Ingredient Glossary

Welcome to our Ingredient Glossary - which is currently a work in progress.

achellia millefolium (yarrow) - a perennial herb used for centuries for its ability to soothe irritated or damaged skin and reduce inflammation / redness. It is one of the herbs infused into The Balm.

aloe barbadensis (aloe vera) leaf juice - is well respected for its application as a moisturizing agent and skin soother. It contains vitamin B complex, folic acid, vitamin C and carotene. It is a hero ingredient in many of our products such as mists, toners, lotions and cleansers.

althaea officials (marshmallow) root - the mucilage in the marshmallow plant contains antioxidants which research suggests forms a protective coating around mucous membranes to soothe redness, reduce inflammation and help retain moisture in skin. We infuse it into Baby Balm and The Balm.

aniba rosaedora (rose) petals and buds - aside from the lovely aroma of dried rose petals they contain vitamins and antioxidants. Find them in our Face Steams and Bath Teas to soothe and soften skin.

anthemis nobilis (chamomile) - you will find different forms of chamomile in many of our formulations: botanical extract, essential oil, flower water and dried flowers. Chamomile contains powerful antioxidants which help the skin to regenerate, tighten pores and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

aqua (water) - we use distilled water in our hydrous (containing water) products.

arctium lappa L. (burdock) root extract - this herb contains Vitamins B complex and E. In addition, it boasts trace minerals of potassium, phosphorous, chromium, cobalt, iron, magnesium, silicon, zinc and sodium. We add it to our French Pink Clay mask to deep clean the pores, and purify the surface of the skin.

argania spinosa (argan) cold pressed virgin oil - rich in vitamin E, carotenes, antioxidants and essential fatty acids,  it is a prized ingredient in formulas to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkless, such as our Argan Rosehip Face Serum. 

avena sativa (oat) flour - also known as colloidal oatmeal, and found in our Bath Teas to moisturize and soothe dry and problem skin. This colloidal oatmeal is GMO-free and consists of key components such as beta glucan and avenanthramides, which act as a natural, deep penetrating moisturizer to reduce the itching caused by dry skin.

bakuchiol -  extracted from the seeds of the psoralea corylifolia plant, bakuchiol is a potent antioxidant and has clinically demonstrated the ability to reduce hyperpigmentation and wrinkles as efficiently as retinol. It has a pronounced soothing effect on skin and benefits all skin types.

beeswax - hydrates, conditions, soothes, and calms the skin. It exfoliates, repairs damage, promotes the skin’s regeneration, diminishes the appearance of the signs of aging, soothes itchiness and irritation, and creates a hydrating, long-lasting protective barrier against environmental pollutants.

benzyl alcohol - derived from natural sources, this non-drying alcohol serves as a preservative in cosmetics products, and is considered one of the least-sensitizing preservatives in use.

benzyl alcohol & salicylic acid & glycerin & sorbic acid - a preservative system with the Trade name Eco/ Geogard™ ECT, that meets Ecocert and COSMOS standards. This is a broad-spectrum preservative which contains four different components: benzyl alcohol, salicylic acid, glycerin and sorbic acid. These molecules are all found in nature in plants such as pine resin, rowan berries and willow bark. It is a non-paraben, non-formaldehyde, nonisothiazolone-based preservative system.

boswellia carterii (frankincense) oil - an essential oil that has a warm and spicy, smokey and woody aroma, calms and soothes the complexion and has the ability to strengthen skin and improve its tone and elasticity.  

bursera graveolens (palo santo) wood oil - an essential oil with a fresh, intense woody aroma with a slight hint of citrus. This healing oil infuses your skin with potent levels of D-Limonene and Monoterpenes to provide deeply restorative and protective benefits at a cellular level to support a calm, balanced complexion.

butrospermum parkii (shea) butter - shea butter is fat extracted from the nuts of the shea tree.This skincare superhero contains fatty acids and vitamins A and E. It relieves dry skin, eases irritation, seals in moisture and combined with its easy-to-spread consistency, is a great product for smoothing, soothing, and conditioning your skin.

cacao powder - the raw version of cocoa and less processed. We use it in lip balm to provide colour and flavour. 

calendula officinalis (marigold) flower - another super hero ingredient. Properties which include anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, antioxidant, anti-microbial and collagen repair make it an important ingredient in skincare and wound healing. Calendula flowers also demonstrate a strong bioadhesive or mucilaginous effect, which may not only help to decrease local inflammation by shielding tissues from irritants, but also facilitate tissue hydration. Check out our blog on calendula.

