Naturally Foxy skincare

Aesculus hippocastanum Horse chestnut extract

I am so excited to introduce horse chestnut extract, an extract that has been used for centuries in herbal medicine for various purposes, including the treatment of skin conditions, improving circulation, reducing inflammation, and treating haemorrhoids. In modern traditional and complementary medicine, horse chestnut is used to treat chronic venous insufficiency, varicose veins, leg ulcers, and other circulatory related issues.

According to ethnobotanical research conducted it is suggested that many cultures used horse chestnut as a topical treatment for skin conditions, wounds, and inflammation. It has also been found that it was used to treat coughs, fever, and rheumatism. There has been recent scientific studies investigating horse chestnut and its potential benefits to help improve the appearance of under-eye circles and puffiness published in the Journal of Drugs in Dermatology. Another study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology found that topically applying a cream containing horse chestnut extract reduced the appearance of cellulite in participants. If this is no enough, horse chestnut extract has also been studied for its medicinal properties. A review published by the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews found that horse chestnut seed extract is possibly effective in reducing symptoms of chronic venous insufficiency, a condition that may cause varicose veins and leg swelling. 

Effects, functions and benefits of Horse chestnut extract

Functions:
  • Antioxidant- helps fight free radicals
  • Protects capillaries
  • Anti-inflammatory
  • Can help regulate sebum levels
  • Astringent - helps tighten tissue
Effects:
  • Improves circulation
  • Reduces swelling/inflammation
  • Reduces the appearance of dark circles and puffiness around the eyes
  • Tightens and helps to firm the skin
  • Reduces redness
  • Is soothing for irritated and itchy skin
Benefits:
  • Reduces the appearance of rosacea and eczema
  • Increase the elasticity of blood vessels
  • Helps prevent edema
  • Improves the overall health of the skin and its appearance
  • Soothes sore muscle after exercise

Prunus Cerasus Cherry Kernel oil

Today I would love to introduce you to Prunus Cerasus Cherry Kernel oil. Cherry Kernel is a by-product of the cherry fruit, usually extracted through cold pressing of cherry pits. The oil has been used for many traditional medicinal reasons, especially in Japan and in Korea. Traditionally it has been used to moisturise the skin, acts as an anti-inflammatory and has antioxidant properties to help improve overall skin health and treat various skin conditions. Cherry kernel oil has also been used orally for its potential health benefits.

Recently there has been an increase in interest in cherry kernel oil for cosmetic purposes. There has been recent scientific studies conducted investigating its potential benefits for skin health, including its ability to improve skin hydration, reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkle, and its potential to protect the skin from UV damage. The oil contains many beneficial compounds, including antioxidants, fatty acids, vitamins, and anti-inflammatories.

A study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Science in 2013 found that a cream containing cherry kernel oil improved skin hydration and elasticity, after four weeks of use. Another paper published in the Journal of Oleo Science in 2016 suggested that cherry kernel oil may possess potential as a natural sunscreen, due to its ability to absorb UV radiation however, more research is needed to fully understand and validate this. 

Effects and benefits of Cherry Kernel oil

  • Rich in antioxidants, which help to fight against free radicals and protect the skin from environmental stressors.
  • High level of essential fatty acids, including omega-6 and omega-9, these fatty acids help to maintain a strong, healthy skin barrier.
  • Contains natural anti-inflammatory compounds which help soothe irritated skin and helps to reduce redness.
  • Improves skin elasticity and reduces the appearance of fine lines

Cherry kernel oil is suitable to use on all skin types, but is particularly beneficial for those with dry, dehydrated and/or aging skin.
So yet another beautiful, carefully selected oil that I love to include in formulations especially for the face and neck. I look forward to sharing our beautiful facial oils with you soon.

Love yourself, skin and surroundings and I look forward to seeing you soon.

Lisa Naturally Foxy Skincare, Ireland.

Calendula officinalis - Marigold

Hi to everyone, I hope you are all well and looking forward to reading about another one of my favourite flower and plant oils/extract.

