The ingredients we like & the ones we don't!!
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Acai
The acai berry is a small, purple-reddish drupe containing of a cluster of seeds. Traditionally acai was used to treat diarrhoea, parasitic infections, ulcers and haemorrhages, more recently it is being used in health and beauty products. They are low in sugar but high in iron, calcium, fibre, and vitamin A. Acai berries contain anthocyanin compounds such as resveratrol, cyaniding and ferulic acid, (which give their colour and also team with flavonoids to fight harmful free radicals which damage and age skin ). It is used in organic skin care to promote youthful and healthy skin.
Properties of acai berries may help prevent some health problems such as: allergies, arthritis, obesity, inflammation, erectile dysfunction, and neurological diseases. Further scientific studies have shown positive effects on ailments associated with oxidative stress, heart disease, and cancer.
The anti inflammatory properties are superb for treating swelling, acne, and pain from damaged nerve fibres. It is also used in skincare products for toning down the darkness of hyperpigmentation (where the skin becomes patchy due to melanin (the pigment that forms your normal skin colour) deposits).
Acai is classified as a superfood since it is immune stimulating & energy boosting. Whatever the form acai berries are a great antioxidant boost!
Acai berries have 10 to 30 times more anthocyanin power than red wine!
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Aloe Vera
Aloe vera is widely used in many products, in many forms, for many ailments and in organic skin care.
Aloe vera is used to aid many skin conditions. Containing more than 200 active plant compounds, vitamins A, B, C, E, amino acids, beta carotene, enzymes, minerals, glycoproteins and polysaccharides aloe vera helps stimulate cell renewal and circulation whilst having the ability to hydrate the skin. It is also known to be powerful for its antibacterial, anti-fungal, anti-viral properties and anti-inflammatory properties. The aloe vera gel which comes from inside the leaves works to protect the skin from becoming infected whilst soothing and healing quickly with minimal scarring. The gel has been commonly used on burned and damaged skin and on eczema. It is suitable for sensitive skin as it works gently but effectively. Since it is good for moisturising and healing aloe vera is contained in many after sun products and great for easing sunburn, acne, cysts, minor skin infections, wounds, eczema and psoriasis.
Aloe vera juice is antiseptic and has been known to improve digestion, constipation, relieving ulcers, and aiding recovery of gum diseases.
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Almond Oil
Almond oil (Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis or Sweet Almond oil) contains vitamins A, D & E, calcium and iron so it provides lots of beauty benefits. The vitamin a can help prevent acne and it is also good for cleaning skin pores and cleaning off makeup. It is especially good at softening and rehydrating dry and flaky skin as well as treating & preventing stretch marks. It doesn’t leave a greasy effect for hours after, it actually dries super quick so you can walk (if you have put it on your feet) and dress within 5 minutes or so of putting it on! Sweet almond oil has long been established for preventing the signs of ageing, reducing and preventing fine lines and wrinkles. Almond oil is also super for easing dark circles and making puffy eyes seem not puffy at all. The mix of nutrients in Almond oil do wonders for your hair! It helps hair fix split ends, reduces dandruff and promotes hair growth whilst making your hair soft & shiny. Finally it is great for fixing chapped lips.
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Argan Oil
Argan oil which originates from Morocco is used on bread for breakfast and also in cosmetics. Argan oil contains vitamin E, phenols, carotenes, squalene & fatty acids. It helps combat oxidation and it is suggested that it contains 3 times more vitamin E than any other essential oil, which means it is especially good at reducing the appearance of scars and stretch marks as well as combating wrinkles & fine lines. Argan oil has been used successfully to ease acne, eczema, psoriasis & inflammation. It helps make the skin and hair soft by locking in hydration whilst being absorbed quickly.
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Avocado Oil
Avocado oil (Persea Gratissima) helps to get your skin feeling silky soft and refined. The deep absorption into the layers of the skins epidermis makes it one of the most hydrating oils to put on your body. Containing high levels of vitamins A, B, C, D, E, and K, as well as potassium, lecithin, chlorophyll – just one avo contains 36% RDA of Vitamin K, 30% RDA of Folate and 20% RDA of pantothenic acid, Vitamin B6, C and Potassium. Avocado is a fruit that gives you access to the “good” fats balancing cholesterol levels and lowering the risk for heart disease.
