Kokum Butter

It has a high fatty acid content, rich in antioxidants and Vitamin E and highly moisturizing.

This natural ingredient is an excellent emollient and absorbs quickly & deeply into the skin, promoting elasticity and skin regeneration.

Kokum Butter is none-greasy and helps heal dry and cracked skin especially lips, elbows, knees and soles of feet. It may also aid in improving the appearance of scars and stretch marks.

Kokum Butter is derived from the fruit of India’s native Kokum tree, and harbours antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.

Cocoa Butter

Cocoa butter is one of the best emollients around, which makes a super moisturizer, healing the skin from the inside out.

It’s a natural source of antioxidants and saturated fat which are especially beneficial for healing dry and cracked skin and is quickly and easily absorbed into your skin.

The high fatty-acid content gives it an ability to hydrate and nourish the skin and improve elasticity.

The fat in cocoa butter also forms a protective barrier over skin to hold in moisture. Cocoa Butter is obtained from the fruit of the Cacao tree from which we also get chocolate.

Sunflower Oil

Cold pressed in Canterbury NZ, Sunflower oil is deeply nourishing and conditioning for the skin and is highly recommended for treating dry, weathered, aged and damaged skin. This oil is rich in vitamins A, C, D and E which act as antioxidants, helping regenerate damaged skin cells.

Vitamin E can also help protect skin from free radicals and from adverse effects of the sun, such as premature ageing and wrinkles. Also helping to trap moisture inside skin cells, improving skin hydration and maintaining the integrity of the skin’s outer layer. The omega 6 (linoleic) fatty acid in sunflower oil helps to maintain the skin’s natural barrier, supporting its ability to retain moisture. It can also help reduce skin inflammation and enhance the development of new skin cells.

Castor Oil

Cold Pressed. Castor oil is a wonderful rich oil and highly moisturizing. It penetrates deep into the skin, softens and hydrates it like no other oil.

A natural humectant, this oil attracts moisture from the air and traps it close to the skin while helping to restore our natural moisture balance. Smoothing and softening, this versatile ingredient can help soothe parched, flaky skin without causing excess oil buildup.

It is anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and good for treating all types of skin conditions. It is rich in vitamins, and essential nutrients help to hydrate dry, cracked skin. Made from castor seeds – a natural ingredient.

Olive Oil

The most universal carrier oil, with a great conditioning effect on skin.

Contains several essential fatty acids (oleic, palmitic and linoleic), is anti-inflammatory and is high in antioxidants.

Bees Wax

Bees Wax forms a natural barrier to protect the skin and contains vitamin A, which is said to promote cell regeneration and skin health.

A natural ingredient, Bees Wax is softening, soothing and emollient, with antioxidant properties. A great skin-healer.

Beeswax locks in moisture, fosters cell growth (with its vitamin A content) and protects skin from damaging environmental factors.

It creates a long-lasting protective coating against the elements. Is anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, anti-allergenic and a germicidal antioxidant.

Arrow Root

Arrow Root is a finely-textured powder extracted from the rootstock of a small, perennial, and tropical underground plant named Maranta arundinacea.

Arrow root softens and penetrates the surface layer of the skin and makes it easier for moisture and other active skincare ingredients to go deeper into the skin.

Also popular in cooking, it is often used as a sauce/soup thickener and a replacement for gluten in baking.

Tapioca

Tapioca starch is extracted from the roots of the South American cassava plant. Tapioca starch can be used as a natural thickener in personal care products. It is particularly useful in natural deodorants as it aids in removing excess moisture.

All my deodorants are enriched with a good dose of high-quality Tapioca.

Zinc oxide is a natural white, powdery mineral with a long history of use as sun protection. It is also used to create other products, such as diaper rash ointments and makeup. It has antibacterial properties which make it effective in combating body odour. It’s an essential trace element that your body needs to maintain health.

Zinc also has properties that protect and soothe the skin.

All my deodorants are enriched with a good dose of high-quality, Non Nano Zinc Oxide.

Magnesium Hydroxide

Is a safe and natural ingredient. This compound occurs naturally and often used in natural deodorants.

Like baking soda, magnesium hydroxide has antibacterial qualities and a higher-than-skin pH but it is less soluble, so it takes longer to fully dissolve in sweat which not only means less irritation but also better staying power.