Today I would like to introduce you to Calendula officinalis - Pot marigold is an aromatic herbaceous plant and belongs to the genus Calendula (Asteraceae), native to the Mediterranean countries. Marigold has been long used traditionally as a skin remedy for many skin complaints, including inflamed skin, irritated skin, excessive redness, acne and fungal disturbances. There is a wealth of information that has been gathered and scientifically analysed regarding this plant. According to the EU cosmetic database, Coslng, the extracts of this plant have many properties when it comes to skincare including; increases skin barrier function, emollient, maintains natural pigmentation of the skin and skin conditioning. The flower of the plant are used in kitchen gardens, both for its uses as a medicinal herb and for the beautiful flowers, which can be eaten in salads and are a beautiful orange and yellow bloom that radiates warmth and vitality. 

Calendula officinalis - Pot Marigold as we know it
Effects of Calendula infused oil/extract and its applications:

Cell regeneration and healing:

Calendula oil and or extract is a flower that has shown strong anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antiseptic and anti-bactericidal properties. These actions help to repair damaged skin and help the skin to heal. It is very useful in topical application for sore, inflamed, irritated, broken and chapped skin. 


 Dermatitis:
In a clinical trial calendula ointment was found to be more effective in preventing acute dermatitis after cancer irradiation when compared with a conventional treatment.

Inflamed, dry, damaged and sensitive skin:
Ideal for such skin complaints due to the anti-inflammatory activities of the macerated oil and extract.

Calendula infused oil and also the super-critical extract are a favourite ingredient that I use in formulations for balms, facial serums.  It is also very versatile as it is suitable for all skin types, especially inflamed, sore, irritated, broken and sensitive skin.

I am happy to have picked this very nourishing, regenerating oil and or extract as part of the formulation plan and I hope you will love it too and enjoy it's many wonderful benefits.

Thank you and please share if you like.

Lisa
Naturally Foxy Skincare

References:

European Medicines Agency Overview of Comments Recieved on Community Herbal Monograph on Calendula officinalis L., Flos. [(accessed on 26 July 2021)]. Available online: https://www.ema.europa.eu/en/documents/herbal-monograph/final-european-union-herbal-monograph-calendula-officinalis-l-flos-revision-1_en.pdf

Raquel Mur, Elisa Langa, M.Rosa Pino-Otin, Jose S.Urieta, Ana.M Mainar. (2021).  Concentration of Antioxidant Compounds from Calendula officinalis through Sustainable Supercritical Technologies, and Computational Study of Their Permeability in Skin for Cosmetic Use


 

Rubus idaeus L. Raspberry seed botanical extract

Rubus idaeus L. Raspberry seed botanical extract:

This voluptuous, beautiful extract offers many skin benefits including; moisturisation, anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, occlusive, anti-aging, hydrating properties. Therefore it helps improve the elasticity of the skin, overall resiliene of the skin, helps to smooth, soften the skin and helps to improve the overall appearance of the skin.

Effects of Raspberry Seed oil/extract and its applications:

Anti-oxidant:
Raspberry seed extract has a very high content of Vitamin A and E. Studies conducted found the following:  The seed oil was rich in tocopherols with the following composition (mg/100 g): [alpha]-tocopherol 71; [gamma]-tocopherol 272; [delta]-tocopherol 17.4; and total vitamin E equivalent of 97 and it also has high levels of carotenoids (Vitamin A). The oil had good oxidation resistance and storage stability. Anti-oxidants have long been recognised for their major role in skin care. Anti-oxidants help counteract reactive oxygen species inhibiting oxidative damage to cells and tissues. This helps to reduce signs of aging and helps in the repair of damaged, over-exposed skin. 

High essential fatty acid levels:
Raspberry seed oil extract has a very high content of essential fatty acids, mainly linoleic and linolenic acids. Due to the high level of alpha-linolenic acid and phytosterols it offers anti-infammatory properties. High levels of linoleic acid 50-62% offers overall improvement in skin barrier repair function, reduces trans-epidermal water loss therefore improving the overall appearance and feel of the skin.

