and psoriasis. Also good for arthritis, rheumatism. Harmonizing and calming. Avoid during pregnancy.

Cellulose Gums -  Used in the glucose derived polymers, but many synthetic versions are available. The long chains of molecules form gums and hold products together.

Centella Asiatica - also known in Western Culture as Gotu Cola is acknowledged to have value in strengthening the blood vessels and thereby improving
circulation

Cetearyl Alcohol - A mixture of fatty alcohols derived from coconut oil consisting predominantly of cetyl and stearyl alcohols. Used as emollients, thickeners and emulsion stabilizers.

Cetyl Alcohol - A natural fatty alcohol derived from coconut oil widely used as an emollient and stabilizing agent in conditioning and moisturizing treatments (emulsions). Thickener naturally derived from waxy and crystalline solids. (This is not an ethyl or denatured alcohol solvent that penetrates and potentially damages the skin.)

Chlorophyllin-Copper Complex - Derived from chlorophyl, this complex is a natural colorant with a deodorizing effect.

Cholecaliciferol - Natural Vitamin D3.  An effective vitamin for treating skin disorders.

Chamomile - Used to treat problem skin since ancient times for its sedative and emollient properties. A softening agent for rough or irritated skin. Anti-inflammatory, antiseptic. Good for acne, allergies, boils, burns, cuts, dermatitis, earache, eczema, hair care, inflammations, insect bites, rashes, sensitive skin, wounds. Roman Camomile is used therapeutically and is golden in color. German Camomile has higher anti-inflammatory properties due to its higher percentage of azulene, giving the oil an inky blue color. Pronounced calming effect on the mind and nervous system.

Chrysanthellum Indicum Extract - Extraordinary herb that reduces signs of inflammation and is powerful against free radicals.

Cinnamon Bark, Cassia - Strong, spicy-warm resinous aroma. Stimulant, antiseptic and an aphrodisiac. Best not used on skin, but as an aromatic.

Citric Acid - Derived from citrus fruit, it is used for balancing the pH and for preserving the product.

Citronella - Fresh, powerful lemon odor. Antiseptic, deodorant, insect repellant.

Clary Sage - Sweet & musky, ideal for blending. Relieves and heals most skin irritations; eases respiratory ailments, relieves aches and pains. Euphoric; relaxing & regulating. A special emphasis on women's diseases.

Clay Hallosite - The exfoliating process is one of the most essential parts of any skincare regime. The removal of dead cells and debris enables nutrients to be absorbed more readily into the skin. Hallosite clay is a unique ingredient that Suzanne Hall, maker of Living Nature, researched while running the laboratory at New Zealand China Clays. Situated at Matauri Bay in the Bay of Islands New Zealand, the clay is of the whitest in the world. It has a specific structure which forms a molecular sieve, specifically absorbing toxins and heavy metals and in fact makes an excellent water filter. It attracts ionically (magnetically on a molecular level) and gently draws the toxins out of the upper layers of the skin, while also acting like a poultice and drawing fresh lymph and blood to the area. In a similar way to how the skin goes red in toxic areas during a massage, often the skin will also respond with red patches where the blood has brought fresh oxygen to the cells and removed waste and the lymph has brought fresh white blood cells to fight infection particularly noted in acne skin types.

Clove Oil - Analgesic, antiseptic and anti-irritant, this oil is known to reduce the pain of toothaches, arthritis and rheumatism. Good for acne, athlete's foot, bruises, burns and an insect repellent.

Cocamidopropyl Betaine - Chelates with oxygen and produces bubbles. The "propyl" in the name refers to the three-carbon chain, which holds the unit together.

Cocoa Butter - A super emollient that softens and protects chapped, dry skin. It softens pregnant skin and helps to erase stretch marks, aids in the treatment of skin irritations, and is used to soften and erase wrinkles on neck, around eyes and at the corners of the mouth.  An acnegenic substance to some. Cocoa Butter is the solid fat expressed from the roasted seed of the cocoa seed AKA beans.  However, is extensively cultivated in almost all tropical countries. Cocoa Butter is mainly used as a thickening agent in cosmetics and is a by-product from the manufacturing of cocoa and chocolate. It is solid at room temperature and contains about 5 IU of Vitamin E per ounce. It is well absorbed by the skin and can be used with all natural oils. Cocoa Butter leaves a sheen on the skin and is commonly used for night creams and lotions. Cocoa Butter can promote acne and is not recommended for oily skin.  Cocoa Butter is highly protective and acts as a water repellant. It contains about 5 IU of vitamin E per ounce.

