Our Ingredients
Superstar Attributes
The following information about the evidence-based qualities of our raw materials is given in good faith. While our recipes fuse individual ingredients together, each one has it’s own superstar attributes. Tasmanian Soap Farm makes no claims about the health-giving properties of our products. Rather, it is up to you to draw your own conclusions, based on the fact that we use 100% Tasmanian, 100% natural ingredients.
Activated Charcoal
(scientific name: Activated carbon, C)
We source our activated charcoal from a certified organic farm in Tasmania, then grind it into a fine powder. It’s made by superheating wood with reduced oxygen at a steady temperature (between 500-700°C), pyrolising the wood. This term is from the Greek-derived elements ‘pyro’ (fire) and ‘lysis’ (separating). The method gives a clean burn, ensuring the integrity of the carbon (platelet) product and the removal of resins and volatiles. Activation occurs when the charcoal is introduced to steam, which magnifies the surface area of the carbon molecules within it. This is what enables it to capture unwanted impurities, dirt, and oils, which has made it popular in many cosmetic products today.
Anecdotal evidence says that activated charcoal:
Binds to poisons, toxins or bacteria: these are what contribute to skin issues or bite reactions. According to functional medicine practitioner Dr Axe, it works in a similar way when applied topically on skin as it does when used inside our body, drawing the unwanted microparticles away from our body;
Assists with acne control: this is because it has the potential to absorb the excess oils from the skin that are often produced by the body during hormonal changes;
Helps with clearing facial redness: because the redness could be the result of bacterial infection, the activated charcoal in the soap may aid in drawing out the offending bacteria;
Absorbs smells: this makes it useful as a deodorising ingredient for our body areas prone to whiffy perspiration;
Reduces pore size: this is possible since it is known to draw the impurities out of skin.
While we love the reported benefits of this ingredient, we deliberately wanted to include it in our devil soap to symbolise the colour of our iconic Tasmanian devil. Feel the fiery, wild spirit!
Apple Cider Vinegar
(from apples, botanical name: Malus Pumila)
Tasmania is also known as ‘the Apple Isle’. Fresh apples are used to make apple cider vinegar (ACV). Our Tasmanian supplier ferments fresh apple juice into apple cider and then converts this to vinegar using carefully selected strains of yeast and acetobacter bacteria. The vinegar ages on the vinegar mother before being bottled. It is unfiltered and unpasteurised in order to maximise its health benefits.
According to research, ACV:
Fights acne, pimples and blemishes, perspiration odour and candida: when ACV is made, malic acid forms, making ACV a potent antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral substance capable of keeping bacteria at bay and preventing pimples from forming;
Helps reduce age spots: ACV contains alpha hydroxy acids that will remove dead skin and reveal healthy and vibrant new skin;
Tones your skin: while removing excess skin surface oil, ACV balances sebum production and restores pH, helping to keep your skin from becoming too oily or too dry;
Fights wrinkles: it may assist in minimising the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles;
Removes toxins from your face: regular use draws toxins out of your skin leaving a youthful and clean glow.
Tasmanian Soap Farm incorporates the goodness of natural apple cider vinegar in its classic, terrene and vegan skin care soap to assist in giving you a clear complexion. Glow!
Avocado
(botanical name: Persea Americana)
While the avocado originated in central America, Tasmania’s cooler climate means that the fruit is slower-growing, giving it the opportunity to be richer, creamier and very high in natural oil content. Our local Tasmanian supplier harvests only fully mature avocados, further maximising their oil content.
Tasmanian Soap Farm blends fresh avocado fruit into its vegan skin care soap. Analysts say it:
Moisturises and nourishes: as well as vitamin E, it contains potassium, lecithin, and other nutrients that can nourish and moisturise the skin. The outermost layer of skin (the epidermis) easily absorbs these nutrients, which also helps to form new skin;
Relieves inflammation from psoriasis and eczema: its antioxidants and vitamins may help to heal the dry, irritated, and flaky skin associated with eczema and psoriasis;
Prevents and treats acne: it can keep skin hydrated without leaving an oily residue. This may reduce the risk of acne. And, its anti-inflammatory effects can help to reduce pimple redness and inflammation;
Accelerates wound healing: it assists to help wounds to heal more quickly. One 2013 study found that the essential omega-3 fatty acids and oleic acid in avocado oil can promote collagen synthesis — creating new skin during the healing process.
Let your skin soak up some avocado magic!
Beef Tallow
(from cattle, scientific name: Bos taurus)
Soap-making requires the use of different oils — each one provides a unique benefit. Beef tallow, from cattle, was traditionally used as a soap ingredient for thousands of years, yet today it is generally wasted. Enter Tasmanian Soap Farm. We use 100% natural grass-fed Tasmanian beef tallow. Thankfully, its valuable properties are being rediscovered. Scientific tests show that beef tallow has the following qualities:
Biologically compatible with our skin: it contains the same fats, or lipids, found in healthy, supple human skin. Lipids are found in abundance in the membrane of every cell in our bodies. They create a protective, yet permeable, barrier that prevents infection and maintains the moisture, flexibility and structure of skin cells;
Fights free radicals: it is loaded with vitamins A, D, E and K. Vitamin E is an antioxidant and it promotes youthful skin by fighting free radicals that cause wrinkles and system damage. It also helps prevent the degradation of collagen;
Anti-cancer properties: cattle allowed to graze naturally on grass in the sunshine develop large amounts of conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) within their fat. CLA has been proven to possess anti-cancer properties in vivo (living organism processes) and in vitro (in test tubes).
By up-cycling this often-unwanted resource, we honour and respect the whole animal. Beef tallow is like a superfood for your skin, keeping it moisturised, super-soft and youthful. Renew!
