admin

About admin

Posts by :

Organic vs. non-organic botanical oils?

Most botanical oils on the market are not organic. This means that plants from which they have been pressed (their seeds, fruits or pulp) were grown with the help of pesticides, herbicides or other chemical fertilizers. They serve to increase yields and protect them from insects, diseases and harsh weather conditions. But their impact on our health can be damaging.

Our company sets itself apart from this by offering only organic botanical oils to its customers. Even though they are more expensive, the health benefits are so great that it is worth considering this additional investment. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at what exactly is the difference between organic and non-organic botanical oils used for our body care.

Organic oils

Botanical oil is considered the healthiest when organically grown plants have been used in its production for several key reasons:

♥ No chemical fertilizers. Organic crops are grown without the use of synthetic pesticides or herbicides. In conventional farming, these substances are often used to protect plants and increase yields, but they can leave residues in plant products that can seep into oils. Consuming oils free of these substances minimizes the risk of ingesting toxic chemicals that can have negative health effects.

♥ Higher quality and nutritional value. Organically grown plants have a higher content of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants compared to conventionally grown plants. The soil in organic crops is rich in microorganisms and organic matter, which contributes to better nutrition for the plants. As a result, oils pressed from such plants contain more health-beneficial nutrients.

♥ Less risk of allergies and irritation. Because of the absence of chemicals, organic oils are gentler and less irritating to our bodies, which is important especially for people with sensitive and allergy-prone skin.

♥ Better taste and aroma. Botanical oil from organic crops has a better taste and aroma, which is the result of healthy and well-nourished plants. By using oils extracted from organic crops, we are assured of an all-natural flavour and aroma.

♥ Better health benefits. Using organic products reduces the risk of long-term exposure to chemicals that can have potentially harmful health effects.

♥ Environmental protection and sustainability. Organic farming promotes environmentally friendly practices, such as crop rotation, composting and the use of natural plant protection methods. These methods not only improve soil quality and biodiversity, but also reduce chemical pollution of water and soil. Oils produced from such crops are greener and have less impact on the environment.

♥ Ethics and fair trade. Many organic crops are bound by the principles of fair trade and ethical practices. Supporting such products can contribute to better working conditions for farmers and their families, as well as to the sustainability of local communities.

Certificates

Products which are sourced from organic crops are usually labelled accordingly. They may also be certified when they meet certain standards and norms for organic farming. Certification organizations conduct regular inspections and audits of farms and production processes to ensure that standards are being met. Certifications are usually granted by recognized and reputable certification organizations, and their credibility is based on rigorous standards and procedures. However, as in any industry, there can be instances of fraud and error.

Therefore, in our company we take very seriously the multi-stage verification of the quality of the plants from which our products are derived. At different stages of production, we independently confirm the absence of pesticides in our oil blends. First, we source plants only from certified organic farms. Second, the plants are additionally checked for the presence of chemical fertilizers at the stage of pressing the oil from them. The third verification is done by us randomly on selected batches of our products to ensure that the system remains airtight and that each bottle we produce contains the highest quality oil.

Which oil to choose?

By choosing organically grown botanical oils, consumers get a higher quality product, free of harmful chemicals, which is not only more beneficial to health, but also more environmentally friendly. Organic production supports sustainability and ethical farming practices, which is an additional argument for choosing such products. As a result, organically grown botanical oils are considered the healthiest and most sustainable choice.

Botanical oils in cosmetics

Modern cosmetics, like other fields, has undergone dynamic changes over the past decades. As a growing number of male and female consumers have sought more natural and organic solutions, botanical oils have begun to play a key role in cosmetic formulas.

Due to their remarkable skin care, nourishing and healing properties, oils have now become an indispensable ingredient in many cosmetic products, from creams and lotions to shampoos and serums. Botanical oils, however, can be sourced and used in a variety of ways for skin care, more or less beneficial to our health. In this article, we will take a look at how botanical oils are used in the cosmetic industry today.

Revival of interest in oils

The first uses of botanical oils in modern cosmetics can be traced back to the early 20th century, when substances such as almond oil and olive oil were used as moisturizing ingredients in homemade cosmetic recipes. However, real interest in botanical oils in commercial cosmetics did not develop until the 1970s and 1980s, with the growing environmental movement and increased interest in natural products. It was during this period that the public began to realize the negative effects of synthetic ingredients used in cosmetics. There was also an emerging awareness of the health benefits of using natural products. Oils such as jojoba oil, argan oil and coconut oil began to gain popularity as effective and gentle alternatives to synthetic substances.

