CODEX
This raw material codex serves as a comprehensive guide for all ingredients we utilize, including information about the origin, cultural significance, historical uses, and associated benefits.
BOTANICALS
CHAMOMILE
Chamomile, Matricaria chamomilla - Chamomile has a long history of use in traditional medicine and skincare, prized for its calming and anti-inflammatory properties. It was commonly used by ancient civilizations for its soothing effects on the skin and its ability to promote relaxation. It can help to calm irritation, reduce redness, and promote overall skin health. It is especially beneficial for sensitive or acne-prone skin.
CALENDULA
Calendula, scientifically known as Calendula officinalis, is a stunning yellow and orange marigold flower, cherished for centuries for its remarkable healing properties. Derived from the Latin word "Kalendae," meaning "New Moon" or "First day of the month," Calendula blooms are said to coincide with the start of each month, symbolizing renewal and vitality.
With its rich history deeply intertwined with herbal medicine and skincare, Calendula extract continues to be prized for its myriad benefits in addressing various skin concerns. Calendula's calming and healing properties render it ideal for sensitive or irritated skin. It aids in soothing inflammation, promoting wound healing, and providing hydration, nurturing the skin's health and resilience.
CORNFLOWERS
Cornflowers, Centaurea cyanus - Cornflowers have a long history of use in herbal medicine and folklore. They were traditionally used to soothe tired eyes and promote relaxation. In some cultures, they were also associated with love and prosperity. Cornflowers have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, making them beneficial for soothing irritated or inflamed skin. They can help reduce puffiness, brighten the complexion, and promote overall skin health.
GOTU KOLA
Centella asiatica - Gotu kola, known as the "herb of longevity," has been revered in traditional medicine for centuries, particularly in Ayurvedic and Chinese practices. It is celebrated for its ability to promote skin health and enhance wound healing. Rich in triterpenoids, gotu kola has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that soothe irritation and redness, making it ideal for sensitive skin. Additionally, it stimulates collagen production, which helps improve skin elasticity and firmness, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Gotu kola extract also promotes blood circulation, contributing to a more vibrant and youthful complexion while supporting overall skin rejuvenation.
MADDER ROOT
Madder Root Powder, Rubia tinctorum - Madder root has been used for centuries as a natural dye and in traditional medicine. It was prized by ancient civilizations for its vibrant red color and was used to dye textiles, for cosmetics and culinary uses. Madder root powder offers a gorgeous pink hue and gentle exfoliation to our soap and is used widely in Ayurvedic practices for healthy glowing skin.
MANUKA HONEY EXTRACT
Manuka honey, derived from the Leptospermum scoparium plant, is a concentrated solution rich in fructose, glucose, proteins, amino acids, vitamins, enzymes, minerals, and other beneficial compounds. Renowned for its potent antibacterial properties, Manuka Honey is a notable ingredient for improving skin wound healing. Additionally, it acts as an emollient, humectant, and soothing agent in cosmetic formulations, aiding in skin repair and maintenance.
OORAY / DAVIDSON'S PLUM
Ooray, a native superfruit, endemic to Northeast NSW and Far North Queensland, known commonly as Davidson's Plum (Davidsonia jerseyana). Ooray have been used for centuries by Indigenous Australians for their nutritional and medicinal properties. This blood red and juicy fruit is an antioxidant powerhouse. Rich in Vitamin E, Anthocyanins and Phenolic acid which can help to fortify cells, protect from free radical damage and reduce inflammation. Ooray is also an excellent source of Vitamin C, another potent antioxidant, which helps to rejuvenate, firm, even skin tone and boost collagen production.
ROSE
Rose, scientifically known as Rosa spp., embodies timeless elegance and profound symbolism, revered across cultures for its beauty and therapeutic properties. With origins dating back thousands of years, roses have been cherished for their exquisite blooms and delicate fragrance, gracing gardens, rituals, and celebrations. The name "rose" is derived from the Latin word "rosa," evoking images of love, passion, and purity. In skincare, rose extract is prized for its luxurious essence and multifaceted benefits. Rich in antioxidants and vitamins, rose helps nourish and protect the skin, promoting a radiant and youthful complexion. Its gentle yet potent properties make it ideal for all skin types, offering hydration, soothing relief, and restoring balance.
