Natural Ingredients
All ingredients in the Natural Skin Remedies range are certified organic by the Soil Association unless otherwise detailed below.
Arnica
Arnica is the first choice natural remedy for the treatment of bruises and soft tissue injuries. It is available in many forms from potentised homeopathic remedy to tinctures, balms, creams and gels and it should be the number one treatment following a bad fall particularly if a limb is broken. It must not however be used on open wounds.
Always keep some Arnica in your first aid cabinet in balm and tincture form. Apply it to bruises and soft tissue injuries such as strains and sprains and use to soothe tired and aching muscles from over exertion, or the stiffness of jet lag caused by long-haul air travel. Cream can simply be rubbed in, whilst the tincture should be diluted 10 drops to each litre of boiled, cooled water and applied as a compress. Under the supervision of a qualified homeopath Arnica can also be used to help stimulate hair growth following a course of chemotherapy.
Avocado Oil
This mild, nourishing, semi-fatty oil is rich in vitamins and especially suited to dry and mature skins. It helps restore tone when skin is tired and lacks lustre. An ingredient in many Natural Skin Remedies organic facial oils.
Beeswax
Local beeswax — I have not found it possible to obtain organic beeswax in the UK because beekeepers are unable to guarantee where their bees actually forage and so for organic supplies it is necessary to look further afield to countries such as Australia and New Zealand where the hives can be isolated from commercial crops. Because of this I chose local rather than organic and source my beeswax from a producer who keeps their hives on a fruit farm about 2 miles from my home.
Beeswax is added to products such as balms, lip salves and cleansers, to make them more solid and easy to use. The wax itself is a natural hydrating ingredient that increases the skin’s essential moisture. It also has anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties which can help relieve itching in sensitive skin. Some 'grains' may remain in finished products but this is due to the totally natural way in which they are made. The grains melt immediately when in contact with the skin and are not detrimental in any way. Present in Natural Skin Remedies lip salve & therapeutic balms.
UK beeswax may occasionally be used in products when local beeswax is not available (i.e. when I have forgotten to order enough!).
Bicarbonate of Soda
The main ingredient in bath bombs. Has skin softening and cleaning properties. Organic standard not available. Present in Natural Skin Remedies bath bombs, scrubs & fizzes.
Calendula
Calendula Officinalis (Marigold or Pot marigold) is a hardy annual flowering plant with beautiful deep orange flowers which open and close with the rising and setting of the sun. It happily self-seeds throughout the garden and once planted is rarely in short supply, providing leaves and flower heads for use in salads and botanic teas. When topically applied, Calendula is particularly effective in cleaning wounds where it helps prevent suppuration and disfiguring scars.
Calendula is available in many forms including tincture and botanical extract (see below) and is often found in preparations for the treatment of bunions and corns, cracked nipples, cuts and grazes, insect bites and stings, infected gums, nappy rash, nose bleeds thrush (oral and vaginal), ulcers, varicose veins and wounds. Present in several Natural Skin Remedies therapeutic balms.
Calendula CO2 Extract
Similarly to Chamomile CO2 extract, Calendula also has soothing, calming and anti-inflammatory properties and combining the two extracts together gives excellent results. Present in several Natural Skin Remedies therapeutic balms.
Castor Oil
The castor oil used in the Natural Skin Remedies range is from fairly traded organic seeds produced and cold pressed oil at a community project in India. Castor oil is highly viscous with a high fat content and as such it is absorbed by the skin very slowly. It's main therapeutic use in skin care is to attract oil and dirt and draw it out of the skin and it can be found in the Bare Necessity Facial Cleanser. For more details on using an oil based cleanser please click here.
Chamomile CO2 Extract
Well known for its calming and soothing properties, this German Chamomile is first choice for treating inflamed, irritated, dry, itchy or flaky skin. It has a more subtle and pleasant odour than Chamomile essential oil and is suitable for even the most sensitive of skin. Present in several Natural Skin Remedies therapeutic balms.
Citric Acid
You don't get any fizz in bath bombs without the addition of citric acid. It also helps make the bicarbonate of soda component less sticky. Not a product to be used extensively but OK occasionally as a bath time treat. Organic standard not available. Present in Natural Skin Remedies bath bombs, scrubs & fizzes.
Cocoa Butter
A natural moisturiser derived from the cocoa bean, cocoa butter helps increase skin hydration and decreases skin roughness and scaling as well as UV damage caused by overexposure to the sun. It contains flavanols which have been shown to improve blood flow and vessel function and recent research suggests that massaging your skin with cocoa butter can help relieve stress and boost the immune system. Present in Natural Skin Remedies lip salve & Summer Therapy Facial Moisturiser & Body Butter.
Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is one of the best natural skin lotions available. It is one of the most versatile too. Suitable for all skin types, even the most sensitive and eczema prone, it has also proven to be of benefit in cases of psoriasis and in yeast and fungal infections. High quality oil is free of pesticides, undesirable chemicals and contaminants and its small molecular structure makes it easily absorbed helping to keep connective tissue strong and supple and therefore minimising sagging and wrinkles.
Pure coconut oil is solid at room temperature which makes it economical in use and excellent for lip balms and skin lotions. It melts into a liquid in hot weather, when run under a hot tap or kept in a warm place such as an airing cupboard, and unlike other vegetable oils it can withstand high temperatures without spoiling or giving off free-radicals. Note too that pure coconut oil has no discernible aroma so is fine for those who do not like that coconut-ty smell.
It is best applied in small amounts and reapplied frequently as required. Because it absorbs quickly into the skin without leaving a greasy layer, many people initially think that it is not as beneficial as other moisturisers. Over a period of time however, coconut oil gradually softens the skin, removes dead layers and promotes the growth of healthier new tissue. All dry and itchy skin complaints can benefit from topically applied coconut oil, it makes an excellent shaving lotion too.
One other skin benefit is coconut oil’s natural sun screening properties as similarly to rosehip seed oil it can reduce the effects of problems associated with overexposure to UV light such as age spots. It does not block the ultraviolet rays so should not be considered when sunbathing or spending long periods of time out of doors in a sunny climate. It does however enable the body to adapt naturally to sun exposure and gradually increase tolerance over a period of time.
As well as being a good skin oil, coconut makes an excellent hair conditioner. Unlike commercial conditioners which merely aid combing by providing a silicone-based coating to the hair shaft, coconut oil actually nourishes the hair as well as providing shine. You don’t need to use much either, 1 or 2 teaspoons (warmed to melting point in the hand or just by running the jar under a hot tap) smoothed through the hair and left on for an hour or so before washing off with a natural shampoo will do the trick. It can be left on overnight for extra nourishment if required as long as pillowcases are protected from staining with an old cover or towel. This can be very beneficial in cases of dandruff and head lice. N.B. to remove coconut oil from the hair always ensure you apply a natural shampoo to the scalp before you try to wash off with water. Oil and water do not mix, so without the shampoo being apllied first you will end uop with a really oily mess.
Traditionally used to help age spots, nappy rash, eczema, dandruff, thrush (oral and vaginal) and psoriasis, and as a hair conditioner and head lice treatment. Suitable for all skin types, especially dry, itchy and sensitive. Present in Natural Skin Remedies moisturisers, body butters & lip salve, soaps and therapeutic balms.
Epsom Salts
An excellent addition to bath bombs to ease tired and aching muscles. Organic standard not available. Present in Natural Skin Remedies Gardener's bath bomb & hand scrub.
Essential Oils
Often referred to as the ‘life force’ of plants, essential oils aid the body in healing itself naturally.
There are many excellent books on the uses of essential oils and rightly so. These powerhouses of active ingredients will, when used correctly, give great pleasure and open up a whole world of natural healing possibilities for everyday complaints. They are valued for their effects on both a physical and emotional level as well as their anti-bacterial, anti-viral and anti-fungal actions.
Using high quality organic oils is vital for achieving positive results and buying the best you can afford should be considered a sound investment. Their purity and strength mean that a little goes a long way and if stored correctly in a cool dark place they will retain their therapeutic properties for a considerable time. They should not be used neat directly on the skin, nor taken internally, and contact with sensitive areas such as the eyes and mucus membranes must be avoided. Further caution is necessary when using oils for young children, pregnant and breastfeeding women, epileptics and anyone planning to go out in the sun or use a sunbed. Professional advice should be sought for anyone who falls into these categories.
Essential oils can be diluted in a carrier/ base oil for use on the skin, added to baths, used in steam inhalations or diffused into the atmosphere to fragrance your home. Research has shown that natural aromas can have a profound effect on emotional and physiological health whilst synthetic air fresheners have been linked to cases of diarrhoea and ear ache in young children and depression in their mothers.
Frankincense Essential Oil
A beautiful essential oil with natural skin preserving properties. Combines well with Lavender essential oil which enhances its benefits. Present in Natural Skin Remedies Bare Necessity Facial Moisturiser.
