Glossary of Ingredients

A

Alcohol (Ethyl alcohol / Ethanol) - Alcohol as a solvent is widely used in the cosmetic field. Many cosmetics largely consist of alcohol. Alcohol is also used as a preservative. Since it is a fat solvent, alcohol can dry and irritate the hair and skin. Ethanol can increase the permeability of the skin and may enable unwanted impurities to be absorbed. Ethanol is only used in one Green People product (Organic Body Spa Firming Facial Gel) and even then only at very low level as part of a plant extract.

Algin – Natural gelling agent derived from seaweed harvested in Brittany.

Aloe barbadensis - Aloe Vera - anti-irritant, soothing and cooling. Has anti-microbial properties.

Althaea officinalis – Marshmallow extract – anti-inflammatory, anti-ageing and regenerating properties.

Alumina – natural earth mineral aluminium oxide. Used in some colour cosmetics to give lighter shades. Non-toxic in cosmetics.

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B

Baicalin - An extract from the herb Skullcap, has been shown in clinical trials to reduce ageing of the skin caused by shortening of Telomeres – structures found at the end of each chromosome in the cell nucleus. Each time a skin cell divides, the length of the telomeres is shortened eventually leading to cell death. By reducing damage to the telomeres, cell life is extended leading to reduced ageing. Studies have shown that in people aged over 40, this extract can reduce the visible age of the skin by up to 10 years.

Barosma betulina – Buchu extract, a natural fruit aroma.

Bayberry extract – See Dihydromyricetin

Behentrimonium methosulfate – very mild hair detangling agent derived from non-GM Rape Seed oil.

Benzoic acid - An anti-microbial agent (preservative) safe for cosmetic use. Approved for use in certified organic cosmetics.

Benzyl alcohol - An anti-microbial agent safe for cosmetic use. Natural constituent of Jasmine, Hyacinth and some essential oils.

Benzyl benzoate – compound that occurs naturally in some essential oils, eg. Cinnamon.

Benzyl salicylate – compound that occurs naturally in some essential oils, eg. Ylang ylang.

Betaine – Extracted from sugar-beet. Moisturising and conditioning to hair and skin, and increases saliva production in toothpastes.

Borage oil - Also known as Starflower oil - rich in essential fatty acids - mainly Omega-6. Excellent for dry skin conditions.

Bromelain - An extract from pineapple known to help eliminate excess dead skin cells and normalise the scalp.

Butyrospermum parkii – Shea butter obtained from seeds of the shea nut tree. Highly compatible and nutritive to the skin.

Buxus chinensis – Synonym for Simmondsia chinensis – Jojoba oil.

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C

Caesalpinia spinosa – natural plant gum used to thicken and stabilise lotions.

Calcium carbonate - Naturally occurring chalk - gentle, mild abrasive agent - kind to tooth enamel.

Calendula officinalis - Marigold - soothing. Excellent for irritated and delicate skin. Has antiseptic properties.

Camelia sinensis - Green tea extract - Rich in polyphenols, this has very strong antioxidant properties. Used to help protect skin from free-radical damage. Inhibits collagenase, is photo-protective and stimulates circulation.

Cananga odorata – essential oil from tropical Ylang ylang flowers.

Cannabis sativa - Hemp seed oil, naturally rich in minerals and fatty acids which are beneficial for hair and skin.

Caprylyl/capryl glucoside – very mild plant derived foaming agent and essential oil solubiliser.

Capsicum - Spanish pepper - a general tonic specific for the circulatory and digestive system.

Capsicum frutescens – Extract from capsicum peppers used to increase blood circulation near the skin.

Carrot Juice - Soothing properties, excellent for the digestive system, rich in vitamins and minerals.

Carthamus tinctorius - Safflower oil, also known as Thistle Seed oil, very rich in Omega-6 fatty acids.

Cedrus atlantica – Essential oil of Cedarwood.

