COSMETIC INGREDIENTS

 

Why do our products work?

Our Organic aromatherapy and skin care ranges have been formulated with high quality organically certified ingredients, known for their beneficial properties and effective action on the skin.  Specially selected essential oils have been chosen primarily for their therapeutic qualities as well as their precious and unique fragrances.

 

Behind the Label

After analysing almost 3000 ingredients commonly used in personal care products and cosmetics, The National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health found that 884 were known to be toxic, 13 of which are the same chemicals used in industry and commonly used in cosmetics products.[2] We take time to read the labels on the foods we eat so we should also be wise enough to read the labels on the skin care products we use.

 

SOiL products contain:

 

 

 

Some common chemicals used in commercial skin cosmetics and why we don’t use them in SOiL products:

 

 

Aqua

Aqua or water usually forms the major component in most toiletries and as a result usually appears first in the ingredients listing. It is a cheap way to thin or bulk a product out. Since water is also an ideal medium in which bacteria can grow it also requires a large amount of preservatives to keep the product from contamination.

 

We use ingredients because they are natural and effective, not because they are cheap. Where water is required in any of our products we prefer to use the plant hydrosol instead thereby imparting the properties of the plant into the product at the same time.

 

Sodium Lauryl Sulphate (SLS)

Sodium Lauryl Sulphate and its ethoxylated version Sodium Laureth Sulphate are detergents commonly used in shampoos, shower gels, soaps and toothpastes. They work by breaking the surface tension of the skin, emulsifying and stripping off the skins oil layer thus taking dirt with it when washed away.

 

This chemical compound started out as an industrial degreaser and garage floor cleaner. It is a known skin irritant and has been shown to cause problems particularly with eye tissue. We do not use SLS in any of our products.

 

Mineral oils

Mineral oil (liquid paraffin) or liquid petrolatum are by-products in the distillation of petroleum to produce gasoline. It is produced in huge volumes and is a low value oil, thus a popular ingredient in moisturising products. It is marketed as baby oil when fragrances and other ingredients are added.

 

Mineral oil is a synthetic emollient that cannot be synthesised by the skin and causes pore blockage due to the size of its molecules compared to those of natural plant oils. We do not use petroleum based ingredients in any of our products. Instead of mineral oils we use natural plant oils in our products. These are similar to the skin’s own sebum and contain vitamins, anti-oxidants and essential fatty acids, to support and condition the skin.

 

Parabens

Parabens are a group of chemicals widely used as preservatives in the cosmetics and pharmaceutical industries.  They can be found in shampoos, commercial moisturizers, shaving gels, cleansing gels, personal lubricants, topical pharmaceuticals and toothpaste. They are also used as food preservatives.

 

In recent years parabens has had negative press after researchers found traces of this chemical in tissue taken from women with breast cancer. While there is no evidence to prove that parabens cause cancer, it is thought they may have an estrogenic effect in the body. We do not used parabens in our products. Instead we used natural preservatives such as vitamin E and package our products in brown containers to reduce the amount of UV that can affect the product.

 

Colourings

Synthetics colourants are used in the production of commercial cosmetics and are skin irritants.

 

If our products are coloured, this comes from the natural colours of the plant based ingredients. We feel that synthetic colourings are unnecessary and possibly harmful. We do not use them.

 

Parfum

International cosmetic labelling laws only require a product’s fragrance components to be listed to as "parfum". Many synthetic and potentially harmful ingredients can be hidden behind this word.

 

We list every individual ingredient in our products and have no need for synthetic fragrance as the essential oils that we choose for their therapeutic actions already lend their amazing aromas to our products.

 

Silicones

These ingredients are increasingly used in toiletries to create slip and impart a silky feeling of the product on the skin or hair. They work by clinging to the skin’s surface and creating a coating that can block pores and reduce the skin’s natural ability to breathe and detoxify. They are listed as Dimethicone, Dimethicone copolyol etc.

 

We do not use silicones. With such gorgeous textures available from nature we do not feel it necessary to use silicones in our products.

 

ABOUT SOIL

 

Who are SOiL?

SOiL was born out of our family managed, organic essential oil farming operation in Zululand. It is here that we have been growing and distilling aromatic plants for their precious oils since 2001. SOiL was the first company in South Africa to sell a complete range of 100% certified organic (BCS) essential oils, many of which have been grown on our organic farm in Zululand. We also launched South Africa’s first line of certified organic massage oil blends and skin care products.

 

Groenkop Farm

Translated into English our family farm's name appropriately means "Green Hill". We are situated in the heart of Zululand overlooking the eMakhoseni Valley, the sacred burial place of Zulu kings. The farm's isolation from industrial centres means it has some of the cleanest air and water in South Africa, enhancing the quality of our products.