Helichrysum Essential Oil
A potent anti-inflammatory agent with a warm, slightly honey-like, rich, buttery fragrance with green notes of wood, spices and herbs. It is suitable for soothing sensitive skin and has good antibacterial, anti-viral and anti-fungal properties. There is anecdotal evidence of Helichrysum’s amazing power when used on broken bones and for fading bruises in record time. I think of it as the essential oil equivalent of arnica and like to combine the two in Calm & Care For Balm for optimal healing power.
Jojoba Oil
This easily absorbed oil helps to soften and protect the skin. It is termed an occlusive as its high content of protective waxes prevents trans-epidermal water loss therefore making it suitable and beneficial for skin exposed to wind, sun and water. It is suitable for all skin types (including those affected by eczema and psoriasis) and has natural antibacterial and anti-fungal properties. Included in many Natural Skin Remedies products - cleanser, moisturisers, body butters & therapeutic balms.
Lavender
Lavender is best known for its relaxing and sedative properties but there is much more to it than that. Both the essential oil and the floral water should find a place in any natural medicine cabinet.
The uses of lavender essential oil are well documented and it is known as a powerful antiseptic and treatment for minor burns including sunburn. It is soothing on bites, stings and grazes and is often included in cosmetic formulas for its supposed rejuvenating properties. There is little better for aiding a restful night’s sleep and that helps skin stay in good condition too. Lavender floral water being the bi-product of the essential oil distillation shares many of the same properties. It not only makes an effective air freshener but a handy spray can be used for treating minor cuts and grazes or as a mosquito and bug repellent.
Many people with sensitive skin find washing powders and conditioners irritating and opt for unperfumed brands or eco wash balls. Spraying laundry with lavender water (diluted down 1 part to 4 parts of water) imparts a nice fresh smell and its anti-insecticidal properties help keep moths out of the airing cupboard too.
Natural Skin Remedies lavender water is available in several sizes and lavender essential oil is present in several facial moisturisers, body butters and Repair & Revitalise and Protect & Preserve Balm.
Lemon Essential Oil
Stimulates the immune system and the circulation and has excellent antiseptic and disinfectant properties. Present in Natural Skin Remedies Gardener's bath bomb and hand scrub.
Lemon Tea Tree Essential Oil
Less harsh than regular Tea Tree oil but still with the same antiseptic and antibacterial properties. Beautiful aroma and natural insect repellent properties. Present in Natural Skin Remedies Man Alive! bath bomb and moisturising balm.
Mandarin (Red) Essential Oil
Gentle enough for use with young children and during pregnancy, Red Mandarin has excellent calming and uplifting properties. It is beneficial for all skin types and has the most wonderful aroma. Present in Natural Skin Remedies Winter Therapy products and children's bath fizzes.
Mango Butter
Has excellent skin softening and lubricating properties. Gives products a luxurious feel. Present in Natural Skin Remedies Winter Therapy Body Butter & Man Alive! Moisturising Balm.
Manuka Essential Oil
This wild crafted oil (organic production not currently available) is similar in action to tea tree but has a much less medicinal aroma and is milder and less irritating to the skin. Its fragrance is honey scented and its properties are anti-bacterial, anti-fungal and anti-viral. Present in Natural Skin Remedies Protect & Preserve Balm.
Marshmallow Root Oil
Used externally for its good anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory properties to treat localised skin irritations, boils, burns, sores, ulcers, wounds and all kinds of skin inflammations, this oil has also been shown to boost cell immunity. Its ability to maintain moisturising levels in the skin makes it a useful addition to all skin rejuvenating face oils, body oils and body butters. Highly suitable for sensitive skin types. Present in Natural Skin Remedies Summer Therapy products & Bare Necessity Clenaser.
Olive Oil
Like jojoba oil, olive also has occlusive properties which help prevent moisture loss from the skin. In addition, it has the ability to strengthen capillary walls so is good on skin that bruises easily and in balms to be applied to bruises, sprains and strains. It is heating too so can be used to good effect by those suffering from rheumatism. The anti-inflammatory properties of olive oil make it valuable for treating skin irritations, insect bites and stings, sun damaged skin, eczema, psoriasis and other forms of dermatitis. Present in Natural Skin Remedies therapeutic balms & soaps.
Peppermint Essential Oil
An excellent anti-inflammatory and antiseptic with an aroma which blends well with other essential oils. Present in Natural Skin Remedies Gardener's bath bomb & hand scrub.
Rosehip Seed CO2 Extract
This product is stabilised with rosemary antioxidant as a natural preservative. It is very rich in essential fatty acids, vitamins and minerals and has been shown to help improve elasticity of the skin, regenerate skin cells, slow down premature aging, reduce the formation of wrinkles and promote the fast healing of scar tissue. Present in Natural Skin Remedies Repair & Revitalise Balm.
