Benefits of Other Ingredients

Read below about the benefits of the various other ingredients that we use in our products.

Calendula Officinalis Tincture

Chamomile tincture being used topically helps calms and soothes the skin, relieves inflammation and skin conditions such as acne, herpes, eczema and rashes, bruises and burns. In any form, Chamomile has shown in studies to promote faster healing of wounds and regeneration of skin, to tighten pores, moisturise, slow down the ageing effects, and lighten hyperpigmentation such as blemishes and redness. It posses more than 120 different compounds which are responsible for the therapeutic and healing properties of chamomile. Studies have shown it has antimicrobial, antiviral, antibacterial, analgesic, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

Major constituents of Calendula officinalis include carotenoids, Flavonoids, saponins, sterols, phenolic acids and lipids (Arora et al., 2013).

Candelilla (Euphorbia Cerifera) Wax

Candelilla Wax is derived from the leaves of the small Candelilla (Euphorbia Cerifera) shrub native to northern Mexico and the southwestern United States. It is an odourless, hypoallergenic wax that is a great alternative to beeswax making it vegan friendly. It acts as a stabiliser and emulsifier in balms and provides a wonderful gloss and lubricity to lip balms. It helps condition skin, is easily absorbed and rich in nutrients. Candelilla wax works as a shield that helps prevent the skin from losing moisture and will hydrate the skin to make it look and feel fresh & clean.

Matricaria Chamomilla (Chamomile) Tincture

Chamomile tincture being used topically helps calms and soothes the skin, relieves inflammation and skin conditions such as acne, herpes, eczema and rashes, bruises and burns. In any form, Chamomile has shown in studies to promote faster healing of wounds and regeneration of skin, to tighten pores, moisturise, slow down the ageing effects, and lighten hyperpigmentation such as blemishes and redness. It posses more than 120 different compounds which are responsible for the therapeutic and healing properties of chamomile. Studies have shown it has antimicrobial, antiviral, antibacterial, analgesic, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

The major constituents found in Matricaria chamomilla (Chamomile) are Sesquiterpenes, flavonoids, coumarins and polyacetylenes (Abarbanel et al., 1984).

Echinacea Purpurea Tincture

Echinacea pupurea contains a variety of active compounds such as caffeic acid, alkamides, phenolic acids, rosmaric acid, polyacetylenes and more. In studies, these compounds have shown to boast many topical health benefits including reducing inflammation, improved immunity, and being loaded with antioxidants, may help treat common skin irritations such as acne, eczema and herpes simplex viruses. It is also purported to be used on wounds and cuts that are slow to heal. Skin care products containing echinacea extract were shown to improve skin hydration, skin health, reduce wrinkles, and repair the outer layer of skin. Echinacea has known antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antifungal and antiviral properties.

The major constituents in of Echinacea purpurea are phytochemicals that include alkamides, polysaccharides, lipoproteins, betaine, sesquiterpenes, polyacetylene, saponins and phenolic compounds – echinacoside and other caffeic acid derivatives, and chicoric acid (Coelho et al., 2020).

Commiphora Myrrha (Myrrh) Tincture

Myrrh has long been used traditionally for treating wounds, mouth ulcers, aches, microbial and parasitic infections, inflammatory diseases and as an expectorant. Research has shown myrrh has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antimicrobial, antifungal, neuroprotective, anticancer, analgesic, carminative, antiparasitic and astringent properties. The resin and tincture of powdered myrrh are powerful anti-aging agents, making it a perfect natural product to prevent premature aging. It has shown to fight acne thanks to its bacterial and healing properties. It repairs damaged, cracked or wounded skin, as it has perfect properties to disinfect and help in the recovery of damaged tissues.

The major constituents in Myrrh include limonene, curzerene, germacrene B, isocericenine, myrcernol, beta selinene and spathulenol (Ahamad et al., 2017).

