Officinal Plants

Aloe vera (Aloe Barbadensis Miller) is a plant of the Aloeaceae family that prefers warm, dry climates.   Use of aloe vera as a medicinal plant dates back to ancient times.

The leaves yield a juice that is rich in polysaccharides and mucilage, mannitol and xylitol, amino acids, vitamins and antioxidants.   The high mucilage and polysaccharide content gives the extract important, unique moisturising and re-epithelising properties, as it forms a protective film over the skin that allows water through to the epidermis, keeping it moisturised and preventing water loss from the skin layer.

It also contains polyphenols, salicilates and sterols to sooth inflamed or injured skin.

Pyrus malus extract

The apple belongs to the Rosaceae family. The tree probably originates from Central and West Asia and has been used extensively in Europe since ancient times.

Apple extract, obtained from the flesh of the false fruit, is rich in polysaccharides, polyphenols, proteins and amino acids, vitamins (provitamin A, vitamins B1, B2, B6, E and C) and mineral salts (mainly potassium, calcium, phosphor and magnesium). The amino acids and the proteins give hair a richness and substance, restoring the natural balance of keratin fibres that comprise it. The polyphenol and vitamin content gives the extract antioxidant and protective properties with regards to free radicals. It can be very useful in preparing protective cosmetics designed to regenerate the skin and against the oxidative processes involving the hair keratin and colour, if hair is dyed.

Prunus armeniaca extract, Prunus armeniaca kernel oil

The apricot (Prunus armeniaca L.) is a tree belonging to the Rosaceae family. The tree was already in China when it was spread throughout Europe by the Arabs a great many centuries ago. Apricot extract is obtained from the fruits, which are rich in polysaccharides, polyphenols and vitamin C. The polyphenols and vitamin C have a protective anti-oxidant effect on the skin, helping prevent skin ageing.    The polysaccharides, on the other hand, thanks to their capacity to bind water, form a protective film over the skin, preventing dehydration. Apricot oil is instead extracted from the seeds of the tree fruit.

The main constituents are minerals and vitamins.  It is an excellent emollient and nourishment, easily absorbed by the skin and particularly recommended for the formulation of products specifically designed for mature, dry or sensitive skin.

Persea gratissima oil

The Avocado (Persea americana) is a shrub species of fruit that belongs to the Lauraceae family. Originally from Mexico and Central America, the Avocado is extensively grown in all tropical areas. Thanks to its unique composition of fatty acids, responsible for the famous nourishing and restorative properties, Avocado oil has excellent eudermic and sebum-like characteristics, easily penetrating the skin and facilitating the absorption of other active ingredients. And thanks to the richness of the unsaponifiable fraction, it is used in the composition of a great many cosmetics intended for devitalised, dehydrated, rough and "dull" skin.

The functional substances contained in the unsaponifiable fraction of avocado oil are, in fact, able to promote collagen synthesis by the dermal cells. All this results in effective skin renewal, with a consequent increase of moisture and elasticity in the skin.

Orbignya oleifera oil

Babassu is a palm that originates from Brazil and the Amazon rainforest. Its fruits resemble small coconuts and are grouped together in bunches. An oil is harvested from these small nuts, which has been used by Brazilian women for centuries to keep skin smooth and velvety. Babassu oil is rich in essential fatty acids (omega-3 and omega-6 in particular), but it also contains a more valuable fraction, referred to as unsaponifiable, which is rich in sterols and tocopherols (vitamin E).  Babassu oil is used in cosmetics for its antioxidant, soothing and emollient properties, as well as to lubricate and superfatten. It restores deficiencies in the skin lipid layer, keeping skin soft and smooth whilst protecting it. It regenerates and revitalises the skin.

Bacopa monniera extract

Bacopa monniera (Scrophulariaceae family) is a creeping plant that grows in India and in damp, swampy areas.  Its use to increase memory capacity dates back to at least three thousand years ago. In actual fact, in the ancient text of Ayurvedic medicine, dating back to around 800 B.C., the characteristics of it are described and scholars and students are recommended to use it to help them memorise the long hymns in the Vedic language.  In cosmetics, it is used for its soothing properties to treat irritations. As it is rich in antioxidants, it also protects the skin and hair from free radicals and oxidative attack.

Bambusa vulgaris extract.  The plants we commonly call Bamboo belong to the Graminaceae family, with more than 75 different genus and over 1200 species. Bamboo originate from tropical and sub-tropical regions, mainly from the Far East and above all from China and Japan, although we do find some spontaneous species in Africa, Oceania and America. They are shrub-like plants that are evergreen and very vigorous. Bamboo extracts are used in cosmetics to manufacture creams and lotions. The lymph contains amino acids, vitamins and numerous mineral salts, including silicon. These characteristics mean that it is used as a refreshing emollient that tones the skin whilst it protects against external agents.

Beeswax is a solid substance produced by bees from honey. The bee secretes the wax to construct the hive, the characteristic little cell into which the queen lays her eggs. Raw beeswax is purified and whitened to create white wax or beeswax used in cosmetics and pharmaceuticals for its nourishing properties.  The cosmetic properties of Beeswax have been known for thousands of years. It is extensively used in cosmetics and pharmaceutics for its emollient and filming properties. Useful in treating dry, irritable skin with insufficient hydro-lipid film, it helps reconstruct skin lipids, aiding the skin in the restoration of its physiological barrier function.

The bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus L.) is a shrub plant of the Ericaceae family. The species can be found in Europe and in North America. In Italy, the Vaccinium genus is only to be found in the North and on the mountains in the Centre. The fruits contain tannins, anthocyanins and vitamins, above all vitamin C, which give bilberry extract antioxidant and astringent properties, enabling it to protect the microcirculation. The anthocyanins of the bilberry act by protecting and strengthening the wall of the capillary and venous vessels, improving the skin microcirculation and helping reduce oedema and congestion. They therefore help eliminate water from tissues, providing a valid aid in treating skin blemishes such as cellulite. Additionally, bilberry extract contains alpha hydroxy acids, which, through their gentle, exfoliating action and surface smoothing, stimulate cell renewal in the skin and dermis, in the deepest layers of the epidermis. Skin looks smoother and move even, with a notable reduction in the "orange peel" appearance.

Birch is an arboreal plant native to Europe and North Asia; in Italy it is more frequent in the Alps. The leaves of Birch are utilized in phytotherapy for the depurative ones, conferred by the flavonoids, sesquitepenici oxides, tannins (leucoantocianidine), Vitamin C, betulinic acid, chlorogenic and caffeic, resins and essential oils.

The astringent properties (associated with eucalyptus) ensure an excellent sebum regulating action going to normalize the production of sebaceous glands also fighting oily dandruff. The plant is also one of the preferred remedies in the treatment of cellulite, as it helps the elimination and disappearance of fibro-connective nodules, characteristic of this skin blemish.

Ribes nigrum extract

Blackcurrant is a plant of the Grossulariaceae family. Blackcurrant grows wild in woods, in damp and mountainous areas of Northern and Central-Eastern Europe and is extensively grown above all for its fruits. An oil with a high essential fatty acid content is extracted from blackcurrant seeds. In particular, blackcurrant seed oil is an excellent natural source of omega-6 and omega-3. It also contains antioxidant substances, vitamin C in particular, the content of which in blackcurrant equates to around 300% of the daily dose per 100 g. It also contains flavonoids and anthocyanins, substances that act as antioxidants and sooth, strengthening the microcirculation. The oil extracted from the seeds is highly recommended for preparing protective cosmetic products and revitalising the skin as well as to prevent or delay skin ageing.

Laminaria cloustoni extract This is a large algae found in the seas of Northern Europe and the Atlantic. It is easily recognised by its hooks, which are laid out in numerous whorls, each on top of the other. It is rich in iodine, mineral salts, vitamins, lipids and mucilage, which have an anti-oxidant action, leaving skin toned, elastic and smooth.

Arctium lappa extract

Burdock (Arctium lappa L., Asteraceae family) is a biennial woody plant that originates from Europe, North America, Africa and North Asia. It has flowers marked by little "hooks" that cause them to attach to clothes and animal fur, enabling the diffusion of the plant's seeds on passing animals. It would appear that the way these flowers attach to clothes inspired the inventor of the Velcro opening/closing system. In cosmetic terms, the most important active ingredients available are the caffeoylquinic acids, which give the plant excellent skin purifying properties, as well as making it an effective disinfectant and anti-mycotic. Burdock extract is therefore used to prepare anti-acne treatments and dandruff cleansers because they help purify the epidermis and scalp.

Eugenia caryophyllus leaf oil

Eugenia caryophyllata is an evergreen tree of the Myrtaceae family that grows wild in the Antilles, in Madagascar and in Indonesia. The essential oil that abounds in the leaves has excellent anti-microbial power. Eugenol is the chemical substance responsible for the bactericide actions. It accounts for 80% of the essential oil active against bacteria. It is used in cosmetics both for its antimicrobial properties and its toning effect due to the presence of tannins. It also boasts extremely high antioxidant action, useful in preventing the damages caused by the free radicals to restore tone and vitality to the skin. Its characteristic strong, sweet, flowery, slightly "peppery" odour means that it is used in cosmetics to give products a characteristic aroma.

Castor oil (Ricinus communis) is indicated in cosmetology especially to improve hair and eyelashes. The castor oil has a very particular composition, being constituted in great part by triglycerides containing a fatty acid with 18 carbon atoms, unsaturated and hydrolyzed, called ricinoleic acid. It is an excellent restructuring and strengthening cosmetic hair: we recommend warm compresses on dry hair, brittle, weak, brittle for 3-4 times a month and on normal hair, if brittle and with split ends, for 1-2 times a month. Even oily hair will benefit from a periodic pack of castor oil, if brittle and weak.

Pelvetia canaliculata

Channelled wrack is a brown algae (Phaeophyceae) that is very commonly found on the rocky cliffs of the Atlantic ocean. Like all algae, it contains oligo elements, vitamins and amino acids, which mineralise adipose masses. The presence of iodine and oligo elements firms tissues by activating physiological mechanisms on the collagen fibre and elastin in the deepest layers of the skin, improving elasticity and tone. It smoothes the skin, thanks to the action of the sea salt that delicately renews the skin surface.

Chlorella pyrenoidosa extract

Chlorella is a single-cell algae that grows on the surfaces of lakes. It contains beta-carotene, vitamins and amino acids. This composition is essential to the cell metabolism and enables protein synthesis. Chlorella also preserves collagen and elastin fibres, an essential part of the skin, from the enzymes responsible for their decay.

This algae is rich in mineral salts and marine micro-nutrients, which are cyto-energising as they stimulate the cell metabolism. Chlorella algae extract has a regenerative, remineralising action on the skin, playing an important role in maintaining the anatomic and functional integrity of the skin. Chlorella extract also promotes the restructuring of the epidermis, the microcirculation and protects the skin from UV rays.