Tasmanian Blue Gum Essential Oil
(botanical name: Eucalyptus globulus)
While the flowers of the native Tasmanian Blue Gum have been Tasmania’s floral emblem since 1962, Tasmania’s First Peoples knew of its benefits long before. Today, the leaves are harvested from sustainable plantations and steam distilled to produce an essential oil with the distinctive eucalyptus fragrance so evocative of the Australian bush. Blue Gum essential oil contains the following properties:
Antimicrobial: it contains a compound called eucalyptol (or 1,8-cineole), which is antimicrobial;
Healant and anti-inflammatory: a 2017 report by Turkish researchers at the 9th Annual European Pharma Congress showed that it exhibited significant wound healing activities, including for acne. It is a skin soother;
Aromatherapy: it is a stimulant and rejuvenates mentally fatigued people. It can also be effective in providing relief from stress as inhaling its vapor helps increase blood circulation to the brain;
Body care: a 2012 report published in the Asia Pacific Journal of Tropical Disease revealed it has potent antiseptic and anti-fungal properties which helps to remove the build-up of germs in the hair follicles on our skin.
Tasmanian Blue Gum essential oil is an all-round healing, soothing, yet uplifting ingredient and a natural choice for our terrene skin care soap. Bathe in the scent of the Aussie bush!
Bull Kelp Seaweed
(botanical name: Durvillaea potatorum)
We use ethically collected, dried and ground bull kelp from Tasmania in our soap. Bull kelp photosynthesises, but it is not a plant. It is a brown algae – a type of seaweed. It grows wild abundantly in kelp forests in Tasmania’s cold-water oceans. Aboriginal people in Tasmania used dried bull kelp to transport water and food. The species name came from such use: ‘potatorum’ means “to drink” in Latin. Investigators say that this seaweed offers abundant skin health bonuses:
Superior hydration, anti-inflammatory and anti-ageing: kelp contains essential fatty acids that suffuse your skin with moisture. And with continued use, it may also prevent your skin from losing that moisture. It can also help to reduce the redness and pain of breakout inflammation;
Removes toxins: it contains elements, like chlorophyll, that easily penetrate the skin to remove toxins, soothe and hydrate the skin and it also aids in keeping it smooth;
Eases dry and flaky patches of skin: it can ease dry skin areas due to its high iodine content, minerals and antioxidants;
Tightens the skin: essential fatty acids and vitamin A tighten and smooth sagging, dehydrated skin;
Nourishes: it nourishes and strengthens your skin with vitamins A, B1, B2, C, D and E, plus minerals: zinc, iodine, magnesium, iron, copper and potassium.
Using bull kelp seaweed on your skin, via our vegan soap is now an everyday convenience. Soak it up!
Calendula Flowers
(botanical name: Calendula officinalis)
Daisy-like calendula, an edible herb, was originally used by the ancient Romans who gave it this name because the flowers were like a calendar, blooming monthly. Calendula extracts remain a traditional homeopathic treatment for wounds, inflammation, irritation and to prevent harmful bacteria from residing in the skin. We blend certified organic, pureed Tasmanian calendula flowers into our baby soap to maintain baby’s skin in the best possible condition. It has proven benefits:
Heals and firms skin: studies show that it may help decrease the healing time of injuries among infants and also help to improve the firmness of baby’s skin and aid new tissue growth in infected areas. It also treats blisters, redness, swelling, patchy skin and it has antiseptic qualities too – helping to prevent infections;
Assists nappy rash, dermatitis and dandruff: its potent anti-inflammatory nutrients, such as flavonoids and linoleic acid, are antioxidants that defend the body’s pro-inflammatory compounds such as cytokines and C-reactive proteins from damage. Therefore, it can help to treat various skin issues among babies, such as dermatitis and diaper rash. Also, calendula oil hydrates dry scalps;
Prevents harmful bacteria: Calendula succus, the juice that is secreted from the flower, is a triterpenoid saponin, an anti-inflammatory containing powerful antiviral and antimicrobial components that helps prevent dangerous viruses and bacteria from living in baby’s skin, even antibiotic-resistant pathogens such as those causing candida.
Best of all, our baby skin care soap is not just for babies, it’s recommended for adults too, and especially for seniors. Pamper bub, yourself or a loved one!
Canola Oil
(botanical name: Brassica napus)
Canola was developed from the rapeseed fd family (Brassica campestris), which has been cultivated for 4000 years. Canadian farmers used traditional techniques (plant crossbreeding) in the early 1970s to produce canola (a contraction of ‘Canadian’ and ‘ola’ (oil). We source Tasmanian GM-free canola oil. The oil is extracted from the seeds via single (virgin) cold pressing. It has unique health benefits and is widely regarded as one of the healthiest edible oils, second only to flax seed oil. When used in soap, it produces a lovely dense, creamy lather. Science testifies that it can assist your skin due to the following reasons:
Moisturiser and antioxidant: not only does it contain vitamin E, an antioxidant that will help to protect your skin from free radicals, it also contains plant sterols in a 2:1 ratio: linoleic (omega 3) and alpha-linoleic, ALA, (omega 6) fatty acids which help to combat premature ageing and soothe dry, irritated skin;
Anti-inflammatory: ALA, a type of polyunsaturated fat, exhibits strong anti-inflammatory properties and might benefit conditions like eczema;
Restorative and protective: a 1996 article published in the British Journal of Dermatology, found it had some of the best results in reducing sodium-laurel-sulphate-induced skin harm and that it also resulted in significantly lower transepidermal water loss.
Enjoy sudsing up with this beautiful, conditioning oil in our skin and mouth care soaps. Restore!
