For thousands of years, humans have been using the various elements of flora and fauna for beautification and health purposes. Herbal medicines provided a foundation for what we now consider modern medical practices. Unfortunately for us in urban areas, we do not have the same foraging ability that our ancestors used to find fresh healing herbs. Luckily, there are brands like Herbes Folles, who put in the effort to create modern beauty solutions with ancient wisdom.
Des Herbes Folles
After losing her beloved mother to cancer, herbalist Mariana Santos began her journey in studying the healing properties of herbs.
“This was a huge turning point in my life – not only for emotional, obvious reasons, but I’ve became also very aware of the systemic conditions that make cancer a so common disease of our times. Among other changes, mostly related to my diet, I’ve started using natural cosmetics, mostly because of the negative effects synthetic ingredients commonly found in cosmetic products can have in our health.”
After years of discovery, she created her brand, Herbes Folles, to combat the negative health effects of over-processed chemical-infused products. She gathered a list of the most powerful and effective plants to formulate these special products. Her “crazy herbs” are effective, leaving behind healthy and beautiful skin.
Plantain
The leaves of plantain have been used in skincare for centuries. It contains biologically active compounds such as polysaccharides, allantoin, several minerals, caffeic acid derivatives, flavonoids, iridoid glycosides and terpenoids. Plantain is a good source of antioxidants like vitamin C and carotenoids, as well as vitamin K. It has also astringent properties related to the presence of tannins, as well as anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties from caffeic acid and flavonoids.
Purslane
The herb, purslane is a powerhouse of nutrition. It is rich in flavonoids, phytonutrients with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity, and it has the highest omega-3 fatty acids concentration (alpha-linolenic and gamma-linolenic) ever found in leafy vegetables. They are also known for having wound healing and anti-inflammatory properties on the skin. Additionally, it also contains high levels of vitamin C, E and beta-carotene, all natural antioxidants.
St. John’s Wort
The main part of St. Johns Wort constituents are found in its bright & beautiful yellow flowers: hyperforin naturally fosters the scarification process and helps reduce inflammations, and hypericin, which has potent anti-inflammatory properties. Its flavonoids are efficient antioxidants, which help fight aging signs.
Corn Poppy
Poppy’s delicate and beautiful red petals can be used in salads (along with the seeds) or to make herbal teas, leaving them with a beautiful color. They are rich in mucilage, a very nurturing and protective substance for the skin and other membranes. It also contains alkaloids, tannins, flavonoids and anthocyanins. Furthermore, strong pigments give it its vibrant color and protect the skin against free radicals.
Nettle
Nettle’s nourishing and medicinal action is attributed to its rich vitamin, mineral, amino acid, and chlorophyll content. Nettles additionally provide one of the richest sources of antioxidants among green leafy vegetables. High contents of chlorophyll, tocopherol and carotenes rest in nettle leaves and shoots. Most importantly, these substances protect the skin with regenerative and anti-inflammatory properties.
Wild Carrot
The hydrosol in wild carrot works for all skin types, but Mariana recommends it for sensitive and mature skin. It soothes inflammations and illuminates complexion. Scientific sources also report reduction in fine lines and wrinkles.
Chicory
These beautiful chicory roots contain high contents of inulin, a healthful prebiotic which helps and strengthens our skin microbiota. Additionally, they reinforce the skin barrier against external elements such as UV rays and pollution.
The Products
Herbes Folles creates sustainably sourced and ethically made natural skincare for all skin-types. With just 3 incredible products, you can make the switch to natural skincare, eliminating toxic chemicals from your routine.
Diáfano
Featuring St. John’s Wort and Purslane, this calming cleanser melts away makeup, leaving hydrated and smooth skin.
Névoa
This illuminating moisturizer contains wild carrot, plantain, and poppy. The bi-phasic mist makes your skin glow, giving the skin an instant boost of hydration and healthy glow.
Mimo
Using potent ingredients like nettle, the protective balm is a must have in your beauty routine. This makes for a perfect hydrating primer for a smooth makeup application.
To purchase this marvelously effective line, check out eco.impakter.com.
Editor’s Note: The opinions expressed here by Impakter.com columnists are their own, not those of Impakter.com. — In the Featured Photo: Beauty Products from Herbes Folles