Celery Juice - Stimulates kidneys and digestion.

Cera alba - Bees wax - has a protective action and is used to make products water-resistant.

Cetearyl alcohol - Emulsifying wax. A mixture of fatty alcohols, derived from plant oil. Fatty alcohols are components of all natural waxes. Not to be confused with Ethyl alcohol / Ethanol - see Alcohol.

Cetearyl glucoside - Emulsifying wax made from cetearyl alcohol (see above) and glucose. Derived from corn or coconut - mild and non-irritant.

Cetearyl olivate – Emulsifier extracted from olive oil. Has excellent moisturising properties and boosts the SPF level of sunscreens.

Cetearyl wheat bran glucoside – Emulsifying wax made from Cetearyl alcohol, glucose and wheat bran extracts.

Cetyl alcohol - An emollient and emulsion stabiliser. Cetyl alcohol is waxy, crystalline and solid. Used as a thickener and emulsifier. Not to be confused with Ethyl alcohol / Ethanol - see Alcohol.

Cetrimonium chloride - A surfactant used in conditioners and also as an antiseptic.

Chamomile juice - Calming properties.

Chamomilla recutita - Chamomile extract – anti-inflammatory and soothing properties for sensitive skin.

Chenopodium quinoa - Oil from quinoa, a grain found in South America. It is a rich source of essential fatty acids and vitamins.

Chondrus crispus - Seaweed with moisture binding properties. Excellent for dry, sensitive skin.

Cinnamomum camphora – Essential oil from the Ho Wood tree.

Cinnamomum zeylanicum - Cinnamon oil - anti-microbial, antiseptic.

Citral – compound that exists naturally in some essential oils, eg. Lemongrass

Citronellol – compound that occurs naturally in some essential oils, eg. Geranium.

Citric acid - From citrus fruits - pH modifier.

Citrus aurantium - Neroli, orange blossom essential oil - stimulates regeneration of new cells, improves skin elasticity.

Citrus aurantium bergamia - Bergamot orange essential oil - uplifting and antiseptic properties.

Citrus aurantium dulcis – Floral water made from the flowers of the sweet orange. Also the Essential oil expressed from the peel of the sweet orange.

Citrus grandis- Grapefruit seed extract - antiseptic properties.

Citrus limonum - Lemon essential oil - antiseptic, excellent for tired and ageing skin.

Citrus nobilis, Citrus aurantium bergamia, Citrus aurantium dulcis - A blend of citrus seed extract, from mandarin, bergamot and sweet orange which combine a strong antibacterial effect with anti-oxidant properties to support the skin's natural immune system and help protect against cell damage.

Citrus paradisi - Grapefruit essential oil - refreshing, astringent, cooling and detoxifying.

Citrus reticulata - Mandarin essential oil – sweet refreshing smell, pleasant and safe to use.

Citrus tangerina – Tangerine essential oil – distinctive warm citrus smell, gentle on hair and scalp.

Cocoamidopropyl betaine - Derived from coconut - mild cleansing and foaming agent.

Cocamidopropyl betainamide mea chloride - Derived from coconut - a mild quaternised foaming surfactant. Has thickening properties, is anti-irritant and acts as an anti-microbial agent. Non-toxic and non-sensitising. Unlike DEA and TEA, MEA cannot form nitrosamines in cosmetic formulations.

Cocamoniumcarbamyolchloride - Derived from coconut - a mild quaternised foaming surfactant. Has thickening properties, is anti-irritant and acts as an anti-microbial agent. Non-toxic and non-sensitising.

Coco glucoside – Mild foaming agent from coconut oil.

Cocos nucifera - Coconut oil - an excellent emollient with great affinity to the skin.

Commiphora myrrha - Resin from the Myrrh bush with antiseptic and anti-microbial properties.

Cupressus sempervirens - Cypress - astringent and toner. Both floral waters and essential oil are used in our products.