Camelia Flowers
(botanical name: Camellia japonica)
The botanical origin of camelias is Eastern Asia, including the Himalayas, Japan, Southern China, and South-Eastern countries. The first references about the use of C. japonica with medicinal purposes dates back to 1613, when the use of the flowers was reported by the doctor of oriental medicine, Heo Jun. We grow these exotic camelias on our farm and harvest their fresh, vibrant flowers to make a ruby-red tea to add to our rosy /afterglow/ skin care soap. According to Science Direct, recent findings on its phytochemical characterization showed thousands of bioactive ingredients, mostly represented by phenolic compounds, together with terpenoids, and fatty acids. These molecules present positive biological activities:
non-comedogenic and suitable for most skin types
defense against ultraviolet: known to contain antioxidants due to the presence of polyphenols. There are also pollution-neutralizing benefits.
boosts the presence of antioxidant enzymes that naturally occur in skin, such as superoxide dismutase, catalase and glutathione peroxidase, helping the skin defend itself against premature ageing from the degradation of collagen.
antimicrobial
anti-inflammatory
reduces the appearance of dryness and fine lines because it possesses lipids with incredible soothing and moisturising properties, improving elasticity and tone, and an overall improved complexion.
Such a cosmeceutical powerhouse! Science does not yet have all of the answers about how these beautiful blossoms can assist our skin health. Meanwhile, you can judge for yourself by using our rosy skin care soap.
Carrot Juice
(botanical name: Daucus carota)
Carrots are one of the most popular root vegetables grown throughout the world. There is even evidence for them being used as far back as Ancient Rome! We source fresh, locally-grown Tasmanian carrots to juice and use in some of our soap recipes. Carrots contain natural antioxidants, alpha-carotene and beta-carotene, a precursor of vitamin A (retinol). It is beta-carotene that gives carrots their vivid orange pigment. Reported benefits of carrot juice added to cosmetics and applied topically, such as via our soap are:
Healing: it is capable of guarding against UV-induced harm, assisting in reducing oxidative strain and contributes to enhancing the skin’s appearance;
Detoxifies and Treats Skin Blemishes: it may reduce dark spots, help prevent dullness and enhance skin glow. Carrots are known for their high content of phenolic compounds, mainly chlorogenic acid (an antioxidant, antibacterial, anti-lipogenesis and anti-inflammatory);
Prevents Wrinkles: vitamins A, B and apigenin (a flavone) present in carrots stimulate collagen production thus visibly reducing wrinkles, fine lines and other signs of ageing;
Nourishes Dry Skin: the presence of carotene, precursor of vitamin A, helps rebuild the epidermal barrier and heal dry skin conditions;
Treats Oily Skin and Acne Problems: vitamin A regulates excess sebum production by reducing sebaceous gland secretions. Its anti-inflammatory effects control and treat inflamed acne lesions and prevent bacterial proliferation in skin pores. Further, the presence of organic acids such as tartaric acid act as natural exfoliators and prevent acne.
Boosts Skin Immunity: carrots contain all three vital vitamins- A, B and C, that are known to boost skin immunity. While vitamin A aids cell renewal, collagen synthesis and skin repair, vitamin B helps treat inflammation, redness and uneven skin tone. Vitamin C fortifies your skin against free radical damage and prevents infections and hyperpigmentation.
Prevents Atopic Dermatitis.eczema: this inflammatory condition causes a red, itchy, scaly rash in different parts of the body. Luteolin, a type of flavone and phenolic acids along with beta-carotene present in carrots are powerful anti-inflammatory agents that can help treat inflammatory conditions of the skin.
We currently add carrot juice to our predominantly grass fed beef tallow soap as a natural colourant for a special sub-on-a-rope commission from the Jaqui Lambie Network! The fat actually helps transport the carrot goodness so that skin can absorb it. We plan to add soaps using carrot to our on-line range in the near future.
Chamomile Flowers
(botanical name: Matricaria chamomilla
The word chamomile comes from the Greek χαμαίμηλον (chamaimēlon) meaning ‘earth-apple’. This is supposedly because of the apple-like scent of the plant. It is native to southern and eastern Europe and has been used medicinally for thousands of years in traditional medicine in tea to calm mild anxiety and soothing unsettled stomachs in humans. More recently, chamomile has also been found to have calming benefits for our four-legged friends, too.
Tasmanian Soap Farm uses organic Tasmanian chamomile flowers to make an infusion, which is then added to our doggo coat care soap. More than 120 chemical constituents have been identified in these flowers, most of them contained in its blue-coloured essential oil. Some of these include: the terpenes bisabolol (skin-healing), farnesene (natural insect repellent; smell of green apples), and chamazulene (an aromatic); the flavonoids apigenin (anti-inflammatory), quercetin (anti-histamine), patuletin (anti-histamine), and luteolin (atopic dermatitis relief); and coumarin (masks unpleasant odours).
In short, chamomile may reduce skin inflammation in dogs often caused by:
Hot spots
Fungal infections
Bacterial infections
And/or fleabites
Why not treat your canine companion to the benefits of chamomile via our Tasmanian doggo soap!
Coastal Tea Tree Essential Oil
(botanical name: Leptospermum laevigatum)
Coastal Tea Tree was first described by German botanist Joseph Gaertner in 1788, however, Australia’s First Peoples would have known of its therapeutic properties long before. Tasmanian Soap Farm adds the steam-distilled essential oil obtained from the green foliage into its guest skin care soap. The sea transports the seed pods of this native heath-like shrub to coastal areas like remote Flinders Island, Tasmania, where it is sustainably wild-harvested (and quality-assured) by our supplier. It is a relatively new kid on the block when compared to more commercially-known species from the same Myrtaceae family: Manuka (Leptospermum scoparium), as in Manuka honey, and Tea Tree essential oil (Melaleuca alternifolia), with its camphoraceous odour and antiseptic qualities. As you can probably guess, Coastal Tea Tree essential oil has its own unique, fresh, piquant aroma, and properties – due to its 55 phytochemical components:
Antibacterial, antimicrobial and antifungal: researchers found it contains alpha and beta pinene terpenoids. They can assist in controlling unwanted bacteria and the like on our skin;
Aids memory and increases alertness: terpenes are a class of compounds which are known to assist memory and increase alertness through aromatherapy;
Antioxidants: these help to control free radicals on the skin. Free radicals are generated through pollution, environmental damage, UV light, stress, smoking and poor diet. They are responsible for breaking down our skin's collagen, resulting in unflattering skin blemishes like wrinkling, dark spots, fine lines and loose, saggy skin.