To conclude:
Raspberry seed botanical oil/extract has many amazing skin benefits and this is why I have included it  in some of my formulations. It is very good for dry, sensitive, dehyrated and maturing skin. It is moisturising, regenerative and improves the skin's elasticity. It is a light, dry, thin and long oil and has a medium absorption rate. I blend it with other lighter, drier oils and this helps to combat any greasy feel on the skin and also aids quick absorption.

References:

B. Dave Oomaha,, Stephanie Ladetb, David V. Godfreya, Jun Liangc, Benoit Girardaa (2000)  Characteristics of raspberry (Rubus idaeus L.) seed oil Food Chemistry 69 (2000) 187-193
Food Research Program, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, PaciÆc Agri-Food Research Centre, Summerland, British Columbia V0H 1Z0, CanadabE.N.S.A.M., E¬cole Nationale Superieure Agronomique de Montpellier, 2, Place Pierre Viala, 34060 Montpellier Cedex 1, FrancecShaanxi Fruit Crops Research Centre, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710065, China










Borago officinalis L. Borage Seed oil

Hi to everyone, I hope you are all well and looking forward to reading about another one of my favourite herbs and plant oils.
Today I would like to introduce you to Borage seed oil. Naturalised in most parts of Europe and grown  freely in kitchen gardens, both for its uses as a medicinal herb and for the beautiful flowers, which can be eaten in salads and can yield amazing honey. Traditionally the herb has been around for a long time and according to Maud Grieve, A Modern Herbal; was used in the early part of the nineteenth century as a boiled pot-herb and the new leaves used in salads. She also states: "When steeped in water, it imparts a coolness to it and a faint cucumber flavour, and compounded with lemon and sugar in wine, and water, makes a refreshing and restorative summer drink. 

Borago officinalis L. Borage Seed oil
Effects of Borage Seed oil and its applications:

Cell regeneration and improving the skin's barrier repair function:
Due to the high content of gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) (23%), borage seed oil is very useful in skincare preparations, especially for the face but also for the rest of the body. GLA has demonstrated the speeding up of cell regeneration, therefore promoting healthy growth, improving the skin's barrier function and alleviating inflammation. Borage seed oil stimulates skin cell activity and encourages cell regeneration.

Atopic dermatitis:
Products containing Borago officinalis can be effectively used in the treatment of dermatological diseases such as atopic dermatitis. Many professional recommend the use of Borage seed oil, as it is safe and increased the regeneration of the skin in patients with atopic dermatitis due to the high content of GLA. 

Inflamed, dry, damaged and sensitive skin:
People with skin problems are encouraged to use  products containing borage seed oil due to content of GLA. An improvement in skin and hair conditions was observed after prolonged use of such products. It possesses anti-inflammatory, anti-abscess and black-head action, it helps to prevent acne by regulating sebum levels in our skin.

Borage seed oil is used in our formulations for balms, facial oils and facial serums. Borage seed oil is a light, dry oil and is quickly absorbed into the skin. It is also very versatile as it is suitable for all skin types including: dry, dehydrated, prematurely aging, acne prone and mature skin.

I am happy to have picked this very nourishing, regenerating oil as part of the formulation plan and I hope you will love it too. 

Thank you and please share if you like.

Lisa 
Naturally Foxy Skincare

References:

Asadi-Samani, M., Bahmani, M., & Rafieian-Kopaei, M. (2014). The chemical composition, botanical characteristics and biological activities of Borago officinalis: a review. Asian Pacific Journal of Tropical Medicine, 7, S22-S28.
.
Landi, G. (1993). Oral administration of borage oil in atopic dermatitis. Journal of Applied Cosmetology, 11, 115-115.

Korać, R. R., & Khambholja, K. M. (2011). Potential of herbs in skin protection from ultraviolet radiation. Pharmacognosy Reviews, 5(10), 164.

Lísa, M., & Holčapek, M. (2008). Triacylglycerols profiling in plant oils important in food industry, dietetics and cosmetics using high-performance liquid chromatography – atmospheric pressure chemical ionization mass spectrometry. Journal of Chromatography A, 1198, 115-130.

 
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