Cymbopogon citratus - Lemongrass essential oil. Refreshing and stimulating with tonic properties.

Cymbopogon martinii – Palmarosa essential oil. Excellent for dry skin and helps prevent wrinkles.

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D

Dandelion juice - Rich in minerals.

Daucus carota - Carrot Seed oil. Rich source of beta-carotene, the precursor to vitamin A. Can help protect the skin from free-radical damage and promotes production of new cells. Excellent for dry skin.

DEA - Diethanolamine. Used as solvent and detergent. Possible risk of formation of nitrosamines. Most nitrosamines are carcinogenic. (Not used by Green People).

Decyl glucoside - An extract from corn with exceptional foaming power. Non-toxic, non-irritating and will not block the pores.

Dehydroacetic acid - A mild acid used as part of a preservative system. Non-irritating and hypoallergenic, this has minimal impact on the environment.

Detergent (foaming agent) - These ingredients enable a product to cleanse grease and oil from the hair and body. There has been concern recently about some detergents commonly found in everyday products as they may affect the skin and the gums. Decyl glucoside is a safe alternative.

Dihydromyricetin – Extract from the bayberry plant, shown to have three-fold activity against cellulite fat cells.

Dihydroxyacetone – DHA - Natural ingredient derived from sugar that reacts with amino acids in the outer layer of the skin to form brown pigments that give the appearance of a suntan.

Distearoylethyl hydroxyethylmonium methosulphate – Hair conditioning agent with very mild properties.

d-Limonene – Compound that occurs naturally in some essential oils, eg. Lavender.

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E

Echinacea angustifolia - Purple cone flower - powerful immune stimulant and has antioxidant properties.

Elaeis guineensis - Palm kernel oil - emollient, lubricant. All Palm kernel oil used by Green People is certified organic and is from sustainably managed plantations.

Emollient - Substance which prevents water loss from the skin and keeps it soft.

Emulsifier - Agent used to mix oil and water together so that they don't separate. Essential when making creams and lotions.

Enteromorpha compressa – Natural plant gum used to thicken and stabilise lotions. When combined with an extract from the Tara Bush (Caesalpinia spinosa), it has remarkable moisture retaining properties, reducing Trans-Epidermal Water Loss (TEWL) and helping to prevent dryness of the skin. This has a plumping action which helps to reduce the appearance of fine wrinkles.

Equisetum arvense - Horsetail herb, a rich source of the mineral silica, essential for healthy hair structure.

Essential Fatty Acids (EFA's) - About 20 specific fatty acids are used by the body to maintain normal function. All but 2 can be synthesized by our bodies. These 2 essential fatty acids belong to the Omega-3 and Omega-6 groups, and must be obtained in proper balance from foods or supplements. EFA's function is as building blocks in membranes of every cell in the body. They also produce hormone-like substances necessary for energy metabolism, cardiovascular and immune health.

Ethyl Alcohol/ Ethanol (alcohol) - Used as a highly effective preservative. Can cause dryness and irritation. Ethanol can increase the permeability of the skin and may enable unwanted impurities to be absorbed. Not used in any Green People personal care product.

Ethylhexylglycerin - An anti-microbial agent (preservative) safe for cosmetic use. Approved by Scandinavian Swan Mark, an environmental watchdog organisation.

Eucalyptus globulus - A warming, antiseptic essential oil.

Eugenia caryophyllus - Clove essential oil - strong antiseptic, antibiotic, antiviral. Useful for relieving pain caused by toothache.

Eugenol – compound that occurs naturally in some essential oils, eg. Clove

E-vitamin - d-alpha-tocopherol - naturally sourced vitamin E. Used as an antioxidant to protect oils from becoming rancid.

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F

Faex – Extract from yeast - rich in B-vitamins - can penetrate through hair follicles.

Farnesol – compound that occurs naturally in some essential oils, eg. Ylang ylang.