Now you can take a daily vicarious journey to Flinders Island in the Bass Strait, courtesy of our guest skin care soap and our one shampoo/conditioner bar. Escape!
Dandelion Flowers
(botanical name: Taraxcum officinale)
Dandelion is a common, annual herb in many parts of the world. Past generations knew of its powerful medicinal properties. We use wild Tasmanian dandelion flowers and rainwater to make an infusion that’s added to our soap formulations. Dandelion is a natural ingredient with many proven wellness properties:
Antioxidant: high in vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant, it is a great topical treatment for fighting free radicals and the signs of ageing skin;
Minerals: it contains potassium, calcium, magnesium and phosphorus. These minerals help to hydrate the tissues and support the functions of the skin;
Vitamins: Vitamin A, B6, C and K assist with supporting the skin's properties to fight free radicals;
Antifungal and germicidal: the high alkaline milk, or sap, from the stem of the flower is useful in treating skin diseases caused by microbial or fungal infections, including eczema and the bacteria that promote acne;
Improves cellular ageing: this has been proven in a 2015 U.S. Study. It includes sesquiterpene lactones and phenylpropanoids, which are believed to have anti-inflammatory, antioxidative and anti-cancer properties.
Science cannot yet fully explain all of Nature’s healing mechanisms. This humble botanical is a ray of golden sunshine and ‘dandelion’ is such a cheerful and stately name. Your skin and mouth (it’s in our toothsoap too) will love it!
Our horses know the power of dandelions!
Full-Cream Dairy Yoghurt
(from cattle, scientific name: Bos taurus)
Tasmania is renowned for its lush dairy pastures and healthy dairy industry. We use Tasmanian, unsweetened, all-natural yoghurt in our soap. Yoghurt has long been recognised as a skin enhancer. For instance, ancient Egypt’s Cleopatra was famous for her daily sour milk baths to keep her skin beautiful. Your skin can benefit too:
Anti-inflammatory: it contains zinc, which has anti-inflammatory properties — it can help reduce red swelling caused by acne or rashes. It is also a mild astringent and can assist with tightening tissues, alleviating acne and pimples and help to regulate oil production in the sebaceous glands, thereby preventing oily skin and frequent acne breakouts;
Exfoliates and moisturises: it contains lactic acid which exfoliates and moisturises dry skin to make it smooth; it helps prevent wrinkles and reduces the appearance of already-existing wrinkles;
Skin renewal: it contains calcium and antioxidants, helping to prevent and heal dry skin and it also facilitates skin growth — much of the epidermal layer of the skin consists of calcium!
There’s really something quite special about yoghurts affinity with human skin. Thank you to the lovely dairy cows for providing the wonderful milk that becomes yoghurt. Delight in it!
Goats' Milk
(from goats, scientific name: Capra hircus)
Goats have provided milk for humans to use in soap for thousands of years. We source this milk from a Tasmanian goat dairy and add it to most of our non-vegan soap range. It has documented benefits for skin:
Thorough cleanser: its lactic acid cleanses skin by eliminating impurities and its alpha hydroxy acids break down the bonds between dead cells, gently removing the dull surface layer of the skin, giving the skin a squeaky-clean appearance (without causing excessive dryness);
Skin softener and moisturiser: it’s an emollient and absorbed by the skin instantly, creating a moisture barrier to keep skin soft, smooth and supple for longer. Proteins, fatty acids and glycerine contribute to its super hydrating and moisturising properties;
Prevents premature ageing: its powerful antioxidants, vitamins A, C and E, can keep our skin free from the oxidative damage caused by free radicals and also reveal the new cell layers underneath. Both result in delaying the premature signs of ageing: fine lines, wrinkles and sunspots;
Heals and repairs: its fat molecules assist in relieving skin inflammation and soothe itchiness. It also offers anti-microbial effects to speed the healing of skin infections such as rosacea, eczema, psoriasis and contact dermatitis. Its anti-microbial properties help prevent and heal existing acne;
Maintains pH balance: its caprylic acid lowers the pH balance of the skin, preventing the attack of germs.
Wow! How marvellous. Thank you to the gorgeous Tasmanian goats. Embrace the milky goodness!
Green Tea
(botanical name: Camellia sinensis)
Green tea, made from the unoxidised leaves of Camellia sinensis, has been used as a medicinal beverage in Asia for thousands of years. The plant was named ‘camellia’ by the Swedish botanist Carl Linnaeus in 1753 in honour of Georg Kamel’s botanic work, while ‘sinensis’ is the Latin word for China, from where the shrub originates. When it’s consumed as a beverage its polyphenol antioxidants reportedly reduce inflammation in the body, a known trigger of premature ageing. More recently, green tea is also used in cosmetics. We blend (certified pesticide free) Tasmanian-grown green tea into our guest skin care soap and our one shampoo/conditioner bar. It has the following properties:
Moisturises: science has proven that skin is significantly more moisturised after 30 days of continued use on skin;
Smooths skin: the same studies also showed that using green tea extracts for 15-30 days gave microrelief and made skin less rough. This can be attributed to the free radical scavengers from the polyphenols it contains;
Confers an anti-wrinkle effect: a 2019 review demonstrated that it increases the collagen and elastin fibre content and suppresses the collagen degrading enzyme matrix metalloproteinase-3 (MMP-3) production in the skin, giving an anti-wrinkle effect.
Green Tea, increasingly popular as a drink in the western world, has proven potential for skin care. Now you can soap yourself in it!