Coco Glucoside - Anionic surfactant, very mild and skin-friendly, derived from coconut oil and fruit sugar. In hair care products it smoothes hair structure to improve manageability.

Coconut Oil - (Cocos nucifera) Coconut oil is expressed from coconut kernels. Coconut is solid at temperatures below 76 degrees. This highly saturated fat contains twice the heavy fats as lard. Coconut oil has a great sapponification ability, meaning that it produces a lot of foaming/lather action when used in soaps. Wonderfully emollient for the skin and has cooling properties.

Coffee Extract or Green Coffee Extract - Coffee Extract is the product obtained when extracted, purified and crystallized out of green Coffee. It is a natural phenolic acid found in many vegetables. As a natural molecule extracted of vegetables, it is an appealing alternative or complementary to synthetic UV-B sunscreens because of its solubility, its outstanding tolerance on skin and its very large absorption spectrum.

It works well on skin because it forms weak bonds with the membranary proteins. It has the non-negligible property of being partially oil soluble which increases its sunscreen activities. Therefore, it may be added to sunscreen formulations in order to increase the Sun Protecting Factor (SPF).

Comfrey - An anti-inflammatory known for its healing and emollient properties. It is also a source of mucopolysaccharides and allantoin, used in skin treatments. A cell proliferant that regenerates aging tissues with continued use.

Corn Extracts - Used in various extracts from corn to emulsify the products and as humectants.

Coenzyme Q-10 - Also known as Ubiquinone.  Made naturally in the body

Cypress - Used for menopausal problems, excessive perspiration, circulatory conditions, rheumatism, nervous tension. Astringent. Good for hemorrhoids and varicose veins. An insect repellent.

Cyclomethicon - It is a form of silica. It helps as an emolliant, and to "stay put" sort of ingredient on the skin.  No known toxicity. 

Decyl Glucoside - Mildest and most effective cleansing agent, derived from corn and vegetable glycerin.

Dexapanthenol - simply the chemical name for Vitamin B-5

DMAE (Dimethylaminoethanol) - DMAE is a nutrient found in high concentrations in fish, such as wild salmon. It has been demonstrated that DMAE causes some degree of skin firming or tightening which is why it is often found in anti-aging skin care products.  In a number of studies, DMAE has been shown to reduce age-related decline in cognitive ability and memory, and hence has been referred to as brain food by those who study it. It was also found to modestly increase life span of laboratory animals.  Characteristics:  DMAE inhibits and reverses the cross-linking of proteins and removes lipofuscin from the skin, which allows for skin firming. DMAE - like other products of wild salmon such as Astaxanthin - in conjunction with the antioxidants Vitamin C Ester and alpha lipoic acid can have a profound effect on skin health and vitality, including delaying aging and liver spots. Benefits:  Skin firming is as important for facial rejuvenation as any other facet of skin care, and the brain-beauty connection (DMAE is often called brain food) is an important reason to consider using DMAE.

Emu Oil - A natural essential oil, emu oil replenishes and moisturizes the skin with a deep penetration. Its ultimate therapeutic properties help soothe muscles and joints.

Emulsifying Wax (T-Wax) - is used to make stable blends of oil and water. It is usually obtained from plant-based fatty acids found in fixed oils.

Esculin -  This natural component of the Horse Chestnut tree can be found in the bark and leaves. It acts as a superb tanning-agent and used in oral care to prevent against cavities and tooth decay.

Essence - An Essential Oil extract that has the fundamental properties of a substance in concentrated form; a perfume or scent.