Organic Aloe Vera (Aloe barbadensis miller) Gel

Aloe vera gel has long been used as skin protection and to treat skin wounds and skin conditions such as burns, sunburns, post-operative wounds, cracked and dry skin, herpes simplex, psoriasis and eczema. The properties and compounds of Aloe vera is known to retain skin moisture and integrity, and has been proven to be highly beneficial in skin, hair, beauty care and anti-aging products. Aloe vera has shown in studies to possess anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral and antiseptic properties.

Organic Apricot Kernal (Prunus Armeniaca) Oil

Prunus Armeniaca

Organic Apricot Kernal (Prunus Armeniaca) Oil

Organic Apricot Kernel Oil is gentle, non irritating and is akin to the natural sebum produced in human skin. It is renowned to nourish skin, moisturise dry and sensitive skin, reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines, rejuvenate and revive maturing skin, improve skin tone, as well as enhance skin radiance. It is also regarded as one of the best carrier oils for essential oils. 

Applied to itchy, chapped, wounded, or sore skin, Organic Apricot Kernel Oil facilitates faster healing without leaving a greasy residue. Its emollient properties help to exfoliate and moisturise the skin, helping it retain moisture, eliminating patches of dry skin, and relieving inflammatory conditions, such as rosacea, psoriasis, and eczema.

For anti-aging benefits, you can smooth it onto face and décolletage, and is especially beneficial to the under-eye area to restore and revive the delicate skin there. It’s antioxidant and Vitamin content helps slow the look of aging, boost circulation, stimulates collagen production, lightens unwanted blemishes and dark spots, and balances skin tone and hyperpigmentation.

Its high level of unsaturated fatty acids makes it non-greasy, and its combination of Oleic, Linoleic, and Linolenic acids helps clear pores, sore the production of oil in the skin, as well as relieve and prevent acne.

Organic Apricot Kernal Oil is a popular ingredient in many skin care products because it heals, nourishes, softens and enhances skin condition and appearance, especially when used regularly to maintain softness, suppleness, and radiance of skin. Additionally, it is purported to repair scared and damaged skin, protect skin against damage caused by UV radiation, toxins and bacteria, as well as promote cell production, thus boosting immunity.

Organic Apricot Kernel Oil boasts antiseptic, antibacterial, antifungal and antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and wound-healing properties.

The main chemical constituents of Organic Apricot Kernel Carrier Oil are Oleic Acids, Linoleic Acids, Alpha-Linolenic Acid, Palmitic Acid, Stearic Acid, Vitamin A, and Vitamin E. (Ref: https://www.researchgate.net/figure/In-vitro-antimicrobial-activity-of-apricot-seed-essential-oil-and-its-major-component_tbl1_265646716)

Organic Castor (Ricinus communis) Oil

Castor oil is completely natural, free of synthetic chemicals and it derives from the seeds of the castor bean (Ricinus communis) plant. It is rich in skin boosting ingredients and it’s fatty acids are natural humectants, which moisturises the skin by preventing skin loss. Almost 90% of its fatty acid content is a specific and rare compound called ricinoleic acid. Ricinoleic acid is not found is many other plants or substances, making the castor plant unique since it is a concentrated source. In addition, castor oil also contains other beneficial salts and esters that mainly act as skin conditioning agents. This is why it is so popular and used in hundreds of cosmetic, hair and skin care products.

Historically, Castor Oil has been used for thousands of years to treat a wide variety of health conditions and has long been regarded as a powerful skin care remedy. Today it is still used to boost lymphatic, circulatory and immune health, and reseach has shown that when applied topically to the skin, it can help prevent infection, reduce irritation and inflammation, improve localised blood flow, shed damaged skin cells and boost the immune system….all which helps the skin’s healing process and can accelerate wound healing. It has shown to be effective against many types of bacteria including Staphylococcus aureas, Esherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Out of all the staphylococcal bacteria, Staphylococcus aureus is considered to be the most dangerous and cause mild to serious skin infections and other concerning staph infection symptoms.