Hemp Seed Oil
(botanical name: Cannabis sativa)
Cold-pressed, organically grown Tasmanian hemp seed oil is another wow factor in our soaps. Marijuana (botanical name: Cannabis indica ) and Hemp are different plants. Hemp seeds do not contain psychoactives. Hemp seed oil has been used in cosmetics for hundreds of years. It has re-discovered benefits for our skin:
Healing, moisturising and anti-inflammatory: Linoleic acid (LA) helps to keep skin soft and supple and allows it to absorb other active ingredients, like the antioxidants vitamin E and Beta-carotene. It’s one of the best natural sources of linoleic acid (LA, 55-60%) and linolenic acid (LNA, 18-25%). Both prevent and repair age-related damage and help protect the skin against the harmful action of free radicals;
Rehydrates: it has a special natural ability to moisturise and condition the skin (and coat the outer skin layer). Its essential fatty acid (EFA) profile of omega 3, 6 and 9 closely resembles our skin’s lipids (in our fat glands). It works to treat dehydrated skin and reverse the effects of oil loss that causes dry and cracked skin. With a comedogenic rating (CR) of 0, it will not clog pores;
Antibacterial and antifungal: according to studies it can help to treat skin inflammation and reduce the appearance of both inflamed and ageing skin. It can also help to heal psoriasis, acne, eczema and dermatitis.
Hemp seed oil is one of Nature’s gifts, a luxury oil that is part of our caring soaps. Indulge!
Honey and Beeswax
(from bees, scientific name: Apis mellifera)
We source naturally organic, unprocessed (raw) honey and beeswax from a local Tasmanian apiarist. The beehives are placed on the edge of the wilderness of Tasmania’s World Heritage ancient west coast rainforests. Honey and beeswax have been used in skin and mouth products for generations. They are well-known as:
Skin enhancers: they inhibit the growth of bacteria, such as staphylococcus aureus and candida albicans, thereby helping to prevent and treat skin conditions like dermatitis, psoriasis and eczema;
Skin moisturisers: they are natural humectants, protecting and repairing rough, dry or chapped skin because they can lock in moisture;
Anti-inflammatories: they have strong antiseptic, healing and anti-inflammatory properties to aid conditions like acne, jock itch and other fungal itching problems;
Stretchmark eliminators: their vitamin A helps produce collagen to fight stretch marks. In his book, How to Use Beeswax and Honey to Cure Skin Problems, author Gene Ashburner explained their rich emollient properties, which soften and rehydrate the skin as well as aiding in the healthy development of cellular reconstruction. They are also non-comedogenic – they won’t clog pores;
Relaxers: they possess natural aromatherapy properties that relieve stress and promote positivity.
We lovingly mix these golden gourmet ingredients into our soaps. Experience them!
Manuka Honey is a special type of mono-floral honey which is produced by bees that gather nectar from the flowers that grow on the Manuka bush (also known as Leptospermum scoparium) which grows in Tasmania, certain parts of Australia and New Zealand. Studies have found that Manuka Honey contains very powerful antibacterial, antimicrobial, antiviral, antioxidant, antiseptic, anti-inflammatory and anti-fungal properties. Methylglyoxal is a compound identified as the active ingredient responsible for the anti-bacterial action of Manuka honey. The higher the Methylglyoxal level, the greater the antibacterial effect it has. We add this honey to our lip balm.
Manuka flowers
Kunzea Essential Oil
(botanical name: Kunzea ambigua)
The Kunzea shrubs (named after botanist Gustav Kunze), from the Myrtaceae family, are indigenous to Tasmania. The Kunzea ambigua flower is described as having aromatics of citrus, eucalypt and sweet honey. It was commonly known by European settlers as ‘tick bush’ because it was said that animals sought refuge under the bushes to rid themselves of the external parasites. However, it is also recognised that Australia’s First Peoples used the plant to relieve irritated skin, muscle tightness and pain. Tasmanian Soap Farm sources quality-assured steam-distilled Tasmanian Kunzea ambigua essential oil (made from the freshly cut leaves and branchlets) and incorporates it in its devil skin care soap. Scientists have discovered that it has 52 compounds, chiefly alpha pinene (62%), and these contribute to its unique properties. The essential oil was registered with the Australian Therapeutic Goods Association (TGA) in 2018 with the following therapeutic claims:
May help enhance/improve/promote/increase joint mobility in mild arthritis;
Relief of muscular aches and pains;
May assist in the management of eczema;
May temporarily relieve joint pain/aches associated with mild arthritis;
May temporarily relieve joint inflammation/ swelling associated with mild arthritis;
May assist in the management of dry skin.
There is obviously something quite special about this clean-smelling, medicinal essential oil. You might want to let the soap lather linger just a little longer when you use it. Have a devilish time!
What’s more, we now add the this essential oil to our ‘kunzea kiss’ lip balm. Say goodbye to dry lips and hello to kissable ones!
Lavender Essential Oil
Botanical name: Lavandula angustifolia)
We source quality-assured Tasmanian, steam-distilled lavender essential oil. Oil from this lavender species, originally from Southern France, is world-renowned as the finest lavender oil because it contains less camphor, giving it a fresher herbal fragrance. While the use of lavender oil traces back 2500 years for medicinal and religious purposes, modern science confirms its wonders. It:
Reduces anxiety and depression: its aroma has a calming, sedative, and anti-convulsive effect. It can also reduce headaches and irritability;
Assists with insomnia: a study conducted at the University of Leicester in England showed that its use is just as effective in promoting sound sleep as medication;
Heals scrapes, wounds and skin problems: it has very powerful antiseptic properties. It can increase cell growth in wounds, causing the wound to heal faster and decrease the appearance of scars. The oil’s anti-microbial action protects scrapes and wounds from infection, while allowing them to heal. It can be used to treat dry, itchy skin, acne, burns, eczema, sunburn, seborrhoea and skin inflammation;
Alleviates women's health problems: in pregnancy, it can diminish the look of stretch marks and scars. It can relieve cramps, oedema, exhaustion, infection, breast abscesses, and post-natal depression. It can help relieve pre-menstrual syndrome and menstrual cramps. It is effective in aiding the treatment of chlamydia, pelvic inflammatory disease, thrush, vaginal infections, inflamed vaginal tissue, vaginitis, cystitis, Raynaud's Disease, and cervical cancer. If being treated with radiation for any form of cervical or uterine cancer, lavender oil may prevent and diminish irradiation burns.