This combination of ingredients helps to hydrate and soften dry and rough skin, calm redness, ease fine lines and rectify oily skin. Avocado oil doesn’t clog pores or leave any residue making it not only a great moisturiser but also great for cleansing skin by clearing pores and evening out your skin tone. The high amount of sterolin, helps fix inflammatory skin ailments like redness, blemishes, and eczema. Its ability to protect from UV to approx. SPF 8 combined with the many vitamins in avocado oil helps prevent sun damage.
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Acrylates Copolymer
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Castor Oil
Castor seed oil contains a range of vitamins and minerals such as vitamin E, proteins and contains antibacterial properties & a germicidal acid called Undecylenic Acid, which helps skin diseases such as ulcers and fungal infections. Further the Ricin and Ricinoleic acid contained in castor seed oil has insecticidal and fungicidal properties helping protect the scalp from bacterial and fungal infections which can cause hair loss. The fatty acids work at hydrating the scalp, treating dandruff and locking in moisture. Castor oil has been used for strengthening growing and thickening hair and eyelashes. It also helps prevent eyelashes from breaking and stimulates regrowth where the eyelashes are sparse. Castor oil has long been used for treating stretch marks because of the vitamin E content.
Cacao
Cacao contains over 300 different chemical compounds and a huge amount of antioxidants. The high antioxidant content helps protect us from free radicals & oxidative damage, which cause ageing & serious diseases. Some of the vitamins and minerals contained in cacao are protein, iron (helps circulation), calcium, thiamin, riboflavin, magnesium (helps detox the skin), flavonoids and essential fatty acids. Studies have shown that eating chocolate increases your serotonin levels thus elevating mood & can help remedy depression.
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Chamomile
Chamomile (Anthemis Nobilis) exudes health and beauty benefits. Some of the properties are that of anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, anti-allergenic and sedative and it contains beneficial oils, antioxidants and flavonoids.
Chamomile is a muscle relaxant and has also been shown to relieve stress, restlessness and help insomniacs to fall asleep.
The beauty benefits of chamomile include relieving inflammation, it can ease eczema, minor burns, and sunburn. It is a natural way to lighten hair and its healing and moisturising properties help to get rid of acne.
Cherries
Cherries come in 2 forms: the sweet cherry and the sour cherry. The sour cherry has many more potent benefits and antioxidants than the sweet cherry. (See Sour Cherry)
Coconut Oil (Cocos Nucifera)
Coconut oil is truly amazing. It is loaded with fatty acids (Composed mostly of medium-chain fatty acids or (MCT)) as well as anti-bacterial, anti-fungal and anti-viral properties.
Used on the skin it provides a massive amount of hydration, helping to prevent fine lines and providing a radiant glow. Due to coconut oil’s properties it has been used to aid eczema and acne. The fatty acids work on hair giving the tresses strength, shine and a healthy glow. Its quick absorption prevents a greasy residue.
Coconut is eaten for its soothing effect on digestion and bloating, and studies have shown it can reduce sugar cravings and promote weight loss boosting the metabolism and reducing the fat that becomes stored.
Coconut has been used as a cure for nausea, sore throat, bronchitis, kidney stones, fever, earache, ulcers, asthma, syphilis, toothache, bruises, dropsy and lice.
The naturally occurring electrolytes balance pH and muscle function and the fiber content creates a feeling of fullness and catalyses elimination. The high levels of lauric acid change to to monolaurin which is a compound found in breast milk to help promote a baby’s immunity. Coconuts also contain manganese, potassium and phosphorus.
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CoQ10
CoQ10 is a superb energy boost. AKA vitamin or coenzyme Q10, ubiquinol, it is similar to a vitamin that is found in all cells of the body and it is used by your cells use it to create energy whilst boosting skin repair and regeneration of the skin which helps to prevent the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
CoQ10 high levels of enzymes, it helps the efficiency of the digestive system to break down and excrete food. CoQ10 boosts energy while you do exercise and helps quicken recovery.
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Carbomer
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Ceteareth-20
Coal tar
Cocamide Mea
Cocamidopropyl Betaine – A surfactant which is synthetic and has been linked to (either the chemical or impurities within it) irritations and allergic contact dermatitis. It has been thought to be a toxicant to the immune system and the environment.
Cocoamidopropyl
Hydroxysultaine
Chlorphenesin
Cyclomethicone
Cyclopentasiloxane
C13-14 Isoparaffin
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Beeswax
Beeswax is golden yellow in colour and has a slight hint on honey but should not be confused with bee pollen or honey. Beeswax contains non-allergenic, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and is used to soothe and protect the skin from allergies attracted through the air. The antioxidants help to keep the skin rejuvenated, plump and firm.