Probiotics

Immunity Fuel Probiotic Superfood – a small New Zealand family owned and operated business, based in Hikuai on the Coromandel Peninsula.

Probiotics introduce good bacteria to the skin and contribute to the biodiversity and strength of the skins microbiome. By Increasing the good bacteria to your armpits, it helps the fight against the bad smelly bacteria, you are working with your body, not against it. All my deodorants are enriched with a good dose of high-quality, shelf-stable NZ probiotics.

www.immunityfuel.co.nz

Chickweed (Stellaria media)

is one of the very first plants of spring with its tiny white flowers that are said to look like a star.

It’s a low growing plant that can be found nearly everywhere and often considered as a weed.

Chickweed is best used to soothe itchy and sore skin conditions and has a cooling and drying effect on wounds and skin eruptions, bites and minor burns.

Vulnerary, refrigerant, emollient, antipruritic, astringent, Anti-inflammatory

Elderflowers (Sambucus nigra)

The sweetly scented, creamy-white flowers of the elder tree appear in abundance in early summer. The flowers are known for their soothing effect, improving skin complexion and are especially useful for older skin.

They have anti-inflammatory properties and is rich in vitamins, flavonoids and quercetin. They are also rich in bioflavonoids which help prevent wrinkles from developing. Elderflower contains anti-oxidants that protect against sun and other free-radical damage. Sought-after astringent properties are also found in this flower. This property causes the skin to tighten, reduce the size of pores, and smooth the skin.

Emollient, Anti-inflammatory, Antiseptic

Yarrow (Achillea millefolium)

This common wild plant has distinctive frilly leaves and flowers are usually white.

Yarrow has a long history as a wound healer and helps to clot the blood. It is my first choice herb to stop bleeding.

Styptic, Antimicrobial, Astringent, Anti-inflammatory, Vulnerary

Kawakawa (Macropiper exelsum

Kawakawa is also known as the pharmacy of the forest.

Traditionally used by Maori not only as a medicine but also as a significant part of many ceremonies, Kawakawa is an important part of both the physical and spiritual worlds and revered for its innate power. Kawakawa is capable of many different actions that make it useful for a wide array of conditions.

Used topically (on the skin), it can reduce the inflammation of common skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis and skin rashes. It aids in the healing of cuts and wounds. As an anti-microbial herb, Kawakawa is a wonderful aid for treating any infections.

Analgesic, Antimicrobial, Insecticide, Rubefacient

Plantain (Plantago minor/major)

This common and easy to identify “weed” grows naturally just about everywhere. It is an effective cellular regenerator, which makes it incredibly good at healing wounds. Also excellent for relieving itchiness from bites, stings and rashes.

Known as the ‘Band-Aid plant,’ a nickname it picked up because of its quick relief and ease of use. Because it has the ability to draw things out, plantain is perfect for splinters, boils, or even puncture wounds. Plantain is also antimicrobial, so it helps to prevent bacterial growth in wounds as they heal

Styptic, Demulcent, Astringent, Vulnerary, Antimicrobial, Anti-inflammatory, Antiseptic

Mullein (Verbascum Thapsus)

This majestic plant has been called Kings candle and is easily distinguished by its tall yellow flower spike.

It is widespread and commonly grows along roadsides and in disturbed areas. The plant is beneficial for the respiratory system.

Expectorant, demulcent, anti-catarrhal, vulnerary

Sweet Violet (Viola odorata)

This little plant flowers in early spring and has a delightful scent and heart shaped leaves. The vitamin rich tender leaves and bright flowers have long been used to add colour and flavour to salad greens.

The leaves are cooling, moistening and soothing , which makes a wonderful remedy for hot inflamed skin (think acne, eczema, rashes, bites and stings, etc.).

Sweet violet contains significant amounts of rutin and salicylic acid which act similarly to aspirin and are useful in alleviating pain, body aches and inflammation

Antiseptic, Analgesic, Anti-inflammatory, Emollient

Tanekaha (Phyllocladus trichomanoides)
also known as Celery Pine

Externally, Tanekaha can be applied to boils, abscesses, septic infections as well as to burns. This rongoa is a fantastic healent for fungal infections.

The anti-microbial action of tannic acid has been well documented, and it has been shown to be effective against a range of bacteria, yeasts and viruses.

Tanekaha was used medicinally as an astringent and antimicrobial agent by Maori people and early European settlers.

