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Adzuki Bean Powder(Phaseolus angularis)

Used in skin care by the Japanese for centuries, adzuki bean powder gently exfoliates the skin without damaging the surface of the skin. Adzuki bean is rich in naturally occurring B-complex vitamins, calcium, potassium, phosphorous, iron, zinc, folic acid and Omega 3 and 6 essential fatty acids.

Allantoin (Glyoxyl-diureide/Comfrey Root Extract)

White tasteless, odorless powder said to relieve skin irritations caused by soaps, detergents and alkalies in skin care products. It is said to promote wound healing and tissue formation but is not recognized for that by regulatory agencies.

 

Almond Oil (Amygdalus communis)

Almond Oil is known to soften and condition dry skin. It contains many vitamins and minerals and promotes a clear complexion.. Almond oil is expressed from almonds. Beneficial properties are thought to be that it does not clog pores,  it is well absorbed by the skin, it softens the skin. It is used in skin care to sooth itchy, dry, inflamed skin. Excellent for sensitive, dry skin.

Aloe Butter (Cocos Nucifera Oil / Aloe Barbadensis  Leaf Extract)

Aloe butter is an extract of aloe vera, aloe barbadensis in a coconut base. It is solid at room temperature but melts on the skin. Used after sun exposure to moisturize, in lotions, soaps, creams and lip balms to augment moisturization and to gain the properties of Aloe.

Aloe Vera (Aloe barbadensis)

Soothing, heals wounds, stops bleeding, relieves insect bites. Especially effective for burns The leaf of this plant has many active ingredients in its pulp, including steroids, organic acids, enzymes, amino acids, glucomanna and polysaccharides. These active ingredients have been found to heal and regenerate skin. In skin care products, Aloe Vera leaves a microscopically thin film of these enzymes, amino acids glucomanna and polysaccharides that act as a barrier to protect the skin . This works as a barrier to keep body fluids from escaping

Aloe Vera Gel (Aloe barbadensis juice)

Expressed from the aloe vera plant. The leaves store large amounts of water. Aloe vera improves hydration is soothing and healing to all skin types. Chemical analysis has shown the presence of mucopolysacharides, a natural moisturizing factor. Aloe vera is composed of water, the enzymes catalase and cellulose, minerals, calcium, aluminum, iron, zinc, magnesium, sodium, 20 amino acids and carbohydrates.True aloe vera is watery and thin. The products that you see on the marketplace that are thick have been chemically thickened and highly diluted.

Alpha Hydroxy acids (AHA)

Derived from natural occurring acids found in nature such as fruits, sugar cane and milk. These natural acids, when applied to the skin, improve the integrity of the skin by removing dead skin cells from the exterior layer of the skin (epidermal layer). AHAs break down the glue-like substance that binds dead skin cells together, allowing the outer layer of dead cells to slough off. AHAs also stimulate the production of new skin cells, promote the production of collagen and act as humectants by absorbing moisture from the atmosphere thus providing more moisture to the outer layer of the skin (epidermis).

Anise (Pimpinella anisum)

Oil of Anise, distilled in Europe from the fruits of Pimpinella anisum, Anise, and in China from the fruits of Illicium anisatum, Star Anise, a small tree indigenous to China, is colorless, or very pale yellow, with taste and odor like the fruit. The oil is used for its aromatic, carminative and stimulant properties. The bulk of the oil in commerce is obtained from the Star Anise fruit in China. The fruits are also often imported into France and the oil extracted there. In Germany, aniseed flavoring is very popular in cakes and soups. In France, Spain, Italy and South America it is used in the preparation of cordial liquors. In aromatherapy It is said to improve the spirits of women.

Apricot Kernel Oil (Prunus armeniaca)

This oil is extracted from the kernels of the fruit and is chocked full of vitamins and minerals. . It is known to soften and condition the skin. Good for all skin types and maturing skin.

Apple cider Vinegar

Vinegar has a tonic action that promotes blood circulation in the small capillaries that irrigate the skin. It is also antiseptic, preventing the proliferation of bacteria, viruses, or yeast that trigger infection. It can dissolve excessive fatty deposits at the surface of the skin and reduce scaly or peeling conditions. Lastly, vinegar regulates the pH of the skin.

Aspalathus linearis

This South African herb occurs naturally only in the Cederberg and Olifants River mountain ranges of South Africa. In soap making it promotes soothing, creamy lather and can aid a variety of skin conditions. Often called African red tea or red bush.

Aveno Sativa

Oat kernel extract is a soluble form of hydrolyzed oats that improves the 'feel' quality to lotions and has extraordinary moisturizing abilities.

Avocado Oil (Persea americana)

Obtained from the pulp of the avocado, this oil contains many essential fatty acids, minerals, proteins, amino acids and large amounts of Vitamin A, D, E and beta carotene. It is frequently used in the cosmetic industry. It contains a high degree of unsaponifiables (the portion of the oil that does not react to form soap, but retains it's original makeup). Good for mature  skin and eczema, dull and dry skin.  This makes for not only a moisturizing but a healing bar of soap. 