Not only has castor oil shown in studies to benefit overall skin health, but due to the combination of its antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and moisturising properties, it has has the potential to treat treat specific skin conditions, promote good skin health, relieve dryness and soothes skin inflammation. Studies have shown that it helps fight fungal infections and can help relieve hard to treat fungal acne. In addition to reducing redness and swelling of acne, it alleviates associated pain and scarring, and can even help prevent beakouts. Studies have found that castor oil contains therapeutic compounds that give the oil its incredible qualities, and reseach has shown that it not only boasts anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antioxidant, analgesic and wound healing properties, but also is hepatoprotective and free radical scavenging.

In addition, it can help treat arthritic conditions and Rheumatism, alleviate backache and muscle pain, soothe chronic headaches, relieve PMS, treat athlete’s foot and even help those with insomnia. Castor oil is also often used as a natural treatment for pain, joint swelling and inflammation associated with arthitic conditions. It is equally ideal in massage oil applied to aching joints, muscles or soft tissue. Abdominal castor oil packs have shown in scientific studes to signifigantly increase the production of lymphocytes which are the immune system’s natural “disease fighters’ that attack toxins, bacteria and other percieved threats to the body. Castor oil’s positive affect on the lymphatic system suggests better overall circulation and support to major organs.

Castor oil is not recommended for pregnant and breastfeeding mothers. If taking medications, always discuss with your doctor before using castor oil to ensure there are no significant interactions.

The composition of Castor oil is known to consist of up to 90% ricinoleic, 4% linoleic, 3% oleic, 1% stearic, and less than 1% linolenic fatty acids. (Patel et al., 2016)

Organic Cocoa (Theobroma Cocoa) Butter

Organic Cocoa Butter is an emollient and creates a protective barrier on the lips thanks to its intense hydrating characteristics. It not only keeps the lips moist, but ialso well nourished as it is an excellent source of natural antioxidants. It adds a protective hydrating layer to lips, helping protect them from extreme temperatures and indoor heat that can leave your lips dried out. Cocoa butter also assists in keeping lips full and reduces the appearance of wrinkles. Cocoa butter’s high levels of antioxidants help protect the skin from free radical damage and its Vitamin E content in particular is known for its restorative skin properties and healing abilities.

Organic Evening Primrose (Oenothera biennis) Oil

Evening Primrose Oil is cold-pressed from the seeds of Oenothera biennis. Due to the top qualities of Organic Evening Primrose Oil and its numerous benefits for skin, it has traditionally been referred to as the “King’s Cure-All”.

Used in skincare, Organic Evening Primrose Oil diffuses deep into the skin layers to soothe and moisturise, boost collagen production for enhanced elasticity, and helps make the skin firm and radiant.

Furthermore, Organic Evening Primrose Oil has anti-inflammatory properties and can help improve skin discoloration. It promotes a healthy, clear, rejuvenated complexion with enhanced radiance and by addressing roughness, wrinkles, redness, dryness, and irritation, it is reputed to soothe skin conditions like acne, eczema and psoriasis. It facilitates the healing process, reduces the appearance of scars, and calms inflammation.

Research has shown that Organic Evening Primrose Oil can help slow the look of aging by sustaining skin elasticity and softness. Additionally, it has demonstrated the ability to reduce the appearance of aging, such as premature wrinkles and fine lines, as well as maintain the softness, suppleness, and radiance of skin.

Organic Evening Primrose Oil is beneficial for use on acne-prone skin as it soothes acne and reduces chances of future outbreaks. It boasts cleansing properties that eliminate dirt, sweat, and excess sebum from hair and skin.

Organic Evening Primrose Carrier Oil it is gentle enough for use on all skin types, especially sensitive and prematurely aging skin.

Organic Jojoba (Simmondsia chinensis) Oil

Jojoba is an oil that comes from an evergreen plant, which has exceptionally long-chain fatty acids. This is uncommon in plants, and it’s very close in composition to your skin’s normal sebum, or the normal oil secreted by your skin. This unique mix of fatty acids include oleic acid and arachidonic acid (aids in growth and repair of muscle tissue).