Styptic, Anti-microbial

Sage (Salvia officinalis)

Used in both cooking and in medicine, Sage is a native to Mediterranean. It’s benefits can aid skin regeneration for slow healing wounds, skin ulcers, sores and insect bites.

It is said to help excessive perspiration, making it a good addition in deodorant blends and during menopause. Sage is an anti-microbial herb which combats unpleasant odours and conditions the skin botanically.

Antiseptic, astringent, anti-microbial, temperature regulation

Ngaio – Nature’s own insect repellent (Myoporum laetum) A beautiful, fast growing coastal tree, endemic to New Zealand. These hardy plants grow in coastal scrub and lowland forest reaching hights of 10 meters, and is tolerant of salt spray and wind. The delicate white flowers with purple spots are very attractive to bees. Ngaio has a unique feature…when you hold a leaf up to the light, you can see it is dotted with oil glands. This beautiful plant is a great insect repellent for mosquitos and sandflies. In Rongoa, traditional Māori medicine, Ngaio leaves was used as a rub over the skin to release the oils which would act as an effective insect repellent, especially against sand flies and mosquitoes. The leaf buds were chewed to help soothe the stomach after eating bad mussels. The inner bark was scraped and rubbed on sore gums and teeth, and it was said to be effective in easing the pain. It was also infused with water and used to treat cuts, bruises, ulcers and skin conditions such as leprosy. However Ngaio contains a liver toxin and should not be taken internally.

Antiseptic, astringent, anti-microbial, temperature regulation

Butters

Shea Butter

Shea Butter is a brilliant moisturiser! One of nature’s natural ingredient wonders. Easily absorbed by the skin, which will feel noticeably softer after use. Packed full of essential fatty acids, it helps to lock in moisture and improve your skin’s elasticity.

The butter is naturally rich in Vitamins A and E as well as other vitamins and minerals. Shea butter has powerful skin healing, anti-inflammatory and sun protection properties.

Ghanaian, unrefined Shea is a heavenly creamy, soft and silky, that is hand-made in rural Ghana. Made the traditional way, the crushed Shea nuts are roasted over an open fire. It’s from a collective whose mission is to help eradicate poverty through the empowerment of the rural women of Ghana.

Kokum Butter

It has a high fatty acid content, rich in antioxidants and Vitamin E and highly moisturizing.

It is an excellent emollient and absorbs quickly & deeply into the skin, promoting elasticity and skin regeneration.

Kokum Butter is none-greasy and helps heal dry and cracked skin especially lips, elbows, knees and soles of feet. It may also aid in improving the appearance of scars and stretch marks.

Kokum Butter is derived from the fruit of India’s native Kokum tree, and harbours antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.

Mango Butter

Mango Butter has natural emollient properties; it has traditionally been used in the rain forest and tropics for its moisturizing and smoothing properties.

It is a great source of essential fatty acids, and has beneficial moisturizing, emollient, antioxidant, regenerative, softening, properties.

This natural ingredient is a natural source of vitamin A, and it helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and increasing skin’s overall youthful look.

Originating from India, it is produced by the pressing and then refining of the kernel from the mango tree.

Cocoa Butter

Cocoa butter is one of the best emollients around, which makes a super moisturizer, healing the skin from the inside out.

It’s a natural source of antioxidants and saturated fat which are especially beneficial for healing dry and cracked skin and is quickly and easily absorbed into your skin.

The high fatty-acid content gives it an ability to hydrate and nourish the skin and improve elasticity.

The fat in cocoa butter also forms a protective barrier over skin to hold in moisture. Cocoa Butter is obtained from the fruit of the Cacao tree from which we also get chocolate.

Oils

Coconut Oil

Wild Virgin Organic coconut oil is cold-pressed and certified organic.

It is single origin wild-harvested by Pacific Island communities.

Hydrating, nourishing & softening with the anti-oxidant Vitamin E plus lauric acid – famous for being one of the healthiest oils for your body.

Will help irritated and sensitive skin, and acts as a lovely general moisturizer as well as retaining moisture of the skin.

It is high in fatty acids, and it is antibacterial, antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory.

Sunflower Oil

A natural ingredient, our sunflower oil is cold pressed in Canterbury NZ, Sunflower oil is deeply nourishing and conditioning for the skin and is highly recommended for treating dry, weathered, aged and damaged skin. This oil is rich in vitamins A, C, D and E which act as antioxidants, helping regenerate damaged skin cells.