 

 

 

Our Values

 

 

 

SOiL believes in organic

 

SOiL promotes natural and abstains from harmful

 

SOiL supports Local

 

SOiL cares about the quality, efficacy and purity of its products

 

SOiL products are not tested on animals

 

 

 

SOiL PRODUCTS

 

Aromatherapy

 

Organic Essential Oils

 

Sweet Basil (Thymol type)

Ocimum basilicum

- 11ml

This popular culinary herb produces its oil by steam distillation of the leaves and flowering tops of the plant. There are many chemotypes of this oil but this chemotype has a higher percentage of thymol, which is regarded as being useful for respiratory and throat infections. This oil is used in Ayurvedic medicine along with black pepper for treating Malarial fevers. Sweet basil is enlivening, comforting and helpful for clarity and strength of mind as well as body systems. Basil oil has a beneficial action on the respiratory and digestive systems.

Safety Information:

Basil oil is contraindicated during pregnancy.

 

 

 

Bergamot FCF (Bergaptene free)

Citrus bergamia

- 11ml

Expressed from the peel of the bitter orange tree, Bergamot, which is known for its uplifting action, refreshes and restores. Helpful for colds, flu and PMS as well as nervous digestive complains. A popular oil in the perfumery industry, it was the key ingredient in the traditional Eau de cologne that was being made in Italy in 16^th C. This oil is also imparts the refreshing flavour attributed to Earl Grey tea.

It typically has a naturally occurring chemical called bergapten (a furanocoumarin) which is a phototoxic agent that produces abnormally dark pigmentation and reddening of the surrounding skin after exposure to UV rays. Bergapten has been removed from our Bergamot oil and so is safe to use on the skin in dilution.

 

 

Black Pepper

Piper nigrum

- 11m

The essential oil is steam distilled from the dried, crushed fruits of the pepper vine. Black pepper with its warm spiciness is well indicated for the circulation and digestion as well as muscular aches. This oil is popular in Ayurvedic medicine and is a useful oil for athletes before training to help prevent pain and stiffness afterwards.

Safety Information:

It has been said that excessive use of this oil can over stimulate the kidneys but according to Salvatore Battaglia, experienced aromatherapist and Author of The Complete Guide To Aromatherapy, no clinical evidence could be found to confirm this.

Cedarwood

Cedrus atlantica

- 11ml

Cedarwood oil is steam distilled from the wood-chippings of Cedarwood trees that grow in the Atlas mountains in Morocco and North western Algeria. Cedarwood’s sweet, woody aroma has a warming and reputed aphrodisiac effect. Helpful to encourage lymphatic drainage and very useful in skin and hair care.

Safety Information:

According to Authors Price, Lawless and Fischer-Rizzi, Cedrus atlantica oil should not be used during pregnancy as it is said to have neurotoxic and abortive effects in cumulative doses, Tisserand and Balacs state that it is safe to use and do not suggest that it should be contraindicated during pregnancy.

 

Chamomile, Roman

Anthemis nobilis

- 5ml (Please note that as this is an expensive oil, we sell it in 5mls)

Roman Chamomile is a sweet scented perennial with daisy-like flowers and feathery leaves. The oil is distilled from the flowering tops of the plant. It has a pleasant apple fragrance. This plant has been long known for its therapeutic properties. Roman chamomile is a gentle oil, which makes it suitable for children. Relaxing and pain-relieving properties make it useful for treating complaints of the digestive and nervous systems. Having both sedative and anti-inflammatory properties, this oil is helpful for painful conditions and restlessness such as teething in infants, colic and indigestion.

 

Citronella

Cymbopogon nardus

-  11ml

Known for its Antiseptic, Bactericidal, deodorant and toning properties, this lemon scented oil is uplifting and cleansing. It is commonly used as an air freshener or as an insect repellent. Its antimicrobial properties suggest that it is a useful oil for inhalations to protect against colds and flu.

Safety information:

May cause contact dermatitis in some individuals.

 

Clary Sage

Salvia sclarea

-  11ml

Clary Sage is steam distilled from the plant’s flowering tops and foliage. Its flowers are pale blue, violet-pink or white and its leaves heart shaped. Clary sage has a musky herbaceous aroma. It is uplifting, cooling and soothing. It is known as a useful women’s remedy throughout all stages of life. Beneficial for stress related issues and as an antispasmodic for menstrual cramps.