Your skin’s oil can be made up of short-chain fatty acids and long-chain fatty acids. Jojoba oil has such a diverse spectrum of fatty acids, that all those different molecules work together to help retain water in your skin to prevent water loss.

The benefits of jojoba oil are wide-ranging and studies have shown it to demonstrate antioxidant, anti-acne and antipsoriasis, anti-inflammatory, antifungal, antipyretic, analgesic, antimicrobial, and anti-hyperglycemia properties.

Research has shown it promotes collagen production and applying jojoba oil topically is a simple and natural option to keeping skin’s moisture barrier intact. It produces an oil similar to that of our natural sebum and it absorbs easily.Jojoba oil is hypoallergenic and noncomedogenic, therefore there’s a low risk of allergic reactions or clogged pores.

Additionally, it boasts antiseptic and antibacterial properties, and contains Vitamin E.When jojoba oil is placed on the skin, a signal is sent to the hair and sweat follicles notifying them that additional sebum is not needed. This may help prevent acne by keeping skin from producing excess oil and helping to keep pores clean. Sebum is a mixture of lipids made by the sebaceous gland that help moisturise and protect the skin.

People who struggle with sensitive skin, dry skin, acne or skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis, can find relief from jojoba oil as it can act as a hydration method for people whose sebaceous glands aren’t producing sebum normally.

It has shown the ability to improve and enhance the overall softness and suppleness of skin.Jojoba oil has been touted for its ability to moisturize skin, enhance skin elasticity and reduce the appearance of fight fine lines and wrinkles. In fact, it has antibacterial and antioxidant properties and is full of vitamin E and other essential vitamins and minerals. 

Cautions: In rare cases, Jojoba oil can cause an allergic reaction. This may appear as an itchy rash, red skin, hives or shortness of breath in severe cases. Purely Essential recommendeds when using any new skin care product that you patch test before use.

Organic Rosehip (Rosa rubiginosa eglanteria) Oil

Prized since ancient times for its valuable benefits for skin health, Organic Rosehip Oil is rich in vitamins, antioxidants, and essential fatty acids which are integral for tissue and cell regeneration in the skin, and can help nourish and hydrate your skin. It’s derived from the Rosa canina rose bush, and unlike Rose Oil which is extracted from rose petals, Rosehip Oil is pressed from the fruit and seeds of the rose plant.

Organic Rosehip oil has long been used as a remedy for wound healing, as well as the reduction of scars and fine lines. It contains Phenols that have been shown to have Antiviral, Antibacterial, and Antifungal properties.

Organic Rosehip Oil is an excellent option for hydrating dry, itchy skin because it easily absorbs the oil, allowing its antioxidants to penetrate deep into the skin’s layers. It boasts several anti-aging properties because it is rich in vitamin A (Retinol), which encourages tissue and skin cell regeneration and is necessary for the production of collagen. Retinoids are known for their ability to reduce hyperpigmentation and other visible signs of aging with regular use.

Organic Rosehip Oil also contains both Lycopene and Beta Carotene which also have shown to boast skin-lightening properties. It is rich in both Polyphenols and Anthocyanin, which may help reduce inflammation. These also contains vitamin E, an antioxidant known for its anti-inflammatory effects so it can help calm skin irritations such as rosacea, psoriasis, eczema and dermatitis.

Together, vitamins A and E have been shown to synergistically combat visible UV damage from sun exposure and can also help prevent photoaging.

Organic Rosehip Oil is rich in antioxidants and polyunsaturated fatty acids, like Linoleic Acid, which are key for preventing the breakdown of cell membranes in the skin. Strong, healthy cells bolsters longevity and acts as a barrier to prevent bacteria from invading the skin, which can lead to outbreaks and infections.

