Our Ingredients Dictionary

At Home Spa, we think there is something magical about nature. We seek to capture that magic in each of our luxurious handmade, natural bath and body products. So we use the finest natural ingredients from around the globe.

This Natural Ingredients Dictionary is a good reference for definitions and descriptions of the benefits of our natural ingredients.

It is important to remember, when using natural bath and body products, that some people may have allergies to even natural ingredients. Oils derived from nuts, for example, are found in many natural skincare products, and people with nut allergies should use caution. If you have any questions regarding any of the natural ingredients in our handmade bath and body products and organic soaps, please contact us.

A

Almond: Home Spa uses both Sweet Almond Oil and Almond Extract (Benzaldehyde) in our handmade body care preparations. Sweet Almond Oil is obtained form the dried kernels of the Almond Tree, which is native to Asia and the Mediterranean. The oil has no scent and is a great emollient, softening and conditioning skin, and also helps skin to balance its loss and absorption of moisture. Sweet Almond Oil is loaded with vitamins and minerals and has been known to relieve itchy, dry and inflamed skin.

Apricot Kernel: Apricot Kernel Oil has moisturizing, nourishing, and revitalizing properties. With its high Vitamin A content, Apricot Kernel Oil is particularly helpful for dehydrated, delicate, mature, and sensitive skin. This light but rich oil spreads easily and is therefore prized for use in massage therapy.

Avocado: Avocado oil is highly therapeutic oil rich in Vitamins A, B1, B2, D, and E. Skin problems, especially eczema, are reputed to respond well to it high vitamin content.

B

Balsam Fir: This medium-sized evergreen generally reaches 40-60 feet tall. The dried needles are added to our bath teas for their balancing, refreshing, and elevating properties.

Basil: This fragrant plant has medium-sized, bright green leaves. The flavorful herb is widely used in culinary creations, but also provides uplifting and refreshing qualities when used in aromatherapy. Home Spa uses the dried herb in our natural herbal bath syrup blends.

Beeswax: With the sweet smell of honey, Beeswax adds many wonderful properties to various body care products. Harvested with no harm to our little bee friends, beeswax is an essential ingredient in Home Spa's all-natural lip balm and cuticle softener formulas.

C

Calendula: Also known as Marigold, this cheerful yellow blossom is revered for its reputed ability to ease skin ailments. Home Spa uses infusions from Calendula as well as the dried petals in several of our natural bath and body products.

Castor Oil: Derived from the castor bean and obtained by cold pressure, Castor Oil is rich in fatty acids that are very moisturizing to the skin. This oil acts as a humectant, attracting moisture to skin. In the Canary Islands, nursing mothers use this oil to prevent nipple soreness.

Cedarwood: The giant evergreen Cedar trees can grow to be 120 to150 feet tall. Home Spa uses pure Cedarwood Essential Oil for its stress-relieving, meditative, and harmonizing qualities.

Chamomile: The small Chamomile plant has yellow and white flowers that resemble daisies. These blossoms are dried and included in our tea & salt scrub blends for their soothing and revitalizing properties.

Citric Acid: This natural powder is derived from citrus fruit. Often Citric Acid is used to adjust pH balance in body care products. Citric Acid also has astringent qualities making it useful for natural bath and body preparations and skin fresheners.

Clays: There are a wide variety of natural clays with an array of slightly different benefits, depending on the origin. Rich in a variety of minerals and trace elements, natural clays draw toxins and impurities to the skin's surface absorbing them thereby leaving the skin purified, rebalanced, and softened.

Cocoa Butter: Cocoa is the fruit of the Cocoa Tree, Theobroma cacao, which grows in the Tropics, even though it originates from the tropical forest of the Amazons. In its natural state, the Cocoa Tree can grow to 35 to 40 feet in height and bears flowers and fruits all year long. Inside these fruits are the raw seeds called cocoa beans. Cocoa Butter is obtained using pressure to extract the moisturizing substance from cocoa beans. Cocoa Butter is a rich emollient with excellent skin softening and conditioning properties. It is valued for its high melting point, which is close to body temperature.