The lavender essential oil in our classic skin care soap nurtures your skin and nervous system. Relax!
Lemon Juice
(botanical name: Citrus limon)
Tasmanian Soap Farm sources the lemon juice used in its vegan soap from its own lemon trees. According to DNA evidence, these shrubs originated from the southeast foothills of the Himalayas. People have long known of the juice’s health-giving properties, especially for skin:
Exfoliating and antiseptic: the juice helps to exfoliate dead cells. Its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory qualities can help soothe skin irritations;
Maintains pH balance: lemon juice is a natural alkalising agent, helping to maintain a pH balance;
Astringent: the juice helps motivate the skin’s pores to close and tighten, resulting in smoother skin;
Evens skin tone: it contains the free-radical-fighting antioxidant vitamin C, which helps to keep skin even-toned. It can also assist in fading scars and age spots. Vitamin C repairs and rejuvenates healthy skin cells. It can play an important role in restoring your skin;
Reduces excess oil: It helps to reduce the excretion of sebaceous glands present in the skin, thus averting hair follicles from getting blocked.
Luscious lemon juice is a gift of Mother Nature and it can assist in a more beautiful you! We add it to fresh avocado to make our lovely vegan skin care soap.
Lye and Glycerine
(scientific name: Sodium hydroxide, Na-OH & Propane-1,2,3-triol C3H8O3)
We use Tasmanian-made lye in our soap range. Lye is an alkali (base) and can be a harsh chemical on its own. Yet, when it is combined with acids, in the form of the oil ingredients in soap, a chemical reaction (called saponification) takes place, producing soap and glycerine. There is no lye left. Unless you are using liquid soap (which uses potassium hydroxide), then soap contains lye. We also ‘superfat’ our soap. This means that there are no unsaponified oils in the soap and that all the lye has been taken up by the oil molecules in the chemical process. So, our soap has surplus natural oils to nourish and moisturise your skin. While commercially produced soap often has the glycerine removed as it makes the soap bar softer, it remains in our handmade soap. It is well worth the extra care needed to take care of our soap bars as it has many benefits:
Hydrates: glycerine not only locks moisture in the skin by acting as a barrier stabiliser, but it is a humectant providing superior hydration to the skin;
A topical remedy: psoriasis is caused when skin cells grow too slow without maturing, causing the build-up of scaly skin. Glycerine improves the skin’s appearance and soothes eczema;
Anti-allergenic: it is often used as the basis of soap for sensitive skin. It won’t cause irritation;
Anti-ageing: wrinkles occur because of the loss of moisture and elasticity. Glycerine slows the appearance of wrinkles by restoring these natural skin abilities;
Speeds healing: glycerine hydrates the skin cells and speeds healing, resulting in less bruising.
Lye, a natural compound, enables the other ingredients to synergise and produce soap and it is responsible for the extra gift of glycerine!
Native Pigface
(botanical name: Carpobrotus rossii )
Carpobrotus rossii’s name is derived from the Ancient Greek words: ‘karpos’ (fruit) and ‘brotos’ (edible) and after a 19th century botanical collector named William Ross. It’s native to Tasmania and was used as a food (bush tucker) and therapeutic agent by indigenous peoples and early European settlers. While it is found growing wild on coastal sand dunes, we planted it on our farm where it grows happily as a ground cover. The juice from the fleshy leaves is similar to aloe vera and that’s exactly why we harvest it for use in our rosy and maritime skin care soap. According to research Carpobrotus rossi, aka Native Pigface, contains a number of pharmacologically active polyphenolic compounds. This has significance for cosmetics like our soap as it’s:
Mildly astringent: the tannins in the plant cause a benign contraction of skin proteins. People with acne are often advised to use astringents if they have oily skin;
Anti-inflammatory: it has the potential to ward off skin problems caused by bacteria in wounds, mosquito bites and sunburn. It was traditionally used as a quick remedy for jellyfish stings;
Antioxidative: it contains antioxidants like Vitamin C, which inhibit oxidation and the production of free radicals that cause cell damage.
Interestingly, the scientific studies of this plant concentrate on it’s phytoregenerative capacity. It has the ability to absorb heavy metals from sites contaminated with heavy metals - let’s hope that isn’t your skin! This hardy succulent seems to need much further investigation to realise its full potential. Connect with this brilliant plant!
Tasmanian Native Pepperberry
(Botanical name: Tasmannia lanceolata)
Tasmanian Native Pepper is an aromatic shrub endemic to the cool temperate rainforests of Tasmania. We source sustainably harvested Tasmanian pepperberries and feature them in our devil skin care soap. Aborigines traditionally used the leaves and magenta-coloured fruit therapeutically for skin disorders, venereal diseases, colic, stomach ache and as a quinine substitute. European settlers used it as a spice. Modern-day science has isolated T. lanceolata’s specific bioactive compounds so that we can understand how it can benefit us in cosmetic care:
Antibacterial, antifungal and anti-yeast: its hot-tasting terpene compound, polygodial, gives it these qualities which may help control bacteria, fungi and yeast growth on skin;
Antioxidant: its fruit contains three times more antioxidants than blueberries. According to certified dermatologist Lian Mack, MD, antioxidants protect the skin by reducing and counteracting free radical production and they also help to reduce pigmentation, fine lines and wrinkles;
Anti-inflammatory: The International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients (INCI) decoder explains that the berries also contain rutin, an anti-inflammatory agent that can strengthen capillaries and possibly reduce skin redness, dark undereye circles, itching and burning.
Like most pepper varieties, Tasmanian Native Pepper contains ‘bite’ when eaten. However, this one is a skin soother with many other exciting future applications for both human and animal health. Explore the possibilities in our devil skin care soap!