Beeswax is a great hydrator, locking in the natural moisturiser in the skin which is why it is so commonly used in lip balms, creating a light and protective layer on the lips.
Beeswax can be applied topically, eaten, added to make 100% natural candles and used as a preservative by manufacturers of foods.
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Benzyl Alcohol – A solvent/preservative. Evidence suggests links to cancer, neurotoxicity, problems relating to reproduction, allergies and skin irritation.
BHT (Butylated hydroxytoluene) / Toulene – made from petrolroleum and coal tar this chemical has been linked in various studies to anemia, low blood cell counts, damage to the liver, kidney’s and a developing fetus, toxicity to the skin and immune system and may cause endocrine disruption and cell mutations.
BHA (butylated hydroxyanisole)
BPA (Bisphenol A)
Butylene Glycol
Butylparaben – Has been linked to cancers for hormone interference and mutagenic qualities. Studies suggest it can interfere with gene expression. It has been shown to have toxic qualities on the skin and cause skin irritation as well as negative effects on the brain, nervous system, and behaviour.
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Dates
Dates contain beneficial phytonutrients, minerals and vitamins. they are high in fibre helping move waste and toxin though your colon. Further they contain iron, potassium, B Vitamins, Copper, magnesium and manganese. The vitamins A and K in dates help eyes & help maintain healthy skin.
Diazolidinyl Urea
Diethanolamine (DEA)
Dimethicone Copolyol
Dimethicone – This chemical has been known to be harmful when absorbed by the skin and an irritant to the endocrine system, thorax and eyes.
Dipropylene Glycol
Disodium EDTA
DMDM hydantoin / Dm Hydantoin
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Eucalyptus Oil
Eucalyptus oil originates from Australia and has a fresh & clean smell – like the air down under! It has been used to help sore throats, coughs, allergies and added to toothpastes, deodorants and ointments. Eucalyptus oil contains antibacterial properties, helps reduce pain and in athletes for warming up. The antibacterial properties in eucalyptus helps reduce the tooth decay causing bacteria.
EDTA
Emulsifying Wax
Ethanolamine
Ethylparaben
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Figs
Figs contain high amounts of fiber and minerals such as magnesium, manganese, copper, calcium, and potassium and vitamins K and B6. They have also been known to balance blood sugar levels
FD&C Blue 1
FD&C Red 40
FD&C Yellow 2 (coal tar dye & azo dye) – Banned in Japan, USA, Russia, Norway and Sweden, this teratogen has been linked, in studies, to: cancer, malignant tumours, hyperactivity and asthma.
FD&C Yellow 5
Formaldehyde
Fragrance – A mixture of various untested chemicals which can cause an array of illnesses such as: allergies, dizziness, coughing, respiratory distress, dermatitis, skin irritation, hyperpigmentation, vomiting and cause possible negative reproductive effects in adults. Certain fragrances are immune system toxicants, neurotoxins and considered a hazard by EWG.
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Green Banana Flour
Green Banana Flour is the latest superfood helping you feel fuller for longer with an array of health benefits. It contains a resistant starch that acts like fibre which helps to control your blood sugar levels thus making you feel fuller for longer. Green banana flour helps nourish your gut bacteria as the starch works as a prebiotic helping promote healthy bowel movements. It has also successfully been used to treat diarrhoea. It doesn’t taste of bananas and although it is more expensive than self raising flower per bag you don’t need to use as much of it as you would regular flour.
Germaben (Parabens and Urea)
GM ingredients
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Honey
Honey contains antioxidants, trace enzymes minerals, vitamins and antibacterial, anti fungal & antibiotic properties which is why it is found in natural products and hand sanitisers. It is great for hydrating and nourishing skin and has been commonly used to help acne and blemishes. Honey is also great for soothing sore throats, dandruff and skin infections. Further, Honey is great for easing allergies!
Herbicide residues
Homosalate(HMS)
Hydroquinone
Hydroxyethylcellulose
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Inca Berries
Inca Berries originate from South America and are a great source of fiber, high in protein and contain vitamins C & A, iron, phosphorous and niacin.
Isobutylparaben
Isopropylparaben
Isopropyl Palmitate – an ingredient used as a fragrance and skin conditioning agent. Studies have shown possible links between it and skin irritation and systemic toxicity.
