Herbs
and Oils
This list is for general information and reference; and
we may not be using some of the following herbs, botanicals
and essential oils in our current product range. You can
also browse to a particular product on our website and view
its full list of ingredients before making a purchase.
:: Read about how our soap is handmade (click here)
A
Aloe Vera (Aloe barbadensis)
Aloe Vera flourishes in warm and dry climates, staying
moist where other plants wither and die by closing its
pores to prevent moisture loss. Aloe Vera Gel has been
used externally to treat various skin conditions such
as cuts, burns, and eczema. It is alleged that sap from
Aloe Vera eases pain and reduces inflammation. Aloe Vera
gel is also alleged to be useful for dry skin conditions,
especially eczema around the eyes and sensitive facial
skin.
Apricot (Prunus armeniaca)
A light, clear oil expressed from apricot pits. Has an
excellent texture that is great for all skin types, good
for prematurely aged skin and skin that is dry and irritated.
Also used for softening and moisturising. Also excellent
used as a salad dressing!
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B
Bay (Pimenta racemosa)
One of the traditional uses of bay is as an aphrodisiac
as it is a stimulating and energising oil. Bay is also
used to ease tired muscles after sporting activity and
it's a good hair tonic.
Bergamot (Citrus bergamia)
citrus
This clear oil has a dry, floral, citrus aroma, and is
taken from the peel. It has both a soothing and uplifting
effect, as well as being gently antiseptic. Bergamot derives
its name from the Italian town of Bergamo where the fruit
essence was first sold.
Borage (Borago officinalis)
Contains high levels of essential fatty acids which are
antioxidant and healing.
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C
Calendula (Calendula officinalis)
Marigold is one of the all-time great skincare herbs,
or skin tonic, with strong anti-inflammatory, antiseptic,
and healing properties.
Castor Oil (Ricinus communis)
Castor oil is derived from the castor bean. Castor oil has been used for hundreds of years in India, Egypt, and China as an external remedy for sores and abscesses. It has been used historically as a drawing agent and to stimulate healing. Castor Bean Oil is known to soften and rehydrate dry, rough skin. Castor Bean Oil is also loaded with Vitamin E which serves as an anti-oxidant and a natural preservative. Castor oil helps to make our soap very moisturising with a dense, viscous lather.
Cedarwood (Cedrus atlantica)
woody
An amber coloured oil with a woody, camphoric aroma. It's
stimulating, energising, and uplifting. Traditionally
used in aromatherapy to quell tension after a busy day.
Also known to ward off biting insects and the Scottish
Midge. (Cautions: Do not use during pregnancy)
Chamomile German (Chamomilla recutita) green
An excellent anti-inflammatory and skin softener. It is
also very calming and soothing. It is particularly mild
on sensitive skin, although it can cause sensitivities
with some individuals.
Chamomile Roman (Anthemis nobilis)
green
Chamomile has a light, sweet fragrance, crisp, fruity
and herbaceous. It is considered an excellent oil for
use in skincare and has been used to treat many common
skin conditions and wounds.
Cinnamon (Cinnamomum zeylanicum) spicy
One of the most recognisable aromas ever, Cinnamon ruled
the trade routes of the world during ancient times. Its
fragrance is warm and spicy and is reminiscent of early
morning sweets. (Cautions: Do not use during pregnancy)
Citronella (Cymbopogon nardus)
citrus
Citronella is a grass that grows wild in the Asian tropics.
It has a fresh, slightly lemony aroma that is stimulating
and vitalising. Provides an uplifting tonic, with refreshing
and deodorising properties.
Clary Sage (Salvia sclarea)
green
Clary Sage has been revered for centuries for its sweet,
spicy, earthy aroma from the leaves and twigs. Antiseptic,
soothing, relaxing, calming and balancing. It was used
to soothe nervous tension and ease mental fatigue in ancient
times, and is still very popular.
Cocoa Butter (Theobroma cacao)
Our Fair-Trade organic Cocoa butter contains natural antioxidants. The smooth texture, sweet fragrance and natural moisturising properties of cocoa butter makes it a wonderful ingredient in natural skin care products, such as our soaps, bath bombs, lotions and creams.
Comfrey (Symphytum officinale)
A powerful healer, stimulating the regeneration of healthy
new skin cells. It is the wound healer of choice for medical
herbalists. A toner with astringent characteristics.