Vitamin E can also help protect skin from free radicals and from adverse effects of the sun, such as premature ageing and wrinkles. Also helping to trap moisture inside skin cells, improving skin hydration and maintaining the integrity of the skin’s outer layer. The omega 6 (linoleic) fatty acid in sunflower oil helps to maintain the skin’s natural barrier, supporting its ability to retain moisture. It can also help reduce skin inflammation and enhance the development of new skin cells.

Argan Oil

Argan Oil is a highly nutritious oil and a natural ingredient.

It penetrates deep into the epidermis and is readily absorbed, nourishing from the inside out without clogging pores.

While helping to regenerate the skin, its anti-oxidant content fights free radicals which reduces the signs of ageing.

Your skin is left feeling soft and supple.

Castor Oil

Cold Pressed. Castor oil is a wonderful rich oil and highly moisturizing. It penetrates deep into the skin, softens and hydrates it like no other oil.

A natural humectant, this oil attracts moisture from the air and traps it close to the skin while helping to restore our natural moisture balance. Smoothing and softening, this versatile ingredient can help soothe parched, flaky skin without causing excess oil buildup.

It is anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and good for treating all types of skin conditions. It is rich in vitamins, and essential nutrients help to hydrate dry, cracked skin. Made from castor seeds.

Sweet Almond Oil

Very popular natural ingredient, useful skin-care oil because of its cell-regenerating properties, slippery/lubricating qualities, high mineral content.

Softens, soothes and reconditions the skin. Exceptionally rich in fatty acids and unsaturated triglycerides.

Your skin is left feeling soft and supple.

Olive Oil

The most universal carrier oil, with a great conditioning effect on skin.

Contains several essential fatty acids (oleic, palmitic and linoleic), is anti-inflammatory and is high in antioxidants.

Other

Lanolin

A natural ingredient, lanolin is a natural moisturiser and a powerful emollient that soothes the skin. Since it is an emollient ingredient, lanolin is an excellent option for sealing moisture into the skin.

Emollients are typically used during the treatment of dry, itchy, or scaly skin conditions.

Lanolin is an oil produced by sheep and can be found in their shorn wool.

This beneficial oil keeps their wool coats waterproof and deodorized. If you are allergic to wool, you should avoid lanolin, since it is wool-derived.

Bees Wax

Bees Wax forms a natural barrier to protect the skin and contains vitamin A, which is said to promote cell regeneration and skin health.

Softening, soothing and emollient, with antioxidant properties. A great skin-healer.

Beeswax locks in moisture, fosters cell growth (with its vitamin A content) and protects skin from damaging environmental factors.

It creates a long-lasting protective coating against the elements. Is anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, anti-allergenic and a germicidal antioxidant.

Menthol Crystals

Menthol Crystals are cooling, refreshing, and have a pleasantly strong minty aroma. They contribute a cooling sensation to the skin, and promote easier breathing, temporarily relieve nasal congestion, soothe sore throats, alleviate fever symptoms, coughs, headaches, and sinus discomforts.

They can be used as decongestant agents for their ability to promote the feeling of airways opening up. Menthol crystals are naturally produced through Peppermint (Mentha arvensis) essential oil extraction. Menthol is obtained by subjecting the distilled oil of Mentha arvensis oil to a temperature of -22° C, by the aid of a freezing mixture, the menthol crystallizes out in satiny crystals and the liquid is removed while the low temperature is maintained.

Arrow Root

Arrow Root is a natural ingredient. It’s finely-textured powder is extracted from the rootstock of a small, perennial, and tropical underground plant named Maranta arundinacea.

Arrow root softens and penetrates the surface layer of the skin and makes it easier for moisture and other active skincare ingredients to go deeper into the skin.

Also popular in cooking, it is often used as a sauce/soup thickener and a replacement for gluten in baking.

Candelilla wax is produced from a small desert shrub native to Mexico and Southern Texas. It is a plant based wax and a suitable vegan alternative to beeswax.

Candelilla wax have many of the same beneficial properties as beeswax

Tapioca

Tapioca starch is a natural ingredient extracted from the roots of the South American cassava plant. Tapioca starch can be used as a natural thickener in personal care products. It is particularly useful in natural deodorants as it aids in removing excess moisture.