In the 1990s and early 2000s, the market for natural and organic cosmetics grew rapidly. Cosmetic companies, both small niche brands and large corporations, began to introduce product lines based on botanical oils. Consumers increasingly chose products containing oils from nuts, seeds and fruits, appreciating their moisturizing, anti-aging and regenerative properties. During this period, oils such as argan oil, jojoba oil, coconut oil and rosehip oil particularly gained popularity. Today, botanical oils have become a staple ingredient in a wide range of cosmetic products, from skin care products to makeup to hair care products. Modern cosmetics use both classic oils and lesser-known, exotic oils, such as marula oil, prickly pear oil and tamanu oil.

Not all oils are beneficial

With advances in science and technology, oil extraction and refining methods have developed. However, the method that preserves the most valuable active components of botanical oil is still the cold-pressing method. Cold pressing is essentially an ancient technique for extracting oil from seeds, nuts and fruits, which involves mechanically squeezing the oil without the use of high heat or chemical solvents. The process is designed to preserve the oils’ natural nutrients and health properties. The low temperature prevents the degradation of valuable nutrients such as vitamins, fatty acids and enzymes. Cold-pressed oils are characterized by the rich, natural flavour and aroma of the raw material from which they are made, making them an ideal addition to cosmetics. The cold-pressing process does not require the use of chemical solvents, making these oils cleaner and more natural. Unfortunately, due to the higher efficiency of other production methods, in regular cosmetic you can often find oils that are deprived of their natural benefits.

In addition, it is best to use organic crops from organic farming for pressing, that is, crops where chemical compounds, herbicides, pesticides and artificial chemical fertilizers are not used during plant growth. In conventional crops, these substances are often used to protect plants and increase yields, but they can leave residues in plant products that can seep into the oils. Consuming oils free of these substances minimizes the risk of ingesting toxic chemicals that can affect our health. Only with organic oils can we be assured of its natural composition and top-quality health and care properties, without the harmful effects of pesticides on our skin or hair. Organic botanical oils are completely safe for our bodies, gentle and hypoallergenic, as they do not cause irritation or allergies. Although their cost is higher, it is worth considering investing in a product of such quality.

The future of botanical oils

The history of the use of botanical oils in modern cosmetics is a proof that natural ingredients, which have been used for centuries across cultures, still have an important place in skin and hair care. A resurgence of interest in natural cosmetics and sustainability has made botanical oils not only a popular choice among male and female consumers, but also a key element in the development of innovative and effective cosmetic products. As more and more people turn their attention to health and environmental protection, the importance of botanical oils in cosmetics will only grow, offering natural beauty and well-being. However, when buying cosmetics that have botanical oils in their composition, it is worth paying attention to the way they are pressed and the use of organically grown plants to ensure that we are using the highest quality oils on our skin, safe for our bodies.

Abhyanga, or oil massage

Abhyanga is the ancient Indian practice of oil massage, which is an integral part of the Ayurvedic tradition. It is a technique that combines the benefits of massage with the therapeutic properties of natural botanical oils.

The word “abhyanga” comes from Sanskrit, where “abhi” means “everywhere” and “anga” means “part of the body”, suggesting that it is a massage that involves the entire body. Abhyanga is not just a massage but a holistic body and spirit care practice with numerous health benefits. The use of natural botanical oils in Abhyanga not only moisturizes and nourishes the skin, but also supports overall health and well-being. It’s a practice that, despite its ancient roots, is applicable to modern life, helping people around the world to find balance and peace. In this article, we will take a closer look at what exactly Abhyanga massage is.

Abhyangi philosophy

Ayurveda, the traditional system of Indian medicine, is based on the balance of the three doshas – Vata, Pitta and Kapha. Abhyanga is a practice aimed at restoring and maintaining this balance. In Ayurveda, oil massage is considered one of the most important methods of detoxification and regeneration of the body. Abhyanga’s history dates back thousands of years, and its techniques and principles have been described in detail in ancient Ayurvedic texts such as the Charaka Samhita and Sushruta Samhita.

