“The skin serves many purposes, mainly it protects us from the environment, manages hormones and temperature, and signals the nervous and immune systems when problems arise. Those signals allow receptors to activate anti-microbial peptides, lipids, also inflammatory cytokines to help bring things back to normal. One of those signaling systems involved with skin homeostasis and regeneration is the heavily studied cutaneous endocannabinoid system. Studies have found that the cannabinoid system has an impact on dry skin, hair growth, keratin, inflammatory skin disorders, and well, skin cancer. Notably, cannabis is not the only plant with cannabinoids, other plants that react with cannabinoid receptors include not only echinacea (Echinacea spp.) and its compound N-alkylamide, turmeric (Curcuma longa) contains the cannabinoid curcumin, but also other plants that contain β-caryophyllene..”

Cannabis essential oil

A relatively new area of research is surrounded around Cannabis sativa essential oil, which is the product of steamed distilled live, fresh leaves. So far, we know that β-caryophyllene is the major compound in Cannabis essential oil, and the compound directly linked to the CB2 receptor. Researchers have reported that 𝛽-caryophyllene may be useful in treating neuropathic pain, anxiety, and depression. Other compounds in the essential oil include myrcene, limonene, pinene, terpinolene, ect., individually showing a unique mix of relaxant, sedative, antioxidant, or anxiolytic benefits.  

Like many essential oils, Cannabis essential oil has shown exciting antibacterial properties. Though the research is still unfolding, Cannabis essential oils have shown to have a relaxing effect on the nervous system. Researchers in Italy took it a step further and initiated the research on the effect of Cannabis essential oil on the brain, measuring brain wave activity, heart rate, blood pressure, respiratory rate, and temperature.  The subjects felt more calm, relaxed, energetic, and were in a better mood with an increased appetite after the study, remaining fairly consistent with the effects of consuming or using any type of cannabis product, except without the psychoactive effects of THC of course. This was a small study, but expect to hear about more research on the benefits of Cannabis essential oil over the next few years to decade.

This is part of a Tahoe Petrichor published article was Featured in the August 2020 issue of Tahoe Cannabis & Vegas Cannabis magazines.

Check out the full feature here

Let’s face it, baths are awesome! They are hygienic, they make us happy, they allow us some time to ourselves, they help us relax, and help us get better sleep. Adding the right dose of herbs, or essential oils to the bath can do wonders for stress and pain management, but what is really going on in our bodies?

Read the full article here

Type of baths

There are so many different types of baths depending on your personal, individual, and perfectly unique situation.  There are foot baths, herbal baths, neutral baths, ice baths, aromatic baths, facial and yoni steams.

The herbs

With the right combination of healing herbs, baths can be sleep-inducing, pain-relieving, stimulating, anti-infectious, detoxifying, anti-inflammatory, beneficial for the skin, or any combination thereof.  Of course, as an herbalist, my best advice is pure, plant-based everything is best.

This is part of a Tahoe Petrichor published article featured in the October 2020 issue of Tahoe Cannabis & Vegas Cannabis magazines.

Read the full article here

“The musculoskeletal system consists of the muscles, joints, cartilage, and connective tissues. Inherently these areas are prone to pain and stiffness, overuse, strenuous physical activity, injuries, chronic conditions, or from being human. In fact physical and mental stress is often the cause of the physical symptoms of tension, spasms, and pain.  Removing the stressful stimuli and finding healthy coping mechanisms is the first step to relief. However, to combat pain multiple approaches should be made to find symptomatic relief including rest, relaxation, massage, and compression. Utilizing heat therapy to increase blood flow and muscle flexibility can be done by using a heat pack, or immersing in an herbal bath, hot spring, or sauna. Apply a + topical after using heat to enhance the benefits into the localized area. Inflammation is the body's response to stress, yet to reduce pain, inflammation must be reduced. Applying cold therapy via ice pack, or cryotherapy, [or jump in the lake], should combat inflammation.”

“Herbal medicine is the art and science of using herbs and natural modalities to enhance health and wellbeing. Taking past and traditional medicine practices and applying that to modern-day science and this becomes the greatest time ever for understanding plants as medicine.  Using teas, tinctures, topicals, essential oils, and combining them with all-natural lifestyle practices that balance the diet, herbs, vitamins & minerals, exercise, mind-body therapies. Drinking tea is probably the simplest and gentlest way to get started into the world of plant healing. If you are a cannabis user, if you already drink a lot of herbal tea, or if you have used essential oils, you have already experienced herbal medicine in some sense.”

This is part of a Tahoe Petrichor published article was Featured in the July 2020 issue of Tahoe Cannabis & Vegas Cannabis magazines.