Eucalyptus - Antiseptic and antibacterial, this fragrant oil is used in cleansers, massage formulations and bath oils for its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties and its cooling, soothing effect on the skin and scalp. Antispasmodic. Used for respiratory diseases. Eucalyptus is an evergreen tree native to Australia and Tasmania. However, the tree is cultivated worldwide in Europe, North America and South America. Mr. Ramel first introduced the Eucalyptus tree in Europe in 1860, as a method of drying up the swampland in the south of France. The underground water was soaked up quickly, due to the long roots of the Eucalyptus tree.  Today, Eucalyptus Oil is used for its medicinal benefits. The Eucalyptus leaves are used for the essential oils contained and are responsible for the balsamic and bacteriostatic properties. The essential oil has antiseptic and expectorant properties (Eucalyptol). The leaves are hypoglycemic and contain a substance known as Tannin, which has detoxifying activity as far as the diphteric and tetanic toxins are concerned. The old leaves are used primarily as they contain more of the active principles than the young ones.  Both Eucalyptus Oil and Eucalyptol are extensively used as expectorants and/or flavoring agents in cold and cough medicines, traditionally for acute bronchial disorders and in nasal congestion. The dried and crushed leaves are recommended to treat asthma. Eucalyptus can also be used against intestinal parasites and to disinfect wounds and burns.

Evening Primrose Oil - High in essential fatty acids, a source of gamma-linolenic acid . Astringent and sedative, it is an excellent treatment for dry, flaky skin and skin prone to eczema. Keep refrigerated.

Fennel - An antibacterial with a slight "tightening" action on the skin. Rich in oleic and linoleic acids, essential fatty acids highly beneficial to the skin. Good for bruises, dull, oily, mature complexions, cellulite and rheumatism.

Ferric Ferrocyanide - is it a mineral? It's really neither, but closer to iron oxide than mica. The chemical formula is Fe7(CN)18(H2O)x where 14 ≤ x ≤ 16.  Another name for it is Prussian Blue or Berlin Blue. It is a blue pigment. Despite the cyanide ion, it is non toxic because the cyanide groups are tightly bound. It is impermeable to the plasma membrane.

Flax (Harakeke) - Living Nature uses several varieties of the native New Zealand flax. The gel, which exudes from the leaves, contains many of the same enzymes as Aloe Vera, and D-glucronic acid and D-xylose, both great for burns. The extract is also antiseptic.  Flax was an extremely useful plant to the Maori in the olden days. It was used to provide clothing, ropes and cords, fishing nets and lines, baskets, mats, wall hangings and panels. The flax sap has antiseptic, mild anaesthetic and blood clotting qualities. The base of the leaves was applied to broken boils, tumours or abscesses to bring them to a head. The boiled liquid was taken by the Maori to relieve constipation while the boiled roots were used as a poultice for abscesses and varicose ulcers. The juice from the pounded root was a purgative and used to destroy and expel parasitic worms. Applied externally the flax gel cured ringworm and skin irritations. The red jelly substance found at the leaf base was used to treat burns, scalds and areas of rheumatic or associated pains.

• 1848 The gum is invaluable as an application to burns, wounds and old sores. (Taylor)
• 1857 Flax gum (pia harakeke) was extensively used. A European who came to Otago in 1857 told me that following Maori example he used flax gum for cuts, binding it round with whitau (dresses flax) and that he found it very efficacious. (Roberts)
• 1873 The gum of the Phormium is invaluable for severe burns, scalds and wounds. (Reed/Brett)
• 1885 A simple remedy for ringworm on calves is flax gum plastered on with the finger. (New Zealander)
• 1899 The gum in its chemical characters and physical properties resembles gum arabic. It has a distinct alkaline reaction. It is used in diarrhoea, and as a dressing for wounds and burns. (Goldie)
• 1929 Cuts and cracked skin. Apply gum from flax to affected area. (Ahuriri)
• 1952 The gum is an excellent cure for minor cuts, scratches and cracked hands. When smeared over the wound it formed an impervious covering, thus protecting the wound from bacterial attack. It was extensively used by the old Maori for burns. (Mead)

Frankincense - An oil derived from the frankincense tree; used for its frangrance as well as its clarifying properties

Geranium Oil - An antifungal and antibacterial, sometimes also used as a fragrance. Used for acne, bruises, broken capillaries, burns, congested skin, cuts, dermatitis, eczema, oily and mature skin, mosquito repellent. An immunostimulant. Good for depression, nervous tension.

Ginger - A stimulant and anti-irritant, its warming, soothing properties are very beneficial to the skin. Sometimes used as a fragrance. An excellent ingredient for bath oils and other cosmetics. Analgesic.

