We’re adding Tiger Grass to all our herb infused oils… here’s why.
Tiger Grass is a perennial herb that grows in India, Japan, Indonesia, Sri Lanka, China, South Africa and the South Pacific.. You may know it as Cica or Centella Asiatica or Gotu Kola. It is often referred to as the ‘miracle elixir of life’ and nicknamed Tiger Grass because tigers roll in it to help soothe their wounds. Gotu kola has been used as a medicine in the Indian Ayurvedic tradition, as well as in African and Chinese medicine.
It helps repair the skin’s protective barrier by making it more resilient improves overall moisture levels by slowing down the evaporation of water from the skin.
It’s also anti-inflammatory, quickly soothing irritated skin. From redness and rosacea to spots and breakouts, it takes the edge off skin conditions so often linked with soreness and discomfort.
It’s effective for mature skin or for anyone with dry skin, whether it’s applied all over or targeting chronic dry areas, the result is smoother, hydrated skin that’s soft, strong and supple.
Gotu kola also contains a chemical called triterpenic fraction of Centella asiatica (TTFCA). TTFCA is particularly beneficial for varicose veins since it stimulates the production of collagen and elastin.
These connective tissues are needed to strengthen the internal lining and walls of your veins. Having stronger veins means having fewer varicose veins. This why we add it to our V-Vein Balm & our V-Vein Herbal Massage Oil
Benefits for Skin
Wound Healing: Helps speed tissue regeneration in wounds, including acne scars.
Reduces Inflammation: Packed with saponins (anti-inflammatories), tiger grass calms irritated skin.
Improves Dullness: Contributes to a brighter and more glowing complexion thanks to its hydrating properties.
Anti-Aging: Promotes and regulates collagen production (which slows down as we age), thereby increasing skin's firmness.
Protects Skin: It acts as a barrier against free radicals, pollutants, and environmental stressors.
Color-Corrects: Addresses redness (including rosacea), hyperpigmentation, and uneven skin tone.
Antibacterial Agent: High levels of antioxidants lead to increased levels of antimicrobials, which may help combat acne.
Soothes Sensitive Skin: Given its healing properties and the fact that it's full of nutrients, tiger grass is ideal for those with sensitive skin and is sometimes used to treat eczema.
How does it work?
Most of the tiger grass’ strength lies in the fact that it’s a potent antioxidant. It contains active compounds like the phytonutrient madecassoside, which helps ward off free radicals that compromise the skin and weaken its barrier function. It’s also a rich source of hydrating amino acids, and saponins (anti-inflammatory); and gives the plant its deep green hue, (chlorophyll is the secret to its antimicrobial potency). Other nutrients worth mentioning include zinc, selenium, copper, beta-carotene and fatty acids which act as a support system to the skin – like a skin multi-vitamin.
Where is it from?
Native throughout tropical wetlands. A perennial herb that thrives in moist soil or swamplands, it’s hand harvested whenever it’s looking healthy and green, and it’s the leaves in particular that contain all the beautifying benefits.
All the above reasons is why it’s started to make its way into some of our formulations. All our herbal oil infusions which we use to make our balms, salves and some of our creams will contain Gotu Kola or Tiger Grass, if not by now, as in the V-Vein balm and herbal oil, in the near future.
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