Read the full article here

Tahoe Petrichor creates natural healing products from local plants

I love the smell in the air after it rains. When asked to describe that smell, words like moist, earthy, woodsy and musky come to mind. The scent is called petrichor. Alixandra Laub, the owner of Tahoe Petrichor, creates essential oils and skincare products.

She, too, loves the earth’s smell after a rain. “The leaves open up and release their essential oils. Bacteria grow releasing pheromones; the compounds released by the trees are some of the same compounds in essential oils,’ says Laub.

“I hand make extracts from the plant using herbal medicine practices,” Laub says. “Sage is a staple in this area and is one of my favorite plants. It’s perfect for pain and smells like walking through the desert. Juniper berry is an astringent and has anti-aging properties. Every year I focus on a new plant and learn everything I can about the plant, then integrate the plant into a practical product.”

Check out the full feature here

Ingredients: Boulder Balm is made with chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla), marshmallow root (Althea officinalis), and locally harvested mullein (Verbascum thapsus) infused hemp seed oil (Cannabis sativa). We add handcraft rosehip (Rosa ssp.), comfrey (Symphytum officinale), and calendula (Calendula officinalis) extracts and combine it with healing arnica butter (Arnica montana), hydrating avocado butter (Persea americana), and soothing cocoa butter (Theobroma cacao). We make our own cedar essential oil by steam distilling local incense cedar (Calocedrus decurrens), and combine it with ylang-ylang, palmarosa, and myrrh resin. The foresty blend of essential oils and rich healing, soothing herbs, and butter is ideal for repairing the hands, feet, or just about anywhere that needs some serious attention.

Main beneficial properties: anti-inflammatory, healing, antimicrobial, antiseptic, analgesic, soothing.

---

FULL RESEARCH 

MULLEIN

Mullein - Figwort family (Varbascum thapsus - Scrophulariaceae) 

For Boulder Balm, we harvested local mullein and infuse it with cold-pressed hemp seed oil. When taken internally, mullein is a powerhouse for the respiratory system. Topically, mullein is used to soften and protect the skin and is excellent for all sorts of skin conditions including painful ones.  The anti-inflammatory nature of this fuzzy leaved plant is bioavailable thanks to the polyphenols (antioxidants), iridoids, and pain-relieving saponins. Also, research has shown mullein to be antibacterial, sedative, narcotic, antiseptic, antiviral, with emollient and demulcent properties. Traditionally, tribes used mullein for pain, wounds, bruisings, or swellings, and during sweat baths. Dried mullein leaves have smoked for relaxation and respiratory conditions for thousands of years. 

Other products that contain mullein - New, unreleased product, coming soon! 

CHAMOMILE

Chamomile - Daisy family (Matriacaria recutita -   Compositae) 

Chamomile is one of the earliest recorded medicinal herbs, used both topically and internally when a calming and relaxing intervention is needed. Internally, this white flower commonly found in tea is used for neurological complaints, mood, and sleep complaints.  Due to the calming nature, chamomile is useful for agitated, inflamed skin, wounds, blisters, and cuts as well as irritating skin conditions.  Research has demonstrated skin regeneration through antioxidative activities. Known for its spasmolytic, sedative, anxiolytic, antiseptic, and anti-inflammatory actions, chamomile contains flavonoids, coumarins, and terpenes, notably, azulenes which attribute to the blue color the essential oil produces as well as the wound healing, anti-inflammatory effects. 

MARSHMALLOW ROOT

Marshmallow root - Mallow family (Althea officinalis - Malvaceae) 

Marshmallow root is more than just a culinary flavoring, this plant is an emollient with an affinity for soothing and relieving the skin including rough skin, burns, irritation, and/or swollen joints. Marshmallow root is another plant that is used internally for respiratory and gastrointestinal complaints. High in compounds like mucilage that attribute to the soothing effects both internally and topically. The anti-inflammatory effects are related back to the flavonoids present. In the lab, marshmallow root inhibited inflammation by 41-78% in acute cases, and by 52%-68% of chronic inflammation. 

CALENDULA

Calendula - Daisy family (Calendula officinalis - Asteraceae)  

Calendula is a bright yellow flower native to the Mediterranean countries. It was first brought to America by colonists who used this herb for protection. Now it is one of the most common and widespread medicinal plants around the world. The petals are edible and can be added to salads for a color pop with some useful therapeutic benefits. When cooked and added to rice or similar foods, it is known to change the pigment toward yellow. The flower has a wide range of therapeutic uses both internally and topically. 