Cola nitida seed extract

Cola (Cola nitida L., Sterculiaceae family) is an evergreen tree, originally from the tropical forests of West Africa and the Sudan, but which is also seen in South America, the West Indies, Jamaica and other humid, tropical climate regions. The dried seed, the nut, therefore, is used from the tree, often chewed by tribe members, both individually and as a group, during rituals and ceremonies or purely to welcome guests or mark an agreement having been reached. The cola nut is rich in stimulating, toning active ingredients. It contains caffeine and theobromine as well as astringent action tannins. Useful as a stimulant of the central nervous system, due to its high methylxanthine content (caffeine and theobromine), it can have a toning effect on the skin too; it is often used in skin care and hair care, in fact, both as a stimulant, revitalising the skin, and for its capacity to condition and soften the skin and hair.

Date is the common term used to identify the fruit of the palm Phoenix Dactylifera (fam. Arecaceae) characteristic of warm-climate countries.
The date is a source of iron, magnesium, essential amino acids and vitamins especially of group B.
In cosmetics is used oil with excellent restorative and restorative properties on the skin and hair especially thanks to its high content in saponins.

Rosa canina flower

Dog rose (Rosa canina L.) is the most common species of wild rose in Italy, very frequently seen in hedges and at the edges of woods.    Contains high quantities of vitamins, such as vitamins A, B, E, K and PP, tannins, flavonoids and polyphenols. But it is above all famous for being the most concentrated "natural source" of Vitamin C, which is present in quantities of up to 50-100 times greater than traditional citrus fruits (oranges and lemons) and is therefore able to help strengthen the body's natural defences. On skin, it has a soothing, congestion relieving effects, which is very useful in cleansing the mucous of our intimate parts and of delicate or sensitive skin.

Eucalyptus is a fast growing evergreen tree native to Oceania. In Italy it is diffused in the center and in the south and, in particular, in Elba and in Sicily. The whole plant has an aromatic smell and bitter taste.
Eucalyptus leaves contain an essential oil, particularly rich in eucalyptols, terpenes; aldehydes; polyphenols; flavonoids and tannins.

These active ingredients give the plant a balsamic, fluidizing and expectorant action. For cosmetic use, eucalyptus preparations have a good antiseptic and healing action, useful for cleansing the skin and greasy hair, to which they return shine.

Euphrasia Officinalis Water

Euphrasia (Euphrasia L.) is a plant belonging to the Scrophulariaceae family with the appearance of small annual or perennial herbaceous plants and small lip-like flowers with a characteristic yellow mark on the corolla. The Euphrasia genus comprises approximately 400-500 species spread throughout Europe, Northern Asia and North America. It prefers the cold, temperate climates of the extratropical regions. It is used topically for its astringent, anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, supported in particular by the presence of flavonoids and tannins. Euphrasia extract is particularly recommended for sensitive skin, which it calms, tones and regenerates. It is used to relieve congestion to the eyelids and eye area and to treat inflammations of the epidermis.

Oenothera biennis oil

Evening primrose (Oenothera biennis L.) is a plant that stands more than a metre tall with showy, yellow flowers, belonging to the Onagraceae family. This plant was thought highly of by the American Indians, who used it to fight swelling and bruising. When introduced to Europe in the 17th century, it gained immediate fame as a medicinal plant and indeed has earned itself the name of "king's cure all". Evening primrose oil, which is extracted from the seeds, is one of the rare plant products able to supply gamma-linolenic acid or omega-3, one of the constituents of vitamin F. In cosmetics, it therefore as a moisturising, emollient, protective and balance restoring effect, as well as providing an effective anti-ageing product. It is also very useful in the topical treatment of eczema and atopic dermatitis, in anti-age products and to improve skin elasticity.

Trigonella foenum-graecum extract

Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum L.) is a plant of the Fabaceae family. The plant comes from the Middle East and North Africa. Well-suited to a dry climate, it is widespread through a large belt running from Morocco to Egypt, Persia, India and China. Fenugreek seed extract is rich above all in mucilage, substances able to form a protective film over the skin, preventing dehydration and keeping skin elastic, soft and silky. Recommended, therefore, in day and night creams to restore correct skin moisture levels.

Centaurea Cyanus Flower Water

Fleur-de-lys (Centaurea cyanus L.) is a herbaceous plant of the Asteraceae family. It is an annual plant that is widespread in Europe, from the Mediterranean through to the more mountainous regions. The Fleur-de-lys flower boasts excellent softening, soothing and moisturising properties, both due to the presence of flavonoids, known to be excellent in relieving congestion, and to the presence of pectin, a substance with outstanding moisturising properties. These active ingredients are able to absorb significant quantities of water, which, when applied to the skin surface, form a thin, elastic film that can release water to the epidermis, leaving skin elastic and moisturised.

Thanks to these properties, Fleur-de-lys extract is used to prepare cosmetics for the eye contours, for dry skin or for sensitive skin that reddens easily.

Ginkgo biloba extract

Ginkgo extract (Ginkgo biloba L., Ginkgoaceae family) is obtained from the leaves of Ginkgo biloba, a legendary tree that is more than 250 million years old. Today, ginkgo biloba is widespread throughout the temperate areas of the planet, as an ornamental plant used in parks and to line city streets. Ginkgo is a vessel regulator, strengthening capillary resistance, activating the cell metabolism and improving gas exchange between cells. It is an excellent tissue antioxidant, acting against the free radicals that damage the cell membranes and tissues in general. In cosmetics, ginkgo biloba is used to regulate sebum secretion and dry, devitalised skin. It tones the scalp, improving the condition of the skin and stimulating the microcirculation at the hair bulb, which is more effectively nourished and moisturised, improving hair vigour and helping prevent it from falling out.