cananga odorata (ylang ylang) flower oil - an essential oil with a sweet, exotic, floral scent that is both purifying and balancing. Potent anti-bacterial properties make it a healing powerhouse, boosting the regenerative process of the epidermis. It also works wonders to help regulate your sebum production.

cannibis sativa (hemp) seed oil - unrefined hempseed oil, which has been left in its virgin state after pressing, and is completely natural. This oil is high in Omega fatty acids and proteins, and reduces visible signs of aging while replenishing and protecting the skin’s moisture barrier and improving the texture of skin.

capryl glucoside - a mild, solubilizing non-ionic surfactant that is obtained from renewable raw materials: fatty alcohols and glucose from vegetable origin. An ultra-gentle, natural, cleansing, solubilizing foaming agent containing 60% active matter that is ECOCERT Certified, preservative free and free of impurities.

caprylic/capric triglycerides (coconut oil) - this MCT 60/40 Fractionated Coconut Oil is produced 100% from coconuts. It penetrates the skin readily, contains healthy fatty acids, is naturally rich in antioxidants and antibacterial properties and provides lightweight moisture and conditioning to the skin.

cedrus atlantica (cedarwood) bark oil - an essential oil with a sweet woodsy scent, steam distilled from the bark of the Cedar tree. It helps regulate sebum production, soothe irritation, inflammation, redness, and itchiness, as well as dryness that leads to cracking, peeling, or blistering. 

cetearyl alcohol (and) sodium cetearyl sulfate - emulsifying wax N - makes an ionic self-emulsifying base specifically for oil and water cosmetic lotions and creams. It is PEG-free and gluten-free, and is approved by Ecocert for use as an ingredient in natural and organic cosmetics.

cinnamomum camphora (camphor) bark oil - an essential oil with an intense clean, bright and piercing scent. Used topically, the cooling effects of soothe inflammation, redness, insect bites, itching, irritation, rashes, acne, sprains, and muscular aches and pains.

cinnamomum camphora (howood) oil - a sweet woody slightly floral essential oil with a peaceful, calming aroma.

cinnamomun zeylanicum (cinnamon) bark oil - this essential oil has a warm spicy scent characteristic of cinnamon. Used in aromatherapy,  it helps to relax, manage stressful feelings and enhance mood. Benefits also include moisturizing and astringent properties to help cleanse and tone the skin and hair.

citric acid - used in small amounts to adjust the pH of products. Derived from citrus fruits, it keeps formulas from being too alkaline.

citrus aurantifolia (lime) peel oil - the scent of this essential oil gives a fresh, energizing feeling due to its sharp, sweet and fruity fragrance. Useful during the cold and flu seasons can uplift the mood, purify the air and comes with benefits for the skin and hair.

citrus aurantium amara (flower oil) - neroli essential oil is a hydration powerhouse, with an incredible ability to soften and replenish skin and lock in moisture. Safe for sensitive skin, and is known for it's beautiful heady scent.

citrus aurantium amara (bitter orange) leaf/twig oil - petitgrain essential oil has a bright refreshing energizing aroma and is balancing and toning to the skin. 

citrus aurantium bergamia (bergamot) peel oil - an essential oil with a fruity and sweet citrus aroma, along with a warm spicy floral quality. It works to stimulate skin cell renewal and balance oils in skin for an even and toned complexion.

citrus limon (lemon) peel oil - is the fresh sweet citrus essence, with a strong bright lemony scent, obtained from lemon peels. It's benefits include cleansing and purifying properties as well as a brightening influence on skin and hair.

citrus paradisi (grapefruit) peel oil - has a fresh sweet citrus smell characteristic of the fruit. Popular for use in aromatherapy for it's uplifting scent and skincare products to help maintain smooth looking skin and balance oil production.

citrus sinensis (orange) peel oil - has a fresh fruity uplifting aroma and has been associated with mood-boosting, antibacterial, antifungal, decongestant, and immune system benefits.

coco betaine - coco betaine is made from fatty acids derived from coconut oil. It has no propyl group and is also missing the ‘amido’ functional group as compared to its closely related surfactant cocamidopropyl betaine. It is a very mild co-surfactant that also has good conditioning properties.

cocos nucifera fruit powder - is the powder obtained from the dried ground fruit of the coconut ( also known as coconut milk powder). It is a natural emollient, leaves skin soft, supple and hydrated, and provides nutrients to the skin as it is rich in vitamins, minerals, fiber and amino acids.

coffee grounds - we use ground coffee in our coffee scrub to gently exfoliate dead surface skin cells, stimulate circulation and leave skin feeling soft and smooth.