Oats
(botanical name: Avena sativa)
The oats we use are certified organic and sourced from a nearby Tasmanian farm. We buy them as rolled oats, grind them into a fine powder (also known as colloidal oatmeal) and add it to our soap bars. It is widely documented that oatmeal provides numerous benefits to our skin. It:
Removes toxins: the saponin in oatmeal cleanses skin to remove the toxins that cause discoloration;
Exfoliates: it exfoliates to remove dirt, oil and dead skin cells;
Moisturises: the lipids and proteins in oatmeal are humectants, nourishing skin;
Absorbs excess oil: it absorbs excess oil to prevent it from clogging pores;
Lightens scars and evens skin tone: the amino acids in oatmeal lighten scars, dark spots and discolouration. It evens skin tone and gives a natural glow;
Heals: it can help in reversing damage caused by UV rays, sunburn, pollution and harsh chemicals due to its soothing, antioxidant, healing and moisturising properties. Studies like this one show it helps in the healing of atopic dermatitis psoriasis lesions owing to its anti-inflammatory nature. It can also help lessen itchiness associated with allergy, eczema-prone skin or scalp dandruff.
Oatmeal is a healthy and natural ingredient and often recommended by dermatologists for inclusion in skin products – and that is exactly why we use it in our skin care soaps. Get soothed!
Olive Oil
(botanical name: Olea europaea)
Virgin olive oil makes up our largest oil ingredient — it’s in all of our skin care soaps, and toothsoaps, and is sourced from local farmers. Tasmanian olive oil is more complex due to our climate — the right combination of cool, wet winters and dry summers. While the ancient Egyptians, Greeks and Romans highly prized olive oil in skin care thousands of years ago, today science backs the health benefits of olive oil in soap:
Anti-ageing: it contains oleic acid and polyphenols which improve the texture and tone of skin, combating the early signs of ageing. Also, it can replenish oils skin loses as we age and in return give a smoother complexion, including minimised wrinkles, and a healthy, glowing appearance;
Best for all skin types: everyone, from babies to adults, can take advantage of it because it’s not harsh on even the most sensitive skin. It is also hypoallergenic — free from nasty skin reactions;
Promotes healthier and more radiant skin: it’s rich in antioxidants and can contribute to healthier and more radiant skin through reversing oxidation as well as repelling unnatural and damage-causing free radicals (responsible for breakouts and skin diseases);
Naturally rich in vitamins: it contains vitamins A and E, improving the skin’s appearance and boosting its immunity. Its beta carotene content also helps stimulate new cell growth;
Helps soothe mild to serious skin conditions: it assists people with dry skin conditions, such as eczema, and other complexion problems, like acne.
Tasmania’s superior olive oil is a fine skin enhancer. Savour it!
Peppermint Essential Oil
(botanical name: Mentha piperita ‘Black Mitcham’)
We source certified organic, quality assured, steam-distilled Tasmanian peppermint essential oil. Grown worldwide, the peppermint herb is a hybrid between watermint and spearmint. It was mentioned in the Icelandic Pharmacopoeias as early as 1240 AD/CE. One of the main reasons we add it to our milk & honey and vegan toothsoap is because it is regarded as a tasty breath freshener due to its main active ingredient – 30-50% menthol. It has many beneficial properties for general well-being and oral health:
Antimicrobial and antiseptic: it contains compounds which have been demonstrated to reduce several types of bad-breath-causing oral bacteria, helping to make the mouth feel fresh and clean too. New research indicates that oral health affects gut health and vice versa;
Aromatherapy: its scent is energising and inhaling it can result in heightened levels of energy. It also helps to ease headaches;
Cooling anti-inflammatory: it’s a mild anaesthetic — its cooling menthol can also provide temporary numbing of irritation and provide pain relief through central and peripheral nervous system effects;
Increases saliva production: it can increase salivation — a dry mouth may result in halitosis (bad breath) and increase cavity formation.
The peppermint essential oil in our toothsoap is so much more than an aromatic delight. Refresh!
Poppy Seeds and Poppy Seed Oil
(botanical name: Papaver somniferum)
We source Tasmanian poppy seeds and poppy seed oil for our soap. The oil is single cold pressed, or virgin. It has a light-yellow colour and a nutty scent. Poppies belong to the oldest plants on earth. Some seeds found in Europe date back to 4600 - 3800 BC/E. Although opium, morphine and heroin are derived from poppy seeds (opium is derived from the unripe seeds and heroin is synthetically made from opium) there are no opiates present in the oil. Poppy oil enhances skin because it:
Feels luxurious: it contains almost 40% tri-linoleic acid (LLL) in the triglycerides spectrum. This is why this oil imparts such a nice silky skin feel. It does not vanish quickly into the skin — it has a relatively low absorption rate — without any unpleasant greasiness;
Repairs skin barrier function: its high concentrations of palmitic acid and linoleic acid make it an excellent oil for barrier damaged, mature, dry and choppy skin;
Protects: despite the light skin feel this oil is protective and covering. Unsaponifiables, basically phytosterols, add to the nurturing qualities of the oil;
Anti-inflammatory: its linoleic acid (an omega-6 fatty acid) imparts anti-inflammatory properties. This is an excellent choice for sensitive skin.
Poppy seed oil is a quality addition to our healthy soap bars. What’s more, the addition of powdered poppy seeds is a natural method of skin exfoliation to slough away dead skin cells. Rejuvenate!
Rainwater
(scientific name: H2O)
The rainwater used in our soap bars is as pure as natural water can get. Our farm is located 136 kilometres, by road, from Cape Grim – famous for the purest air in the world! The rain clouds blow in a westerly direction across forests, pastures and hills towards our farm, and we harvest the resulting rain. Analysis by the Tasmanian Government’s Analytical Services, accredited by NATA (the National Association of Testing Authorities, Australia) confirmed:
Superior water quality of pH 7.4, which is almost neutral, and considered to be the perfect pH score for water. Healthline.com states that the ‘safe’ pH range is 6.5 to 8.5. Interestingly, normal human blood also has a pH of 7.4;
Extremely low in Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) — 68 mg per litre. According to the World Health Organisation, TDS less than 300 mg/litre is excellent.