Coconut Oil: Coconut Oil is obtained from the 'copra,' or dried meat of coconut. The copra is separated from the hull of the coconut. It is dried, crushed and then expressed to remove the oil. Coconut Oil is a vital ingredient in our natural soap formulas, lending hardness and lather to the soap.

Cranberry: This vibrant ruby of the sea is grown along the Northern Atlantic coast. A perennial plant, cranberries grow on long-running vines in sandy bogs and marshes until their harvest each autumn. Cranberries are rich in vitamins and minerals such as zinc and Vitamins B and C. They are thought to have detoxifying and purifying properties. Cranberry Seeds contain potent antioxidants and are excellent exfoliants.

D

Dead Sea Salts: The Dead Sea, over thousands of years, has accumulated a blend of unique therapeutic minerals found only in this reservoir. The therapeutic powers of natural Dead Sea Salt Crystals have been sought since ancient times for their reputed power to heal and relieve the aches and pains of skin ailments such as acne, eczema and psoriasis.

E

Epsom Salt: When Epsom Salt (Magnesium Sulfate) is known for its mineral rich and soothing properties. When absorbed through the skin, such as in a bath salt soak, Epsom Salt is believed to draw toxins from the body, reduce swelling, and relax muscles.

Eucalyptus: The Eucalyptus tree grows to average heights approaching 100 feet. The silvery-green leaves are dried and included in our natural, handmade tea milk bath blends. Eucalyptus is often used as an antiseptic and decongestant and is believed to relieve cold and flu symptoms. In skincare, Eucalyptus Essential Oil is employed for its reputed astringent and anti-inflammatory properties.

Evening Primrose: This plant has been used for many years by North American Indian medicine men to make infusions for the healing of wounds. Evening Primrose Oil is exceptionally high in fatty acids, especially the essential gamma linolenic acid (GLA). This oil has superb moisturizing properties and is believed to be effective in helping with eczema and psoriasis. Home Spa uses this therapeutic oil in our natural intense moisture treatments such as Deep Moisturizing Body Butter.

G

Glycerin: An odorless, colorless, syrupy derivative of olive oil, Glycerin is a humectant, attracting moisture to the skin. It is sweet tasting, warming to the skin, and edible.

Grapefruit: Grapefruit is the fruit of a tree that can grow to over 20 feet in height. Grapefruit Essential Oil is pressure extracted from the rinds and used in aromatherapy for its invigorating, uplifting, and stimulating properties. Grapefruit is also often used in cellulite treatments.

Grapeseed: This oil is an ecologically sound product, making good use of the seeds of grapes after the wine is pressed. Grapeseed Oil is high in Vitamin E and Omega 6 fatty acids. This oil is very rich in vitamins and minerals, including natural chlorophyll and valuable antioxidants. Since it is slightly astringent, Grapeseed Oil tightens and tones the skin.

H

Honey: Don't let the stickiness scare you away. Enriched with minerals, vitamins and amino acids, Honey is believed to be moisturizing, softening, and healing for the skin. Honey is also used in natural remedies for its antibacterial properties.

J

Jojoba: Pronounced, 'Ho-ho-ba.' The structure of Jojoba Oil closely resembles that of your own skin's sebum; therefore it is an excellent moisturizer and is ideal for all skin types. Jojoba contains myristic acid, which has anti-inflammatory qualities. In reality, Jojoba Oil is not oil at all, but rather a liquid wax. Since it is comprised of wax esters, it is an extremely stable substance, naturally resisting rancidity. In most cases, Jojoba Oil can be used on acne skin without any problems and may even help control the acne. Jojoba Oil is also a good choice for use on mature, aging skin and wrinkles. With so many good benefits, Jojoba is an all-time favorite and is included in Home Spa's natural bath and body products wherever possible.

Juniper: The Juniper is a thorny bush with long dark needles and produces a brownish-black berry. Home Spa uses Juniper berry Essential Oil as well as dried Juniper berries for their purifying and astringent qualities.