Panax ginseng root extract

Ginseng (Panax ginseng of the Araliaceae family) is a perennial plant native to the Far East and grown extensively in China, Korea, Japan, Russia and the Ukraine. A real elixir of youth, an incomparable cure-all. For the Chinese, ginseng embodies all the therapeutic, preventative, curative and energetic virtues imaginable; and it would appear that this has been the case for thousands of years, because ginseng is mentioned in the most ancient medicine treaties, since the very early Christian age. It has an extremely high content of toning active ingredients. It also contains group B vitamins, vitamins C, E and K, folic acid, essential oils, polyunsaturated fatty acids, minerals, tannins and phytosterols. In addition to the significant, well-known energising, stimulant and anti-fatigue properties, numerous studies have shown that ginseng can also stimulate the microcirculation, encouraging hair growth. At the skin, it revitalises tissues, giving hair substance and shine. It is also used to increase elasticity and firm dry, wrinkled skin.

Vitis vinifera leaf extract

The common grape vine or Eurasian vine (Vitis vinifera L.) is a climbing shrub of the Vitaceae family. It is the most commonly cultivated vine and is currently present in all continents except for the Antarctic.                                               Vine leaves, which turn red in the autumn, feature an important concentration of polyphenols and anthocyanins, substances with an antioxidant action that are particularly useful in stimulating the microcirculation and preventing skin ageing.  Vine leaf extract is therefore particularly recommended for facial creams, to restore tone and light to the skin. The red vine phytocomplex supplies nourishment and rejuvenates, giving new lymph and vitality to skin after the stress of everyday life.

Camelia sinensis leaf extract

Camelia sinensis is the tea plant, namely the species of plant whose leaves and shoots are used to produce tea. All types of tea originate from the working of the leaves, shoots and other parts of this plant: the processing methods differentiate the various types of tea produced. Camelia sinensis is a small evergreen tree that is very ramified. It originates from the continental part of South and South-East Asia, but today it is grown worldwide. The importance of green tea is connected above all to its polyphenol content, which is responsible for the excellent antioxidant action boasted by the phytocomplex. Following topical use, this action effectively protects the cutaneous and sub-cutaneous tissues. The capacity of green tea extracts to combat the damages caused by free radicals means that they are often used in cosmetics intended to protect the skin from exposure to environmental pollutants. It is also excellent for use in the preparation of moisturising and emollient creams and cleansers for the face and body.

Paullinia cupana seed extract

Guarana (Paullinia cupana Kunth.) is an evergreen climbing plant, native to the Amazon rainforest and which belongs to the Sapindaceae family. The fruit of this plant is rather curious: as it opens, it shows a shape and colours that rather resemble an eye, a feature that in ancient times gave rise to a great many myths and legends. Guarana is defined as the plant of long-life, famous worldwide for its energising virtues. Guarana extract is obtained from the toasted seed and is considered a natural, highly effective source of energy, particularly due to its high caffeine content. It facilitates concentration, helps when workloads are heavy, increasing resistance to mental and muscular efforts. It is used in cosmetics for its capacity to stimulate the circulation and tone the skin. It is used extensively in anti-cellulite products, as it helps eliminate the subcutaneous adipose content and stimulates the microcirculation.

Lawsonia inermis leaf extract

Lawsonia inermis, commonly referred to as henna, is a thorny shrub from the Lythraceae family. A yellow-greenish powder is obtained from its dried, ground branches and leaves, which is used to dye fabrics and animal skins. The red-brown shade varies depending on the composition of branches (red) and leaves (brown). In North Africa and India, it is used for temporary tattoos of the hands and feet or to dye hair. In cosmetics, it is used for its tannin content. It purifies the skin and scalp. According to laboratory analyses, it also has anti-mycotic properties. It is used against inflammation and eruptions of the skin, herpes, psoriasis, furuncles, burns, bruises, dandruff and seborrhoea of the scalp for its purifying properties.

Cetraria islandica extract

Icelandic moss (or lichen) (Cetraria islandica L., fam. Parmeliaceae), is a species that is characteristic of the lava fields in Iceland. Icelandic moss is the plant used in cosmetics with the most important antimicrobial properties. And it is precisely due to these antibacterial properties that it provides a valid aid in fighting the unpleasant odours caused by bacteria in the armpit following excessive sweating and is therefore used in deodorants. It is also used in oral hygiene products, however, as an adjuvant against the microbial growth responsible for cavities. It contains usnic acid that helps prevent plaque formation, protecting against the attack of bacteria, fighting their action.

The Simmondsia chinensis grows in the deserts of South America; it has roots which may reach more than thirty metres of length.

Jojoba oil, or Jojoba wax, is similar to that of human sebum, which makes Jojoba wax particularly similar to skin and hair. Jojoba wax contains fatty acids including gadoleic acid (about 75%), erucic acid (about 10%), oleic acid (about 10%) and nervonic acid.
Jojoba wax is a yellow, viscous, oily liquid with a pleasant scent; thanks to the dry touch, it is quickly absorbed without leaving the oily skin.
Jojoba oil prevents dehydration, revitalizes the skin, strengthens the hydro-lipid film and helps regulate the production of sebum of oily skin. It also has balancing action for oily hair and restores vitality to dry and brittle hair.