Organic Rosehip oil is moisturising and an emollient, making it an excellent alternative for preventing and healing chapped lips. Its fatty acid content aids in water loss reduction by producing an occlusive barrier on the lips. Its high Vitamin A content also aids in the exfoliation of dry and dead skin cells.

Research has shown that Organic Rosehip Oil contains Phenols that have been shown to have antiviral, antibacterial, and antifungal properties.

It’s an excellent option for skin health, especially the for the lip area because its easily absorbed, allowing it to penetrate deep into the skin’s layers. It’s nourishing properties give lips a natural glow, making skin and lips look and feel smooth, plump and healthy.

Cautions:

Rosehip oil is generally safe for all skin types, but allergic reaction can occur. Before using any product that contains Rosehip oil, we recommend you patch test on skin. If any irritation occurs, immediately wash skin and discontinue use. In rare and extreme cases, Anaphylaxis can occur. Seek immediate emergency medical attention if you experience difficulty breathing, wheezing, swollen mouth, throat, or face, rapid heartbeat or stomach pain.

Organic Sweet Almond (Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis) Oil

Organic Sweet Almond (Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis) Oil contains many nutrients that are good for the skin, including vitamins, minerals, fatty acids, and antioxidants. Using almond oil can help soothe and hydrate your skin and hair. It is popular to use to help reduce the appearance of scars, stretch marks, and wrinkles and to treat skin conditions.

Organic Sweet Almond Oil is considered better for your skin than the bitter version. It contains many beneficial nutrients including: Vitamin A (contains Retinol and has the ability to stimulate the production of new skin cells and smooth fine lines. Vitamin E which has antioxidant properties that may help prevent cell damage and help reduce ultraviolet (UV) damage to the skin caused by the sun. Omega-3 fatty acids which can help prevent premature aging and safeguard against sun damage. Zinc is an essential nutrient for healing acne or other facial scars.

Because Organic Sweet Almond Oil is an anti-inflammatory, it can help ease swelling of the skin including reducing puffiness and under-eye circles. Studies have shown that it improves complexion and skin tone. Due to its emollient properties, almond oil has the potential to improve both complexion and skin tone.

Organic Sweet Almond Oil has been used for centuries to treat dry skin conditions, including eczema and psoriasis. The oil’s fatty acid content can help dissolve excess oil on the skin, while the retinoids in the oil may reduce the appearance of acne and improve cell turnover.

Studies have shown that vitamin E, one of the nutrients in almond oil, can help reduce damage to the skin caused by UV exposure. In ancient Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine, Almond oil was used to reduce scarring. The vitamin E content smoothes skin texture and has demonstrated to be an effective treatment for preventing and reducing stretch marks.

Organic White Shea Butter (Vitellaria paradoxa)

Organic White Shea (Vitellaria paradoxa) Butter is a skin care superhero, especially for lips, because it is rich in vitamins and minerals such as Vitamin A, Vitamin E, and fatty acids making it a must-have in your daily routine. It soothes skin irritation, heals dry lips and inflamed skin, aids in moisture-retention and ensures that skin remains hydrated and supple for a long time after application. Additionally, it creates a barrier that protects skin, particularly lips, from external pollutants like harsh sunlight, dust, cold winds, and protects lips from sun damage, free radicals, dirt, and other impurities.

Purely Essential uses Certified White Organic Refined Shea Butter (Grade A) that is produced with great care and pride in Ghana. Local women’s co-operative groups in Ghana process this organic and fair trade Shea butter, respecting age old traditions and supporting local communities and families. It’s known for its extremely soothing and therapeutic properties when massaged into the skin.

Cracked, damaged and aged skin also benefits from the healing properties of Organic White Shea Butter which helps to renew the epidermis. Organic Refined White African Shea Butter is very creamy, clean and soft. It is an excellent facial moisturiser and ideal even for oily skin as does not cause acne. It’s an excellent product to help soothe flaky, red, and irritating skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis and also acne.