Flax - Golden Flax or Linseed. Cold-pressed oil or cold-milled seeds used. One of nature's richest sources of Omega-3 essential fatty acids - Essential for maintaining good health. Necessary for cell to cell biochemical functions, such as energy metabolism, cardiovascular and immune system health. Cold-milled Flax is rich in dietary fibre.

Foeniculum vulgare - Fennel oil - antiseptic, anti-microbial. Freshens the breath.

Fragaria vesca - Wild Strawberry, natural fruit aroma.

Fragrance - One of the leading causes of allergy and irritation in cosmetics. Symptoms can be watery eyes, reddened skin, irritation or allergic reaction. 95% of the mixes in most fragrances are made from synthetic chemicals. You are less likely to suffer a reaction when using one essential oil or a blend of just a few. (Not used by Green People).

Fucus vesiculosus – Extract from bladder wrack seaweed. Rich in minerals essential for skin health.

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G

Galactoarabinan – Extract from larch wood. Has soothing, protecting and moisturising effects on the skin.

Garlic juice - Beneficial for heart and circulation. Stimulates digestion. Has anti-microbial and anti-fungal properties.

Gentian - Good for liver and digestion - a classic 'bitter' herb.

Geraniol – Compound that occurs naturally in some essential oils, eg. Geranium.

Glucose – Natural simple sugar used as part of an enzyme-based preservative system.

Glucose oxidase – Enzyme used with glucose as a preservative.

Glycerin - Derived from plant material - humectant, emollient, emulsifier and solvent.

Glyceryl polyacrylate - An ultra-mild gel based on plant glycerin, kind to the skin and the environment.

Glyceryl oleate – Non-irritating emulsifier made from olive oil and glycerin.

Glyceryl stearate - From plant material - emulsifier, moisturiser.

GMOs - genetically modified organisms. Green People avoid the use of all GMOs in our products.

Gnaphalium leontopodium - Edelweiss extract - has great anti-oxidant properties, helps protect against UV-radiation.

Green tea - Known to be a remarkable antioxidant due to its high level of polyphenols.

Guar hydroxypropyltrimonium chloride – Hair thickener and detangler made from natural plant gum.

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H

Hamamelis virginiana - Witch Hazel extract - astringent and cooling. Good for itchy skin.

Hawthorn juice - Gives strong support to the heart and circulatory system.

Helianthus annuus - Sunflower oil - emollient and lubricant.

Helichrysum stoechas – Extract from the Everlasting Flower, with antioxidant, antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activity.

Hibiscus sabdariffa – Hibiscus extract – has toning and firming actions on skin and body. Inhibits the breakdown of elastin, and is a mild exfoliator.

Humectant - A substance used to retain moisture on the skin and prevent the product from drying out.

Hydrolysed wheat protein - a rich source of amino acids that strengthen and condition hair shafts.

Hydroxypropyltrimonium hydrolysed corn starch – anti-static conditioning agent derived from non-GM corn starch.

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I

Illite – Natural clay mineral used as a deep cleansing agent in face masks.

Inositol – Natural vitamin which is a precursor to melanin production as part of the tanning process.

Iron oxide – Earth mineral used to give orange, red or brown colour to cosmetics.

Isoamyl p-Methoxycinnamate - A UVA & UVB-filter derived from cinnamic acid esters found in cinnamon leaves.

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J

Jasminum officinalis - Jasmine extract, very sensual and exotic scent ideal for mature and sensitive skin.

Juniperus communis – Essential oil of Juniper, which has a mild diuretic action.

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K

Kaolin - China Clay non-toxic earth mineral. Used in some colour cosmetics to give a lighter shades.

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L

Lactoperoxidase – Enzyme used as part of a preservative system.

Lapacho - Inner bark from a tree in Brazil.

Lauryl glucoside – Gentle emulsifier derived from plant oils.

Lavandula angustifolia - Lavender essential oil - antiseptic and soothing. Excellent for delicate skin.