All my deodorants are enriched with a good dose of high-quality Tapioca.

Kaolin clay has natural absorbency properties and will help neutralize odour and detoxifies by bringing out impurities

Kaolin clay can also soothe skin inflammation. All my deodorants are enriched with a good dose of high-quality Kaolin clay.

Zinc oxide

Zinc oxide is a natural ingredient. It is a white, powdery mineral with a long history of use as sun protection. It is also used to create other products, such as diaper rash ointments and makeup. It has antibacterial properties which make it effective in combating body odour. It’s an essential trace element that your body needs to maintain health.

Zinc also has properties that protect and soothe the skin.

All my deodorants are enriched with a good dose of high-quality, Non Nano Zinc Oxide.

Baking soda is an antibacterial and pH neutraliser. In my deodorants it is used to neutralise the acid in sweat and eliminate underarm bacteria, therefore preventing body odour from forming. It is an amazing deodoriser!

Baking soda is a large part of the reason that my deodorants work so well.

Using baking soda in deodorant is about finding the right amount to keep happy underarms. If you have ever found a red rash develops after using a natural deodorant, baking soda may be the culprit. In my deodorants I have found using a lower percentage is perfectly fine.

Is a safe and naturally occurring compound often used in natural deodorants.

Like baking soda, magnesium hydroxide has antibacterial qualities and a higher-than-skin pH but it is less soluble, so it takes longer to fully dissolve in sweat which not only means less irritation but also better staying power.

Essential oils

Essential Oils of New Zealand

Established in 1975 by the present owners, John and Lyn Rainey. They have a vast understanding of essential oil crop management, harvesting and distilling techniques.

The Company can claim to be New Zealand’s oldest continuously operating essential oil production and marketing company

“Quality and affordability are paramount, you can be assured that we have your interests at heart.”

www.essentialoil.co.nz

Probiotics

Immunity Fuel Probiotic Superfood – a small New Zealand family owned and operated business, based in Hikuai on the Coromandel Peninsula.

Probiotics introduce good bacteria to the skin and contribute to the biodiversity and strength of the skins microbiome. By Increasing the good bacteria to your armpits, it helps the fight against the bad smelly bacteria, you are working with your body, not against it. All my deodorants are enriched with a good dose of high-quality, shelf-stable NZ probiotics.

www.immunityfuel.co.nz

Plants

Calendula (Calendula officinalis)

The golden flower, is a potent healing herb that works to soothe all kinds of skin ailments.

It is used for cuts, scrapes and wounds as well as for red and inflamed skin, including burns and sunburn, for acne and rashes.

Calendula is even mild enough for babies and young children.

Vulnerary, Antiseptic, Antimicrobial, Anti-fungal, Anti-inflammatory, Styptic

Chickweed (Stellaria media)

is one of the very first plants of spring with its tiny white flowers that are said to look like a star.

It’s a low growing plant that can be found nearly everywhere and often considered as a weed.

Chickweed is best used to soothe itchy and sore skin conditions and has a cooling and drying effect on wounds and skin eruptions, bites and minor burns.

Vulnerary, refrigerant, emollient, antipruritic, astringent, Anti-inflammatory

Comfrey (Symphytum officinale)

Comfrey was once commonly called Knitbone because of its amazing ability to heal broken bones and “knit” them back together again.

The botanical name, Symphytum, means “to unite.” This plant’s capacity to unite or regenerate skin tissue, is well known. Think cracked cuticles, cracked heals, fresh scars, sprains, pulled muscles, swellings and wounds.

The roots and the leaves of Comfrey contain allantoin, this is the substance that promotes wound healing and tissue regeneration

Vulnerary, Emollient, Joint & tendon repair

Elderflowers (Sambucus nigra)

The sweetly scented, creamy-white flowers of the elder tree appear in abundance in early summer. The flowers are known for their soothing effect, improving skin complexion and are especially useful for older skin.

They have anti-inflammatory properties and is rich in vitamins, flavonoids and quercetin. They are also rich in bioflavonoids which help prevent wrinkles from developing. Elderflower contains anti-oxidants that protect against sun and other free-radical damage. Sought-after astringent properties are also found in this flower. This property causes the skin to tighten, reduce the size of pores, and smooth the skin.

Emollient, Anti-inflammatory, Antiseptic

Kanuka (Kunzea ericoides)

Kanuka has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties and can be used to help heal burns, bruises, and other wounds.