Cypress (Cupressus sempervirens) woody
Cypress oil has a sweet, balsamic aroma that's marked
with warm overtones of pine and evergreen from the needles
and cones. Antiseptic, relaxing, calming and soothing.
Acts as a refreshing antiseptic. (Cautions: If pregnant,
consult a GP before use)
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E
Elderflower (Sambucus
nigra)
Like mallow is an excellent skin conditioner, with stimulating,
antiseptic qualities.
Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus globulus, Eucalyptus citriodora) green
This oil has a sharp, camphoric aroma from the leaves
and twigs. Antiseptic, cooling, head clearing and stimulating.
Eucalyptus has been an integral part of folk therapy for
centuries, and it is well documented in numerous early
historical texts.
Evening Primrose (Oenothera biennis)
This oil is high in Gamma Linoleic acid, and is known
as a very good skin conditioner.
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F
Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare)
Reputed to have good skin cleansing properties.
Flaxseed (Linum usitatissimum)
Rich source of essential fatty acids, has anti-bacterial
and soothing qualities.
Frankincense (Boswellia carterii) woody
Has a rich, sweet aroma from the Boswellia tree. Antiseptic,
astringent and soothing. Traditionally used to relax the
mind and soothe emotions. Frankincense is an ancient fragrance
that has been used for thousands of years, especially
during the holidays.
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G
Geranium (Perlagonium
graveolens) floral
Has a subtly sweet, floral aroma from the leaves and flowers.
Calming and uplifting. Relaxes and soothes to help regain
a sense of balance in the mind and body. Very useful for
all skin types as this oil is reputed to help keep the
skin supple. (Cautions: Do not use during pregnancy)
Ginger (Zingiber officinalis)
spicy
Its aroma is warm and earthy with a spicy-wood tone from
the dried root. Ginger is a great warming, stimulating
yet grounding oil. Externally ginger is reputed to help
reduce bruising by increasing local vascular activity.
It's also known to effectively deal with colds and other
upper respiratory conditions, and is used for digestive
problems. Ginger is one of the most storied of essential
oils, with references in ancient Greek, Roman, Arabic,
Chinese and Sanskirt medical texts.
Ginseng (Panax ginseng)
Ginseng is used in natural skin care products for its reputed toning and vitalising effects on the skin. Reported in traditional Chinese medicine, ginseng root improves circulation, increases blood supply, revitalises and aids recovery from weakness after illness, and stimulates the body.
Grapefruit (Citrus paradisi)
citrus
With a sweet, refreshing citrus aroma, extracted from
the peel. It's uplifting, refreshing and energising. A
great pick-me-up to invigorate the senses. Also acts as
an antiseptic. Shares the skin cleansing, and refreshing
properties of all the citrus family.
Grape Seed (Vitus vinifera)
Rich in vitamins, minerals and polyunsaturated fatty acids.
Grape Seed is a light oil used for both for body care
and culinary endeavours! Similar to almond oil, and has
no noticeable aroma. Grape Seed oil can be used on all
skin types and does not aggravate acne, it's also slightly
astringent.
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H
Hyssop (Hyssopus
officinalis)
Has a reputation for clearing and cleansing skin. Hyssop
is a historical and biblical herb whose name is derived
from the Greek word azob or holy herb. (Cautions: Do not
use during pregnancy)
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J
Jasmine (Jasminum
grandiflorum) floral
Exotic and warm, uplifting yet relaxing. A fresh, delicately
balancing oil with toning, rejuvenating, and clearing
properties. Jasmine is called "moonlight of the grove"
by Hindus, and is one of the most expensive and desirable
fragrances used today.
Jojoba (Simmondsia chinensis)
Jojoba oil is smooth and non-greasy. Jojoba is rich in
Vitamin E, and its moisturising, balancing and soothing
properties make it excellent for skin care, hair care
and skin nourishment.
Juniper Berry (Juniperus communis) spicy
Has a lovely fresh woody aroma extracted from the berries.
Antiseptic, balancing and purifying, clearing and cleansing.
Reputed to be good for skin that's prone to the occasional
spot. Juniper has been used as a fragrance since ancient
times and was thought to purify the air where it was used.
