The history and benefits of olive oil for natural skincare While olive oil has a long history in ancient times of been widely recognised for its culinary popularity, it carries a distinct history for its topical use, and beauty products. Dating back to cultures in the Mediterranean region, particularly ancient greece, where olive tree cultivation has long existed, it has continued to provide significant economic, and cultural benefits. Both consumed and applied to the skin as part of facial oils, olive oil was used to bathe in, as a moisturiser, cleanser and perfume with the addition of essent ..read more

Organic comfrey uses, effects and benefits for the skin Common comfrey is recognised as a medicinal herb. Comfrey leaves as well at its deep roots system has been recognised in folk medicine use for thousands of years. Its regenerative and wound healing properties, supporting cell proliferation, has been in extensive topical use of comfrey. This blog does not consider the oral use of comfrey. What are the growing conditions for comfrey? It is a perennial plant presenting hairy leaves, purple flowers, preferring a full sun position in fertile soils. New plant propagation is done through root cu ..read more

The Ancient Art of Skincare Rituals I always feel we can understand a product and its benefits if we first understand how it came to be integrated into our world and cultures. Evidence of skincare rituals have been deeply rooted within ancient civilisations such as Egypt, Greece and Turkey. While each of these cultures practiced with similar intentions of enhancing the appearance of the individual, they remain unique in the way they were interwoven into specific cultural traditions and events. Courtship, burial adornment and battle symbols, each reflections and commentaries of a long history o ..read more

Blog written by Emma Sun, graduate in science and communication. How chemicals in commercial skincare can affect your health In an article published in Chemosphere,(Shanaz et al. 2023), a journal communicating research discussing chemicals in the environment found promising news. The article (referenced below) observed that actively reducing daily usage of parabens and phthalates - two commonly used chemicals – reversed the accumulation of cancer-associated phenotypes within breast tissues.   Put simply, both parabens and phthalates are two chemicals frequently used as synthetic ..read more

Natural remedies for rosacea? In this blog we have a look at what is is rosacea, the prevalence, and its manifestations.  While considering the process which seems to be involved in the presentation of rosacea, we look at approaches able to bring support in managing the symptoms.  Finally we will look at some products which clients have reported positive results in managing the occurrence of rosacea.   What is rosacea? Rosacea is defined as a skin issue which involves flushing, superficial redness, red pimples and pustules (Van Zuuren et al., 2015).  It is co ..read more

The topic of water is as old as the world.  Yet it is easily overlooked. Just recently, friends were sharing with me their concern about someone close to them.  The person was commenting about his tiredness, and the fact that he had swollen feet.  The worry grew and some google searches brought up all sorts of possible reasons, each one worse than the other. Sharing the concerns with me, I asked the caring friends if the person was drinking enough water and that it might be a worthwhile thing to consider for a day or two to start with. Water is said to consti ..read more

Here is an extract of a presentation I did to a group of nurses at the Gold Coast University Hospital, radiation therapy unit in September this year (2022). An ointment is defined as a semi solid preparation for the skin composed of oils and thickening ingredient such as beeswax.  The oils used consist of infused botanical (medicinal herbs ) oil or essential oil.  The beneficial ingredients are applied on the skin where they are absorbed.   It is used to help with issues affecting skin, ligaments, muscles and respiratory system. Cuts, scratches, abrasions, stretched ligamen ..read more

Spring is here!  At least in the Southern Hemisphere.  Spring is an ideal time to spruce up and apply gentle, effective cleanses for inside as well as for the skin.  Let's dive into it.   Exercise A routine of some exercise of at least 30 minutes every day does wonder for all the being.  It can be as simple as a brisk walk.  By doing this all the systems are activated, oxygenation is increased, and the spirit enlivened.  Make it a habit and feel the difference.   Food A food that has a positive impact on your skin is including one green salad per da ..read more

Winter can bring up skin issues such as eczema, psoriasis, and dry skin. Cracked heels can also be one of them.  In fact, it is one of the most frequent podiatry issue (Mohammed et al, 2017).  The fissures on the heels can show breaks, cuts or crevices in the skin, which can aggravate, become sore and hurt (Wadekar et al., 2021).   Cracked heels are linked to lack of foot care and moisturising so with some care and attention this situation can be something from the past. What can be done with cracked heels? Foot bath Soaking your feet in warm water with a small additio ..read more

Calendula oil: its benefits as a facial oil Calendula oil used as a facial oil is a wonderful addition to every skin care routine. Using a facial oil is like feeding your skin, it sets it up with critical nourishment and moisture. Unlike what many people believe, facial oil does not make your skin more oily, and so is perfect for all skin types. Ensuring facial oil contains only clean, pure and natural ingredients is the first step in properly providing adequate care to your skin. Calendula oil is known to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, helping to brighten and support ..read more