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Balsam of Peru (Myroxylon Pereiræ)

Balsam of Peru is a resin extracted from incisions in the bark of the Peruvian Balsam tree. The tree is native to South and Central America. It has antiseptic actions that combats bacteria, promotes wound healing, and kills parasites, especially scabies. It is known for its natural vanilla scent.  It is used in soap manufacturing, for its fragrance, and because it makes a soft creamy lather, useful for chapped hands.

Basil, Sweet (Ocimum basilicum/France)

Sweet basil oil has a floral-spicy odor with a lasting sweetness. Aromatherapy benefits are thought to be that of clarifying, uplifting, energizing, strengthening, and refreshing. Alleged to improve mental clarity and memory. Basil should be avoided during pregnancy. 

Bay (Pimenta racemosa)

Bay oil is steam distilled from the small leaves and twigs of the bay rum tree. It has a spicy, sweet aroma with a definite note of clove. Aromatherapy benefits are thought to be that of warming, relaxing, calming.

Beeswax (Apis mellifera) 

Beeswax comes from the honeycomb of virgin bees. The Bees process the honey form the nectar and then convert it into wax. Ten pounds of honey produces one pound of wax. It has a honey like fragrance. It is used as an emulsifier and stiffener

Bergamot (Citrus bergamia/Italy/Fruit Peel)

Cold pressed from the peel of the nearly ripe fruit. The scent of bergamot is fresh, lively, fruity and sweet. It is the primary ingredient in Earl Gray Tea. Aromatherapy benefits are thought to be uplifting, normalizing and confidence building.

Bladderwrack (seaweed)

A form of seaweed that is thought  to be revitalizing and nourishing to the skin. The amino acid content of Bladderwrack is high compared to other plants. In  skin care, Bladderwrack is known for its ability to help reduce moisture loss and protect the skin against irritation. Its high silicon content makes it beneficial for excessively dry or mature skin.

Calendula (Calendula officinalis)

One of the best known and versatile herbs in Western herbal medicine.. Used medicinally in medieval northern Europe and later during the American Civil War to draw out infections. Calendula flowers, also known as pot marigolds,  also contain compounds known to promote the healing of burns and wounds. It is used as a remedy for many skin problems. It  is also a cleansing and detoxifying herb and is taken internally for a variety of ailments. We use calendula petals in most all of our soaps and we use calendula infused oils in several.  Beneficial properties are thought to be anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, astringent and fungicidal. Calendula is used in skin care products to soften and sooth chapped, dry, rough skin, diaper rash, burns, cuts, eczema, greasy skin, inflammations, insect bites, rashes and wounds. Only the common deep-orange flowered variety is considered to be of medicinal value.

Calendula CO2 Extract (Calendula officinalis/Egypt organic)

Used for its medicial value on burns, cuts, eczema, oily skin, inflammations, insect bites, rashes and wounds .

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Camellia Oil (Camellia Sinensis) 

Camellia oil is very high in oleic acid. It has been used in Japan for centuries to moisturize and condition the skin, hair and nails. It is an exceptional oil for soaps.

Canadian Glacial Clay

A true, powder mist fine, glacial clay from the remote Pacific islands of NW British Columbia, Canada. This clay is thought to be the 'crème de la crème' of clays for cosmetic and therapeutic use.

Candelilla Wax (Euphorbia antisyphilitica) 

Caldelilla wax is taken from the candelilla plant a desert shrub that is native to Mexico and Texas. Is used as a thickener in products. Can be used in the same proportions in a recipe as beeswax and is a wax of choice for vegans.

Cardamom Seed (Elettaria cardamomum/India)

This oil has a spicy, aromatic camphor-like aroma with floral undertones. Aromatherapy benefits are that of warming, sense enhancing.

Carnauba Wax Flakes (Copernicia prunifera)

The sap from the leaves of the Brazilian wax palm tree. The melting point for this wax is 181 degrees F and is an extremely hard wax.

Carrot Seed Oil (Daucus Carota)

Loaded with vitamins A & E, this oil helps balance the skin's moisture content and is known more for its healing properties than for its scent.  A source of Beta Carotene. Useful for all types of skin, especially good for acne, eczema, psoriasis and damaged skin. and for balancing oily and dry skin. Accelerates formation of new cells, improves elasticity. Stimulates and tones the skin. 

Cassia Bark (Cinnamomum casia/China/bark)

We know it as the spice cinnamon in the United States. Can be a skin irritant. Aromatherapy qualities of  euphoria, energizing, warming. Thought to be an aphrodisiac for some women.

Castor Bean Oil

Sometimes referred to as Palm Christi oil, it is rendered from the first cold pressing of the castor bean. Acts like a humectant, attracting and retaining moisture to the skin. As a soap making oil, it makes a wonderfully emollient, hard bar of soap. 