Safety Information:

Contraindicated during pregnancy. However Tisserand and Balacs suggest that just because Clary Sage is labelled as an emmenagogue does not imply that the oil is an abortificant in the amounts used in aromatherapy and, as such, it should present no danger in pregnancy.

 

Eucalyptus

Eucalyptus smithii

- 11ml

This oil is very pleasant for use in massage blends and steam inhalations. It helps clear breathing passageways and can protect against colds. It can be a useful oil to relieve insect bites as well as muscular aches. It is a well known oil for decongesting and thus can benefit cold and flu conditions.

 

   

Fennel

Foeniculum vulgare

– 11ml

Fennel oil is produced from steam distillation of the crushed seeds of this tall feathery-leaved plant, which is indigenous to parts of the Mediterranean. The ancient Greeks recognised this herb's value as a slimming aid and Roman armies would give the seeds to their soldiers to chew when they had to march long distances without time to stop and eat. Fennel is antispasmodic and traditionally used to relieve bloating and digestive problems. Useful for fluid retention and regulation of the menstrual cycle.

Safety Information:

Often contraindicated by persons suffering from epilepsy or during pregnancy.

 

Geranium, Rose

Pelargonium graveolens

– 11ml

Geraniums originate from South Africa and were introduced into Europe in the 17thC. The essential oil is distilled from the leaves and branches of the plant. Geranium is known to lift the spirit and relieve anxiety. It is useful in treating PMS and menopausal problems. It has a balancing effect on the skin and can be used on all skin types including oil and problematic skin.

Safety Information:

May cause skin irritation in some individuals

 

Juniper Berry

Juniperus communis

– 11ml

Our juniper berry oil is steam distilled from the crushed berries of this shrub. Sometimes the oil is distilled from both the berry and twig but this affects the quality of the oil. The English name Juniper is derived from the Latin juniores, meaning young berries. Juniperberry is toning, diuretic and antiseptic, thus a useful detoxifying oil, benefiting the lymphatic system. Warming and calming, it is also recommended for nervous and intellectual fatigue.

Safety Information:

Juniper oil is contraindicated during pregnancy or in those with kidney disease. However, Battaglia states that this information refers to the internal use of herbal extracts of juniper berries.

 

Lavender

Lavandula angustifolia

– 11ml

The most popular and versatile oil in aromatherapy. A must for the first aid box - a good oil for irritating skin conditions where there is inflammation, burns, scarring etc. Lavender is known for its relaxing and calming properties. Known to relieve headaches and insomnia as well as benefit throat infections, colds and flu.

 

Lemon oil

Citrus limon

– 11ml

This lively oil with its refreshing citrus aroma is highly antiseptic making it useful in treating wounds and infections. Used in the home to clean and deodorise.

Safety Information:

Sensitisation can occur in some people. It should not be used on the skin prior to sun exposure as it is phototoxic.

 

 

Lemongrass

Cymbopogon citratus

– 11ml

Lemongrass oil is steam-distilled from fresh or partly dried leaves of this tall grass. An invigorating oil which stimulates, revives and energises the body. Often used to treat jetlag, relieve fatigue or as an air freshener and insect repellent.

Safety Information: May be cause skin irritation in some individuals.

 

Niaouli

Melaeuca quinquenervia

– 11ml

Niaouli is a small tree with papery bark. The oil is steam distilled from the leaves and twigs of this species. Niaouli is fresh and camphoraceous. Being antiseptic and healing, it is useful for boils and cuts and is well-suited to skin care applications on account of its being non-irritant. Its expectorant properties make it well indicated for respiratory tract infections.

 

Orange, Sweet

Citrus sinensis

– 11ml

This warm sweet-smelling oil is cold-pressed from the ripe or almost ripe outer peel of the fruit. Orange oil has a fresh and fruity aroma which has a refreshing effect. It is valuable in treating dry skins and renewing dull complexions.

 

Palmarosa

Cymbopogon martini

– 11ml

Palmarosa oil is distilled from the fresh or dried stems of this grass which grows wild in India and is cultivated in the Seychelles and Comoro Islands. Palmarosa has antibacterial and cell regenerating properties making a useful skin care oil. Reputed to have a tonic effect on the digestive and nervous systems.

 

Patchouli

Pogostemon cablin

– 11ml

Although there are several species of Patchouli, the best oil is considered to be distilled from the cablin variety. The plant is a shrub with large leaves and small pink flowers. The oil itself is orange-brown in colour. Patchouli has a distinct earthy aroma and is best known as a regenerating skin care oil. Therapeutically it is uplifting, anti-inflammatory and bactericidal.