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Jojoba Oil
Jojoba is an oil from the bean of the jojoba shrub. It is great in beauty products for its moisture control, protection, cleansing, moisturising, conditioning and softening abilities. It contains powerful antioxidants which help to soften the skin, reduce stretch marks, lighten and help heal scars, reduce wrinkles and help your hair and scalp exude a healthier look and feel. It performs similar to that of human sebum thus helps balance the production of oil. It can be used pre-shaving or to remove makeup naturally.
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Kefir
Kefir is abundant in probiotics, contains antimicrobial properties whilst helping overall digestive health, regulating blood sugar levels, suggested to lower stomach cancer risk. It is suitable for celiacs as a substitute for or in recipes of yoghurt, smooties and ice cream.
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Lavender
Lavender has antiseptic and anti-fungal properties which help heal wounds, reduce scars and reduces the bacteria that causes acne whilst toning facial skin. Lavender has been used to help treat eczema. Lavender is used in anti-ageing products as it promotes stress, inflammation and tension relief whilst increasing the circulation.
Lanolin that may be contaminated
Laureth-7
Lead
Lillial
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Macadamia Oil
Macadamia nuts are native to Australia and form part of the Proteacea family. Macadamia oil is most commonly used in soaps, suncrean and shampoos. It is able to hydrate the skin by deep penetration. Macadamia oil contains high amounts of palmitoleic acid, which is a compound found to naturally occur in the sebum of young skin. The older we become less palmitoleic acid that we naturally produce so macadamia oil helps to restore the palmitoleic acid and keep the skin subtle and youthful. When macadamia oil is rubbed into the skin it helps to moisturise dry skin and lock moisture into the skin’s barrier helping to prevent loss of moisture.
Maccadamia nuts have a handful of health benefits and contain 60% monounsaturated fat – oleic acid – which is the same amount as contained in olives. Macadamia nuts are low in carbs and high in healthy fats so one of the most slimming snacks you can get!
Methicone
Methylchloroisothiazolinone – Harmful when absorbed by the skin and causes corrosion and burns to the eyes.
Methylisothiazolinone
Methylparaben – This is a Xenoestrogen which copies the sex hormone oestrogen. It has been linked to cancers for this hormone interference and also mutagenic qualities. Studies suggest it can interfere with gene expression. Studies suggest it has been found in 90% of tested breast cancer tumours. It has also been shown to have toxic qualities on the skin and cause skin irritation as well as negative effects on the brain, nervous system, and behaviour.
Mercury
Microbeads – plastic or synthetic
Mineral Oil – Can be a mix of hydrocarbons from petroleum which covers the skin like a piece of plastic. This can pose a possibility of clogging pores and toxic build-up. This chemical can slow cellular development, disrupt hormonal activity and is thought to be a carcinogen.
Myristyl Myristate – Is a skin irritant. May be linked to development and reproduction toxicity, cancer, a contributory chemical to bio-accumulation .
4-Methyl-Benzylidencamphor (4-MBC)
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Neroli Oil
Neroli Oil comes from the flower of the bitter orange tree (Citrus aurantium) and has a strong citrus and floral scent. Being an emollient it helps to smooth and moisturise the skin and prevent infections. It has been used on stretch marks, fine lines and wrinkles to reduce their appearance.
Nitrosamines
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Olive Oil
Olive oil is one of the best skin care treatments. Containing large amounts of vitamins & antioxidants it repairs and moisturises skin. Stimulating cells it catalyses the renewal, firming and smoothing of the skin. Because of the deep penetration, olive oil highly moisturises, cares for cuticles and adds value to makeup removers, moisturisers, nail varnish removal products hand creams and hair masks.
In soaps and body wash the olive oil components clean whilst sealing in moisture without preventing the skin’s natural processes and helps balance the natural oils contained in the skin. Further the olive oil has a lower PH making it suitable for sensitive or irritation prone skin types.
Being a great source of mono-saturated fats (such as Oleic acid) and fatty acids (alpha-linolenic acid) when contained in foods olive oil helps to lower cholesterol and blood pressure, and the antioxidants protects from free radical damage, preventing diseases including cardiovascular disease, stroke and cancer. Other benefits relate to maintaining a healthy nervous system, immunity, and digestion. Vitamin E (alpha tocopherol) is an antioxidant found in olives, as well as minerals like selenium and zinc. Oleuropein (only found in olives) reduced LDL oxidation (bad cholesterol) by ridding nitric oxide reducing oxidative stress.