(Cautions: Do not use during pregnancy)
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L
Lavender (Lavandula
officinalis) floral
Has a light, soft aroma of fresh flowers and is very comforting,
calming and relaxing. Helps to ease the mind and soothe
nerves, dissolves tension, promoting restful feelings.
It was the favoured fragrance of Rome and was added to
bathwater for a fresh, clean aroma. It has antiseptic,
anti-inflammatory, and healing actions and is known to
be soothing to skin.
Lemon (Citrus limonum) citrus
Delightful crisp citrus aroma extracted from the peel.
Antiseptic, refreshing, stimulating and uplifting. Has
skin cleansing and refreshing properties. Lemons were
mentioned in ancient Sanskrit texts as early as 800 BC,
and famed explorers like Columbus and Vasco DeGama carried
lemons and other citrus fruits with them during their
arduous sea voyages.
Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus) citrus
A wonderfully sharp citrus aroma extracted from the leaves
of the grass. Stimulating, cleansing, refreshing and energising.
Lemongrass is reputed to be excellent for stretch marks.
With a refreshing aroma that's both earthy and lemony,
it remains a cherished favourite among aromatherapists
from every corner of the globe.
Lime (Citrus aurantifolia)
citrus
Has a wonderful fresh citrus aroma extracted from the
peel. Stimulating and uplifting. Lime oil also has astringic
properties that are known to help clear oily skin and
acne. It's also reputed to promote good circulation, and
often used to help relieve varicose veins.
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M
Mallow (Malva officinalis)
Mallow and elderflower are both emollients: soothing,
healing, softening and easing to the skin.
Mandarin (Citrus reticulata)
citrus
An orange oil with a sweet aroma. It's relaxing, calming
and soothing. Shares the skin cleansing, and refreshing
properties of all the citrus family.
Mango Butter (Mangifera indica)
Mango butter melts on skin contact to naturally moisturise very dry skin. A wonderful emollient, it adds a rich creamy feel to lotions and creams. It has similarities with Cocoa butter and helps stabilise emulsions as well as having good moisturising properties. It contains natural Vitamin E.
Marjoram Sweet (Origanum marjorana)
Marjoram has an herbal, slightly medicinal aroma with
marked clearing and cleansing properties. Marjoram was
widely used in ancient Greece as a medicine and perfume.
It is believed that the word is derived from the Greek
"margaron", which means pearl. (Cautions: Do
not use during pregnancy)
May Chang (Litsea cubeba) citrus
Its sweet, sherbet, citrus aroma is uplifting and soothing.
Refreshes both body and mind. A great soother at the end
of a busy day. Shares the skin cleansing, and refreshing
properties of all the citrus family.
Melissa (Melissa officinalis)
Often known as lemon balm, it is generally uplifting and
cleansing, refreshing and stimulating.
Myrrh (Commiphora myrrha) citrus
A warm musky, balsamic aroma is produced from the resin
of the Commiphora shrub. Antiseptic, relaxing, soothing.
Reputed to ease and relax tense muscles. Myrrh was one
of the most popular aromatics of ancient times. It was
widely used in incense and perfumes, and Egyptians not
only used it as a cosmetic, but as an offering during
sun worship at Heliopolis every day at noon.
(Cautions: Do not use during pregnancy)
Myrtle (Myrtus communis)
Known for its cleansing properties. It has a piercing,
clean and slightly woody fragrance.
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N
Nettle (Urtica dioica)
Nettles grow wild in the woods in the Highlands of Scotland. Spring is the time to collect the tender tops before they flower. They can then be dried for later use, or make fresh oil or vinegar infusions, tinctures, hair tonics, herbal drinks, etc. Nettles have been used for centuries in medicines, cosmetics, dyes, teas, and also is one of the most nutrient-rich edible wild greens available (like spinach). Nettle extract has been used to treat arthritis, anaemia, hay fever, kidney problems, and pain. Nettle is used in hair shampoo to control dandruff, and is said to make hair more glossy, which is why some farmers include a handful of nettles with cattle feed. We combine extracts of Rosemary and Nettle in our shampoo formulas to promote strong hair and a healthy scalp.
Nutmeg (Myristica fragrans)
Is a tropical evergreen native to the West Indies and
Indonesia. Nutmeg is recorded in history as early as the
seventh century and various parts of the tree were used
by ancient Arabians, Greeks and Romans as a spicy aroma
and is used to warm to the body and stimulate the mind.
