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.