 

Peppermint

Mentha piperita

– 11ml

The essential oil is stem-distilled from the partially dried plant. Peppermint is known for its refreshing and stimulating properties. It is said to aid circulation and treat various digestive upsets.

Safety Information:

May occasionally be sensitising in some individuals. Some sources advise that this oil should be avoided by mothers while nursing.

 

Petitgrain

Citrus aurantium

– 11ml

Petitgrain oil is distilled from the leaves of the bitter orange tree. The word petitgrain is derived from the French meaning "ittle seed", however, the name remained even though the oil is no longer derived from the unripe fruits of this tree. It has always been an important oil for perfumery, especially as an ingredient in eau de cologne. Petitgrain oil strengthens the nervous system and has a tonic effect in skin care applications. It has also been indicated as an antispasmodic in digestive troubles.

 

Rosemary

Rosmarinus officinalis

– 11ml

A well-known aromatic herb; Rosemary has been used medicinally for centuries. Considered a tonic for the central nervous system, Rosemary is said to improve memory, stimulate the brain and relieve headaches. It is also excellent for hair and scalp problems.

Safety Information:

Should not be used during pregnancy and by persons suffering from epilepsy or high blood pressure.

 

Tea tree

Melaleuca alternifolia

– 11ml

Tea tree oil is steam-distilled from the leaves of this shrub or small tree. The therapeutic actions of Tea tree have been well documented and this oil is a must for your first aid kit. Tea Tree has impressive antiseptic and antiviral properties, making it widely used in treatment of many skin conditions.

Safety Information:

Possibly sensitising in some individuals.

 

Thyme

Thymus vulgaris

– 11ml

Thyme is noted for its antiviral and antiseptic properties. It is a wonderful oil to use in a room diffuser to ward off colds and flue. Used in massage blends to relieve fatigued muscles.

Safety Information:

Possibly sensitising in some individuals.

 

Vetiver

Vetiveria zizanioides

– 11ml

Vetiver is a tall grass, native to India. It is sometimes used to prevent soil erosion due to its network of roots. It is these fibrous roots which are cleaned, dried and distilled to produce the sweet earthy smelling oil. Vetiver is often used in perfumery and is a valuable oil for relieving anxiety and depression due to its grounding nature. It is suggested as a good oil to strengthen the skin as well as being beneficial to the musculoskeletal system due to its ability to promote blood flow.

 

Ylang Ylang

Cananga odorata

– 11ml

Originating from South-East Asia, Cananga odorata is a fast-growing, tall evergreen tree, which produces large yellow-green, strongly scented flowers. Ylang Ylang has an intoxicating floral aroma. It is calming and soothes mentally, physically and emotionally. Traditionally used as an aphrodisiac.

Safety Information:

Excessive use may cause nausea or headaches

Using Essential Oils

Essential oils are the highly concentrated active ingredients of plants. They should always be diluted in a base before use and should not be taken internally without professional recommendation.

Baths: Add 5  to 10 drops of essential oil(s) to a warm run bath. If skin is sensitive, blend the essential oil in a teaspoon of carrier oil first. Close the door so the vapours don't escape. Soak for at least 10 minutes relaxing and breathing deeply. For added moisturising dilute the oils in 10ml of carrier before adding to the bath.

Massage: add 5 to  6 drops of essential oil per 10ml of carrier oil. Mix thoroughly and apply liberally to the skin.

Inhalations: Add 4 to  5 drops of essential oil to a bowl of steaming water. Place a towel over your head, close your eyes and lean over the bowl. Inhale the vapour for a few minutes.

Burners and Diffusers: Fill the bowl of the burner/vaporiser with water and then add 3 to 6 drops of essential oil. Light the candle and the oil will evaporate as the water heats up. Do not let the bowl dry out.

 

CONTRAINDICATIONS FOR ESSENTIAL OILS

Please refer to the safety information we have listed under each essential oil description for specific contraindications.

 

Allergies:

We recommend that people with allergies should test a tiny amount of oil on a small area on the inside of their arm before using the oil.

 

Epilepsy and High Blood Pressure:

It is recommended that certain oils should be avoided by those suffering from epilepsy of high blood pressure. Please read contraindications carefully and consult your physician if in doubt.

 

Pregnancy:

There are a number of essential oils which are contraindicated during pregnancy, although the list will change with each book or website used. We do not advise using essential oils during pregnancy as people may react differently and we do not have access to individual's case histories.

 

Having said that, it is known that there are many essentials oils that are useful during pregnancy and labour. Therefore we advise our customers to read information available in books and on the internet and to make informed choices about the products you use. We have referred to Salvatore Battaglia, The Complete Guide to Aromatherapy for this information.