cucumis sativus (cucumber peel) botanical extract - makes a wonderful addition to skin-care products for its cooling and skin-tightening properties. It is rich in vitamins and a powerful antioxidant. It can revitalize and refresh tired stressed skin leaving it feeling and looking soft, smooth and radiant. 

cymbopogon flexuosus (lemongrass) herb oil - while studies support lemongrass oil as a bug repellent, it does require frequent reapplication. To repel mosquitoes most effectively, reapply lotions and sprays every 30–60 minutes. It is also known to be beneficial for creating a feeling of being refreshed and renewed, uplifting negative moods and relieving anxiety.

cymbopogon martini (palmarosa) oil - has a sweet, floral fragrance. It is said to stimulate the skin's natural secretion of sebum making it beneficial for dry skin.

cymbopogon nardus ( citronella) oil - has a well-rounded lemony scent, though it is much softer and has subtle wood tones. It can be used as a Mosquito Repellent, and to stimulate, refresh and deodorize sweaty and tired feet.

daucus carota sativa (carrot) seed oil - is extracted from the seeds of the wild carrot plant known as daucus carota. Cold-pressed from carrot seeds, it is used in skincare products for its ability to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Find it in our Revitalize Eye Serum to gently moisturize the delicate under eye area. 

decyl glucoside - is a mild, natural, vegan, plant-derived, biodegradable, non-toxic, and sustainable cleansing agent suitable for delicate skin. It belongs to the alkyl glucosides family of surfactants and is commonly used as a non-toxic and eco-friendly alternative to conventional sulfates (like sodium laurel sulfate and sodium laureth sulfate).

elettaria cardamomum (cardamom) seed oil - an essential oil with a strong, sweet, spicy and almost balsamic fragrance, with soothing and balancing benefits.

ethanol - a clear colourless alcohol that is an ingredient in our hand spray, used to sanitize by killing a range of bacteria and viruses.

eucalyptus globulus leaf oil - is soothing and highly therapeutic. The sharp, fresh and herbaceous aroma is commonly used for aromatherapy. It has wide-ranging health benefits including decongestant, anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, antiseptic, antifungal, antimicrobial, antiviral, and antibacterial properties.

eugenia caryophyllus (clove) bud oil - this essential oil smells just like clove spice and has a warming sensation when applied topically on skin, and is helpful in aromatherapy blends intended to help relieve pain.

fuller’s earth clay (aka multanni mitti) - this clay cleanses and purifies skin by pulling out dirt, oil and impurities. Recommended for oily skin.

fusanus spicatus wood oil - Australian sandalwood oil has a soft, sweet, rich, woody aroma and helps to promote a healthy even skin tone.

gaultheria procumbens (wintergreen) leaf oil - a minty, sweet, woody scent that is uplifting and stimulating when used in aromatherapy.

glycerin (Ecocert) - is a humectant that attracts moisture in the air to the skin, and with emollient properties that soften and smooth skin. 

glyceryl caprylate - a 100% plant derived, natural (Ecocert approved) multi-functional ingredient that has emollient and moisturizing properties, and is a co-emulsifier that can be used to stabilize oil in water emulsions.

glycine soja (soybean) oil - is a very light carrier oil high in lecithin, sterolins and vitamin E. It is safe to use and can provide protection from mosquitoes when applied to the skin.

hamamelis virginiana (witch hazel) water - alcohol free witch hazel distillate that provides soothing, astringent properties when caring for the skin.

helianthus annus (sunflower) seed oil - a wonderful skin conditioning carrier oil high in vitamins A, B, D, E and minerals and containing beneficial amounts of lecithin and unsaturated fatty acids.

helichrysum italicum flower water - has a warm, herbaceous tea-like aroma, that helps stimulate collagen production and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

himalayan pink salt - also known as Himalayan Rock Salt, this salt is hand-mined and harvested from ancient salt beds, deep under the Himalayan Mountains. Known to be rich in over 80 minerals and trace elements, some of the most notable being calcium, magnesium, potassium, copper, and iron, this salt is considered to be the purest form of salt available. Use in your bath to promote relaxation and soothe irritated skin conditions.

hydrastis canadensis (goldenseal) root - is a natural anti-inflammatory, antiseptic and healing herb. Goldenseal’s skin healing properties are thanks to phytochemical alkaloids: berberine, canadine and hydrastine that produce a powerful ‘astringent effect’ on mucous membranes, which means it has a calming and healing effect on the skin. A rich source of Vitamin A, B, C and E, it also contains important minerals: iron, zinc, potassium, calcium, and manganese

Illite (french clay green) - absorbs and removes impurities from the skin, revealing the fresh surface to provide a healthy looking glow. Rich in magnesium, calcium, potassium, silicon, selenium, aluminum, titanium, cobalt, sodium, phosphorus, copper and zinc it acts as a magnet, drawing out impurities and leaving your skin clear, smooth and hydrated. Recommended for normal / combination skin.