Kigelia africana extract

Kigelia Africana (fam. Bignoniaceae) is an African tree that is considered sacred by the local populations due to its great many curative properties. Located above all in Senegal, it can reach up to 10-15 metres in height and has very tortuous branches. The distinctive feature of this tree is its fruits which are cylindrical, woody and particularly rich in seeds. They can be found hanging to the tree, rather resembling sausages. These fruits contain substances that are chemically similar to hormones, with the property of inhibiting the enzyme 5-alpha-reductase, which is responsible for hair loss. They also contain flavonoids, which stimulate the microcirculation, helping ensure the correct supply of oxygen and nourishment to the hair bulb.

The Lavandula genus belongs to the family of the Lamiaceae and comprises thirty or so species originating from the Mediterranean countries. The generic name of "lavender" we generally use to refer to these plants derives from the Latin "lavare" (meaning "wash"), alluding to its popular use in ancient times, and in the Middle Ages in particular, to cleanse the body. Essential lavender oil can be used against unsightly cellulite as if massaged constantly all over the body, it helps soften and smooth the skin.

Citrus limon extract

The lemon (Citrus limon L., Rutaceae family) is a native fruit tree of Asia. It is grown worldwide in the subtropical belt. Lemon juice is extensively used due to its high vitamin content, and above all vitamin C and group B vitamins and minerals such as calcium, magnesium, zinc, phosphor and potassium. Given the citric acid and ascorbic acid present (or vitamin C), it is used in cosmetics for its astringent properties and is useful in preventing the bacterial proliferation responsible for the onset of unpleasant odours to the armpit following excessive sweating. Lemon extract also has exfoliating properties that are useful in stimulating superficial cell renewal to ensure smoother, more even skin.

Tilia platyphyllos flower extract

Italian lime (Tilia platyphyllos) is a tree from the Tiliaceae family, widespread throughout continental Europe and the Caucasus. It was appreciated and venerated as a sacred tree by the ancient Germanic civilisations as it had a great many beneficial properties. Similar to the oak in terms of its long life, it can live as long as one thousand years.

The active ingredients of lime are mainly located in the flowers, where we find tannins and mucilage, the substances that yield the main benefits to the skin and annexes. It is often used in shampoo, bubble bath and intimate hygiene cleansers, where mucilage reduces the irritation of the foaming agent base, making it very useful in protecting the hair and skin in the event of frequent washes. The benefits of lime also include its emollient, congestion relieving and refreshing properties for reddened mucous and skin; it is useful on burns, sunburn and eyelid inflammations.

Nelumbo nucifera extract

Lotus flower is an aquatic plant genus of the Nelumbonaceae family. Originally from Asia, the Lotus is one of the world's oldest flowers: a symbol of purity, perfection and spirituality. Rich in amino acids and flavonoids, the Lotus flower is famous for its antioxidant and anti-haemorrhagic properties. The extract is particularly effective in protecting capillary fragility and thanks to the antioxidants present, it prevents damages to the epidermis due to the action of the free radicals, pollution and cleansers that are aggressive on the skin.

Malva sylvestris extract

Mallow, scientific name Malva silvestris L., belongs to the Malvaceae family and is a plant that has been known since ancient times for its extraordinary calming, refreshing, anti-inflammatory and anti-spasmodic properties. Originally from Europe, Mallow has now acclimatised to other continents too, such as Africa. The leaves are the part of the plant that is most used, which contain mucilage above all. Vitamins A, B1, B2, C and E are also present however, along with amino acids and tannins. Thanks to the high mucilage content, Mallow extracts are therefore characterised by excellent moisturising and emollient properties, reducing skin redness resulting from the excellent ingredients used to prepare cosmetics for dry, delicate skin and skin that reddens easily. Mallow mucilage is used to prepare creams, milks and masks that refresh and moisturise, after sun products and aftershave as well as mouthwashes designed to relieve congestion and soothe the mucous.

Maple is a species belonging to the family of the Aceraceae. It is grown in North America where it is used to produce syrup and sugar. From a cosmetic viewpoint, its alpha-hydroxy acid content is of great interest, which, by means of their delicate exfoliating action and superficial smoothing, stimulate cell renewal in the skin and dermis, in the deepest layers of the epidermis. Skin looks smoother and move even, with a notable reduction in the "orange peel" appearance.

Melissa officinalis

Melissa (Melissa officinalis L.) is a perennial, rustic, wild herbaceous plant that grows throughout Southern Europe and Western Asia. Melissa officinalis leaves contain approximately 4% rosmarinic acid and an anti-inflammatory polyphenol; there are also flavonoids, triterpenes and an essential oil. Used in ancient Arabian medicine to calm and as an anti-spasmodic, Melissa is used in cosmetics for its good congestion relieving properties and capacity to soothe the skin. These properties are very probably due to the anti-inflammatory action of the rosmarinic acid. Melissa extracts are therefore used in creams, milks and toners designed to soothe, tone and refresh the epidermis.

Neem (Melia azadirachta L.) is an evergreen tree belonging to the Meliaceae family, native to India and Birmania. It has a great many medical properties, indeed in India it is often referred to as the "village pharmacy". For centuries, Indians have used this plant to treat pain, fever, infections and skin problems.

The seeds are cold pressed to obtain neem oil, which is rich in flavonoids, anti-inflammatory, antiseptic compounds, in particular against skin fungi. One substance in particular, azadirachtin, is responsible for the insect repellent capacity of neem oil. It also contains essential fatty acids.omega-3, omega-6, omega-9) and saturated fatty acids (stearic and palmitic), responsible for the regenerative action of the cell membranes at the epithelial tissue and hair level.