Glucosamine HCI - It is an important building block needed by the body to manufacture specialized molecules called glycosaminoglycans, found in cartilage.  It can come from the shells of shrimp, lobster, and crab, or may be synthesized (not in the product we offer however).

Glucose Oxidase - Sugar enzyme used as a natural preservative.

Glycerin - Colorless, odorless, sweet-tasting, syrupy liquid. It absorbs water from the air; this property makes it valuable as a moistener in cosmetics. Glycerol is present in the form of its esters (glycerides) in all animal and vegetable fats and oils.

Glyceryl Stearate - Emulsifier derived from vegetable glycerin; contains sodium and potassium.  Used to assist in emulsifying natural oils in a water base.

Glycolipids - Vegetable derived from glycerin and plant oils to moisturize skin.

Golden Seal - Recommended for eczema. It is astringent and a tonic, reduces toxins. Do not use internally if you are pregnant.

Grapefruit - A tonic for depression and an aid in drug withdrawal. Good for acne, congested and oily skin, tones the skin and tissues. Good for cellulite.

Grapefruit Seed Extract - Grapefruit Extract(GSE) is made by first converting grapefruit seeds and pulp into a very acidic liquid.  A natural preservative.  It was discovered by Jacob Harich while eating a grapefruit for breakfast one morning in France and savoring its taste.  The extremely bitter taste of the seed interrupted his enjoyment of breakfast but also prompted him to wonder, 'What makes it so bitter?'  Today it is becoming the disinfectant and sanitizing agent of choice for many hospitals and clinics throughout the United States. In the laundry, GSE ensures that the linen is fungi and bacteria free. As little as 10 - 15 drops of GSE added to the final rinse does the trick. Hospitals have also added GSE to their carpet shampooers. It is reported that, ten to fifteen drops in the reservoir per gallon is effective in killing Staph, Strep, Aspergillus, Salmonella and many other pathogenic organisms which are present in hospital carpets.  Grapefruit Seed Extract at higher concentrations is used for sterilizing and disinfecting operating rooms and other areas. Ordinary concentrations used equate to around 300 ppm, while operating rooms and similiar applications frequently use grapefruit seed extract at concentrations as high as 1%. Recent News:  wkyc.com news / Grapeseed extract seen as powerful antioxidant.  According to new studies, it also helps prevent dementia, keeps the heart healthy and cures some infections.  It works because it’s a powerful antioxidant.

Grapeseed Oil - Very light and odorless, it absorbs easily through the skin.  Grapeseed oil is rich in vitamins, minerals, linoleic acid and other essential fatty acids which help strengthen tissue cells and help preserve the natural moisture of the skin. It is a good, light, slightly astringent, penetrating oil for massage and aromatherapy uses. Use in lotions, creams, lip balms, eye creams, soaps and special formulations intended for dry, damaged or aging skin. If you are looking for cold pressed grapeseed oil, please see our Skin Oils Page.

Gum Benzoin - Benzoin gum is a balsamic resin obtained from the tropical Sumatran and Thailand trees genus of Styrax Benzoin. The trees do not normally produce the resin or any substance comparable to it until infliction of a sufficient wound. The trunk of the tree is hacked with an axe and the liquid Benzoin is left to accumulate and harden at the base until gathered. The gum is used to prevent fungal growth and is well accepted by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as a food grade anti-fungal. Benzoin is effective under both acidic and alkaline conditions where parabens are known to lose their effectiveness. Used externally as a tincture, Benzoin is an antiseptic and mild stimulant for irritable skin. Internally taken as a diuretic and carminative as it rapidly absorbs into the system. The gum has been used for centuries as an antiseptic and bactericide.

Halloysite Clay - A beautiful fine white clay from Matauri Bay in New Zealand. A fine cell structure, which acts as a molecular sieve.

Hazelnut Oil - Moisturizing and nourishing. Hazelnut Oil, when refined, is clear and bright, with virtually no odor or flavor, obtained by the refining of crude Hazelnut Oil. Hazelnut Oil, a stable oil, is known for its remarkable diffusion and penetration powers. It is highly recommended for products, such as natural cosmetics and perfumes that need to contain active agents that will penetrate and does not have a "greasy feel". Hazelnut Oil, slightly astringent, is easily absorbed by the skin and is ideal for oily or combination skins and acne. It helps tone, tighten and maintain firmness and elasticity of the skin. It also helps to strengthen capillaries and encourages cell regeneration and aids to stimulate circulation.