Octyl-Dimethyl-Para-Amino-Benzoic Acid (OD-PABA)
Octyl-methoyl-cinnamates (OMC)
Oxybenzone Benzophenone-3
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Peppermint (AKA Mentha Piperita Oil or Peppermint Essential Oil)
Studies suggest that peppermint oil has natural antioxidant, anti-viral, anti-fungal, analgesic and radio-protective properties. It can aid stomach problems, pain, hair, skin and dental health, as well as easing stress and nervous disorders due to its energising effects. Shown to be more effective than chemical mouthwashes it helps prevent the biofilm buildup which contributes to the development of cavities. Peppermint in shampoos and body wash exude anti-microbial and dandruff preventative properties. Peppermint oil also helps lessen the excretion of oils in the skin, thus preventing acne. It is also used as a great insect repellant!
Pomegranate
The pomegranate provides many benefits, being an excellent source of vitamin C, K , A, E, folate, thiamin, pantothenic acid and pyridoxine as well as minerals such as copper, potassium and manganese. Not only do pomegranates contain a broad range of vitamins and minerals but they also contain antioxidant polyphenols – three of which are tannins, anthocyanins, and ellagic acid. The substantial amount of antioxidants are great for protecting the skin from free radical damage, sun exposure and age spots! The omega 5 fatty acids capture moisture and ease inflammation & bloating.
Nutritionists recommend pomegranate & pomegranate juice for:
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Weight loss
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Cholesterol level control
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Boosting immunity / the immune system
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Improving circulation
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Cancer protection (many studies indicate)
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Shielding against fatigue
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Shielding from heart disease
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Lowering blood pressure
On the Beauty front pomegranate additions to organic skincare and beauty product help anti-ageing – studies have shown they help by keeping skin firm by strengthening & regenerating skin cells helping them to maintain their elasticity & collagen production … antioxidants are one of the best things for keeping you looking younger for longer!
Parabens
Paraffin
Parfum (synthetic fragrance)
PEG-8
PEG-30 Dipolyhydroxystearate – This chemical was first reported as a carcinogen in 1965. A polyethylene glycol diester of Polyhydroxystearic Acid and contains dioxane. This chemical is contaminated with carcinogen 1,4-dioxane which is easily absorbed via the skin.
PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil
PEG-50 Almond Glyerides – may cause dangerous levels of the carcinogen 1,4-dioxane which is easily absorbed by the skin.
PEG-100 Stearate
Pesticide residues
Petrolatum
Phenyl Trimethicone*
Phthalates (DBP / DMP / DEP)
Phenoxyethanol – a cause of brain deterioration , eye damage and reproductive disorders. It is toxic to the bladder and kidneys.
Placenta
Polybutene
Polyethylene
Polymethyl Methacrylate
Polyquaternium-7
Polysorbate 61 – Chemical ingredient used as a fragrance and emulsifier. It has been linked to (to name a few) reproductive problems, cancer, broad systemic toxicity and effects on the liver.
Propylene Glycol – Use in moisturisers and fragrances and may inhibit skin cell growth and cause irritation to the skin. In studies it has been linked to problems with the kidney, liver, reproductive problems and cell mutations.
Propylparaben – Has been linked to cancers for hormone interference and mutagenic qualities. Studies suggest it can interfere with gene expression. It has been shown to have toxic qualities on the skin and cause skin irritation as well as negative effects on the brain, nervous system, and behaviour.
Pvp/Va Copolymer
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Quinoa
Quinoa is a seed which contains healthy fats, protein & antioxidants and provides 9 amino acids that humans can’t produce naturally. It has been suggested that it may help to reduce the risk of heart disease and diabetes. It is often called the grain with an abundance of protein … however it is actually a seed … with a huge amount of protein!
Quarternium-15 – This chemical which is used as a preservative act as a formaldehyde releaser. It has been linked to allergies, cancer, problems with reproduction. Further it is though to have toxic effects on the immune system and problems with the brain, behaviour and the nervous system.
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Raspberry
Raspberries are high in antioxidants and contain ellagic acid – great for working against oxidative stress & free radicals. This and the vitamin c and antioxidant content helps make your skin beautiful from the inside out. This partly works by increasing the collagen and elastin content helping the skin stay firm, free from wrinkles and youthful as well as helping treat and prevent acne. The raspberry seeds contain high levels of omegas 3 & 6 which can aid skin conditions such as eczema and poriasis. Studies have suggested that raspberry ketones help aid weight loss!