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O
Orange (Citrus
sinensis) citrus
Characteristic orange aroma from the peel. A warming and
soothing oil. Known for its cheering effect, useful for
calming and soothing the emotions. Oranges are mentioned
in ancient Chinese writings as early as 2400 BC, and like
most citrus fruits, were heavily traded and widely popular
as a food and a fragrance. It has a variety of therapeutic
uses, from relaxing mind and spirit to boosting circulation.
Oregano (Origanum vulgaris)
This oil from dried flowering tops has a strong, spicy,
camphorous aroma that can be as uplifting and invigorating
as it is cleansing and refreshing. Has a mild anti-microbial
action and acts as a gentle astringent. (Cautions: If
pregnant or lactating, consult a GP before use)
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P
Paeony (Paeony
lactiflora)
An anti-inflammatory reputed to stimulate and tone the
minute capillaries which feed the skin.
Palmarosa (Cymbopogon martini)
Palmarosa is a wild, flowering grass native to Pakistan
and India and is used in Ayurvedic medicine. It has a
subtle rosy aroma and is revitalising.
Parsley Seed (Petroselinum sativum)
Has a reputation for clearing and refining skin tone.
Patchouli (Pogostemon cablin)
floral
A beautifully dark red oil with a penetrating earthy aroma.
Antiseptic, stimulating, uplifting and very sensual. Patchouli
oil is a very popular fragrance with a distinct scent.
Originally from India, where it is known as puchaput.
Peppermint (Mentha piperita)
green
This oil has a sharp, mint aroma from the herb. Antiseptic,
refreshing and cooling. Has stimulating, cleansing, mildly
antibacterial properties. Peppermint was widely used by
the ancient Greeks and Romans, and may have been cultivated
by the Egyptians. The term "mint" is from the
Greek Mintha, a mythological nymph transformed into a
plant by the goddess, Peresphone after she learned of
her husband Pluto's love for her. (Cautions: Do not use
during pregnancy)
Pine (Pinus sylvestris) woody
Pine needle oil is marked by a fresh, woody balsamic aroma
that can be both invigorating and uplifting. Though most
commonly associated with the holiday season, the rich
essence of pine needle oil is one that can be enjoyed
throughout the entire year. Antiseptic, refreshing.
(Cautions: If pregnant or lactating, consult a GP before
use)
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R
Rose (Rosa centifolia)
floral
A sweetly floral aroma from the petals that has been used
for centuries in perfumes and incense. A very expensive
oil, rose is an anti-inflammatory with healing, soothing
and calming characteristics.
Rose Geranium (Pelargonium graveolens) floral
Has a subtly sweet, floral aroma from the leaves and flowers.
Calming and uplifting. Relaxes and soothes to help regain
a sense of balance in the mind and body. Very useful for
all skin types as this oil is reputed to help keep the
skin supple. (Cautions: Do not use during pregnancy)
Rosehip (Rosa mosqueta)
A nourishing and rejuvenating oil high in Omega-6 Fatty
Acids. Reputed to be good for dry skin.
Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) green
Has a sharp, herbal scent. Antiseptic, stimulating, invigorating,
and refreshing. It is one of the most popular of the early
English medicinal herbs. Has astringent and antiseptic
properties reputed to stimulate metabolic processes in
the skins dermal layer.
Rosewood (Aniba roseaodora)
woody
The Rosewood is an evergreen tree native to the Amazon
rainforest that has a long history of use with the native
tribes of the Amazon basin. It has a unique rosy fragrance
with a hint of spice that calms and relaxes.
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S
Sage (Salvia
officinalis) green
Antiseptic and known to stimulate circulation. Sage essential
oil is reputed to be a potent purifier and detoxifier
when used externally in aromatherapy. As an aromatic,
many aromatherapists hail it as one of the best for boosting
memory and mental clarity. (Cautions: If pregnant or lactating,
consult a GP before use)
Sandalwood (Santalum album)
woody
A woody yet sweet, heavy aroma. Soothing, calming and
harmonising particularly for the mind.