Can also be an effective treatment for skin conditions including eczema, rosacea, sunburns, insect bites and slight burns because its use can reduce pain, skin redness and alleviate itchiness.

Antiviral, Antimicrobial, Anti-inflammatory, Astringent

Yarrow (Achillea millefolium)

This common wild plant has distinctive frilly leaves and flowers are usually white.

Yarrow has a long history as a wound healer and helps to clot the blood. It is my first choice herb to stop bleeding.

Styptic, Antimicrobial, Astringent, Anti-inflammatory, Vulnerary

Self-Heal (Prunella vulgaris)

“Heart of the Earth” is one of those plants that seems able to do everything.

You may be able to find Self-heal growing in your lawn, in the grass at an unsprayed park, or along the ground near the forest’s edge.

As its name indicates, self-heal has been used for centuries to staunch bleeding and heal wounds.

It can help to soothe and restore the skin when it’s irritated, inflamed, or compromised

Astringent, Vulnerary, Antibacterial, Styptic

Kawakawa (Macropiper exelsum

Kawakawa is also known as the pharmacy of the forest.

Traditionally used by Maori not only as a medicine but also as a significant part of many ceremonies, Kawakawa is an important part of both the physical and spiritual worlds and revered for its innate power. Kawakawa is capable of many different actions that make it useful for a wide array of conditions.

Used topically (on the skin), it can reduce the inflammation of common skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis and skin rashes. It aids in the healing of cuts and wounds. As an anti-microbial herb, Kawakawa is a wonderful aid for treating any infections.

Analgesic, Antimicrobial, Insecticide, Rubefacient

St John’s Wort (Hypericum perforatum)

the sunshine herb, this plant with little yellow flowers grow wild almost everywhere as a weed and can be easily foraged.

It is a traditional folk remedy used for the topical treatment of superficial wounds, scars and burns.

It is anti-inflammatory, and tissue healing, has antibacterial properties and will boost blood flow to the affected area.

It has also been known to help sooth sensitive skin.

Antiviral, Vulnerary, Antimicrobial, Anti-inflammatory

Plantain (Plantago minor/major)

This common and easy to identify “weed” grows naturally just about everywhere. It is an effective cellular regenerator, which makes it incredibly good at healing wounds. Also excellent for relieving itchiness from bites, stings and rashes.

Known as the ‘Band-Aid plant,’ a nickname it picked up because of its quick relief and ease of use. Because it has the ability to draw things out, plantain is perfect for splinters, boils, or even puncture wounds. This natural ingredient is also antimicrobial, so it helps to prevent bacterial growth in wounds as they heal.

Styptic, Demulcent, Astringent, Vulnerary, Antimicrobial, Anti-inflammatory, Antiseptic

Kumerahou is a spring plant with clusters of yellow flowers – colouring the landscape in sunny blossoms. It’s an important plant in Maori medicine, or Rongoa, with a wide range of uses.

Particularly for any respiratory complaints and as a blood purifier. Kumarahou is also used topically for its strong, soothing, and healing benefits when applied to skin disorders such as sores, wounds, rashes and otherskin irritations.

It is rich in saponins which provides strong antimicrobial action, and also soothes and locks in moisture.

Expextorant, Vulnerary, Anti-inflammatory, Antimicrobial, Antioxidant

Mullein (Verbascum Thapsus)

This majestic plant has been called Kings candle and is easily distinguished by its tall yellow flower spike.

It is widespread and commonly grows along roadsides and in disturbed areas. This natural ingredient is beneficial for the respiratory system.

Expectorant, demulcent, anti-catarrhal, vulnerary

This small but strikingly pretty flower is common on lawns and other grassy areas.

It is rich in vitamins and minerals and is often used for menopausal issues

Red clover can also help the body eliminate toxins and is also good for skin problems such as acne and eczema.

Depurative, Anti-tumour, Phytoestrogenic

Raurekau (Coprosma Grandifolia)

Raurekau is also known as Manono. It’s an important plant in Maori medicine, or Rongoa, with a wide range of uses, including being an excellent dye plant.

The bark of this natural ingredient has a deep golden colour and perfume that permeates from the bark is amazing.

Subtle and sweet just like the tree itself. It’s a strong healer of burns, deep wounds and many other external issues.