Rosemary
Rosemary is used as a natural skincare ingredient. Rosemary is known to stimulate cell renewal. In organic and natural skincare products it is used to help clear acne and blemishes, improve circulation and reduce the appearance of broken capillaries and varicose veins. It also normalises excessive oil secretions and improves most scalp problems, notably dandruff, conditions the scalp and stimulates hair growth.
Rosemary has for centuries been used for improving memory, not just for the unique flavour. Rosemary contains antibacterial and antioxidant rosmarinic acid as well as other essential oils that have been shown to exude anti-inflammatory, anti-fungal, and antiseptic properties. The antioxidant contained in Rosemary have aid in the combat of free radicals, help protect vision maintain healthy skin and protect from some cancers.
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Squalane
Squalene comes in two forms: the good and the bad. The good squalene is consumed in olive oil and it contained throughout your nervous system and brain, and is therefore recognisable to your body as an oil molecule. In olive oil your body benefits from the antioxidant properties of the squalene.
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Shea Butter
Extracted from West Africa’s karite tree nuts, shea butter has large amounts of fatty acids, unsaturated fats, vitamins A, E, D & antioxidants. In Africa, shea butter is thought to heal, protect and renew the skin and hair against environmental climates.
Due to its ability to gently moisturise and protect it is great as defending skin from UV sunlight, dehydration, and pollution. This makes it great for reducing the appearance of wrinkles age spots and fine lines (since it is so hydrating) Shea Butters’ ability to stimulate the production of collagen it strengthens skin and hair leaving them nourished and shiny. It is also a great aid for your baby’s nappy rash.
Whilst shea butter is great for beauty care it is also great for skin conditions such eczema, psoriasis & rashes due to its anti-inflammatory properties.
Sour Cherry (Montmorency, Prunus cerasus)
Sour Cherries (not to be confused with sweet cherries) are low in calories and contain more anthocyanins than any other fruit. The high level of anthocyanins helps to ease arthritic pain (by reducing inflammation), may help lower risk of heart attack, type 2 diabetes and stroke, they have antiviral and antibacterial properties, and have also been known to help fight cancer. The oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC) or ability to attack free radical power of sour cherries differs on the form of the sour cherry, however in 100g of cherry juice concentrate there are 12,800 ORAC’s, making the sour cherry one of the most potent sources of antioxidants in the world. Quercetin and ellagic acid, 2 components in sour cherries, can both inhibit the growth of tumours and kill cancer cells. Sour cherries lower uric acid levels which helps to prevent gout and reduce inflammation. This is why cherry juice is an excellent natural fix for gout pain. This ability to reduce uric acid levels helps fight inflammation and DOMS (delayed onset muscle syndrome – the aches and stiffness you feel hours or the next day after a strenuous workout!) after exercise, helping you to recover quicker and exercise for longer. Some other compounds found in sour cherries that help your wellbeing are Gallic acid, quercetin, p-coumaric acid and kaempferol. Sour cherries have a natural source of melatonin which helps you sleep for longer, helps insomniacs sleep and is also thought to prevent breast cancer.
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Sunflower Oil
This ingredient is cold pressed from sunflower seeds – being 100% pure it is completely safe for all skin types, won’t clog pores or irritate skin. Organic Sunflower oil contains vitamins A, D and contains more vitamin E than most other vegetable oils as well as being rich in minerals to name a few calcium, potassium, zinc and iron. In organic skin care products for its softening and smoothing properties. The high levels of Vitamins E and C provide a potent antioxidant power which helps protect your skin from free radical damage and helps your skin stay looking youthful by increasing the elasticity of your skin. The Vitamin K contained in Sunflower oil reduces the onset of calcification of elastin giving your skin strength whilst reducing the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. Organic Sunflower Oil in organic skin care products will aid your skin giving it a protective cover, hydration and softness. Sunflower Oil is high in monounsaturated fatty acids and low in polyunsaturated fats
SLES (Sodium Laureth Sulphate) – This chemical is composed of 4 carcinogens, namely: formaldehyde, Dioxane, Ethylene Oxide, Acetaldehyde.
SLS (Sodium Lauryl Sulphate)
Sodium Acrylate
Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
Sodium Hydroxide – A highly reactive inorganic base. Studies have linked it to cancer and shown its effects on the nervous system, brain, behaviour, metabolism.
