Thursday, April 21, 2011

Benedetta's "The Best" Deodorant

What makes Benedetta's deodorant "The Best"?

Finally a completely natural deodorant that actually works! Benedetta's deodorant spray will safely and effectively keep you free of odor. This beautiful formula is a proprietary blend that includes biodynamic grape alcohol and certified organic essential oils. You won't find any aluminum, propylene glycol, or parabens here. It's a very concentrated formula with no water or fillers added to it. Benedetta believes that much of what is placed on the skin penetrates into the bloodstream, and so should be created with that in mind.

An area of concern in recent years has been the use of deodorants and their toxic effects on our health. Dr. P. Darbre, a cancer researcher from the University of Reading, found in a study of 20 women with breast cancer, that 18 patients showed detectable amounts of parabens in their breast tissue. Dr. Darbre points out that finding these man-made chemicals in human breast tumors is significant because they can mimic the way estrogen works to drive the growth of cancer.* After all, this is an area of the body that not only excretes toxins but also absorbs more readily what is placed on it. That said, why would one put DE-ODOR-ANTS made with synthetic, unnatural ingredients in such a vulnerable place?! That is exactly why Benedetta decided to create an effective, unadulterated product we can all feel safe (and secure) using. Available in 80 ml for $18. Coming soon in 30 ml.

*Darbre (2001) European Journal of Cancer Prevention 10, 389-393

Tuesday, April 12, 2011

Ask Julia: Aromatherapy in Depth

How does aromatherapy work and where did it get its start?

The term "Aromatherapy" was actually coined by Rene Gattefosse, a french perfumist and chemist. After catching his lab coat on fire in an accident in his laboratory, the closest liquid to him was a vat of lavender essential oil used in the perfume trade. He thrust his whole arm into the liquid without a second thought to put out the fire. Not only did he find that he not blister, but he recovered quickly with no sign of wounds or scarring. This discovery led him to a life of research and discovery of the therapeutic effects and benefits of pure essential oils.

Are there any clinical studies showing its efficacy?

There are numerous clinical studies as well as scientific studies on the efficacy of essential oil use. Our present day Aromatherpists such as Dr. Daniel Peneol and Dr. Pierre Franchome are medical doctors and researchers of essential oils. Jean Valnet worked in the wound clinics during World War II. He worked with amputees and prevented gangrene from setting in with anti-microbial effects of Lemon and Thyme oils. There are countless studies and written documents on the factual effects of essential oils. Essential Oils are being used in burn clinics and medical treatment centers throughout the world, particularly in Europe and Australia. Unfortunately, the United States is not as ready to embrace alternative or natural therapies, nor are we teaching the use of essential oils as medicine to our doctors. However, nurses in England as well as massage therapists everywhere get 600 hours of Aromatherapy training.  

It is mandatory to use essential oils that are harvested and processed in accordance with organic standards to be considered aromatherapeutic or of medicinal quality. Depending on the disorder, essential oils should be diluted to fit the individual's need and should be prescribed and administered by qualified professional. For everyday use and application, one should treat these magical natural essences with great respect and have some knowledge of their safety.  

Can essential oils be effective in products like lotions or mists?

Absolutely! Essential oils have the ability to penetrate the surface of the skin, renewing cellular function at a great rate. Remember the case of Rene Gattefosse?  Absolutely no scarring from a severe burn! Essential oils placed in the hands of a qualified formulator can be nothing less than magical on the skin. They are nature's rejuvenating "chemicals."  Essential oil-based skin care is, in my opinion, light years ahead of all the laboratory developed chemicals that are today's and tomorrow's trends. 

What products do you have that are based on pure essential oils?

Essential oils are the heart and soul of the Benedetta line of "Fresh" Aromatherapeutics.  Every botanical smell in each preparation is an active ingredient. We do not add fragrance to achieve a particular scent. We look first at the skin's disorder and therefore need, and then formulate to suit that particular need. All of our preparations are essential oil laced. From our exceptional Rosemary & Geranium Facial Creme Cleanser to our exceptional Hair Tonic blend, to our 100% Organic & Biodynamic Deodorant and Hand Sanitizer, each product stands on their own for quality and effectiveness. 

What are Benedetta's Top 10 Best-Selling products?

Order is difficult to say because they are all exceptional preparations.

1. Rosemary & Geranium  Crème Cleanser
2. Crystal Radiance Hydrating Elixir Neroli
3. Visibly Radiant Moisturizer Neroli
4. Antioxidant Intensive Treatment Oil Palmarosa
5. "The" Eye  Crème
6. Seaweed Anti-Wrinkle Mask
7. "The Best" Deodorant
8. The Clearing Spray (Hand Sanitizer)
9. Sacred Sassy Soap (Hand and Body Wash)
10. Seaweed " Life-Changing" Bath.