Shea Butter (Butyrospermum parkii)
Our natural Fair-Trade Shea nut butter (unrefined, organic) has a slightly ivory-colour, extracted from the fruit of the Shea tree by crushing and boiling. Shea butter is widely used in natural cosmetics as a wonderful skin moisturiser. Shea butter is also edible. It is used as a cooking oil in West Africa, as well as sometimes being used in chocolate as a substitute for cocoa butter.
Spearmint (Mentha spicata)
A milder, gentler form of peppermint. Spearmint essential
oil is calming, relaxing and uplifting, rather than stimulating.
A useful oil in treating mental fatigue and depression.
(Cautions: Do not use during pregnancy)
St. John's Wort (Hypericum perforatum)
Used externally it can help repair damage to local nervous
tissue. In ancient times, herbalists wrote about its use
as a sedative and a treatment for malaria, as well as
a balm for wounds, burns, and insect bites. Today, St.
John's wort is used by some for depression, anxiety, and/or
sleep disorders.
Sunflower (Helianthus annuus)
A good basic oil which is highly suitable for all skins.
Sweet Almond (Prunus amygdalus dulcis)
A virtually odourless, light oil with excellent emollient
and moisturising qualities. It is expressed from almond
seeds. (Cautions: Could cause skin sensitivity in people
with nut allergies)
Sweet Marjoram (Marjoram hortensis) green
Has a warm, spicy aroma and a fresh note. Antiseptic,
relaxing, comforting, and soothing. Traditionally used
to help calm and relax a tired mind and body.
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T
Tangerine (Citrus reticulata) citrus
Beautifully fresh, radiant, and tangy sweet aroma. Tangerine
essential oil, like most of the citrus family, can be
depended upon for refreshing and rejuvenating characteristics.
Its aroma clears the mind, aromatherapists also consider
it to be very comforting, soothing and warming.
Tea Tree (Melaleuca alternifolia) spicy
A clear oil with a sharp, fresh aroma from the leaves.
Tea Tree oil has strong antiseptic and germicidal properties.
Its aroma invigorates, stimulates and energises the body.
Thyme (Thymus vulgaris) green
Thyme is one of the most storied of all herbs, with numerous
mentions throughout the histories of many different cultures.
Imparts a sweet herbaceous, subtly medicinal aroma reminiscent
of vanilla. Soothing to both body and mind. (Cautions:
Do not use during pregnancy)
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V
Vitamin E (Alpha
tocopherol)
A powerful antioxidant that assists in maintaining skin
cell integrity.
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W
Wheatgerm Oil (Triticum vulgare)
High in vitamin E, Wheatgerm Oil has strong healing properties
and known for its anti-oxidation and preserving qualities.
Commonly used for reducing tissue damage after an operation
or injury and is reputed to be useful in severe cases
of acne.
White Tea (Camellia sinensis)
White Tea is common in natural skin therapy as its potent antioxidant properties are reputed to help keep your skin looking younger, longer. White Tea contains Polyphenols which are the most potent antioxidants. Polyphenols are found in many kinds of tea, but can be destroyed during the drying and heating process. The highest levels of Polyphenols remain in White Tea because it is harvested from the youngest buds when the plant's energy is at its highest potential, and, once harvested, White Tea is not rolled, dyed or oxidized, but simply dried in natural sunlight. White Tea also is known for its anti-viral and anti-bacterial qualities.
Wintergreen (Gaultheria procumbens)
Wintergreen grows wild across North America and has been
used extensively by Native Americans for centuries. Wintergreen
has a sweet, refreshing aroma that is both soothing and
uplifting.
Witch Hazel (Hamamelis virginiana)
The leaves and twigs of this plant are used to make this
prized extract. Witch Hazel is known for its astringent,
anti-inflammatory and strengthening properties. It makes
a wonderful skin cleanser.
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Y
Yarrow (Achillea millefolium)
It is of great benefit for circulation and reputed to
help with varicose veins. Yarrow essential oil is particularly
beneficial for gynecological problems, including irregular
menstruation, painful periods, as well as menopausal problems.
Yarrow is commonly used when making cleansers for oily
skin.
Ylang Ylang (Cananga odorata) floral
Widely regarded as one of the most romantic of fragrances,
Ylang Ylang means "flower of flowers" in the
Philippines. It is a Malaysian tropical flower that yields
an exotic, aphrodisiac aroma cherished by many aromatherapists
and perfume makers. Very sensual, balancing, and comforting.
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