Illite/kaolin (french clay pink) - gently exfoliates dead skin cells, clean pores, brightens your complexion, and helps increase cell turnover, leaving the skin smooth and radiant. Recommended for normal / mature / sensitive skin.

juniperus communis (juniper berry) fruit oil - has a medium aroma with a woody, mildly camphoraceous scent, with a calming and grounding effect.

kaolin clay - smooths, exfoliates and detoxifies skin, absorbs excess oils and fights acne; it can strengthen and improve skin health and brighten your complexion. Recommended for combination / oily skin.

lactobacillus ferment - a probiotic ingredient that is helpful in killing harmful bacteria and creating a healthy balanced microflora. It also can serve in a formula as part of a natural preservative system.

lactobacillus & cocos nucifera (coconut) fruit extract - a fermentation that offers probiotics, non-irritating moisturization, and a natural solution to synthetic preservatives.

lavandula angustifolium (lavender) buds - dried from lavender flowers, providing a sweet floral scent and promoting a calm relaxed mood. We use lavender buds in our facial steams and botanical bath teas. 

lavandula officinalis (lavender) flower oil / water - a rich, sweet and floral lavender aroma promotes feelings of relaxation and calm. Anti-inflammatory properties make it great for soothing and healing skin that's irritated or reddened from the sun, insect bites, or bacteria.

limmanthes alba (meadowfoam) seed oil - contains 98% fatty acids with wonderful moisturizing and rejuvenating properties. Absorbs easily into the skin leaving a silky smooth feel.

linum usitatissium (flax) seed oil - an emollient, high in essential fatty acids, vitamin E , vitamin B and minerals. It contains the alpha-linoleic acids (ALAs) which may contribute to younger looking skin. Flax Seed Oil is reputed to be  excellent oil to use on sensitive skin as it is very soothing and reputed reduce the appearance of cellulite and to improve elasticity in skin. 

maris sal (dead sea) salt

matricaria recutita (chamomile) botanical extract

melaleuca alternifolia (tea tree) leaf oil

melaleuca leucadendron (cajeput) leaf oil

mentha piperita (peppermint) oil

mentha spicata (spearmint) herb oil

menthol

moroccan lava clay - rhassoul

myroxylon pereirae (balsam peru) oil

natural butterscotch flavour oil

natural cherry flavour oil

natural chocolate flavour oil

natural coffee flavour oil

natural french vanilla flavour oil

natural raspberry flavour oil

natural strawberry flavour oil

nepeta cataria (catnip) oil

non nano zinc oxide

oenothera biennis (evening primrose) oil

origanum majorana (marjoram) flower oil

oryza sativa (rice) bran oil

panthenol pelargonium roseum (rose geranium) leaf oil

piper nigrum (black pepper) fruit oil

plantago major (plantain)

pogostemon cablin (patchouli dark) leaf oil

potassium citrate

potassium cocate (coconut oil)

potassium oleate (sunflower oil)

prunus armeniaca (apricot) ground shells

prunus dulcis (sweet almond) oil

pumice powder fine

rosa canine (rosehip) extra virgin oil

rosewood (natural blend) essential oil

rosmarinus officinalis (rosemary) leaf oil

salix alba L (white willow bark) botanical extract

salvia officinalis (sage) oil

salvia sclaria (clary sage) oil

simmondsia chinensis (jojoba) oil

sodium anisate

sodium bicarbonate

sodium castorate (castor) oil

sodium cocoate (coconut) oil

sodium cocoyl glutamate

sodium benzoate (and) potassium sorbate - a liquid cosmetic preservative, which can be used in leave-on as well as in rinse-off products. Used at low levels, the combination of these ingredients provide the full spectrum protection needed to ensure a product does not become contaminated.

sodium hyaluronate

sodium lactate

sodium levulinate

sodium palmate (palm) oil

sodium phytate

sorbitol

stelloria media (chickweed) herb

styrax benzoin resin oil

sucrose (sugar)

theobroma cacao (cocoa) seed butter

thymus mastichina (marjoram) oil

tocopherol (vitamin e)

vetiveria zizanoides (vetiver) root oil

vitis vinifera (grape) seed oil