OILS, BUTTERS + WAXES
AUSTRALIAN RAW BEESWAX
Our Australian Raw Beeswax is sourced locally from the hives of our beloved honeybees. This natural wax is harvested and processed without synthetic additives or harmful chemicals, preserving its purity and integrity. Rich in vitamins, minerals, and protective compounds, Australian raw beeswax offers a multitude of benefits for skincare and cosmetic formulations. With its moisturizing, emollient, and protective properties, it helps to hydrate the skin, lock in moisture, and create a protective barrier against environmental stressors.
Using beeswax harvested from local Australian hives not only supports the vital role of bees in our ecosystems, but the planet at large. Beeswax is a natural byproduct of bees' honey-making process, and its extraction from hives encourages healthy hive activity and colony sustainability. By responsibly sourcing beeswax, we contribute to the well-being of bee populations and the preservation of pollination cycles crucial for plant reproduction, biodiversity, food production and ultimately our human existence. Additionally, supporting local beekeepers who ethically harvest beeswax promotes sustainable beekeeping practices and helps protect bee habitats, safeguarding these essential pollinators for future generations.
ORGANIC CASTOR OIL
Derived from the seeds of the Ricinus communis plant, our certified organic castor oil is a versatile and nourishing oil rich in essential fatty acids, particularly ricinoleic acid. With its moisturizing and conditioning properties, castor oil deeply hydrates the skin, soothes irritation, and promotes healthy hair growth. Ideal for soap making, it contributes to a creamy lather and luxurious feel, leaving the skin refreshed and rejuvenated. Cold-pressed to preserve its purity, our castor oil is free from synthetic additives, making it a safe and effective choice for natural skincare and hair care formulations.
ORGANIC COCONUT OIL
Organic Coconut Oil is a versatile and nutrient-rich oil extracted from the meat of coconuts (Cocos nucifera) through a process that preserves its natural goodness. Sourced from organically grown coconuts, this oil is free from synthetic pesticides, fertilizers, and other harmful chemicals, ensuring purity and quality. Renowned for its moisturizing and nourishing properties, organic coconut oil is a popular ingredient in skincare products. It is rich in medium-chain fatty acids, including lauric acid, which penetrate deeply into the skin to hydrate, soften, and smooth.
The emollient nature of coconut oil helps lock in moisture, making it effective in preventing dryness and promoting skin elasticity. Its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties also make it beneficial for soothing and protecting the skin from irritation and infections. Organic coconut oil is suitable for all skin types, including sensitive and acne-prone skin, due to its gentle and non-comedogenic nature.
COLD-PRESSED VIRGIN OLIVE OIL
Australian Cold Pressed Extra Virgin Olive Oil is a premium-quality oil extracted from fresh olives (Olea europaea) using mechanical methods, without the use of heat or chemicals. This gentle extraction process helps preserve the oil's natural flavor, aroma, and nutritional value.
Rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and essential fatty acids, extra virgin olive oil is renowned for its numerous health benefits and versatile uses in skincare. It deeply nourishes and moisturizes the skin, leaving it soft, supple, and radiant.
The high concentration of oleic acid in extra virgin olive oil helps maintain the skin's moisture barrier and prevent moisture loss, making it particularly beneficial for dry and dehydrated skin. Its anti-inflammatory properties help soothe irritation, reduce redness, and promote skin healing.
ORGANIC SWEET ALMOND OIL
Sweet almond oil is a versatile and nourishing oil derived from the kernels of sweet almonds (Prunus dulcis). Rich in vitamins, minerals, and essential fatty acids, this light and non-greasy oil are prized for its moisturizing and emollient properties.
Sweet almond oil is easily absorbed by the skin, making it an excellent choice for all skin types, including sensitive and dry skin. It helps hydrate and soften the skin, leaving it feeling smooth and silky. Its gentle and soothing nature makes it suitable for use on the face, body, and hair.
