There are several properties that are thought to underpin emu oil’s success. Like a lot of oils it is a great moisturiser, but where its differs is that its fatty acid make-up is very similar to that of human skin and so it is seen to be absorbed much quicker than other oils and comedogencity (pore clogging) tests have shown that emu oil has a score of less than 1, which means that it won’t clog up pores and cause irritation.

Furthermore emu oil is packed full of essential fatty acids (Omegas 3 and 6) and is also high in Omega 9 (often referred to as the third essential fatty acid). These omegas are vital for healthy skin and act as nutrients to keep it in peak condition. The oil is also thought to be a natural anti-oxidant.

Finally emu oil is now a registered anti-inflammatory in Australia and there have been many studies published in leading journals showing the oil reducing swelling. This has led to the oil being used on irritated and inflamed skin for its powerful soothing properties and it has also become popular as a soothing muscle and joint rub.

South America – Bees Wax

The women of the Mexican state of Zacatecas use bees wax found in the forests around where they live as a natural hair remover. Better than any wax that men in white coats have developed it is a great natural way to help remove hairs, exfoliate the skin and leave it feeling soft and moisturised.

When bees make their hives they coat them with a substance called propolis which has antiseptic and antimicrobial properties due to containing active compounds called flavonoids. These properties of the propolis are passed onto the wax and so enhance its efficiency as a hair remover by adding protective properties which are important for newly exposed skin. So if you want to help remove hair as well as moisturise and protect the skin then bees wax is the thing to use….there’s no sting attached!

Antarctica - Krill Oil

Krill is the name given to the minute shrimp-like invertebrates, which are vital for the ocean’s food chains and are the source of food for many of the world’s largest animals such as baleen whales, manta rays and seals. Krill occur in all oceans across the world but in Antarctica researchers and explorers have found a unique beauty use for these tiny creatures.

Oil can be extracted from Krill and is a great source of antioxidants and Omega 3 fatty acids. Anti-oxidants are known to help combat oxygen-free radicals, the main culprits blamed for aging skin, and also protect the skin from the cold – especially needed in temperatures that get as low as minus 89C!!

Due to its high content of Omega-3 fatty acids Krill Oil is thought to help to aid in lowering both cholesterol and blood pressure when used as a dietary supplement as part of a healthy diet.

Stockists

Sage – Available from Health Span by visiting www.healthspan.co.uk Sea Buckthorn – Sea Buckthorn is available from Superdragon by visiting www.superherb.co.uk or by calling 0800 231 5688. Sea Kelp – Available from Goodness Direct by visiting www.goodnessdirect.co.uk Emu Oil – Is available directly from the Pioneer Trading Company by calling them on 01526 344971 / 345613 or by visiting their website at www.pion-tc.co.uk Bees Wax – Available from Chain Bridge Honey Farm by visiting www.chainbridgehoney.co.uk Krill Oil – Available from Seek Natural by visiting www.seeknatural.co.uk