In Ayurvedic medicine, calendula is cooling, bitter, and pungent.  In Traditional Chinese Medicine, the flower is neutral and drying.  Calendula is associated with the sun and fire element.  Historically, calendula was used as an astringent and anti-inflammatory agent integrated similarly to saffron (the most expensive spice in the world). Calendula was used to increase perspiration (fever & flu), to treat jaundice (liver dysfunction), stomach ulcers, during menses, inflammatory eye and skin conditions (wounds, sores, burns, cuts, minor infection, etc.). Calendula was ornamentally and strategically placed to ward off evil energy and infectious disease. The pigment was used for products, from clothing dye to cheese. 

Since the 80s, calendula has shown to be beneficial on tissue regeneration and epithelial tissue development.  Today, triterpenes are applauded for anti-inflammatory capabilities.  The European Union has declared that calendula flower has oromucosal and cutaneous benefits with anti-inflammatory, astringent, immuno-stimulant, antiviral, antibacterial, anti-fungal, and vulnerary actions. 

Other products that contain calendula : Bearly There

ROSEHIP

Rosehip - Rose family (Rosa ssp. - Rosaceae) 

Rosehips are established as well-known as an anti-aging, skin healer. Aging can be attributed to time, lifestyle choices, and excessive UV exposure. With antiseptic, antimicrobial, and antioxidative properties, rosehips hydrate skin, regulate oil, are healing for hyperpigmentation, inflammation, skin blemishes, and scarring. Hydrophilic compounds such as ascorbic acid, fatty acids, quercetin, kaempferol, flavonoids, vitamin C, and other polyphenolic compounds have demonstrated strong antioxidant activity, reducing tissue damage. Recent research has shown rosehip to be beneficial for painful conditions.

Other products that contain rosehips : Mindful Mist

 COMFREY

Comfrey - Borage family (Symphytum officinale - Boraginaceae)

Comfrey comes from the Latin word confirma, meaning to heal or unite. By no accident, this root is a true powerhouse for skin ailments. Consistent studies indicate comfrey to be useful for anything from bruises and sunburns to insect bites and sprains, strains, and swellings, or the pain that comes with these common human happenings. One of the bioactive compounds in comfrey is allantoin, a compound that speeds up the regeneration of damaged tissue. Other compounds include carotene, asparagine & mucilage (healing), tannin (astringent), rosmarinic acid (antioxidant), alkaloids, and inulin. Together these compounds promote anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, astringent, emollient, tonic, and vulnerary (wound healing) actions when used topically. Actually, comfrey is so easy to grow, it can easily become invasive if grown in a home garden.

References

American College of Healthcare Sciences. (2018). Comfrey Monograph.

Cohen, M. (2012). Rosehip: An evidence based herbal medicine for inflammation and arthritis. Australian Family Physician.

Essential Oil and Aromatherapy Experts. (2020). Rosehip benefits, uses for face, skin, hair, and where to buy.

European Medicines Agency. (2018). European Union Herbal Monograph on Calendula officinalis L., flos.

Garcia, G., Tissandié, L., Filippi, J., & Tomi, F. (2017). New Pinane Derivatives Found in Essential Oils of Calocedrus decurrens. Molecules (Basel, Switzerland), 22(6), 921.

Ibrahim, T. A., El-Hela, A. A., El-Hefnawy, H. M., Al-Taweel, A. M., & Perveen, S. (2017). Chemical composition and antimicrobial activities of essential oils of some coniferous plants cultivated in Egypt. Iranian journal of pharmaceutical research : IJPR, 16(1), 328–337

Marmol, I., Sanchez-de-Diego, C., Jimenez-Moreno, N. Ancin-Azpilicueta, C. Rodriguez-Yoldi, M. (2017). Therapeutic applications of rosehips from different Rosa species. International Journal of Molecular Sciences. 18(6), 1137

Michalun, N., & Michalun, M. (2001). Skincare & Cosmetic Ingredients Dictionary 2nd Ed. Thomas Learning. ISBN:1562636605

Native American Ethnobotanical Database. (2020). Incense-cedar (Calocedrus decurrens).

Natural Medicines Database. (2020). Mullein; Chamomile, Marshmallow root: Professional Monographs.

Panchal, M., Murti, K., & Lambole, V. (2010). Pharmacological properties of verbascum thapsus- a review. International Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences. 5(2).

Tabassum, N., & Hamdani, M. (2014). Plants used to treat skin diseases. Pharmacognosy reviews, 8(15), 52–60.

Ulbricht, C. (2010). Natural Standard: Herb and Supplement Guide. Mosby: Elsevier. ISBN 978-0-323-07295-3

U.S. Forest Service. (2015). Calocedrus decurrens: Fire effects information system (FEIS).

---

featured In the June issues of Tahoe Cannabis & Vegas Cannabis Magazine, I highlighted some of the best tips and healing hacks for keeping your head in the right space.

