BRAHMI
(HYDROCOTYLE
ASIATICA)
Extraction
Essential oil by
steam distillation from the Plant.
Description
& History
Brahmi is the medicated oil of the gotu kola leaf. It is a common edible groundcover found
in much of the tropics, and is said to be the preferred food of the mother elephant
during her entire pregnancy. In Ayurveda
it is known as the rejuvenator for all systems in the body and is one of the most
commonly used medicated oils. It can
be found occasionally in a steam distilled form that is quite costly.
Brahmi is excellent for hair growth and the prevention of baldness.
Caution
In sensitive individuals may aggravate itchiness of the skin.
NEEM OIL
Extraction
Essential oil by cold pressed method from the
neem seeds.
Description & History
Indigenous to
India
, the neem tree is mostly grown as a shade tree in a
variety of habitats. From the seeds a unique, cold pressed oil is expelled which
contains natural constituents which have specific benefits for skin-care. Scientific
research has confirmed that Neem seed oil is non-toxic
to mammals and may be very effective organic antiseptic, antifungal, antibacterial,
antiviral, dermatological and dental agent. It is also widely hailed as a natural
insect repellant. This oil has been used for centuries in traditional Indian medicine
to aid in the healing of topical skin disorders such as eczema, psoriasis, rashes,
burns and acne. It is rich in fatty acids and glycerides
and together with its healing properties, provides an excellent natural moisturizing
base for skin care formulations.
Caution
Use sparingly due to the strong odour.
Considered to be safe in all normal topical applications.
TURMERIC
(CURCUMA LONGA)
Extraction
The oil is distilled from the Roots.
Description & History
Turmeric has received recent attention because of its energizing
effect on the immune system, and is being used in some treatment of AIDS.
It is used in cosmetics for oily skin and to cleanse and detoxify.
It is a favorite with the food flavoring industry, in part because of its
bright yellow color. It has grounding
properties, helping you to feel present and in charge.
Excellent for confusion and anxiety.
There is some indication that use of turmeric helps stabilize blood sugar.
Caution
Do not use in cases of acute jaundice, hepatitis, high Pitta, or pregnancy.
VETIVERT
Extraction
Essential oil by steam distillation of
the Grass.
Description
& History
Oil of vetiver is one of the most valuable and most important
perfumers raw materials, widely used
in perfumes, cosmetics and for the scenting of soaps.
The oil imparts pleasant, strong and very lasting notes to perfume compositions,
acting, at the same time, as a natural fixative.
Vetiver oil blends particularly will with those of sandalwood, patchouli,
and rose. The usually lower priced Java type is employed
chiefly in soap work, the higher priced
Reunion
type in fine perfumes.