Lavandula hybrida super - Lavandin essential oil - closer to the floral, less camphorous English lavender.

Lecithin – Natural emulsifier extracted from guaranteed non-GM soya beans.

Leptospermum petersonii – Lemon Tea Tree essential oil – gentle and mild antiseptic and antibacterial.

Leptospermum scoparium – Manuka oil – antiseptic and antimicrobial.

Levulinic acid – Plant derived fragrance ingredient that has anti-microbial activity.

Linalool – compound that occurs naturally in some essential oils, eg. Thyme.

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M

Melaleuca alternifolia - Tea Tree essential oil - Antiseptic, antifungal, antiviral.

Mentha arvensis - Corn mint - cooling and soothing - used in our After Sun formulation.

Mentha piperita - Peppermint oil - Anti-microbial - good for bad breath.

Mentha spicata - Spearmint oil - Anti-microbial - good for bad breath.

Mica – Natural earth mineral used to give glitter and shimmer to colour cosmetics.

Montmorillonite - Pink clay - Absorbing and cleansing - can help draw out impurities.

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N

Nettle juice - Blood purifier.

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O

Oat juice - Restorative for nervous exhaustion, derived from the fresh green plant.

Oenothera biennis - Evening primrose oil, a rich source of Omega-6 fatty acids - Excellent for dry skin.

Olea europaea oil - Olive oil - emollient and lubricant. Strengthens hair shafts, promotes body and shine. Contains squalene which optimises skin function.

Olea europaea leaf extract - A natural anti-microbial derived from leaves of the olive tree. It is a source of almost 100 phytochemicals and essential nutrients for all anti-aging programmes and is good for the immune system. Also boosts the SPF level of sunscreens.

Omega-3 - alpha-linolenic acid and Omega-6 - linolenic acid - Essential fatty acids (EFA's) and two vital nutrients. They are required for cell membrane formation, normal brain development during infancy, prostaglandin production and energy production on a cellular level. An Omega-3 deficiency is associated with dry skin. The richest sources of Omega-3 are oily, cold water fish and Flax seed oil (suitable for vegans).

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P

PABA - Para-Amino-Benzoic Acid - A water-soluble acid used as a sunscreen agent. PABA is a skin sensitiser and is not used by Green People.

Panthenol - A biologically active substance that metabolises to vitamin B5. Known for its revitalising and conditioning effects in the hair and skin. It has humectant-like properties that promote moisture absorption.

Parabens – Group of Preservatives shown in in-vitro studies to have mild hormone-like effects. Not used by Green People in any of our formulations.

Passiflora incarnata - Passion flower extract with fruit acids.

Pelargonium graveolens – Geranium essential oil, with a pleasant scent of rose. Balances the production of sebum - good for both dry skin and congested, oily skin. A valuable oil for toning the skin.

Persea gratissima - Avocado oil - Emollient, hydrating, nourishing and moisturising. Rich in vitamins A, D and E. Excellent for dry, mature skin. Stimulates skin cell renewal and collagen synthesis. Rich in phytosterols which stabilise cell membranes and protect skin lipids against oxidation. Protects against UV damage.

Phenoxyethanol - An anti-microbial agent (preservative) safe for cosmetic use. Approved by Scandinavian Swan Mark, an environmental watchdog organisation.

Piper nigrum – Essential oil of Black Pepper, stimulates the flow of both blood and lymph.

Potassium cocoate – Natural soap base made from organic coconut oil.

Potassium oleate – Natural soap base made from organic sunflower oil.

Potassium sorbate – Food grade preservative used as a mould and yeast inhibitor. Safe for cosmetic use.