The practice of alternative medicine involves a combination of natural methods for balancing the mind, body, and spirit to support health and well being. In reality, therapy hardly ever consists of just one method, therefore herbalists use plant medicine, supplements, dietary adjustments, bodywork, and lifestyle changes to enhance healing. During a stressful event, the brain triggers a series of reactions to different regions of the body. The body then responds by initiating the commonly known fight-or-flight response, where we experience some of the unpleasant effects of stress. Long-term stress can affect the central nervous system by draining vital energy leading to premature aging, exhaustion, deficiencies, and/or poor health.

To combat these effects, it is so very important to integrate healthy coping strategies to maintain a balanced physical and mental state. The belief that all healing is inherently found in nature is at the foundation of herbal medicine. Taking that belief system and applying it to modern-day science, researchers are able to identify naturally occurring plant compounds and observe the physiological reactions on the body, similar to the research on the terpenes found in cannabis. Speaking of, although cannabis is the goddess of all plant medicines, it is just one of the thousands of plants that are part of the nature cure…

Read the full article here

Read the full magazine here

“The belief that all healing is inherently found in nature is at the foundation of herbal medicine.”

Ingredients: We make our own *cedar floral water (a.k.a. hydrosol or hydroflorates) by steam distilling local incense cedar (Calocedrus decurrens). We add handcraft rosehip (Rosa ssp.), comfrey (Symphytum officinale), and calendula (Calendula officinalis) extracts and combine them with healing aloe (Aloe vera) and hydrating vegetable glycerin with skin toning witch hazel (Hamamelis virginiana) and willow bark (Salix alba) extracts. The floral blend of energy clearing geranium and rosewood, with energizing peppermint and tea tree is a divine combination to help you find your happy place. 

---

FULL RESEARCH

Incense-cedar

 Incense-cedar - Cypress family (Calocedrus decurrens - Cuppresaceae)

We make our own *cedar floral water (a.k.a. hydrosol or hydroflorates) by steam distilling local incense cedar. This aromatic California native grows in Sierra Nevadas at elevations up to 7,000 feet. Like many coniferous trees, incense-cedar is known to have astringent, antiseptic, antispasmodic, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, tonic, and antimicrobial activities on the skin. In alternative medicine, incense-cedar is used for coughs and colds, congestion, as a disinfectant, stimulant, and for muscle pain. Native Americans used incense-cedar as a steam bath or inhalant for colds. Today the therapeutic benefits are attributed to the bioactive compounds pinene, myrcene, carene, limonene, and terpinolene. 

Comfrey

Comfrey - Borage family (Symphytum officinale - Boraginaceae)

Comfrey comes from the Latin word confirma, meaning to heal or unite. By no accident, this root is a true powerhouse for skin ailments. Consistent studies indicate comfrey to be useful for anything from bruises and sunburns to insect bites and sprains, strains, and swellings, or the pain that comes with these common human happenings. One of the bioactive compounds in comfrey is allantoin, a compound that speeds up the regeneration of damaged tissue. Other compounds include carotene, asparagine & mucilage (healing), tannin (astringent), rosmarinic acid (antioxidant), alkaloids, and inulin. Together these compounds promote anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, astringent, emollient, tonic, and vulnerary (wound healing) actions when used topically. Actually, comfrey is so easy to grow, it can easily become invasive if grown in a home garden.

Calendula

Calendula - Daisy family (Calendula officinalis - Asteraceae)  

Calendula is a bright yellow flower native to the Mediterranean countries. It was first brought to America by colonists who used this herb for protection. Now it is one of the most common and widespread medicinal plants around the world. The petals are edible and can be added to salads for a color pop with some useful therapeutic benefits. When cooked and added to rice or similar foods, it is known to change the pigment toward yellow. The flower has a wide range of therapeutic uses both internally and topically. 

In Ayurvedic medicine, calendula is cooling, bitter, and pungent.  In Traditional Chinese Medicine, the flower is neutral and drying.  Calendula is associated with the sun and fire element.  Historically, calendula was used as an astringent and anti-inflammatory agent integrated similarly to saffron (the most expensive spice in the world). Calendula was used to increase perspiration (fever & flu), to treat jaundice (liver dysfunction), stomach ulcers, during menses, inflammatory eye and skin conditions (wounds, sores, burns, cuts, minor infection, etc.). Calendula was ornamentally and strategically placed to ward off evil energy and infectious disease. The pigment was used for products, from clothing dye to cheese. 

Since the 80s, calendula has shown to be beneficial on tissue regeneration and epithelial tissue development.  Today, triterpenes are applauded for anti-inflammatory capabilities.  The European Union has declared that calendula flower has oromucosal and cutaneous benefits with anti-inflammatory, astringent, immuno-stimulant, antiviral, antibacterial, anti-fungal, and vulnerary actions. 

