Bambù

Bambusa vulgaris extract

The plants we commonly call Bamboo belong to the Graminaceae family, with more than 75 different genus and over 1200 species. Bamboo originate from tropical and sub-tropical regions, mainly from the Far East and above all from China and Japan, although we do find some spontaneous species in Africa, Oceania and America. They are shrub-like plants that are evergreen and very vigorous. Bamboo extracts are used in cosmetics to manufacture creams and lotions. The lymph contains amino acids, vitamins and numerous mineral salts, including silicon. These characteristics mean that it is used as a refreshing emollient that tones the skin whilst it protects against external agents.

Sugar Cane

Saccharum officinarum

Sugar cane (Saccharum officinarum L.) is a tropical plant of the Poaceae family. Sugar cane originates from Asia and was introduced to Europe by the Arabs. Today it is grown in almost all countries of Asia, America, Africa and Australia. In Europe, it is cultivated exclusively in Spain. In cosmetic treatments against cellulite, sugar cane is used for its glycolic acid content, an alpha-hydroxy acid whose superficial exfoliating action stimulates renewal even in the deepest layers of the skin, increasing collagen and elastin synthesis in the dermis. The immediate action of the alpha-hydroxy acids results in a rapid improvement in the skin’s appearance, which becomes smoother and more even, with a clear reduction of the “orange peel” effect. Skin looks more toned, softer and more elastic.

Birch

With regards to skincare, it’s often administered as a natural medicinal treatment because it helps facilitate the excretion of fluids and promote metabolic activity. Its anti-inflammatory and skin soothing abilities are often used to treat eczema, psoriasis and warts. Since it contains vitamins B1, B2, A, C and E, it is also believed to work as an antioxidant. Most people use it in one of four ways: As an infusion, decoction, extract or tincture. Sometimes, the leaves and bark of the tree are directly applied to the skin. You may find this ingredient in OTC products such as bath oil, facial moisturizer, shampoo/conditioner, exfoliant/scrub, shaving cream and masks.

Cinnamon

Cinnamomum zeylanicum extract

Cinnamon (Cinnamomum zeylanicum of the Lauraceae family) is a small evergreen tree standing approximately 10 - 15 m tall, originally from Sri Lanka. Cinnamon has a history that dates back thousands of years: it is mentioned in the Bible, in the book of Exodus; it was used by the ancient Egyptians in their embalming procedures and also mentioned in the Greek and Latin world. Differently from other drugs, the spice is not taken from the seed or fruit, but rather from the stem and little branches that, once freed from the external cork and treated, take on the classic appearance of a small rolled-up, hazelnut colour parchment. This spice boasts one of the greatest anti-oxidant powers there is. Traditionally used to treat colds and as an antibacterial and anti-spastic, today, it is also used for its toning-stimulating effects due to the reactivation of the microcirculation when applied to the skin. It is therefore very useful in products designed to prevent hair loss, reactivating the microcirculation of the scalp, improving oxygenation of the hair bulb and its action.