Traditionally used to aid in healing cuts, bruises, scars and skin discolouration.

Sweet Violet (Viola odorata)

This little plant flowers in early spring and has a delightful scent and heart shaped leaves. The vitamin rich tender leaves and bright flowers have long been used to add colour and flavour to salad greens.

The leaves are cooling, moistening and soothing , which makes a wonderful remedy for hot inflamed skin (think acne, eczema, rashes, bites and stings, etc.).

Sweet violet contains significant amounts of rutin and salicylic acid which act similarly to aspirin and are useful in alleviating pain, body aches and inflammation

Antiseptic, Analgesic, Anti-inflammatory, Emollient

Tanekaha (Phyllocladus trichomanoides)
also known as Celery Pine

Externally, Tanekaha can be applied to boils, abscesses, septic infections as well as to burns. This rongoa is a fantastic healent for fungal infections.

The anti-microbial action of tannic acid has been well documented, and it has been shown to be effective against a range of bacteria, yeasts and viruses.

Tanekaha was used medicinally as an astringent and antimicrobial agent by Maori people and early European settlers.

Styptic, Anti-microbial

Koromiko is a common native coastal shrub. Fast-growing with showy white to pale lilac drooping flowers and willow-like foliage. It’s an important plant in Maori medicine, or Rongoa, with a wide range of uses. The young leaf tips can be chewed for diarrhoea and dysentery. Dried leaves sent to New Zealand soldiers in the Second World War for this purpose were very effective. Koromiko was also used topically for hard to heal skin complaints. The leaves are rich in tannins making them very astringent. This astringent action also makes it particularly useful to help reduce the inflammation associated with many skin conditions, as often experienced with nappy rash. Tannins also have an anti-inflammatory qualities, which enhance their soothing effect

Astringent, Antimicrobial, Anti-inflammatory

Sage (Salvia officinalis)

Used in both cooking and in medicine, Sage is a native to Mediterranean. It’s benefits can aid skin regeneration for slow healing wounds, skin ulcers, sores and insect bites.

A natural ingredient, sage is said to help excessive perspiration, making it a good addition in deodorant blends and during menopause. Sage is an anti-microbial herb which combats unpleasant odours and conditions the skin botanically.

Antiseptic, astringent, anti-microbial, temperature regulation

The anti-inflammatory benefits of marshmallow helps to soothe irritation as it hydrates skin. Traditionally it has been used to treat skin burns and insect bites. It’s mucilaginous properties also make it an excellent treatment for inflamed mucous membranes.

Marshmallow functions as a skin buffer, moisturizer, and protective layer for the skin, which is why the plant is found in beauty products such as lip balms, hair conditioners, salves, and after-sun lotions

Demulcent, diuretic, emollient, vulnerary

Ngaio (Myoporum laetum)

Ngaio – Nature’s own insect repellent (Myoporum laetum) A beautiful, fast growing coastal tree, endemic to New Zealand. These hardy plants grow in coastal scrub and lowland forest reaching hights of 10 meters, and is tolerant of salt spray and wind. The delicate white flowers with purple spots are very attractive to bees. Ngaio has a unique feature…when you hold a leaf up to the light, you can see it is dotted with oil glands. This beautiful plant is a great insect repellent for mosquitos and sandflies. In Rongoa, traditional Māori medicine, Ngaio leaves was used as a rub over the skin to release the oils which would act as an effective insect repellent, especially against sand flies and mosquitoes. The leaf buds were chewed to help soothe the stomach after eating bad mussels. The inner bark was scraped and rubbed on sore gums and teeth, and it was said to be effective in easing the pain. It was also infused with water and used to treat cuts, bruises, ulcers and skin conditions such as leprosy. Ngaoi is a natural ingredient, however it contains a liver toxin and should not be taken internally.

Antiseptic, astringent, anti-microbial, temperature regulation

Colloidal Oatmeal (Avena sativa)

Colloidal oatmeal is a natural ingredient made by grinding oat grain into a fine powder. It’s considered an emollient — a substance that softens or soothes the skin — because it packs fats, proteins, vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients shown to benefit the skin.

For centuries, colloidal oatmeal has been used to sooth dry irritated and inflamed skin conditions. This natural & gentle ingredient is readily found in cosmetic products like moisturizers, shampoos, and shaving creams.

It also boasts anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that benefit your skin.