The Nettle is a perennial herbaceous plant, with erect stem (1,5 m) with quadrangular section; it belongs to the family of the Urticaceae and gathers annual or perennial herbaceous plants, which are born spontaneously everywhere. Rich in mineral salts (phosphorus, magnesium, calcium, silicon, manganese and potassium) and vitamins A, C and K has toning and remineralizing. It is suitable for those who have problems with dandruff, hair loss and hair problems and oily skin. Promotes the regrowth of new hair, cleans and purifies the pores of the skin.

Calophyllum inophyllum is a tree with bright green foliage, which can grow up to 30 m tall. It grows on sandy beaches, in the tropical Indo-pacific regions and secretes a gum resin. The flowers yield a compound oil of fatty acids, flavonoids (anthocyanins) and complex lactones. Its originality therefore lies in its natural fatty acid content, such as fatty oils (olive, sunflower, rosa rubiginosa, etc.) and in the aromatic molecules, such as the essential oils, hence the expression "Aromatic Fatty Oil". Its richness in rare, valuable active ingredients, exceptionally grouped together into a single product, gives it exceptional, varied properties. In cosmetics, it is used for its anti-acne and healing action.

Avena sativa (oat) bran extract

The common oat (Avena sativa) is a plant of the Poaceae (or Graminaceae) family. Grown in Europe until the Iron Age, oats have always been an extremely important crop used for food. The main components of the caryopsis are starch, polysaccharides and protein substances, sterols (sitosterol), mineral salts (iron, calcium, phosphor and magnesium) and vitamins (B1, B2 and B12). Thanks to its high level of skin compatibility, oat flour has always been extensively used in various cosmetic forms such as aspergillum powders, dermal pastes, products intended for children's skin and products for delicate skin that reddens easily. Thanks to its moisturising, soothing properties, oats are also often added to cleansing products (soaps, bath products, etc.) to ensure that they are better tolerated by the skin.

Oats are excellent, yet very delicate cleansers. They respect the fundamental epidermis function, without affecting and denaturing the proteins of the corneal layer. They also moisturise, emolliate, protect and soothe skin.

Olea europea leaf extract

Olive oil has been used as a cosmetic and skin protector since ancient times. The ancient Egyptians used it as an active ingredient in creams and perfumes and it is said that the first anti-wrinkle cream was invented by Cleopatra. The Romans also used it as body oil after bathing, to keep skin elastic and soft.

Citrus aurantium dulcis

The orange (Citrus aurantium dulcis of the Rutaceae family) is an evergreen tree that originates from Asia and was introduced by the Arabs to Sicily and Calabria. The zest of the fruit, leaves, small branches and fresh flowers are used. The extract contains a great many active ingredients: flavonoids and vitamin C acting as antioxidants protect against free radicals, improving skin elasticity and the microcirculation, reducing swelling and liquid accumulations in tissues; the alpha-hydroxy acids moisturise the epidermis, delicately exfoliating to promote cell renewal, leaving skin more even and better toned. Sweet orange is both astringent and purifying, hence its use in cosmetic masks designed to treat impure skin or skin suffering from acne. It is also a good, refreshing toner that leaves a pleasant sensation of freshness when applied to the skin.

Papaya is the fruit of Carica papaya L.: it is also called "fruit of vitality" for its invigorating, energetic and revitalizing properties.
It is rich in powerful antioxidants (such as carotenoids) and high amounts of vitamin A and vitamin C, especially useful in anti-aging products to protect the skin from the harmful action of free radicals, slowing the process of skin aging.

Passiflora incarnata extract

Passiflora (Passiflora incarnata L.) is a perennial plant with a slim, climbing stem. It originates from the tropical and subtropical areas of central and South America. Better known as the Passion Flower, due to the appearance of the floral corolla the revokes the instruments of Christ's Passion, it is a plant rich in flavonoids, phytosterols, sugars and pectin. Due to the beneficial action on the microcirculation and the soothing, redness relieving effect of the flavonoids, passiflora flower extract is used to prepare protective, soothing cosmetics for delicate, sensitive, easily-irritated skin or skin that tends to suffer from couperose. It also has a good antioxidant action that helps protect the skin against ultraviolet radiation and other harmful agents. Use of the plant extract is therefore also particularly indicated in the preparation of protective day creams and in after-sun and after-shaving products.

Punica granatum extract

The pomegranate (Punica granatum, L.) is a shrub of the Punicaceae family, originally from a region running from Iran to the Himalayas of Northern India. The pomegranate's many seeds (approximately 600) has meant that it has always been considered the fruit of fertility: in some populations, brides used it to predict the number of children they would have and still today, amongst Asian populations, an open pomegranate fruit symbolises abundance and well wishing. An oil is obtained from the seeds of this fruit, which is particularly rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids, beta-carotene, vitamin C and vitamin E - the ideal blend to moisturise and nourish the skin. These ingredients, together with the many polyphenols present, make the extract an effective skin soother and anti-ageing agent in cosmetic products. These properties are due to the antioxidant action of the active ingredients contained in the extract, which protect the skin from the damages caused by the free radicals and UV radiation, preventing the collagen constituent of the skin from deteriorating, as it is essential to giving tone and structure.

Oryza sativa (rice) bran oil

Rice is an annual herbaceous plant of the Gramineae family. The plant is of Asian origin: the Chinese were already growing it for food in the 6th millennium before Christ. It later spread to Mesopotamia, Persia, Egypt and finally Europe. Oryza Sativa Bran Oil is the oil extracted from the germ and internal film of the rice, named chaff. The oil extracted from the chaff and rice caryopsis is rich in vitamin E and polyunsaturated fatty acids (omega-3 and omega-6). It also has a significant unsaponifiable fraction, rich in sterols and gamma oryzanol, an antioxidant, protective substance with regards to skin ageing caused by the sun's rays.

