Hydrosols

Hydrosols are the distillate residue produced from steam distillation - literally, distilled water infused with tiny particles of the essential oil.

They are useful waters because of the plant particles in them; mild and gentle in their effects.  Go to

Base Oils

Apricot (Prunus Armeniaca)
A light, clear oil expressed from apricot pits; great in bases where absorption without a heavy oily residue is desired.

Borage (Borago Officinalis)
Also known as Starflower, it contains high levels of essential fatty acids which are antioxidant and healing. EFAs are necessary for the growth and maintenance of healthy skin.

Evening Primrose (Oenothera Biennis)
As this oil is high in Gamma Linoleic acid, it is a very good skin conditioner and is normally used at 10-20% of total carrier oil.

Flaxseed(Linum usitatissimum)
Rich source of essential fatty acids, has anti-bacterial and soothing qualities.

Hazelnut (Corylus avellana) Lovely light but nourishing oil, deeply penetrating. Contains: vitamins, minerals, proteins, oleic and linoleic acid. Slightly astringent so it tones and tightens skin, helps maintain firmness and elasticity. Reputedly helps to strengthen capillaries encouraging cell regeneration through improved circulation.Good for combination/oily skin; some say its effecive against acne. Could cause skin sensitivity in those with nut allergies.

Linseed
Extract from flaxseed oil

Peach kernel (Prunus persica)
An excellent, absorbent light oil. Not overly greasy.

Rapeseed oil (Brassica napus)

We use cold-pressed, certified organic, gm-free, food-grade only. Light, absorbent, full of vitamin E and Omega 3, 6 and 9.

Rosehip (Rosa mosqueta or canina)
Produces an extremely rich, nourishing oil rejuvenating oil, pressed from the ripe hips of wild roses. Excellent for mature and dry skins.

Sweet almond (Prunus amygdalus dulcis)
virtually odourless, light oil with excellent emollient and moisturizing qualities. It is expressed from almond seeds. Could cause skin sensitivity in people with nut allergies.

Sunflower (Helianthus annuus)
A good basic oil which is highly suitable for all skins.

Vitamin E (Alpha tocopherol)
A powerful antioxigant.

Walnut Oil (Juglans regia)
Fragrant rich emollient used to condition and repair damaged hair. Could cause skin sensitivity in people with nut allergies.

Wheatgerm Oil (Triticum vulgare)
Rich in vitamin E, penetrates well to prevent loss of moisture and benefit cells.

05.02.2012

'Breathless' - newly composed by Charlotte Simpson

'Breathless' - newly composed by Charlotte Simpson

A fresh Valentine verse for today - from a Great Elm customer
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29.01.2012

Our Valentine gift to you

Our Valentine gift to you

Win 14% off our physicks with your poem
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04.02.2012

Lighter love - today's Valentine versification

Lighter love - today's Valentine versification

Take a walk in ...
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03.02.2012

Rossetti selected by Sarah Wade

Rossetti selected by Sarah Wade

'The First Day' - your favourite Valentine verse for today
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