Cedarwood Atlas (Cedrus atlantica/Morocco)

The Atlas Cedar grows in the Atlas mountains of Morocco and is actually a pine, not a cypress like the red cedar in the United States. The aroma is woody and camphor-like. Cedarwood Atlas is used in soaps for its aroma and use as a fixative. Aromatherapy benefits are thought to be that of stabilizing, stress reducing and self enhancing

Chamomile (Anthemis nobilis) (Roman), Matricaria chamomilla (German)

The essential oil from this plant has many uses. It is calming to the nerves and has proven useful for children's ailments such as colic, sleeplessness, colds, and inflammation. This essential oil also helps acne and puffiness on the face.
It is also anti-bacterial, anti-fungal and soothing and healing to wounds.

China Clay (kaolinite)

This mild kaolin clay does not draw oils from the skin so is therefore a good choice for dry to normal skin. Provides stimulation to the skin and mild exfoliation; improves circulation.

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Cinnamon Leaf (Cinnamomum zeylanicum/Indonesia)

It is distilled from the leaves of the same tree. It aroma is reminiscent of cloves rather than cinnamon. It is often used in Oriental fragrances. Can be a skin irritant.   Aromatherapy benefits are thought to be that of refreshing, vitalizing.

Citronella (Cymbopogon nardus)

Extracted from the grasses. The odor of Ceylon Citronella is fresh, grassy, warm and woodsy. Aromatherapy benefits are thought to be that of purifying, vitalizing. Reputed to be an insect repellant.

Citric Acid

Widely used in the cosmetic industry. Derived from citrus fruits by fermentation of crude sugars. Used as a preservative and to adjust acid-alkali balance. Citric acid is said to have antioxidant and toning properties.

Clary Sage (Salvia sclarea/France/Flowering Top, Herb)

Spicy, hay like, bittersweet aroma similar to Bergamot. The aroma is long lasting and the oil is valued as a fixative. Aromatherapy benefits are that of centering, euphoric, visualizing.

Clove Bud (Syzygium aromaticum/Madagascar/Flower Bud)

The best oil is distilled from the flower buds. A more inferior oil can be obtained from the leaves and stems. Powerful spicy, fruity, sweet aroma. Can be a skin irritant. Aromatherapy qualities of warming and sense enhancing.

Cocoa Butter

Cocoa Butter is pressed from the cocoa bean and the vegetable oil that results is a by-product  of the making of chocolate. It is an excellent emollient, it softens dry skin,  leaving skin soft and smooth.  Unlike other oils that penetrate into the skin, cocoa butter remains on top and lays down a protective layer, preventing the skin from drying out.  People allergic to chocolate should avoid soaps made with cocoa butter.

Coconut Oil

This oil, extracted from copra, the dried flesh of coconuts,  is the most important oil in soap making, giving soap hardness and terrific lather with lots of bubbles. It is the only oil that will lather in sea water.   In most commercially available soaps, this is the only plant based oil used. The main purpose of coconut oil is to produce a rich abundant lather helping to spread the soap to all nooks and crannies of the body. In small quantities coconut oil is a moisturizer, but when used in larger quantities it has a tendency to dry out the skin.

Comedogenic

Tending to produce or aggravate acne

Comfrey (Symphytum officinale)

Comfrey, or "knit bone" as some herbalists call it is thought to help repair damaged tissue and broken bones and is one of the most well-known herbs for helping skin problems. It is thought to lessen scar formation. In cosmetics and in medicinal preparations both the leaves and roots are used.  Allantoin, a chemical constituent of comfrey, is said to be responsible for cell proliferation and regeneration. The roots are very rich in mucilage, which offers relief to dry and irritated skin.  Comfrey is used to make infused oil, salves, creams, facial astringents and other preparations.  Comfrey should be limited to  external use only. Warning: Comfrey should not be taken internally. Consuming comfrey can cause serious liver damage  Comfrey also contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids, which may cause serious illness or death.  It should  not be taken orally or applied to broken  skin.  For further information, contact the Food and Drug Administration:  http://vm.cfsan.fda.gov

Comfrey Root

It is said to regenerate aging tissue. Comfrey root powder can be added to the bath to soften the skin. Comfrey should be limited to external use only. This product should not be taken internally. Warning: Consuming comfrey can cause serious liver damage  Comfrey also contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids, which may cause serious illness or death.  It should  not be taken orally or applied to broken  skin.  For further information, contact the Food and Drug Administration:  http://vm.cfsan.fda.gov

Copaiba (Copaifera officinalis)

An evergreen tree native to tropic America and Africa. The oil is extracted from the resin of the tree. The scent is sweet, woody. Aromatherapy effects are said to be those of calming, promotes a peaceful state of mind and restful sleep, opens breathing passages and allows deeper breathing, mood uplifting, promotes mental clarity, good for meditation, healing and moisturizing to the skin, used as a fixative to anchor a scent.

 

Coriander Seed (Coriandrum sativum/France)

Spicy and pleasantly sweet aroma. Aromatherapy benefits of normalizing, relaxing, stabilizing, clarifying

Cypress (Cupressus sempervirens)

Source: plant branches. The scent is fresh, woody, clear and light. A clean scent with a middle to base note. S The fragrance is comforting and is said to aid in smoothing transitions, especially the loss of a loved one and the ending of relationships. Said to aid in circulation, varicose veins and menstrual problems. Restorative, calmative. Good for mature, oily skin.

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