It boasts anti ageing properties and acts as a protective layer of skin, preventing dehydration and protecting it from external factors such as heat, cold, wind and sudden changes in climate.Antioxidants are important anti-aging agents. They protect your skin cells from free radicals that can lead to premature aging and dull-looking skin.

Its anti-inflammatory properties also helps relieve itching and soothes and heal skin, especially cracked heels and dry cuticles. Although its not a substitute for sunscreen, Shea Butter does give your skin some added sun protection. It also restores damaged hair whilst making it stronger, moisturised, soft and shiny.

Organic White Shea Butter Fades stretchmarks, ideal for pregnant women – if you regularly apply Shea butter across your tummy during pregnancy, it’s possible to reduce the formation of stretch marks. Vitamin A helps the skin to become more supple and better accommodate the increase in weight and stretching that occurs throughout pregnancy. It’s long been used to prevent diaper rash for infants because it creates a natural barrier against wetness that protects your baby’s bottom from developing diaper rashes.

St. John’s Wort (Hypericum perforatum) Tincture

St. John’s Wort contains Hypericin and Hyperforin, which in studies has shown to display antibacterial, antioxidant, antiviral, antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. Although its been most commonly used as a treatment for depression and anxiety, St. John’s Wort has also traditionally been used topically in oils or tinctures to help heal wounds, burns, sunburms, abrasions, bruises, contusions and may also reduce scar formation. It has also been shown to relieve symptoms associated with skin inflammation and irritations such as eczema, psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, acne and herpes simplex infections.

Major constituents found in Hypericum perforatum include hypericin, pseudohypericin, hyperforin and adhyperforin (Nobakht et al., 2022).

Vegetable Glycerin (Food Grade)

Vegetable glycerin is particularly popular in the cosmetic, skincare and natural personal products industry because it provides a range of health benefits to skin health. According to studies, glycerin is the most effective humectant available to increase hydration on the top layer of your skin. It has shown to improve skin barrier function, protect against skin irritants, accelerate wounds healing processes and relieve dry skin. Research shows it can improve hydration, smoothness, suppleness of skin, as well as soothe skin irritation and skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, acne and cold sores. It has mildly antimicrobial, antibacterial and antiviral effects and has shown to reduce inflammation, protect against infection and promote wound healing.

Wheatgerm (Triticum Vulgare Aestivum) Oil

Wheatgerm oil is readily absorbed and when applied to skin, it delivers a healthy infusion of vitamin A, vitamin D, B vitamins, antioxidants and fatty acids.

These nutrients have numerous benefits to skin including: helping to reduce signs of aging such as fine lines and wrinkles; moisturising and healing dry, cracked or damaged skin; enhancing the skin’s moisture barrier; help to maintain the softness, suppleness and radiance of skin; repairing scars and stretch marks; protecting skin against damage caused by UV and environmental; lightening unwanted blemishes and dark spots; Soothing acne and reducing future outbreaks and promoting collagen production.

Wheatgerm Oil boasts anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, revitalizing emollient, anti-aging, strengthening and antibacterial properties.

There are abundant uses for Wheatgerm Oil, ranging from medicinal to cosmetic. Its many forms include massage oil, cream, and conditioners.

Used topically, it makes an enriching emollient. It can be applied directly to the skin as an anti-aging oil and it encourages skin moisture absorption, as well as promotes skin repair while preventing visible signs of aging such as wrinkles.

Additionally, it can assist in improving blood circulation and help rejuvenate the skin.

Wheatgerm Oil is often combined with other carrier oils such as Jojoba or Castor, and/or essential oils such as Sandalwood or Vanilla to make a relaxing and soothing massage oil or cream.

When used in an oil blend, Wheatgerm Oil feels thinner in consistency and is beneficial to use on acne-prone skin. It also acts as an effective emulsifier in hair conditioners, hand creams, body lotions and even soap formulations.

Wheatgerm Oil is rich in Unsaturated Fatty Acids thus preventing dryness while softening, and moisturizing the hair.