Preservative system - Preservatives are added to cosmetics to keep a product fresh and free from bacterial or fungal contamination. They are essential to prevent product deterioration and to protect consumers. Some synthetic preservatives may be allergenic, irritating and can release small amounts of formaldehyde, which is an irritant as well as a carcinogen. Alcohol can replace preservatives (see Alcohol). More gentle preservative systems are available. In some formulations effective preservation can be achieved by using a blend of citrus seed extracts (antibacterial effect) in combination with a minimal amount of a food grade preservative.

Propolis cera - From bee hives - anti-microbial.

Prunus armeniaca – Apricot kernel oil – light, soothing and nourishing oil suitable for all skin types. The powdered kernels are also used as a gentle exfoliator to remove dead skin cells.

Prunus dulcis - Sweet Almond oil. Light oil with soothing, nourishing and skin-conditioning properties.

Pumpkin - Cold-pressed Pumpkin seed oil rich in Omega-6 essential fatty acids.

Punica granatum – Pomegranate oil, rich in essential fatty acids needed for healthy skin.

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R

Ramson juice - Wild Garlic - Beneficial for heart and circulation. Stimulates digestion.

Rhus verniciflua – Berry wax – obtained from the fruits of the plant, softens and protects the skin and lips.

Riboflavin - Vitamin B2 - essential nutrient needed for skin health and melanin production by the body.

Ribwort juice - Maintains healthy mucous membranes.

Ricinus communis - Castor oil, derived from the seed of the Castor oil plant. Note that this does not contain the toxin Ricin.

Rosa damascena distillate – Floral water from the flowers of the Damask rose.

Rosa moschata - Rosehip oil, rich in essential fatty acids, helps reduce fine wrinkles and is reported to repair sun damaged skin.

Rosa rubiginosa – Plant oil expressed from the seeds of the Sweet Briar.

Rosmarinus officinalis - Rosemary essential oil - antiseptic, refreshing and stimulating for the skin. Good for circulation.

Rosmarinus officinalis extract - Rosemary leaf extract is a powerful antioxidant, protecting the oil based ingredients in products and the skin from free-radical damage.

Rubus fructicosus - Blackberry, natural fruit aroma.

Rubus idaeus - Raspberry, natural fruit aroma.

Ruscus aculeatus - Butchers broom - good for circulation.

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S

Salvia officinalis - Sage, antiseptic and astringent.

Salvia sclarea – Clary Sage essential oil – has soothing and balancing effects on the skin and emotions.

Sambucus nigra - Elderflower - regarded by herbalists as a 'cure-all' - used in some of our Children's formulations to ease inflammation and to aid in the healing of minor wounds.

Santalum austrocaledonicum - Essential oil from the New Caledonian Sandalwood - excellent for all skin types, especially dry, dehydrated skin.

Santalum spicata – Essential oil from the Australian Sandalwood – ideal for preventing dryness of the skin.

Sclerotium gum – Natural plant gum used to thicken and stabilise lotions.

Sesame - Cold-pressed Sesame seed oil. Excellent oil rich in antioxidants and Omega-6 essential fatty acids.

Sesamum indicum - (See Sesame).

Shea butteramidopropyl betaine – Mild foaming agent derived from Shea Butter – helps to condition the hair as well as cleaning.

Silybum marianum - Milk Thistle extract.

Simmondsia chinensis - Jojoba oil - almost identical to sebum, the skin’s natural lubricant.

Sodium benzoate - A food grade preservative - sodium salt of benzoic acid. Can be found in nature in free and combined form e.g. cranberries, prunes and cinnamon.

Sodium chloride - Common table salt. Used as an astringent and antiseptic as well as thickener.

Sodium citrate – Sequestering agent that helps stabilise formulations by preventing ingredients from reacting with each other.

Sodium cocoamphoacetate – Very mild foaming agent from coconut oil.

Sodium coco-sulfate – Very mild foaming agent from coconut oil.

Sodium cocoyl glutamate – Mild foaming agent derived from coconut oil and the amino acid glutamic acid.

Sodium hydroxide - Caustic soda – processing aid widely used in soap making - is not a part of the finished product.