So, what are the goals of Abhyanga massage? First: detoxification. Oil massage stimulates blood and lymph circulation, which helps to remove toxins from the body. The oils used during the massage penetrate the skin, helping to eliminate impurities and improve the functioning of internal organs. Second: skin regeneration. Abhyanga moisturizes and nourishes the skin, making it soft and supple. Regular use of the oils helps fight dry and rough skin and counteracts the aging process. Third: relaxation and stress reduction. Abhyanga has a soothing effect on the nervous system, reducing stress and tension. Regular sessions can help improve sleep quality and overall well-being. Finally, the long-term goal of the practice is to strengthen the immune system. By stimulating circulation and removing toxins, Abhyanga supports the immune system, making the body more resistant to disease. In contrast, for those who suffer from muscle and joint pain, Abhyanga is used to relieve pain and stiffness. The oils used during the massage have anti-inflammatory properties, relieving pain and reducing muscle stiffness.

Botanical oils used in Abhyanga

Abhyanga is usually performed in the morning, before a bath or shower. Traditionally, the massage is performed on one’s own, but it can also be done in professional Ayurvedic clinics. The massage process involves gentle, circular movements on the joints and long, straight movements on the long bones. Warm oil is spread over the body and then massaged into the skin. After the massage, it is recommended to leave the oil on the skin for 15-30 minutes to allow it to be fully absorbed, and then take a warm bath to help further detoxify and relax. Sesame, coconut and almond oils are most commonly used in Abhyanga, but the choice of oil depends on a person’s dosha constitution and specific health needs. Oils can be combined or applied together with herbs, as per person’s preferences.

♥ Sesame Oil: Is one of the most widely used oils in Ayurveda. It has warming properties, making it ideal for those with a Vata constitution. It is rich in vitamins E and K, antioxidants and fatty acids, making it an excellent moisturizer and nutrient.

♥ Coconut Oil: Because of its cooling properties, coconut oil is often used for people with Pitta constitution. It is lightweight and easily absorbed into the skin, moisturizing and cooling it.

♥ Almond Oil: This is a light oil with moisturizing properties, ideal for those with a Kapha constitution. Almond oil is rich in vitamins E, A and D, making it excellent for dry and sensitive skin.

♥ Neem Oil: Known for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, it is used to treat skin problems such as acne, eczema and fungal infections.

♥ Castor Oil: It has strong cleansing properties and is used to detoxify and treat skin inflammation.

Shiroabhyanga

Shiroabhyanga, on the other hand, is an Ayurvedic head massage that focuses on relaxing the head and neck area. During the massage, techniques are used that intensely affect the nervous system. The use of warm sesame oil in this massage not only nourishes the scalp, but also penetrates deeply, delivering nutrients to both hair and skin. This massage is especially prized for its relaxing properties and ability to calm the mind for a long time. By stimulating the appropriate points on the head and performing the massage in a sitting position, it can provide relief from aches and tensions, making it ideal for those struggling with stress or sleep problems. Regular sessions of this massage improve circulation in the head, which promotes mental and emotional health.

Abhyanga today

The modern world, full of haste and stress, often makes us neglect our bodies. Today more and more people are seeking natural methods to improve their health and well-being, turning to ancient traditions and wisdom. Abhyanga and Shiroabhyanga, as part of the Ayurvedic tradition, offer a holistic approach to care that combines care for body and spirit. The use of botanical oil massage not only provides physical relief, but also has a profound effect on our mental and emotional well-being.

Oil massage can benefit us in many ways: it helps detoxify the body and improves circulation and hydration of the skin, which is key to maintaining a beautiful and healthy appearance. At a time when we are exposed to numerous environmental pollutants and stressors, such natural care methods help protect and regenerate our bodies. The botanical oils used in Abhyanga are a source of valuable nutrients that promote skin and hair health, as well as having healing properties.

Should I try it?

It is definitely worth drawing on the richness of Ayurvedic traditions and integrating them into our daily lives. Abhyanga massages using botanical oils are not only relaxing, but also help maintain internal balance, harmonizing our doshes. Being natural, safe and based on ancient wisdom, these methods can be used by everyone, regardless of age or health. Abhyanga is not only a method of body care, but also a profound self-care practice that restores balance and tranquillity. It is worth taking ancient Ayurvedic techniques and applying them to modern life to enjoy full health and well-being.