Rosehip

Rosehip - Rose family (Rosa ssp. - Rosaceae) 

Rosehips are established as well-known as an anti-aging, skin healer. Aging can be attributed to time, lifestyle choices, and excessive UV exposure. With antiseptic, antimicrobial, and antioxidative properties, rosehips hydrate skin, regulate oil, are healing for hyperpigmentation, inflammation, skin blemishes, and scarring. Hydrophilic compounds such as ascorbic acid, fatty acids, quercetin, kaempferol, flavonoids, vitamin C, and other polyphenolic compounds have demonstrated strong antioxidant activity, reducing tissue damage. Recent research has shown rosehip to be beneficial for painful conditions.

Aloe

Aloe - Succulent family (Aloe vera - Asphodelaceae) 

Aloe has been shown to supply moisture directly to tissues and produce a relaxing and cooling effect, making it the most sought after herb for sunburns and skin healing. Aloe grows in hot, dry climates like cactuses and succulents. In the United States, aloe is cultivated in Florida, Texas, and Arizona. Aloe has hydrating, softening, healing, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties for a variety of skin conditions. Aloe has been shown to supply moisture directly to tissues and produce a relaxing and cooling effect. 

Witch hazel

Witch hazel - Witch hazel family (Hamamelis virginiana - Hamamelidaceae) 

Witch hazel, the hydrosol extract of the (Hamamelis virginiana) plant, can be found in just about any market thanks to the FDA approval as an over-the-counter astringent. Witch hazel is a shrub/small tree native to the East Coast of America that has been used as an astringent due to the high tannin content to treat inflammation and swelling. Witch hazel is approved for minor skin injuries, bruises, and sprains.  Since the 90s, witch hazel has been shown to be effective against sunburns and inflammation caused by UV-damage. Witch hazel leaf contains tannins, antioxidants, flavonoids, and essential oils and is most commonly used as a face toner. 

Willow bark

Willow bark - Willow family (Salix alba - Salicaceae)

The medicinal uses of willow bark have their origins in Greek medicine. In the Middle Ages, this shrub was used to reduce fevers, relieve pain, and inflammation. In the 1800s, glycosidic compounds and salicylates were identified as the catalysts for the potent benefits. In fact, salicylic acid was first found in meadowsweet, then used to derive the popular drug, aspirin. Today, willow bark is used as an antioxidant, tonic, and astringent for a variety of dermal conditions. 

Mindful Mist is the perfect botanical remedy to add to your breathwork, meditation, yoga practice, or workout. Spray directly on to your face, body, or around your space to utilize this healing, energizing, and centering remedy. With antimicrobial, toning, antioxidant, and regenerative herbal powerhouses for skincare, mixed with cooling and relaxing floral aromatherapy, you can heal your skin and ease your mind with one spray. Science shows antimicrobial, toning, antioxidant, regenerative, relieving, healing, cooling, and relaxing properties of the flowers and plants in the formula.

References

American Botanical Council. (2000). Herbal Medicine Expanded Commission E: Witch Hazel Leaf & Bark.

American Botanical Council. (2000). Herbal Medicine Expanded Commission E: Willow Bark.

American College of Healthcare Sciences. (2018). Comfrey Monograph.

Cohen, M. (2012). Rosehip: An evidence based herbal medicine for inflammation and arthritis. Australian Family Physician.

Essential Oil and Aromatherapy Experts. (2020). Rosehip benefits, uses for face, skin, hair, and where to buy.

European Medicines Agency. (2018). European Union Herbal Monograph on Calendula officinalis L., flos. 

Garcia, G., Tissandié, L., Filippi, J., & Tomi, F. (2017). New Pinane Derivatives Found in Essential Oils of Calocedrus decurrens. Molecules (Basel, Switzerland), 22(6), 921.

Ibrahim, T. A., El-Hela, A. A., El-Hefnawy, H. M., Al-Taweel, A. M., & Perveen, S. (2017). Chemical composition and antimicrobial activities of essential oils of some coniferous plants cultivated in Egypt. Iranian journal of pharmaceutical research : IJPR, 16(1), 328–337

Marmol, I., Sanchez-de-Diego, C., Jimenez-Moreno, N. Ancin-Azpilicueta, C. Rodriguez-Yoldi, M. (2017). Therapeutic applications of rosehips from different Rosa species. International Journal of Molecular Sciences. 18(6), 1137

Michalun, N., & Michalun, M. (2001). Skincare & Cosmetic Ingredients Dictionary 2nd Ed. Thomas Learning. ISBN:1562636605

Native American Ethnobotanical Database. (2020). Incense-cedar (Calocedrus decurrens).

Natural Medicines Database. (2020). Aloe.