ORGANIC SHEA BUTTER
Sourced from the nuts of the shea tree (Vitellaria paradoxa), this rich and creamy butter is rich in vitamins, minerals, and fatty acids, making it incredibly nourishing for the skin. It deeply hydrates and conditions, leaving the skin soft, smooth, and supple. Its emollient properties help to lock in moisture and create a protective barrier against environmental stressors. All of our Botanical Soaps are proudly made with Certified Fair-trade Organic Shea Butter. Sourced from a company who has a beautiful relationship with communities in Gumo – Kumbungu district in Tamale located in the Northern part of Ghana, empowering women in this area with a fair opportunity to support themselves, their families + community.
ESSENTIAL OILS + HYDROSOLS
CEDARWOOD
Virginian Cedarwood (Juniperus virginiana) - Shares a warm, woody aroma with hints of earthiness and sweetness. Revered in ancient cultures for its purifying properties, cedarwood was used in rituals and ceremonies to cleanse the mind and spirit. In skincare, Virginian Cedarwood is valued for its astringent and antiseptic qualities, making it ideal for treating acne and oily skin. It also has a calming effect on the mind, promoting relaxation and mental clarity.
FRANKINCENSE
Frankincense (Boswellia carterii) - Frankincense exudes a rich, resinous scent with spicy, citrus undertones. Throughout history, it has been prized for its sacred and healing properties, often used in religious ceremonies and spiritual practices. In skincare, frankincense is renowned for its rejuvenating and anti-aging effects. It helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, while also promoting cell regeneration and improving skin tone and texture.
FRENCH CYPRESS
French Cypress (Cupressus sempervirens) - French Cypress has a fresh, woody aroma with subtle hints of sweetness and spice. In ancient times, it was revered for its purifying and protective qualities, often used in rituals to ward off negative energy. In skincare, French Cypress is valued for its astringent and toning properties, making it beneficial for oily and acne-prone skin. It also has a grounding effect on the mind, promoting balance and stability.
GIRRI GIRRI / LEMON MYRTLE
Girri Girri or commonly known as Lemon Myrtle (Backhousia citriodora) has a refreshing citrus aroma with vibrant lemony notes. Indigenous Australian cultures used lemon myrtle for its cleansing and uplifting properties, often incorporating it into rituals and ceremonies. In skincare, lemon myrtle is prized for its antibacterial and antifungal properties, making it effective in treating acne and other skin conditions. It also has a brightening effect on the skin, promoting a radiant complexion.
LAVENDER
Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) - Lavender emits a floral, herbaceous scent with calming and soothing properties. Ancient civilizations prized lavender for its therapeutic effects on the mind and body, using it to promote relaxation and relieve stress. In skincare, lavender is known for its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, making it ideal for soothing irritated or sensitive skin. It also helps balance oil production, making it suitable for all skin types.
MANDARIN
Mandarin (Citrus reticulata), sings a sweet, citrusy aroma with uplifting and invigorating qualities. Ancient Chinese cultures revered mandarin for its ability to promote vitality and harmonize the body and mind. In skincare, mandarin is valued for its antioxidant properties, helping protect the skin from environmental damage and premature aging. It also has a toning effect on the skin, promoting a healthy glow.
PATCHOULI
Patchouli (Pogostemon cablin) holds a rich, earthy aroma with sweet, spicy undertones. Throughout history, it has been used in perfumery and incense for its exotic and sensual scent. In skincare, patchouli is prized for its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, making it beneficial for treating acne and eczema. It also helps promote cell regeneration and improve skin elasticity, making it ideal for mature skin.
PEPPERMINT
Peppermint (Mentha piperita) has a refreshing, minty aroma with cooling and invigorating properties. Ancient Egyptians and Greeks valued peppermint for its therapeutic effects on the mind and body, using it to promote mental clarity and relieve headaches. In skincare, peppermint is known for its antibacterial and cooling properties, making it effective in treating acne and soothing irritated skin. It also helps improve circulation and brighten dull complexions.
ROSE GERANIUM
Rose Geranium (Pelargonium graveolens), a sweet, floral aroma with herbaceous undertones. Ancient Egyptians revered rose geranium for its skincare benefits, using it to promote healthy and radiant skin. In skincare, rose geranium is valued for its balancing and rejuvenating properties, making it suitable for all skin types. It helps regulate oil production, reduce inflammation, and promote cell regeneration, leaving the skin smooth and supple.
