Acacia Gum - (See Gum Arabic.)

Alfalfa Extract - A natural cleanser and nutrient high in vitamins A, B, C, D and E. An ingredient in many face masks and lotions. Contains saponins (natural foaming agents).

Allantoin - An extract from comfrey root used as a soothing agent and moisturizer. It can also be made from uric acid, but the comfrey root type is superior.

Almond Butter - The butter made from almond oil, a superb emollient and skin conditioner.

Almond Meal - The ground extract of the almond kernel, used in face masks as a mild exfoliant.

Almond Oil - Excellent emollient high in oleic, linoleic and other fatty acids, ideal in the treatment of very dry skin. Soothing and moisturizing, with a sweet, pleasant fragrance. A good absorption base.

Aloe (Aloe Vera) - A superb hydrator and soothing agent, very beneficial to damaged hair and dry, chapped or sun-exposed skin. We use certified organic aloe in our products.

Aloe-Mucopolysaccharides - (See Mucopolysaccharides.)

Amino Acid Complex (Cystine, Cysteine, Methionine) - Sulfur-rich amino acids essential to protein metabolism, very nourishing to the hair and skin. Together they help balance and normalize the skin and scalp.

Angelica - The dried leaves of this herb are very aromatic. Angelica oil and angelica wax are good skin care ingredients. Annatto-Waxy extract from the herb Bixa orellana, used as a natural color. (See also Bixane Herb.)

Apricot, Apricot Kernel Oil - Natural oil from apricot pits, also known as persic oil. An emollient similar in composition to almond oil, it has a softening effect on the skin.

Arnica Oil - Oil rich in fatty acids and vitamins A, B, C and D, used in hair tonics and massage preparations for its nourishing and smoothing properties. Combined with vitamin E, it is an excellent natural deodorant.

Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C) - A powerful antioxidant and skin nutrient (see also Ester-C®). I also use vitamin C in my natural preservative blend (see Citrus Seed Extract).

Avocado Oil - Easily absorbed by the skin and scalp. A good source of vitamins A, D and E, amino acids and sterols. Herbalists traditionally have used avocado oil in hair and scalp preparations. It is very soothing and calming for skin and scalp.