Ulbricht, C. (2010). Natural Standard: Herb and Supplement Guide. Mosby : Elsevier. ISBN 978-0-323-07295-3

U.S. Forest Service. (2015). Calocedrus decurrens: Fire effects information system (FEIS).

---

Self-heal, also known as “heal all,” has been used for thousands of years as a multi-purpose herbal remedy.  This purple flowering member of the mint family is used as a purifying and healing herb for topical and internal use. Self-heal is an edible flower that can be cooked and eaten, used as a tea, essential oil, or in skincare. Although aging is unavoidable, environmental factors, genetic makeup, dietary and lifestyle habits are great influencers on how your skin will age. Your daily skin and health care regime are important lifestyle habits to maintain the integrity of your skin. Normal aging causes fine, and pale wrinkles; photo-damage causes more coarse wrinkles and skin roughness.

Throughout history, P. vulgaris has been used for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. In the last year or two, multiple studies confirmed the skin protective and anti-aging effects of this herbal powerhouse.  In a study conducted by the Journal of Rejuvenation Research (2018), researchers found self-heal to be protective against inflammation and UV damage. Results showed enhanced collagen synthesis, reduced radical oxygen species (ROS) associated with photo-aging. This is especially important to us outdoor enthusiasts since we are at a higher risk of UV irradiation, which causes skin damage, inflammation, wrinkles, oxidative and cellular damage. Self-heal was able to reduce hormones (glucocorticoid hormones such as hydrocortisone or cortisol) associated with age, stress, and declining skin structure. Excessive GH has been shown to reduce skin integrity (thinning and flattening of cells) and reduced collagen content (Evidence-based complementary and alternative medicine, 2018).

Ingredients: The combination of nut and seed oils includes sweet almond oil (Oleum amygdalae), grape seed oil (Vitis vinifera), hemp oil (Cannabis sativa), and avocado oil (Persea americana). Healing herbs including handcrafted echinacea (Echinacea purpurea), calendula (Calendula officinalis), and self-heal (Prunella vulgaris) extracts. Lastly, Bearly There contains the warm and cozy forest aroma of ylang-ylang (Cananga odorata), frankincense (Boswellia serrata), clove (Syzygium aromaticum), and our own harvested and distilled juniper berry (Juniperus) essential oil.

Oil blend Lightweight and hydrating blend of sweet almond, grape seed oil, hemp oil, and avocado oil. Vitamin E essential antioxidant for the skin.

---

FULL RESEARCH

Echinacea

Echinacea - Daisy family (Echinacea purpurea - Asteraceae) 

Echinacea is a well-known herb with immune-modulatory, anti-inflammatory, vulnerary, anti-infectious, and skin healing properties. The International Journal of Cosmetic Science (2010) evaluated the effects of echinacea on the skin.  Results showed that after one month of topical application, echinacea protected against oxidative stress, reduced wrinkles, and improved skin hydration. In Canada, researchers from the Journal of Phytotherapy Research (2010) found echinacea to be useful for acne and inflamed follicles due to its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory actions on the skin. 

Self-heal

Self-heal - Mint family (Prunella Vulgaris - Lamiaceae)

Self-heal, also known as “heal all,” has been used for thousands of years as a multi-purpose herbal remedy.  This purple flowering member of the mint family is used as a purifying and healing herb for topical and internal use. Self-heal is an edible flower that can be cooked and eaten, used as a tea, essential oil, or in skincare. Although aging is unavoidable, environmental factors, genetic makeup, dietary and lifestyle habits are great influencers on how your skin will age. Your daily skin and health care regime are important lifestyle habits to maintain the integrity of your skin. Normal aging causes fine, and pale wrinkles; photo-damage causes more coarse wrinkles and skin roughness.

Throughout history, P. vulgaris has been used for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. In the last year or two, multiple studies confirmed the skin protective and anti-aging effects of this herbal powerhouse.  In a study conducted by the Journal of Rejuvenation Research (2018), researchers found self-heal to be protective against inflammation and UV damage. Results showed enhanced collagen synthesis, reduced radical oxygen species (ROS) associated with photo-aging. This is especially important to us outdoor enthusiasts since we are at a higher risk of UV irradiation, which causes skin damage, inflammation, wrinkles, oxidative and cellular damage. Self-heal was able to reduce hormones (glucocorticoid hormones such as hydrocortisone or cortisol) associated with age, stress, and declining skin structure. Excessive GH has been shown to reduce skin integrity (thinning and flattening of cells) and reduced collagen content (Evidence-based complementary and alternative medicine, 2018).