ROSE HYDROSOL
Rose Hydrosol (Rosa damascena) - Rose Hydrosol has a delicate, floral aroma with soothing and uplifting qualities. Ancient Persians and Romans prized rose hydrosol for its skincare benefits, using it to tone and hydrate the skin. In skincare, rose hydrosol is known for its hydrating and rejuvenating properties, making it ideal for dry and mature skin. It helps restore the skin's natural pH balance, soothe irritation, and promote a youthful complexion.
DUTJAHN / SANDALWOOD HYDROSOL
Dutjahn in the Martu and Wongi languages for 'Sandalwood' carries profound significance. This revered tree has stood as a sacred symbol for millennia, flourishing amidst the expansive semi-arid landscapes of Western Australia. With its woody, earthy, and grounding aroma, this particular sandalwood hydrosol is a byproduct of it's essential oil counterpart, distilled from sustainably sourced and wild-harvested fallen wood.
In ancient times, elders would chew on the nuts to extract the active ingredients, forming a paste used for treating various ailments. This paste was applied topically to heal superficial skin wounds, protect the skin, and alleviate discomfort in aching joints.
Sandalwood hydrosol is valued for its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties, making it ideal for sensitive and irritated skin. It also helps balance oil production and promote a clear complexion.
SWEET ORANGE
Sweet Orange (Citrus sinensis) shares a sweet, citrusy aroma with uplifting and invigorating qualities. Ancient Chinese cultures revered mandarin for its ability to promote vitality and harmonize the body and mind. In skincare, sweet orange is valued for its antioxidant properties, helping protect the skin from environmental damage and premature aging. It also has a toning effect on the skin, promoting a healthy glow.
TEATREE
Tea Tree (Melaleuca alternifolia) exudes a fresh, medicinal aroma with powerful antibacterial and antifungal properties. Indigenous Australian cultures have long used tea tree for its healing and cleansing abilities, applying it to wounds and skin infections. In skincare, tea tree is prized for its ability to treat acne, reduce inflammation, and soothe irritated skin. It also helps regulate oil production, making it beneficial for oily and combination skin types.
MINERALS + SALTS
ACTIVATED COCONUT CHARCOAL
Activated Coconut Charcoal is a versatile natural ingredient renowned for its purifying and detoxifying properties. Made from coconut shells that are heated at high temperatures to create a porous surface, this activated charcoal effectively absorbs and traps impurities, toxins, and excess oil from the skin, making it an excellent choice for deep cleansing and clarifying skincare products. It's fine texture gently exfoliates the skin, helping to remove dead skin cells and unclog pores, while its adsorbent properties help to draw out impurities and pollutants. Activated Coconut Charcoal is particularly beneficial for oily, acne-prone, or congested skin, helping to balance oil production, reduce blemishes, and promote a clearer, more radiant complexion.
WEST AUSTRALIAN BUBBLE LAKE SALT
West Australian Bubble Lake Salt is a rare and precious mineral sustainably harvested from the pristine waters of Lake Deborah which was formed over five million years ago. The unique composition of Bubble Lake Salt is formed by microbial activity in the water. These microbes produce gases such as carbon dioxide as they metabolize organic matter, creating small bubbles that become trapped in the salt as it crystallizes. Renowned for its high mineral content, West Australian Bubble Lake Salt is rich in essential nutrients such as sodium, potassium, magnesium, and calcium. These minerals provide numerous benefits for the skin, helping to nourish, hydrate, and replenish its natural moisture barrier.
AUSTRALIAN GOLDEN ZEOLITE
Australian Golden Zeolite is a naturally occurring mineral formed from volcanic ash and seawater over millions of years. Known for its vibrant golden color and porous structure, Golden Zeolite is rich in minerals and has powerful detoxifying and purifying properties, making it a valuable ingredient in skincare formulations.
Zeolites are microporous minerals that act as molecular sieves, trapping and removing toxins, heavy metals, and impurities from the skin. Australian Golden Zeolite, in particular, is prized for its ability to absorb excess oil, unclog pores, and promote a clearer, more radiant complexion.