History of botanical oils in skincare

Cold-pressed botanical oils are true treasures of nature. They have been an essential part of skin care for centuries. Their extraordinary benefits were known by ancient civilizations, and they are a key ingredient in modern cosmetics. In this article, we will look at the history of the use of botanical oils for their health and care properties.

The use of botanical oils dates back to ancient times. As far back as ancient Egypt, oils such as castor oil and sesame oil were used for skin and hair care. Cleopatra, famous for her beautiful complexion, used oil from black cumin seeds, which was considered an elixir of youth. In ancient Greece and Rome, olive oil was not only a dietary staple, but was also used for massages and body care. In India, Ayurvedic oils such as coconut oil and sandalwood oil have been part of skin care and healing rituals for centuries. These oils have been and continue to be prized for their nourishing and therapeutic properties.

Ancient civilizations

Ancient Egypt is one of the oldest sources of information on the use of botanical oils for body and hair care. The Egyptians were known for their sophisticated approach to cosmetics and hygiene. They used various oils, including castor oil, sesame oil and almond oil, for skin care, hair care and medicinal purposes. Women, such as the famous Cleopatra, used oils as part of their daily skin care routine to maintain a youthful appearance and healthy complexion. One of the oils used by this ancient queen was nigella seed oil (also known as black cumin oil), which is still considered an elixir of youth today due to its high vitamin E content. Thanks to its properties, nigella earned the nickname “gold of the pharaohs”. The Egyptians also used botanical oils to protect their skin from harsh climatic conditions. High temperatures and dry air made it easy for the skin to become damaged, so the oils served a moisturizing and protective function. Egyptians also prepared perfumes based on oils and used them in religious ceremonies.

In ancient Greece, oils played an important role in daily life, in sports and medical practices. The Greeks primarily used olive oil: not only for cooking, but also for massages and skin care. Olive oil massages were especially popular among athletes, who used them before and after workouts to improve blood circulation, relax muscles and soften skin. Olive oil was also used as a base for perfumes, a popular practice among the Greek aristocracy. Hippocrates, the father of medicine, described the healing properties of olive oil, recommending its use to treat various skin ailments and injuries. The Greeks treated olive oil as a sacred oil, often used in religious ceremonies and sacrifice rites. They believed that they owed olive oil to the goddess Athena, who gave the first olive tree to the people of Attica as a symbol of peace and satiety. In fact, modern research confirms the miraculous properties of olive oil. Thanks to its abundance of healthy fatty acids, the oil effectively helps moisturize the skin while forming a barrier on its surface that makes it difficult for water to escape. Olive oil was even called a “liquid gold” in ancient Greece and was treated as a luxury good and a cosmetic for the wealthy.

Also, in ancient China botanical oils were used in both traditional medicine and body care. Chinese traditional medicine recommended the use of various oils, such as camphor oil and sesame oil, for massages and the treatment of various health ailments. Oils were appreciated for their moisturizing, soothing and nourishing effects. They were also used as carriers for medicinal herbs. As hair and skin health were of particular importance in ancient China, botanical oils were used to maintain hair health, shine and colour. Sesame oil in particular was a popular ingredient in medicinal and skin care blends and was widely used for massage. Numerous studies today confirm that sesame oil is rich in plant sterols, calcium, magnesium, zinc, vitamins and polyunsaturated fatty acids, making it widely used in modern cosmetics.

In ancient India, the use of botanical oils was deeply rooted in Ayurvedic tradition. Ayurveda, the ancient system of Indian medicine, emphasized the importance of oil massages (Abhyanga) as part of a daily health routine. Oils such as coconut oil, sesame oil, almond oil and neem (Indian honeybush oil) were used in massages not only to care for the skin, but also to improve blood circulation, strengthen the immune system and reduce stress. They were also used for inhalation, body care and therapy, treating skin lesions, dermatological problems and digestive problems with them. Oils were also used for hair care. Particularly coconut oil and amla (Indian gooseberry oil) were used to nourish hair, prevent dandruff and promote hair growth. Women and men used oils on their hair to keep it healthy, soft and shiny. Ayurvedic formulas often combined oils with various herbs and spices to enhance their healing properties.