Calendula 

Calendula - Daisy family (Calendula officinalis - Asteraceae)

Calendula is a bright yellow flower native to the Mediterranean countries. It was first brought to America by colonists who used this herb for protection (spiritually and physically). Now it is one of the most common and widespread medicinal plants around the world. It typically blooms with the beginning of summer and is commonly associated with the new moon. Calendula can also be referred to as marigold but it is different than the common garden marigold, which is of the Tagetes species. The petals are edible and can be added to salads for a color pop with some useful therapeutic benefits. When cooked and added to rice or similar foods, it is known to change the pigment toward yellow. The flower has a wide range of therapeutic uses both internally and topically. 

In Ayurvedic medicine, calendula is cooling, bitter, and pungent. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, the flower is neutral and drying.  Calendula is associated with the sun and fire element. Historically, calendula was used as an astringent and anti-inflammatory agent integrated similarly to saffron (the most expensive spice in the world). Calendula was used to increase perspiration (fever & flu), to treat jaundice (liver dysfunction), stomach ulcers, during menses, inflammatory eye and skin conditions (wounds, sores, burns, cuts, minor infection). Calendula was ornamentally and strategically placed to ward off evil energy and infectious disease. The pigment was used for products, from clothing dye to cheese. 

Since the 80s, calendula had a beneficial effect on tissue regeneration and epithelial tissue development.  Today, triterpenes are applauded for anti-inflammatory capabilities. The European Union has declared that calendula flower has oromucosal and cutaneous benefits with anti-inflammatory, astringent, immuno-stimulant, antiviral, antibacterial, anti-fungal, and vulnerary actions. 

Ylang Ylang 

Ylang ylang - Souprsop family (Cananga odorata - Annonaceae) 

Ylang ylang is considered a tonic for the heart and a relaxant for the nervous system.  Fresh, floral, and fruity, ylang ylang essential oil is most commonly used in aromatherapy to improve mood and cognitive function. This flower is used as a sedative, antiseptic, and as an aphrodisiac (in Indonesia they spread ylang ylang flowers on the beds of newlyweds). A study was conducted to evaluate the effects of transdermal absorption by assessing physiological parameters (temperature, pulse, breathing, and blood pressure). The people involved in the study found themselves calmer and more relaxed than those in the control group. Many other studies over the last 13 years have shown consistent results (American Botanical Council, 2007; Hongratanaworakit & Buchbauer, 2006). Since 2006, researchers found ylang ylang to have antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, skin healing activities. Traditional uses range from asthma treatment to sexual anxiety, headaches, infections to itchy skin.  Ylang ylang contains germacrene, caryophyllene, geranyl acetate, benzyl benzoate, linalool and trace amounts of others (Evidence-based complementary and alternative medicine, 2015; Han, Beaumont, & Stevens, 2017).

Frankincense 

Frankincense - Torchwoods family (Boswellia serrata - Burseraceae)

The use of frankincense dates back thousands of years. Frankincense was used for rejuvenation in ancient Egypt in facial masks, makeup, and salves for rejuvenation (American Botanical Council, 2010).  It was used during ancient rituals and ceremonies, integrated into ancient medicine like Traditional Chinese and Ayurveda, during the Roman and Greek empires, and in religious texts as in Christianity and Judaism (Cohen, 2019). Frankincense is the sap or resin harvested from the tree trunks of B. carteri trees. The resin can be distilled into therapeutic essential oils. Frankincense is known most commonly for its neurological benefits, reducing pain, and improving the condition of the skin. Preliminary studies suggest using .5% Boswellia face cream significantly reduced fine surface lines, roughness, and photo-aging scores compared to baseline. Clinically, this tree resin has shown to improve painful conditions (47% reduction) and decrease stiffness. Studies show frankincense can be useful for headaches, aging skin, acne, and bruises though more consistent research is needed (Natural Medicines Database, 2019).  The oil has been shown to help slow the breathing and calm the mind, allowing more oxygen to be taken in the body (American Botanical Council, 2010). 

Clove

Clove - Myrtle family (Syzygium aromaticum - Myrtaceae)

Cloves come from an evergreen tree in the Indonesian islands. Cloves are formed as the flowers mature. Cloves are used in tobacco products, essential oil, as a culinary spice, and tea (Chai). Applied topically, clove has a numbing, anesthetic quality due to the potent eugenol content. In fact, clove oil has been used in dental procedures at one-fifth of the cost of conventional anesthetics. Clove has been shown to have antimicrobial effects on the skin.  Clove has also been used as a mild aphrodisiac, for nausea, and poor circulation (Natural Medicines Database, 2019). According to Pharmaceutical biology (2017), clove was shown to have antioxidant, tissue-remodeling, and anti-inflammatory properties with the ability to improve the cell cycle and cellular stress responses accredited it to eugenol. 