FRENCH GREEN CLAY
French Green Clay, also known as Illite Clay, is a type of mineral-rich clay sourced from ancient volcanic deposits in France. Its vibrant green color comes from a combination of decomposed plant matter and iron oxides. Rich in minerals such as silica, magnesium, calcium, and potassium, French Green Clay helps draw out impurities, toxins, and excess oil from the skin, making it particularly beneficial for oily and acne-prone skin types. Its absorbent properties help unclog pores, minimize the appearance of blemishes, and promote a clearer, more balanced complexion.
With a high mineral content that nourishes the skin, it is also beneficial for exfoliation and stimulating effects, as it gently removes dead skin cells, improves circulation, and promotes cell renewal.
AUSTRALIAN IVORY CLAY
Australian Ivory Clay, composed primarily of kaolinite and quartz, is a versatile skincare ingredient valued for its gentle yet effective cleansing and exfoliating properties. This fine, creamy-white clay is renowned for its ability to purify the skin, absorb excess oil, and remove impurities without causing dryness or irritation. Australian Ivory Clay is suitable for all skin types, including sensitive and mature skin, as it helps to balance oil production, soothe inflammation, and promote a clear, radiant complexion.
FRENCH PINK CLAY
French Pink Clay, revered for its delicate hue and mineral-rich composition, is a cherished skincare secret from the heart of France. With its gentle exfoliating and detoxifying properties, this luxurious clay helps purify and revitalize the skin, leaving it soft, smooth, and radiant. Packed with natural minerals, including silica, kaolin, and illite, French Pink Clay gently draws out impurities, toxins, and excess oil, while replenishing the skin with essential nutrients. Ideal for all skin types, especially sensitive and mature skin, French Pink Clay promotes a healthy, luminous complexion with its soothing and rejuvenating benefits.
FRENCH RED CLAY
French Red Clay, brimming with iron oxides and other minerals, is a cherished skincare treasure from the sun-kissed soils of France. Renowned for its revitalizing properties, this vibrant clay gently exfoliates and detoxifies, leaving the skin refreshed and radiant. Its rich mineral content helps promote circulation, bringing a healthy glow to dull, tired skin. With its natural affinity for purification and rejuvenation, French Red Clay is a beloved ally in achieving a luminous complexion and the deep burnt red hues to our soaps.
BRAZILIAN YELLOW CLAY
Brazilian Yellow Clay, rich in minerals like silica, magnesium, and potassium, hails from the sun-drenched landscapes of Brazil. Known for its detoxifying prowess, this vibrant clay helps purify the skin by drawing out impurities and excess oil. Its gentle exfoliating action buffs away dead skin cells, revealing a smoother, more radiant complexion. With its sunny disposition and skin-loving benefits, Brazilian Yellow Clay is also a beautiful natural colourant used in our soaps.
MEDITERRANEAN CHOCOLATE CLAY
Mediterranean Chocolate Clay, rich in minerals such as magnesium, calcium, and potassium, is sourced from the fertile soils of the Mediterranean region. This luxurious skincare ingredient is renowned for its detoxifying and rejuvenating properties, making it a potent ally in promoting skin health and vitality.
With its deep brown hue reminiscent of decadent chocolate, this clay is not only a treat for the senses but also a powerhouse for the skin. Its detoxifying properties help draw out impurities and excess oil from the pores, leaving the skin feeling deeply cleansed and refreshed. Additionally, its high mineral content nourishes the skin, helping to improve tone and texture for a radiant complexion.
MAGNESIUM CHLORIDE
Our Magnesium Chloride is harvested from the pristine lakes of the Tibetan Plateau, situated 3,200 meters above sea level, from abundant natural deposits. Using only natural energy sources to operate harvesting equipment, the flakes are then sun-dried to preserve their purity. In skincare, magnesium can help to: regulate moisture balance, skin barrier function and soothe irritation and inflammation. Beyond its skincare benefits, Magnesium Chloride is prized for its ability to promote relaxation and alleviate stress. Whether incorporated into bath salts or used in a spray form, it can help to soothe tired muscles and ease tension, fostering a sense of tranquility and balance, allowing individuals to unwind and recharge.