L

Lavender: This fragrant shrub has long, bluish-green woody branches and blooms with beautiful purple buds. The aroma from Lavender is soothing, calming and relaxing. It is also believed to have healing and disinfecting qualities. Home Spa uses dried buds and the essential oil from Lavender in a number of our bath preparations.

Lemon: The Lemon Tree is relatively small, growing only to average heights of 10 to 16 feet. It has fragrant blossoms with white exteriors and purple interiors. The fruit, which first appears green, ripens to a golden yellow. Home Spa uses dried Lemon Rind and Lemon Essential Oil, which is extracted from the rind, for their stimulating, refreshing, and purifying properties and high Vitamin C content.

Lemongrass: This leafy plant grows rapidly and has large striped leaves with a jagged edge. It produces small blue flowers, but the toning and antiseptic properties of Lemongrass Essential oil are extracted from the plants leaves. Lemongrass is also believed to be a natural mosquito repellant.

M

Mango Butter: Mango Butter is extracted from the seed kernels of the fruit of the tropical Mango Tree, native to sub-continental India and the Tropics. Mango Butter is known for its emollient, hydrating, and healing properties. It softens and protects dry skin, and is especially useful for renewing skin suffering from the effects of sun or wind.

Milk: This natural ingredient is a luxurious and gentle skin cleanser and softener. Home Spa incorporates powdered milk in a variety of our skincare formulations.

Mint: The distinctive aromas of Peppermint and Spearmint are believed to improve concentration, relieve headaches, and reduce mental fatigue. Home Spa uses dried Peppermint and Spearmint leaves as well as their respective essential oils in our formulations designed to refresh and revitalize.

N

Niaouli: Niaouli Essential Oil is extracted form the pointed leaves of this thorny evergreen tree. Home Spa uses this essential oil, believed to stimulate cell renewal, for its antiseptic, healing, and rejuvenating qualities.

O

Oatmeal: These edible grains of a widely grown cereal grass are reputed for soothing, anti-inflammatory properties when used in skincare. Many may remember from childhood, when covered with chicken pox, Mom put you into an oatmeal bath to relieve the itching. In addition to relieving skin irritations, these highly absorptive, hypoallergenic grains are also believed to help soften skin. Home Spa adds Oatmeal to a number of our bath preparations, including handmade soap designed for soothing irritated, acne skin.

Olive Oil: The Olive Tree, which grows to 20 feet or more, symbolizes strength, fertility, and longevity in the Mediterranean region. The fruits of the tree are pressed and Olive Oil is collected. The derived oil, known for its moisturizing, softening, and regenerating properties, contains skin-nourishing vitamins and minerals including calcium, Vitamins A, B1, B2, and PP.

Orange: Home Spa uses several varieties of Orange Essential Oils. These oils are known for their uplifting and invigorating qualities. The dried orange peel is added to our herbal bath syrup blends, as it is rich in Vitamin C.

P

Peppermint: The distinctive aroma of Peppermint is believed to improve concentration, relieve headaches, and reduce mental fatigue. Home Spa uses dried Peppermint leaf as well pure Peppermint essential oil in our formulations designed to refresh and revitalize.

Poppy Seeds: Have you ever marveled at the perfectly round shape of a tiny Poppy Seed? These little blue wonders provide extra gently exfoliation in our natural body polishes and handmade spa soaps.

R

Rosemary: With the Latin name meaning 'Sea Dew,' this small plant has bright blue flowers and was originally grown near the Mediterranean Sea. This fragrant herb is believed to awaken the mind and was historically used in love potions. Rosemary Essential Oil banishes tiredness with its refreshing, uplifting, and purifying qualities.

S

Safflower: This oil has great moisturizing qualities and is thought to be beneficial in applications for bruises, sprains, and painful arthritis. Safflower Oil is often recommended for use as a baby oil. It is a wonderful, natural alternative to mineral oil for use on babies.

Sage: This low-growing bush has long, fuzzy leaves with a distinctive bluish-green hue. Home Spa uses the dried leaves and Sage Essential Oil for its soothing and tension-relieving properties.