Juniper Berry 

Juniper - Cypress family (Juniperus - Cupressaceae)

The star local plant of this product, Juniper was considered sacred by indigenous people (American Botanical Council, 2003).   In European countries, the bark is burned in hospital rooms to purify the air (NMD, 2019). According to the American Botanical Council (2003), juniper berries were used in baths as early as 1311 as an anti-inflammatory for itchy skin and allergic reactions. By the 15th century, juniper berry was also used as antibacterial for treating infectious wounds. Externally juniper berry is used as an analgesic, antiseptic, antispasmodic, antimicrobial, expectorant, rubefacient, stimulant, astringent, styptic, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and sedative. As a wilderness medicine, crushed berries can be applied as a poultice for infections and wounds, swollen joints, and sore muscles. Juniper has also been shown to be useful outdoors as an insect repellent (ACHS, 2018). The aromatics are useful for respiratory conditions and headaches (American Botanical Council, 2003).

To see the full Juniper berry monograph go here 

CBD

Our skin has an entire system dedicated to utilizing CBD, the endocannabinoid system.  Our skin recognizes CBD and involves a sequence of receptors to regulate the skin cells.  Medical studies demonstrate that CBD increases cellular strength, growth, and differentiation. This allows increases immunity, reduces inflammation, and provides antioxidants to treat all sorts of skin conditions.

Bearly There is a lightweight, daily, all-in-one skin cleanser and hydrator. Apply to your skin, hair, beard, cuticles, or just about anywhere on your body that needs some love. Bearly There contains a lightweight and hydrating blend of seed and nut oils infused with handmade herbal extracts. This time, we harvested and distilled local Juniper berries to create the cozy Tahoe forest aroma, combined with the warm and soulful frankincense, ylang ylang, and clove essential oils. Science shows healing, hydrating, anti-aging, uv-protective, antimicrobial, mood enhancing, circulatory, and anti-inflammatory properties of the flowers, plants, and berries in the formula.

---

References

American Botanical Council. (2018). Calendula Flower: Expanded Commission E.

American Botanical Council. (2010). Frankincense [HerbClipNews].

American Botanical Council. (2007). Ylang Ylang - the flower of flowers [HerbClip]

Cohen, J. (2019). A wise man’s cure: Frankincense and Myrrh.

European Medicines Agency. (2018). European Union Herbal Monograph on Calendula officinalis L., flos.

Han, X., Beaumont, C., & Stevens, N. (2017). Chemical composition analysis and in vitro biological activities of ten essential oils in human skin cells. Biochimie open, 5, 1–7. doi:10.1016/j.biopen.2017.04.001

Han, X., & Parker, T. (2017). Anti-inflammatory activity of clove (Eugenia caryophyllata) essential oil in human dermal fibroblasts. Pharmaceutical biology, 55(1), 1619–1622. doi:10.1080/13880209.2017.1314513

Hongratanaworakit, T. & Buchbauer, G. (2006). Relaxing effect of ylang ylang oil on humans after transdermal absorption. Phytotherapy Research. doi.org/10.1002/ptr.1950

Natural Medicines Database. (2019). Boswellia [professional monograph].

Natural Medicines Database. (2019). Clove oil [professional monograph].

Natural Medicines Database. (2019). Ylang Ylang oil [professional monograph].

Roh, K., Park, D., & Jung, E. (2018). Inhibitory Effects of Prunella vulgaris L. Extract on 11β-HSD1 in Human Skin Cells. Evidence-based complementary and alternative medicine : eCAM, 2018, 1762478. doi:10.1155/2018/1762478

Sharma, M., Schoop, R., Suter, A., & Hudson, J. (2010). The potential use of Echinacea in acne: a control of Propionibacterium acnes growth and inflammation. Phytotherapy Research, 25(4), doi.org/10.1002/ptr.3288

Tan, L., Lee, L., Yin, W., Chan, C., Abdul Kadir, H., Chan, K., & Goh, B. (2015). Traditional Uses, Phytochemistry, and Bioactivities of Cananga odorata (Ylang-Ylang). Evidence-based complementary and alternative medicine : eCAM, 2015, 896314. doi:10.1155/2015/896314

Thompson, K. (2019). Calendula Monograph [Herb Rally].

Yotsawimonwat, J., Rattandechsakul, P., Rattandechsakul, S. (2010). Skin improvement and stability of Echinacea purpurea dermatological formulations. International Journal of Cosmetic Science. 32(5), doi: 10.1111/j.1468-2494.2009.00559

Zhang, M., Hwang, E., Lin, P., Gao, W., Ngo, H., & Yi, T. H. (2018). Prunella vulgaris L. Exerts a Protective Effect Against Extrinsic Aging Through NF-κB, MAPKs, AP-1, and TGF-β/Smad Signaling Pathways in UVB-Aged Normal Human Dermal Fibroblasts. Rejuvenation research, 21(4), 313–322. doi:10.1089/rej.2017.1971