Sodium laureth sulphate - A synthetic detergent - the sodium salt of sulfated ethoxylated lauryl alcohol. Made using ethylene oxide. Used as a wetting and cleansing ingredient. Can cause skin and eye irritation. (Not used in any Green People product).

Sodium lauryl sulphate - A synthetic detergent, wetting ingredients, and emulsifier derived from coconut oil. Prepared by sulfation of lauryl alcohol followed by neutralisation with sodium carbonate. Used in a wide range of shampoos and toothpastes for its foaming and detergent properties. Can cause drying of the skin, contact eczema and is an eye irritant. (Not used in any Green People product).

Sodium lauryl glucose carboxylate – Mild emulsifier derived from coconut oil and glucose.

Sodium levulinate – Sodium salt of levulinic acid.

Sodium myristoyl sarcosinate - Very mild surfactant. Excellent cleansing agent with light conditioning properties.

Sodium stearoyl glutamate – Skin friendly emulsifier derived from coconut oil and the amino acid glutamic acid.

Sorbitan olivate - Emulsifier extracted from olive oil. Has excellent moisturising properties and boosts the SPF level of sunscreens.

Spirulina - Rich source of protein, vitamins, minerals and essential fatty acids. Spirulina is used as an antioxidant.

Styrax benzoin – Essential oil derived from Benzoin resin.

Sucrose - Raw cane sugar used as a gentle, effective abrasive in Green People Sugar Scrubs.

Surfactant - Surface active ingredients - substances capable of emulsifying oils and holding dirt in suspension so that it can be rinsed away with water.

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T

TEA - triethanolamine. A frequently used dispersing agent and emulsifier. An irritant and possible sensitiser. (Not used in Green People products).

Theobroma grandiflorum - Cupuaçu butter - plant wax with high capacity of water absorption and a pleasant skin feel. Wild-crafted sustainably from the Amazon rain forest.

Thymus vulgaris linalol - Used both as an essential oil and floral water. Strong antiviral, antifungal and antibacterial properties. Warming and relaxing.

Titanium dioxide - A mineral filter found in nature - known to reflect the sun's UVA rays away from the skin.

Tocopherol - Natural vitamin E - used as an antioxidant to protect plant oils from rancidity.

Trifolium pratense - Red clover - rich in flavonoids, has a strong antioxidant action. Used in our Baby range to help protect delicate skin.

Triticum vulgare - Wheat germ oil, rich in vitamin E, excellent for dry skin.

Triticum spp. - Derived from Wheat germ - high in protein and has excellent firming properties.

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U

Unicaria tormentosa - Cats claw. Excellent in gentle skin care formulations.

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V

Vaccinium macrocarpon – Cranberry seed oil, rich in essential fatty acids needed for healthy skin.

Vaccinium myrtillus - Blueberry, natural fruit aroma.

Vegetable oil - An oil extracted from a plant as opposed to an animal or mineral oil.

Vetiveria zizanoides – Vetivert essential oil – has soothing actions and aids skin regeneration.

Vitis vinifera - Grape seed extract, mild fruit acids help exfoliate and cleanse the skin.

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W

Wild Seaweed (see Ascophyllum nodosum).

Wormwood juice - One of the classic 'bitters', this stimulates the digestive system and the liver.

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X

Xanthan gum - corn sugar gum. Used as a thickener, emulsifier and stabiliser.

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Y

Yucca schidigera - Yucca plant - has excellent gentle, cleansing properties.

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Z

Zinc Oxide - Earth mineral used as sun filter.

Zinc ricinoleate - a highly effective deodorant based on zinc salt of ricinoleic acid. Does not inhibit natural perspiration. Does not interfere with the natural flora of the skin.

Zingiber officinalis – Ginger extract – energising, warming and rejuvenating – inhibits the breakdown of collagen. We also use essential oil of Ginger.

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