Seaweed: The Sea contains, in solution, every element necessary to maintain healthy life. Therefore, Seaweed is naturally rich in a myriad of vitamins and minerals. For many centuries, Asian cultures have believed in the miraculous properties of Seaweed as a beauty and health aide. Seaweed treatments are reputed to nourish the skin, fortifying the body's natural detoxification powers. Such treatments are thought to be particularly beneficial for those experiencing water retention and cellulite problems.

Shea Butter: This lush butter is extracted from the pit of a fruit, resembling a plum, which grows on the Mangifolia Tree, also called the Shea Nut Tree. The moisturizing power of Shea Butter was once a revered secret of the natives in the savannas of Central Africa, where the Mangifolia Tree grows wild. Traditionally Shea Butter has been used in Africa as a healing balm for rheumatism, muscle aches, burns, and light wounds. Shea Butter softens and nourishes skin and is believed to have antioxidant and regenerative properties. This emollient is especially useful for renewing skin suffering from the effects of sun or wind. Our Shea is a unique unrefined butter that is purchased through a partnership with a village in Ghana and is derived totally from renewable natural resources.

Spearmint: The distinctive aroma of Spearmint is believed to invigorate, improve concentration, relieve headaches, and reduce mental fatigue. Home Spa uses Spearmint leaf in our herbal bath syrup blends designed to refresh and revitalize.

Stearic Acid: This naturally occurring acid is vegetable based, which can be derived from either palm or coconut. This rich fatty acid is an essential ingredient to many lotions and creams.

Sugar: Drawing from the wisdom of historically used folk remedies, Home Spa includes brown sugar and raw can sugar in many of our skin treatments for its reputed antibacterial properties and ability to speed the skin's healing process. These sweet granules also offer excellent exfoliation.

Sunflower: This Oil is expressed from the seed of the Sunflower plant. It is rich in Vitamins A,C, D, and E. The high Vitamin E content makes this oil especially helpful for delicate and dry skin. Sunflower Oil has a protective effect on the skin and is believed to have healing properties when applied to bruises and skin diseases.

T

Tea Tree Oil: This very versatile essential oil is derived from the Malaleuca Tree, which grows in North America. Tea Tree Oil is believed to have antibacterial, antifungal, and healing properties and is thought to be useful in treating acne and cold sores. It is often used as a natural disinfectant and deodorizer.

V

Vanilla: The Vanilla plant is a rapidly growing vine, indigenous to Central and South America that bears long, brown, waxy pods, which contain tiny Vanilla seeds. The fragrance of Vanilla is soothing, sensual, and warm.

Verbena: The small Verbena tree is traditionally cultivated in Provence and harvested between May and July. The bright lemony fragrance comes from the leaves, which Home Spa adds to several of its unique herbal milk bath blends. Verbena will energize and refresh as well as banish tiredness and worry. One of nature's richest treasures, Verbena is considered a symbol of good fortune.

Vitamin C: When applied to skin, Vitamin C is believed to aid skin cells in repairing and reproducing themselves. It is also thought to stimulate production of collagen, enhancing skin smoothness and elasticity. This vitamin is excellent for skin showing signs of aging. Home Spa uses Vitamin C powder (Ascorbic Acid) in several of our handmade bath and body care treatments.

Vitamin E: Vitamin E is commonly referred to as nature's own healing agent. Vitamin E has been cited as having positive effects on the wound healing process and possesses the ability to retard the conversion of soluble collagen to insoluble collagen (which is responsible for scare tissue formation). Vitamin E is believed to penetrate below the skin's surface to rejuvenate damaged skin cells and promote healthy regeneration of scarred skin. Vitamin E is also believed to help the skin overcome the harmful effects of the sun. Vitamin E helps to preserve the health and integrity of the skin and prevent premature signs of aging. Home Spa also uses a specially formulated Vitamin E as a natural preservation system to prevent oxidation in our oil-based products.

Y

Ylang Ylang: The Ylang Ylang tree is native to the Philippines and has fragrant greenish-yellow flowers with unusually long and straight petals that almost look like leaves. Ylang Ylang Essential Oil is extracted from the blossoms and is known for its uplifting, balancing, and stimulating properties.