Seen throughout the gardens of 5th Century France, it is one of the oldest cultivated flowers. By the Civil War, most doctors carried dried calendula petals in their medical bags, to stop bleeding and promote healing of wounds.

With antibacterial properties, it can help new tissue grow in wounds and decrease swelling. Today, it is commonly used to treat bruises and has been shown to help prevent skin inflammation and improve the overall appearance of the skin.

This herb was first recorded in European folk remedies as early as the 1500s. Used as an antidote for black eyes, sprains and minor contusions. Several indigenous tribes drank arnica root in tea to ease back pain.

It can be applied topically to soothe bug bites, muscle aches, reduces inflammation and heal wounds. Commonly used on injuries, such as sprains, bruises, and muscle soreness. Also helps to relieve pain associated with arthritis and rheumatic conditions.

Menthol has been used as a non-opioid pain reliever since ancient times. The strong-smelling herb was believed to have phenomenal powers, and Greek athletes rubbed bruised leaves on their skin after bathing to increase strength. 

This ancient compound is used in topical antipruritic, antiseptic, and analgesic formulations. It evokes a cooling sensation on the skin by stimulating sensory receptors, acting as a counter-irritant in addition to it’s antibacterial and antifungal properties.

Indigenous peoples first made use of jojoba by using a mortar and pestle to create a salve or buttery substance then applied it topically all over the skin.

Shown to assist in wound healing and diminish skin conditions especially after sun exposure. Jojoba also exhibits anti-inflammatory, antiseptic and anti-aging benefits.

Nearly 100 years ago, Vitamin E was demonstrated as a lipid-soluble antioxidant and was recognized as an essential nutrient by the late 1960s. It is found naturally in sunflowers, including in their seeds and high doses in sunflower oil.

Natural plant-derived Vitamin E provides protective functions within the epidermis like preventing cell damage after UV exposure. It maintains moisture and as a natural anti-inflammatory it can reduce skin swelling and inflammation, while calming and hydrating the skin, leaving it softer and smoother.

The key to Cleopatra’s skincare regimen. Egyptians were also known to use it in an ancient elixir for antibacterial purposes. Research studies published by the Archives of Medical Science analyzed its therapeutic use as a means of prevention and treatment of sports injuries in the ancient world.

According to major literature of ancient philosophers and physicians, the Greeks used olive oil to “succeed in increasing skin elasticity and blood supply to the underlying muscle. Post-exercise massage combined with the oil rub resulted in faster recovery of the athlete, as the blood flow increased and the product of metabolic processes (lactic acid) was removed rapidly from the extended blood vessels."