Cosmetic Uses:

• Beauty creams and milks
• Creams for the hands
• Cleansing products
• Sun oils and creams
• Massage oils
• Lipsticks
• Foaming bath

Honey Manuka - This honey is gaining international recognition for its natural antibiotics, minerals, enzymes and vitamins. Its healing properties are phenomenal, especially with eczema. See Manuka.

Hops - Antimicrobial and sedative, it calms, tones and softens the skin.

Hyaluronic Acid (HA) - Some want to refer to it as the Fountain of Youth for our millennium. I'll just say it has a very good effect on the skin.  Hyaluronic acid is normally found in great quantities in youthful skin under 30.  Over time, free radicals destroy hyaluronic acid in our skin and by 50-years-old we possess half of the Hyaluronic Acid than in our youth.  Unlike collagen, hyaluronic acid is extremely hydrophilic (loves water) and can absorb… 1000 times its weight in H2O !  Normally used in concentrations of
0.001%-0.05% in preparations for visible effectiveness.  Devita Natural Skin Care uses no less than 1.00% Hyaluronic Acid in its products!  Traditionally, the source of Hyaluronic Acid for many companies is an animal source… A Scandinavian company has created a “Probiotic,” non-animal-based hyaluronic acid through a process of bacterial fermentation, extraction, and purification. This product is the only source of Hyaluronic Acid in Devita Natural Skin Care Products. This same process is used for our elastin and collagen ingredients.  Hyaluronic Acid then, works as a water 'reservoir' for skin cells, making it a great ingredient to use under your favorite creams to help them work better, and will even work for people in the driest atmosphere as it adds moisture in any climate.  Hyaluronic Acid was originally used in hospitals as part of delicate eye surgery.  When the eye is left open for prolonged periods (as in surgery), it rapidly loses moisture.  One drop of a diluted Hyaluronic Acid applied to the eye before surgery solved the lack of moisture problem. It has also been used for wound healing to prevent scar tissue from adhering to bandages, for injection into arthritic joints to relieve stiffness and other symptoms, and even in developing a new contraceptive.

Hydrogenated Palm Glyceride - Obtained from the fruit or seed of the palm tree.

Hydrolyzed Sweet Almond Protein - From whole almonds; sugars, proteins, lipids, for a synergistic effect.

Hydroxymethylcellulose - a form of the familiar polysacharide cellulose, treated with heat to make it more soluble in water. Cellulose <http://sci-toys.com/ingredients/sugars.html>  is a long chain made of the sugar glucose. Source: Fruit

Irish Moss (chondrus crispus) - Irish Moss is a reddish-brown perennial thallophyte or seaweed (a source of Carragheen or Carrageen) common at low tide on all the shores of the North Atlantic, especially Ireland, all year round. It is remarkable for its extreme variability, the difference being mainly due to the great diversity in the width of the segments.  The mucilage present in this plant is used in large quantities by the food industry to make jellies, or aspic and to be used as a smooth binder. This very property is the basis of its use in digestive conditions where a Demulcent is called for, such as gastritis and ulcers, including kidney and bladder affections. However, its main use is in respiratory problems such as coughs or bronchitis.  For cosmetics it is used as an emulsifier and/or thickening additive and a skin softener.

Iron Oxides - Iron oxide's are iron combined with oxygen, and can be found in nature or produced synthetically. It varies in color from red to brown, black to orange or yellow depending on the degree of water and the purity. In more detail: Known commonly as rust, derives naturally from hermatite, a reddish brown iron oxide mineral. Natural iron oxides include a combination of one or more ferrous or ferric oxides, and impurities such as manganese and clay. Used in our cosmetics to naturally colour, the pigments of iron oxide are also used in plastic surgery by implanting pigments in the middle layer of the skin or dermis.

Japanese Honeysuckle - Lonicera Japonica; natural preservative, from Malaysia and the Far East. Has been part of the Chinese pharmacopeia and has been used for asthma and candida infections among other things.

Japan Wax  - A fat squeezed from the fruit of a tree grown in Japan and China. Used as a substitute for beeswax.