Rice bran oil therefore has excellent emollient, restorative properties and is particularly well-suited to preparing emollient, regenerative, anti-wrinkle cosmetics.

Oryza sativa starch.  Rice is an annual herbaceous plant of the Gramineae family. The plant is of Asian origin: the Chinese were already growing it for food in the 6th millennium before Christ. It later spread to Mesopotamia, Persia, Egypt and finally Europe. Rice starch is without doubt an excellent ally for our beauty. It contains amino acids and group B vitamins to moisturise and nourish the epidermis. The polysaccharides and minerals comprising it have a revitalising effect that emolliates and protects the skin. It is also highly effective in soothing irritation and reddening, even of sensitive skin. It also improves skin elasticity and softness.

Rosa Centifolia Flower Water

The rose (Rosa centifolia L. Miller), of the Rosaceae family, is a plant comprising around 150 different species, numerous varieties with infinite hybrids, originally from Europe and Asia. Considered as originating from Europe and West Asia, the Rose is extensively cultivated the world over.   We use the plant's flowers, which contain high quantities of pectin and flavonoids. There is also a very valuable essential oil, often used in perfumes.

When distilling the essential oil, distilled Rose water is also obtained, the soothing, refreshing properties of which mean that it is often used in cosmetic formulas for delicate skin that reddens easily and in lotion to clean all skin types. It tones, is astringent and relieves congestion to the skin, leaving the epidermis glowing and fresh.

Rosmarinus officinalis oil, rosmarinus officinalis extract

Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis Lamiaceae family) is a perennial shrub with a bushy appearance that can grow up to three metres tall. Originally from the Mediterranean countries, it grows wild along the coast and up to 1500 m above sea level. Rosemary is considered the balsamic plant par excellence and has been known and used since ancient times for its medicinal properties.

It is extremely rich in essential oils. It has stimulating, refreshing, balsamic properties and is an antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antiseptic, as well as astringent and toning due to the tannin presence. The essential oil is very much used in perfumes too, in numerous lotions, perfumes, liniments, soaps and mouthwashes.

Salvia officinalis extract, Salvia sclarea extract

Sage (Salvia officinalis L., Lamiaceae family) is a small evergreen shrub that is characteristic of Southern Europe; in Italy it grows wild in central-Southern areas and on the islands. The name of this plant bears witness to the virtues assigned to it by the ancient Romans: the word sage in fact shares the root of the verb "to save" and the word "salus" (salvation or health). Sage extract and the essential oil obtained from the leaves are used in cosmetics for their antiseptic, healing and astringent properties, characteristics that are very useful in treating excess sweating. The variety referred to as Salvia Sclarea is a plant that shows good toning-stimulating and bactericide properties. It is used in oral hygiene products, in deodorising products against excessive sweating and for skin mycosis, alopecia and poor hair growth, as it improves the condition of the scalp.

Sesamum indicum seed extract

Sesame (Sesamum indicum L., Pedaliaceae family) is a herbaceous plant that originates from the West Indies. Refined sesame oil is light yellow in colour, is odourless and has a pleasant, characteristic flavour. In addition to its traditional use in food, it is also used in the pharmaceutical and cosmetic sector. Obtained by cold pressing the plant seeds, Sesame oil has excellent emollient, antioxidant, sebum restoring and skin soothing properties. It has a large quantity of essential fatty acids (omega-3 and omega-6). It also contains group B vitamins as well as vitamins E, D and PP. External use of sesame oil is therefore helpful in treating irritations as well as skin dryness and lack of tone. On hair, it helps give tone and vitality, nourishing and restoring the hair fibre.

Glycine soja protein

Wild soy (Glycine soia) is a herbaceous plant of the Leguminous family, originally from East Asia and grown for food.    Soy protein has a great affinity with water; thanks to this property, it forms a protective film over the skin, which maintains a continuous, lasting layer of moisture. Thus the skin is smoother, more toned and more elastic. Much used in anti-age treatments, Hydrolysed Soy Protein is a peptide ingredient of natural origin, obtained from the protein reserves of soy seeds. The hydrolysed proteins of soy promote cell regeneration, fighting the formation of wrinkles, are moisturising agents and give a silky, velvety feel. They also have a tensor effect, leaving the skin's surface smoother and more even.

Prunus amygdalus dulcis oil

Originally from Western Asia, the Almond (Prunus amygdalus) is extensively grown in the countries of the Mediterranean and in California. The almond fruit is cold pressed to yield a clear, odourless oil used in cosmetics for its eudermic properties and its high affinity with the skin. IT is very rich in essential fatty acids, mainly represented by oleic acid (62-86%) and linoleic acid (20-30%). It also contains vitamins E and B and minerals. Almond oil is very well tolerated by even the most delicate, sensitive skin, due to its great affinity with the components of the skin sebum, meaning that it is extensively used in cosmetics for its nourishing, emollient and elasticising properties for the skin. It is therefore used in oleolytes, moisturising milks and creams and in particular those intended for children, delicate skin and skin that reddens easily, as it favours the formation of the protective film, protecting it from dehydration and leaving skin silky smooth. Thanks to its great affinity with skin, moreover, Almond oil can also be used pure on skin, to leave it soft and elastic.

The Wasabi (Wasabia japonica) belongs to the family of the Brassicaceae (or Crocifere) and is native to Japan.
Besides its use in the food field, the richness in polyphenols, vitamin B6, vitamin C and minerals makes it useful in cosmetics for its powerful antioxidant action.