Squalene derived from animals (plant squalane is ok)
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Tart Cherry (See Sour Cherry)
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Tea Tree Oil
Tea Tree Oil (melaleuca oil) originates from Australia initially used as tea and an antiseptic. Tea Tree Oil is a potent anti-viral, anti-bacterial and anti-fungal used mostly for blemish prone and oily skin. Studies suggest that it can aid acne. Tea Tree has been used successfully on preventing and getting rid of head lice. This is because of it properties which make it a great insect repellant as well as a 100% natural disinfectant and a few drops can destroy organisms in the washing machine!
Talc contaminated by asbestos
Tetrasodium EDTA
Toluene / BHT – made from petrolroleum and coal tar this chemical has been linked in various studies to anemia, low blood cell counts, damage to the liver, kidney’s and a developing fetus, toxicity to the skin and immune system and may cause endocrine disruption and cell mutations.
Triclosan
Trisodium EDTA
Triethanolamine (TEA) – Known to cause body tissue irritation and is corrosive to the eyes. When created with nitrosating agents, nitrosamines are formed – these are carcinogenic.
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Ugli Fruit (tangelo)
The Ugli fruit is a cross between a grapefruit and tangerine, containing a large amount of Vitamin C as well as Vitamin A, fibre and calcium. They have been said to help the formation of collagen due to the nutrients found in the Ugli fruit. They have also been found to contain a large array of flavonoids and polyphenols.
Urea – Diazolidinyl / Imidazolidinyl
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Vanilla
Vanilla extract, comes from a variety of orchids and is used in natural perfumes and natural skin care products due to its sensational calming aroma and health benefits. It is also used commonly in cooking and flavourings. Unknown to most vanilla also has health benefits as it can lower cholesterol, ease arthritic pain, protect from free radicals and promote faster recovery from exercise. The b vitamins contained in vanilla help to speed up the metabolic system which could help in weight loss.
The use of vanilla in shampoos, hair treatments masks and scalp serums can strengthen hair and bring blood to the scalp causing hair to become and look healthier.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is a natural anti-oxidant with a huge array of health benefits. In skin care products Vitamin C content helps to smooth and replenish wrinkles and fine lines whilst being an essential component for collagen synthesis. Vitamin C is a great natural addition to any organic skin care or organic body care product.Vitamin C is said to help protect from oxidation, keep an electron flow between your cells and protect proteins & lipids in your body. It is required for the structure of blood vessels, ligaments, tendons and bones. It also supports your heart, balances your blood pressure levels, keeps your blood vessels and arteries in an optimum condition whilst helping to keep your eyes in tip top condition. Vitamin C is vital for health due to its ability to boost other antioxidants, so it is really important to make sure we get the amount of Vitamin C that we need!
Vitamin E
Vitamin E is a powerful anti-oxidant which is used to help prevent wrinkles, fine lines, stimulate circulation and cell renewal and regulate elasticity and firming in the skin. and has had great effects on reducing the appearance of scars
Used in many natural skin care products and organic body care products Vitamin E is an essential and key addition for protecting from free radicals.
Vanillyl Butyl Ether
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White Tea
White tea contains an abundance of antioxidants. This makes it great for anti-ageing and staying beautiful. It helps slows the breakdown of collagen keeping the skin strong and firm for longer as well as reversing damage from sun and stress. Applying tea to the skin is as good if not better than drinking it. White Tea has been thought to lower blood pressure, cholesterol and triglycerides, protect from heart disease & some cancers and strengthen teeth & gums. It is also though to improve digestion.
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Xylitol
Xylitol can be used as a substitute for sugar which is all natural and extracted from the fiber’s of plants. It provides fewer calories than regular sugar.
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Ylang Ylang
Ylang Ylang oil comes from the flowers of the Ylang Ylang tree. It is known for its anti-depressant properties and for helping to relax and ease tension & anxiety. It has also been used on wounds & cuts.
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Zinc Oxide
Zinc Oxide is a super effective sun protection as it has an ability to protect from both UVA & UVB rays by forming a layer on the skin (rather than being absorbed into the skin). Too much exposure to the sun, especially at a young age, can be detrimental to skin health and also has been known to quicken up the appearance of wrinkles. As such zinc is also used in anti-ageing products. Zinc Oxide can also help soothe rosacea, rashes and sunburn. Further it is used for preventing and fixing up acne.
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Zirconium
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