Rosehip Seed Oil
This wonderful ingredient makes an excellent moisturiser which is suited to all skin types and particularly beneficial to more mature skins. Tocopherol, a natural form of vitamin E is added to this oil as a preservative to ensure greater shelf-life.
The main components of Rosehip Seed Oil are the Omega 3 and Omega 6 essential fatty acids which the body itself is unable to manufacture. Their role in attracting oxygen from red blood cells through the capillary walls helps replenish the skin from within.
It is also rich in vitamins A and C and studies have shown it to be a useful oil for reducing scars and wrinkles and restoring lost natural skin colour and tone. Like coconut oil it is a natural sunscreen which allows the body to build up its own resistance to the sun. Whilst it should not be used in place of a sunscreen for sunbathing it can be beneficial on a daily basis as extra protection from harmful UVA and UVB rays. Some cases of acne, dermatitis and eczema have been shown to respond well to the use of this oil.
Pure natural Rosehip Seed Oil is a beautiful amber colour and has no discernible aroma. It should be gently massaged into slightly damp skin and left to absorb for 10 minutes before applying make-up. Present in many Natural Skin Remedies facial moisturisers.
Rosewater
Pure, organic rosewater smells wonderful and has numerous health and beauty benefits. It is suitable for all skin types and for all ages and whilst its exact origins are shrouded in myth it is known to have been valued for centuries by many cultures for its profound healing properties on both a physical and psychological level.
Rosewater is the only toner recommended for use on dry skin as it both soothes and hydrates. It has cooling, antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties too and has a beneficial action on even the most sensitive of skins including those of eczema and psoriasis sufferers. Children in particular appreciate its use on minor cuts, grazes and insect bites as it is intensely soothing and does not sting when applied. It can either be sprayed onto the skin, applied on a cotton wool pad or a tablespoon added to a warm bath.
Traditionally rosewater has been used to soothe tired, gritty and irritated eyes. Obviously all eye complaints should be checked out by an optician or GP and rosewater only used as a local wash if there are no major problems or infection. It is useful during the hay fever season, on airplane journeys and after using the computer for long periods of time. Another traditional use is as a beautiful natural perfume.
It should be noted that cheap rosewater is often made with synthetic fragrant extracts and is therefore unlikely to have any therapeutic value. It should never be used in the eyes or on sensitive skin and even as a perfume it has little to be desired.
Traditional uses of rosewater include soothing cuts & grazes; dry, gritty or itchy eyes; eczema; insect bites and stings; and psoriasis. Suits all skin types including aging, dry and sensitive. Natural Skin Remedies Rosewater is available in several sizes.
Sandalwood Essential Oil
Fair traded, organic and from a sustainable source. An excellent skin oil for helping to soothe inflammation and for blending with other essential oils. Present in Natural Skin Remedies Winter Therapy products.
Sea Buckthorn Pulp CO2 Extract
This bioactive botanical ingredient is used for its rejuvenating, pain relieving and anti-inflammatory properties. It gives a lovely deep yellowy orange colour to products but is non-staining. Present in many Natural Skin Remedies therapeutic balms, cleanser & lip salve.
Sunflower Oil
A dry oil useful for all skin types, even oily. Sunflower oil is soothing and has excellent pore size reduction qualities. Present in Natural Skin Remedies Summer Therapy products.
Thistle Oil
Also known as safflower oil. Thistle is particularly good when added to other oils to stop the resultant blend feeling greasy. It is also an excellent source of omega 3 & 6 essential fatty acids which are as important in skin care as they are in the diet. Whilst suitable for all skin types it is the best oil to use on skin which has become thin and sensitive due to the over use of steroid creams and is useful for aiding the circulation generally. Present in Natural Skin Remedies therapeutic balms, cleanser & body butters.
Witch Hazel
Whilst Rosewater is the number one floral water for use on dry skin, Witch Hazel is the best choice for oily and blemished skin conditions due to its mildly astringent, cooling and healing properties.
The aroma of Witch Hazel being less floral than rose is especially popular with teenage boys although girls find it pleasant too. Commercially it is often used in eye drops, aftershave lotions and products formulated to treat sunburn, insect bites and irritated skin. As a potentised homeopathic remedy it is useful in all kinds of bleeding complaints. The floral water can be applied topically as a wash or compress but must be diluted in water when applied to the eye area.
Traditionally used in the treatment of bruises, haemorrhoids, insect bites, minor burns and sunburn, spots and blemishes, sprains, cold sores and varicose veins. Natural Skin Remedies Witch Hazel is available in a choice of sizes.
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