| Jasmine (Jasminum officinale) is an "absolute" extracted from the flower and is an essence rather than an essential oil. It is good for sensitive skin and can also be uplifting and stimulating. Considered an aphrodisiac for centuries, Jasmine supports the nervous system and is helpful for women going through menopause.
Jojoba Oil helps to promote a stable lather and is good at conditioning skin. Because of its expense, it's usually used to superfat soap batches or in shampoo bars. It is an excellent emollient for skin conditions like psoriasis, because it has a chemical composition very close to the skin's own sebum. It is suitable for all skin types, beneficial for spotty and acne conditions, and good for sensitive and oily skin. It also helps to unclog the pores and remove any embedded grime, restores and conditions hair.
Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) is the most versatile of all essential oils. Therapeutic-grade lavender has been highly regarded for the skin. The French scientist Rene Gattefosse was the first to discover these properties when he severely burned his hands in a laboratory explosion. Lavender has also been clinically evaluated for its relaxing effects. It may be used to cleanse cuts, bruises, and skin irritations. The fragrance is calming, relaxing, and balancing -- physically and emotionally.
Lemon (Citrus limon) has antiseptic-like properties and contains compounds that have been studied for their effects on immune function, lymphatic, circulatory, and digestive systems. Is antibacterial and may serve as an insect repellent as well as being beneficial for the skin.
Lemongrass (Cymbopogon flexuosus) is used for purification and digestion. Research was published in Phytotherapy Research regarding topically applied lemongrass and its properties.
Olive Oil is a healthful oil because of its high content of monounsaturated fat (mainly oleic acid) and polyphenols. It is also rich in anti-oxidants helping to fight free radicals which cause damage to cells. Olive oil in body care products provides nourishment to the skin, hair and nails.
Orange (Citrus sinensis) brings peace and happiness to the mind and body. It has been recognized to help a dull, oily complexion. Diffuse or apply topically on location, or add to food or soy or rice milk as a dietary supplement or flavoring.
Palm Oil makes a hard bar that cleans well and is also mild. It is a good substitute for tallow in all-vegetable soaps. The quality of Palm oil is far superior to other vegetable oils that are filler oils. Palm oil is universal and used in many expensive luxury soaps.
Patchouli (Pogostemon cablin) is very beneficial for the skin and may help prevent wrinkled or chapped skin. It is a general tonic and stimulant, helps the digestive system, fighting candida (yeast) infections, and benefits the nervous and glandular systems. It has antiseptic properties and helps relieve itching.
Peppermint Oil is extracted from Mentha piperita of the Labiatae family and is also known as brandy mint and balm mint. On the skin, peppermint oil is used to relieve skin irritation and itchiness and also helps to reduce skin redness, where inflammation is present. It is used for dermatitis, acne, ringworm, scabies and pruritus and also relieves itching, sunburn and inflammation of the skin, while at the same time having a cooling action. |