Arab and African traditions

Also in Arab culture, botanical oils have a long and rich history of use, dating back thousands of years. The region has played an important role in the development of cosmetics and natural medicine due to its unique geographic conditions and access to a variety of plants. Oils have been used in body care, hair care, as well as for medicinal and ritual purposes. One of the most famous oils in the Arab region is argan oil, also known as “liquid gold”. The oil is native to Morocco, where argan (argania spinosa) trees grow in desert and semi-desert areas. Argan oil has been used for centuries by the Berbers for culinary, cosmetic and medicinal purposes. In skin and hair care, argan oil is valued primarily for its remarkable moisturizing, regenerating and protective properties. Nigella seed oil (black cumin), known also as “Habbatul barakah” or “seed of blessing” has gained extraordinary popularity. The Prophet Muhammad is believed to have said that nigella cures everything except death. Black cumin oil was therefore used both internally and externally for medicinal and skin care purposes. Botanical oils were also used to create perfumes and during skin care treatments in Hammams, the traditional Arab steam baths. This tradition has continued to the present day.

In African culture, the use of botanical oils for body care, hair care and medicinal purposes has deep roots and is an integral part of many traditions and rituals. The continent’s natural diversity, encompassing different climatic zones, has allowed it to develop a rich heritage in the use of oil plants. The most popular oils in this tradition are marula oil, baobab oil, shea butter derived from the seeds of the butter tree or the aforementioned argan oil. African societies have benefited from the natural riches of their environment for centuries, and botanical oils have played a key role in skin care and healing. In many African cultures, skin and hair care was and is a ritual that combines aesthetic and spiritual aspects. Botanical oils are integral to these practices, used to moisturize, protect and heal. In some African communities, oils were used to anoint newborns, which would protect them from evil spirits and disease. In wedding ceremonies, oils were used as a symbol of blessing and fertility.

Slavic tradition

In Slavic culture, too, botanical oils played an important role in body and hair care as well as healing rituals. Although far fewer written testimonies on the subject have survived compared to civilizations such as Egyptian or Greek, there is ample evidence that the Slavs used the gifts of nature, including oils, in their daily lives. Inhabiting an area rich in floral diversity, the Slavs had access to many plants from which oils could be extracted. There are indications that they used oils such as linseed oil, rapeseed oil, hemp oil and sunflower oil.

In Slavic culture, body care was often linked to rituals and ceremonies. The Slavs, who placed a high value on harmony with nature, used natural ingredients, including oils, in their daily grooming rituals. One popular Slavic custom was the use of saunas, known in some countries as “banyas”. Before entering the sauna and after leaving it, various plant oils were used to massage the body and moisturize the skin, protecting it from water loss. This was also considered a way to cleanse the body and soul. In traditional folk medicine, massages using oils and herbs were also common. Oils were mixed with various herbs to enhance their healing properties. Such practices were used to relieve pain, treat injuries and skin diseases.

One of the most popular botanical oils in the Slavic tradition was undoubtedly linseed oil. Its popularity was linked to the abundant availability of flax in the region. It was used for both culinary and cosmetic purposes. Due to its true richness in omega-3 fatty acids, it was used for skin and hair care, as well as a treatment for various skin ailments. Indeed, it is proven that flaxseed oil soothes irritation and inflammation, as well as accelerates wound healing. Hemp oil, on the other hand, was appreciated especially for its moisturizing and soothing properties. It was used for dry and irritated skin, as well as in traditional herbal preparations.

Tradition still alive

Botanical oils have been and continue to be an integral part of skin care, healing and ritual practices in various cultures around the world.

From ancient Egypt to India, each of these cultures developed unique ways of using oils that have endured to this day. Modern cosmetology and natural medicine draw inspiration from these ancient traditions, appreciating the versatile uses and health benefits of botanical oils. Modern interest in natural and traditional body care methods is rediscovering ancient practices. Many people are returning to using natural botanical oils in their daily care, drawing inspiration from the traditions of their ancestors. Nowadays, oils such as linseed oil, hemp oil, walnut oil, nigella seed oil or sesame oil are valued not only in the kitchen, but also in cosmetics as natural, organic skin care products.