Hydrolyzated wheat protein

Wheat or bran, is a plant belonging to the Graminaceae family. Grown for the first time in the Euphrates basin approximately 9000 years ago, wheat is grown virtually the whole world over. The most important producers are Russia, the United States, China and India.

Hydrolysed wheat protein are natural derivatives of wheat grain and constitutes a unique moisturising complex able to penetrate within the skin structures, binding water and offering filming properties and a correct moisture balance to the skin. Hydrolysed wheat protein is also used to prepare shampoos and shower

Lilium candidum extract

Lilium candidum, the lily par excellence, originates from Asia Minor. It has been cultivated as an ornamental plant in the Mediterranean basin since ancient times. White lily extracts have bioactivating skin properties as well as emollient, soothing, anti-inflammatory properties thanks to the presence of moisturising, protective mucilage, astringent acting tannins and anti-inflammatory, soothing sterols. It also contains antioxidant, vessel-protective flavonoids. In cosmetics, it is used to calm reddened skin, on burns and sores, for dermatitis, eczema and itchiness.

It is therefore highly recommended in day creams designed to protect, emolliate and moisturise.

The White orchid (Phalaenopsis amabilis) is an epiphytic orchid, native to New Guinea. Orchid milk is particularly rich in protein and moisturizes the skin and hair.

Orchis mascula extract

The early-purple orchid (Orchis mascula L.) is a plant belonging to the Orchidaceae family, widespread throughout Europe, from Portugal to the Caucasus, in North Africa and the Middle East, through to Iran. The decoctions of the orchid bulb were traditionally used by populations in ancient times to soothe inflammations or as an energy drink. A mysterious flower, surrounded by mystic aura and symbol of absolute beauty, the orchid has always represented the image of the woman and her perfection. From the leaves of this mysterious plant, we extract polyphenols and flavonoids for their antioxidant action, and from the bulb, we obtain moisturising, protective polysaccharides. This makes the plant extract a valid active ingredient in dermo-cosmetic products designed to emolliate, anti-age and sooth, for moisturising, protective facial creams to leave skin toned and elastic.

Salix alba bark extract

White willow (Salix alba L. of the Salicaeae family) is a tree that grows wild in Central and South Europe, in cool, damp places near the river banks. The bark extract is used in cosmetics for the high tannin content, with a healing, disinfectant, astringent effect. White willow bark also provides salicylic, a compound that is broken-down in the organism to create salicylic acid, the active ingredient of aspirin, with a toning, anti-rheumatic, antipyretics, anti-fermentative and astringent capacity. Salicylic acid also has a keratolytic action, or rather, it helps detach high quantities of dead cells on the scalp in the event of persistent dandruff, thereby normalising scaling levels.

Hamamelis virginiana water, Hamamelis virginiana extract

Witch-hazel (Hamamelis virginiana L.) is a plant species belonging to the Hamamelis genus. The plant originates from North America and Canada, where it grows wild, whilst it is extensively grown in Europe. Distilled witch-hazel water contains a fraction of essential oil of the plant but has no tannins with their astringent effect. Its toning, soothing and refreshing properties make it the ideal ingredient in aftershave, toning waters and lotions intended for the delicate skin of children and for preparing delicate cleansers. The dry extract taken from the plant as a whole is rich in tannins, polyphenols and flavonoids, with astringent and toning properties and which protect the microcirculation of the skin. It is used to sooth sunburn and reduce water loss through the epidermis. Its astringent capacity, due to the presence of tannins, make it the ideal active ingredient in products for greasy skin, as it normalises sebum production in the skin and scalp.

Arnica montana

Wolfsbane (Arnica montana L.) is a medicinal herb from the Asteraceae family. It is widespread throughout central Europe and on the meadowlands of the Alps and Apennines. It has a pleasant aroma and magnificent yellow-orange flowers with "ruffled" petals that open during the early summer months. Extract of wolfsbane is obtained from the flowers. Chemically, it contains terpenes, phytosterols, polysaccharides, polyphenols and flavonoids. Wolfsbane is particularly well-known in traditional herbal remedies for trauma (contusion), muscular pain and all types of ecchymosis. This action is based on the rubefacient action that stimulates the circulation to enable the re-absorption of the ecchymosis and tissue oxygenation. The extract is also used in cosmetics to prepare products that stimulate and tone the skin and hair. It helps restore tone and vigour to the skin of the face, increasing elasticity and restoring a healthy glow to the epidermis. It helps increase vitality and strength in dull, weak and damaged hair.

Artemisia absinthium. Wormwood (scientific name Artemisia absinthium) is a small herbaceous plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family.  It is a medicinal plant above all famous for its use in preparing absinthe, an aromatic, very bitter alcoholic beverage drunk diluted or sugared.  Wormwood can be found throughout Europe, North America, South America and New Zealand. In cosmetics, the tips of the flowers and leaves are used to obtain essential oil, which tones and stimulates as well as acting as an anti-inflammatory, making it useful in treating the oedema and inflammations seen in cellulite.

Yarrow (Achillea millefolium L.) is a plant of the Asteraceae family. It is herbaceous, perennial and aromatic. It is very widespread in Europe and in temperate areas of Asia. The genus name derives from the belief that Achilles had used this plant during the siege of Troy to cure the wounds of his soldiers.

It is an effective astringent, anti-inflammatory for the skin and therefore a useful adjuvant in deodorants. It also promotes the healing of scars in ulcers and fissures.