Jojoba Ester - Oir-free, non-comedogenic, non-toxic, non-irritating; improves skin texture and creates a barrier to reduce moisture loss. See Jojoba Oil.

Jojoba Oil - This rich extract helps the jojoba desert plant retain water during the long summer drought. It acts as a humectant and creates a protective film over the skin and hair shaft that helps keep moisture in. Does not go rancid, so it is a good base oil for aromatherapy blends. Jojoba Oil is cold pressed from the nuts of the jojoba tree. The jojoba tree is cultivated in California, Arizona, Mexico and Israel. Jojoba is pronounced Ho Ho Ba. Native Americans have been using jojoba for centuries. The first record of jojoba is from 1701, used to treat sores, cuts, burns, as a conditioner and for all over skin and hair treatments.  Jojoba is technically not an oil, but a liquid wax ester with a long unsaturated carbon chains. Chemically it resembles sperm whale oil or spermaceti oil. It was a popular ingredient in creams. In the 1970's the United States (gratefully) banned all sperm whale products because they were contributing to the extinction of sperm whales. In 1977 domestic commercial jojoba oil cultivation began because it is the natural substitute for spermaceti, which in other cases has been replaced by synthetic products. Jojoba esters are composed of straight chain alcohols. The acid and the alcohol portions have 20 or 22 carbon atoms and one unsaturated bond. It resembles human sebum; the natural coating our body produces to protect the skin and keep it supple. Jojoba is pure skin and hair therapy - our skin loses sebum with age, sun, wind, cold, and the environment and jojoba adds a protective conditioner to make up for these depleting factors. It contains protein, minerals and a waxy substance that mimics collagen. Jojoba is perfect for any skin type it has a large molecular structure. Jojoba can help dry or oily skin. If your skin has an over production of sebum, jojoba oil will dissolve clogged pores and restore the skin to its natural pH balance. The reason jojoba oil works so well is that it actually penetrates the skin because it is accepted as sebum.  Although jojoba oil is very expensive it does have a long shelf life; it will never break down or go rancid, which makes it a much healthier choice for you, the consumer, to use. Jojoba is expensive because it can take up to1200 trees to get one pound of jojoba nuts, which have a 50% yield of oil. Because jojoba has very little scent it works as a wonderful natural perfume base. Jojoba is not greasy and absorbs right into the skin. JMC Technologies has conducted scientific research proving that jojoba can increase skin softness by up to 37%, it reduces superficial lines and wrinkles up to 25% upon application and up to 11% after 8 hours. Jojoba oil is hypoallergenic and pure!

Juniper - Good for acne, oily complexions, hair loss, dermatitis, eczema, general weariness and nervous fatigue. Antispasmodic. Fortifies the memory, calming.

Kaolin - China Clay. A hydrated aluminum silicate used for its covering ability. Generally, these clays are used in facial masks to absorb excess facial oil.

Kelp - A seaweed high in iodine and vitamins A B-complex, C and E. A skin nutrient, soothing and toning.

Kopata - A wild weed that grows in coastal areas of New Zealand. Works on the skin surface capillaries for bruising. Almost the same structure as Arnica.  

Kukui Nut Oil (Kukui Oil) - Kukui Oil comes from the nuts of the Kukui Tree in Hawaii. People are just recently discovering the amazing dermal healing properties of the Kukui Nut Oil, known by the native Hawaiians for generations. Kukui Nut Oil contains vitamins A, E, F. These nutrients help to revitalize and restore the skin's normal activity. Because of the high content of linoleic and linolenic acids, it is rapidly absorbed into the skin and leaves no grease-like feel. Regular use helps to rejuvenate and soften deteriorated, dry, lifeless skin. It can also be used topically for hemorrhoids and many skin disorders such as acne, eczema, and psoriasis. For people with active life styles with regular exposure to the sun, Kukui Nut Oil can help to counteract the sun's harmful effects. Kukui Oil is found to have remarkably low toxicity as indicated from acute studies performed according to FDA and EPA protocols. Like the Hawaiians, the rest of the world may soon experience the natural skin nourishing benefits of Kukui Nut Oil.

Kumerahou - Known as gum diggers soup, it is a versatile plant that is used extensively internally for asthma. Contains flavonols, quercetin, kaempferol and ellagic acids.