Our skin has a microclimate and using water alone dries it out — we need more than water to cleanse ourselves properly. That’s what makes our skin care soap advantageous — we combine the purest water with some of the finest oils to add moisture back to the skin, helping our skin to be the barrier that it needs to be to the elements: sun, wind, cold, heat and for some, pollution. Nurture your skin!
Red Ochre
(scientific name: Iron oxide, FE2O3)
Red ochre is a naturally-occurring clay-like material found in igneous and metamorphic rocks. It is hygroscopic and readily absorbs water. We source Tasmanian-mined red ochre. Tasmania’s First Peoples used it extensively. Their word for it is ‘ballawinne’, which literally means “blood” — it was seen as the life-giving blood of the earth. They used it by mixing it with animal fat and smeared it onto their hair to create ringlets.
There is even evidence that Neanderthals used it on their skin! We add red ochre in our terrene skin care soap for its functionality, and to symbolise the spiritual significance of the earth to creation beliefs. It:
Cleanses and nourishes: cleanliness and hygiene were highly favoured among the ancient Egyptians. They made soap paste out of clay and olive oil. The soap would cleanse the body as well as nourish and heal the skin. In modern times, Himba women, of Northern Namibia use red ochre paste to cleanse the skin. It draws out impurities;
Purifies: red ochre is also seen as purifying in Ayervedic (Indian) traditions — one of the oldest systems of medicine in the world. They call it Geru, or Gairika, and claim topical application gives relief to itching, burns, ulcers, boils and pustular eruption.
Red ochre for skin care is part of human history. Get lost in time and re-discover ancient practices!
Rosemary Essential Oil
(botanical name: Rosmarinus officinalis)
We incorporate certified organic Tasmanian rosemary essential oil into our vegan skin care soap. Rosemary is native to the Mediterranean region and its use dates back as far as 500 BC/E in Greece and Rome. It was known to stimulate and strengthen memory. The name ‘rosemary’ derives from the Latin "ros" (dew) and "marinus" (sea) – dew of the sea. Its skin benefits are that it:
Fights acne: its powerful antibacterial, antiseptic, anti-inflammatory and astringent properties work together to clear-up and prevent acne, while its antiseptic properties may halt acne-causing bacteria;
Unclogs blocked pores: it relieves skin congestion and helps to gently detoxify skin by purifying it from deep within the pores and driving out stale sebum, dead cells, dirt, grime, pollution and germs;
Smooths fine lines and prevents wrinkles: its antioxidant properties actively fight age-promoting free radicals that steal oxygen from healthy skin cells to cause premature fine lines and wrinkles;
Tightens and tones skin and minimises large pores: it has great astringent properties to make skin firm and taut – skin pores can contract and appear diminished. These properties also assist to reduce oily skin;
Clears cellulite: it is a circulatory stimulant — it helps clear cellulite by stimulating the flow of wastes and toxins that sometimes clump up and form cellulite;
Heals eczema and other inflammatory skin conditions: its anti-inflammatory properties may assist to heal skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, rosacea and rashes. Its antibacterial abilities assist to keep skin free from germs and other irritants that further aggravate eczema.
The memorable scent of rosemary essential oil in our soap will delicately perfume your skin too!
Sea Salt
(scientific name: Sodium chloride, NaCl)
The island-state of Tasmania is surrounded by unpolluted seas containing uncontaminated sea salt. We use Tasmanian sea salt flakes in our soap bars. According to our supplier, because of the pristine east-coast sea water they use, they do not need to rinse the salt during the production process. As a result, the trace minerals and nutrients found in these pristine waters enhance the health value of the salt. Civilisations have long known of the therapeutic benefits of bathing in the sea — how the water is relaxing and aids healing of minor skin issues like cuts and scratches. Here are some of this mineral’s key properties:
Moisturises and increases skin circulation: it contains the mineral magnesium, which is good for skin because it helps get rid of dryness, improving the skin’s texture and hydration. It is also a natural humectant, drawing moisture to the skin and helping to retain it, resulting in soft, non-greasy skin;
Helps troubled skin: it is helpful for acne with minerals like sulphur, potassium, calcium and magnesium. It has also shown great results for skin conditions like psoriasis and eczema. It contains almost the same concentration of minerals and trace elements as the human body;
Detoxifies: sea salt is a natural detoxifier and antiseptic — it flushes out the pores and absorbs skin toxins.
Luckily, you can have the enjoyment of using pure Tasmanian sea salt in your daily personal care regime!
Southern Rosalina Essential Oil
(botanical name: Melaleuca ericifolia)
Southern Rosalina, aka Swamp Paperbark or Lavender Tea Tree, is a gentler version of its pungent Tea Tree cousin, Melaleuca alternifolia. Tasmanian Soap Farm sources quality-assured Southern Rosalina essential oil that is steam distilled from wild, sustainably harvested trees on Tasmania’s Flinders Island. Native to coastal Tasmania and Australia, aborigines traditionally used the oil from its leaves for medicine while nectar from the flowers was used to make sweet drinks. Modern science has uncovered some of the properties of this oil:
Antimicrobial, anti-fungal and a virucidal: a 2004 study showed it had high inhibitory effects against Bacillus subtiles (found in infections) and Aspergillus niger (black mould, which can cause pneumonia). In addition, its oil was proven to be 91.5% effective as a virucidal against herpes. In 2007 it was found to be effective against Staphylococcus aureus, a bacteria responsible for skin infection and pneumonia;
Anti-cancer: In 2009, scientists stated stated that the oil was used as a starting scaffold to design eleven new and three known anti-cancer agents;
Antioxidant and a skin tonic: a 2011 review reported on its high concentrations of antioxidants and its chief components (1,8-cineole, linalool and methyl eugenol) while INCI states that placing this oil on your skin makes it feel good.
We add Southern Rosalina essential oil, with its crisp-yet-soothing scent (so reminscent of the Australian bush) to our rosy skin care soap. Get an afterglow!
GENERAL DISCLAIMER
The contents of this page are for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment . . . Read More →