SODIUM LACTATE
Sodium Lactate is a natural humectant derived from the fermentation of sugars, typically sourced from beets or corn. It's a sodium salt of natural Lactic Acid, a key component of the skin's natural moisturizing factor (NMF). Renowned for its hydrating properties, it attracts and retains moisture in the skin, leaving it soft and supple.
In skincare, Sodium Lactate acts as a humectant, drawing moisture into the skin and providing a non-greasy finish. It also enhances stability and shelf life, acting as a natural preservative and pH regulator.
In cold process soap making, Sodium Lactate contributes to the hardness of bars, aiding in easier unmolding and longer-lasting results. It also enhances the texture, resulting in smoother soap bars.
SODIUM HYDROXIDE
Sodium Hydroxide, commonly known as Lye or Caustic Soda, is an inorganic compound and a fundamental component in the traditional soap-making process. It serves as the primary agent in the chemical reaction process known as 'saponification' - from which the term 'soap' originates. As an alkaline substance, it is referred to as caustic soda due to its corrosive properties. In soap making, precautions are taken to ensure that none of this chemical remains in the final product. The first measure involves testing the pH of the soap to ensure its safety for the skin. Following this, 'Superfatting' is employed, where extra oils are added to the mixture to ensure there are more oils than the lye or sodium hydroxide can react with. This results in additional precious oils left-over in the soap that help hydrate and nourish the skin. While the general superfat percentage in soap is around 5%, we elevate ours to 7% for enhanced hydration.
ZINC OXIDE
(ZnO) - Zinc oxide occurs naturally as the mineral zincite, though it is relatively rare and generally commercially unavailable in its natural form. For industrial and cosmetic purposes, zinc oxide is primarily produced synthetically through high-temperature vaporization methods. As one of the few synthetic compounds used in our products, zinc oxide is a versatile white powdery inorganic compound derived from oxidizing zinc metal.
Zinc oxide is prized for its various skincare benefits, particularly its potent anti-inflammatory properties. It is commonly used to treat a range of skin conditions, including inflammation, irritation, and redness. Additionally, zinc oxide provides broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays, making it a popular ingredient in sunscreens and skincare products designed to shield the skin from harmful sun exposure.
This compound is also known for its soothing and calming effects on the skin, making it suitable for sensitive or reactive skin types. Its gentle nature makes it an excellent choice for skincare formulations aimed at promoting skin health and addressing various dermatological concerns.
ADDITIONAL RAW MATERIALS
GLYCERIN
Glycerin, also known as glycerol, is a natural humectant that attracts moisture from the environment to the skin. It helps maintain the skin's moisture balance, leaving it feeling soft, smooth, and hydrated. Alot of Glycerin can be derived from palm Oil, however, our glycerin is certified palm oil free.
MIXED TOCOPHEROLS
Mixed tocopherols are a blend of different forms of Vitamin E, including alpha, beta, gamma, and delta tocopherols. They act as antioxidants, protecting the formulation and skin from free radicals and oxidative damage, and help maintain skin health and vitality.
SODIUM COCOYL ISETHIONATE
Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate (SCI) is a gentle surfactant derived from coconut oil. It's an anionic surfactant, meaning it carries a negative charge that effectively creates lather while gently lifting dirt and oil. We incorporate this mild and light-lathering surfactant into our facial cleanser to provide a cleansing experience that purifies the skin without causing irritation. While some SCI is made from palm oil, we have sourced purely Coconut derived SCI to ensure purity and sustainability.
ORGANIC RAW SUGAR
Organic Raw Sugar (Sucrose), is derived from the juice of sugar cane plants and is minimally processed to retain its natural nutrients. In soap making, raw sugar serves as a natural ingredient that enhances lather, contributing to a rich and luxurious foam that gently cleanses the skin. Its presence in soap formulations helps to make it creamy and moisturizing, leaving the skin feeling soft and hydrated after each use. Additionally, raw sugar acts as a humectant, drawing moisture to the skin and helping to maintain hydration levels.