Body Wrap Glossary

Almond Oil – This oil has many cosmetic and medicinal uses and is an excellent massage oil. Almond oil forms the base for many lotions, creams etc, in skin care, and is often used as a carrier oil in aromatherapy and massage therapy because its fine texture makes it easily absorbable. It can also help in relieving muscular aches and pains, softening the skin and promoting a clear young looking complexion.

Bentonite Clay - Hydrated Bentonite is natural clay that comes from volcanic ash. It is often used in facial masks as it absorbs excess oil, dirt and toxins from the skin. Studies show that the internal use of volcanic ash goes back to the indigenous peoples of the high Andes Mountains, tribes in Central Africa and the aborigines of Australia. Taken internally, it supports the intestinal system in the elimination of toxins.

Caffine – A mild diuretic, caffine (or more commonly caffeine) is well known as a stimulant which, even when applied externally, can increase the level of circulating fatty acids, thus enhancing fat oxidation, and is commonly used by athletes to enhance fatty acid metabolism. Caffeine is an alkaloid with numerous sub compounds called alkaloids such as methylxanthines, which include caffeine, theophylline, and theobromin; found in cola nuts, coffee, tea, cacao beans and other plants.

Cellulite - A fatty tissue in the subcutaneous layer of the skin that contains narrow bands of linked tissue. This tissue, which varies in thickness and is laced with fat cells, is held in place by a structure of fibres that protects our body, cushioning our muscles and organs. A liquid that both nourishes it and provides it with an effective waste system also surrounds it. When all is working well in the system, waste products are removed from the body and smooth curves result; when fats, fluids and toxins are trapped deep in the skin, however, the linking tissue thickens and hardens, giving a dimpling, orange peel effect. As we mature, the layer of skin thins, resulting in the rippled appearance of cellulite. Though everyone has a smooth layer of fat, individual amounts depend on weight, lifestyle and genetics. This fat layer is an insulator for the body and cushions the organs, muscles and nerves. Cellulite, on the other hand, is lumpy and provides no padding whatsoever. It only occurs in certain areas of the body: the thighs, buttocks, abdomen and breasts. When men get cellulite, it tends to be on the neck and abdomen. Cellulite is not necessarily a factor of body weight. You don't have to be heavy to have cellulite. Though diet and lifestyle affect cellulite formation, a large part of cellulite is comprised of toxins and fat that build up in the body, and can affect women and men of any size, weight and body structure.

Cypress - Traditional uses as an essential oil include: antiseptic, antirheumatic, anti mycobacterial, decongestant (venous, lymphatic, prostatic), hepatic, mucolytic, hemostatic-styptic, vasoconstrictive, antispasmodic, tonic (neurotonic and intestinal), emmenagogue, diuretic, deodorant, anti-bacterial. This oil works well for cellulite, oedema, poor circulation, varicose veins as well as water retention. An ideal oil for many menstrual difficulties. Aids nervous tension and stress-related conditions.

Fennel – Sometimes known as ‘Sweet Cumin’ fennel seed has been used as an antispasmodic, carminative, diuretic, expectorant, laxative, stimulant, and stomachic. Fennel has also been used to stimulate lactation, as a remedy against colic, and to improve the taste of other medicines. Chinese herbal medicine includes the use of fennel for gastroenteritis, hernia, indigestion, abdominal pain, and to resolve phlegm and stimulate milk production. Also good for treating cellulitis, obesity and oedema.

Juniperberry – This essential oil, obtained from the berries of the juniper bush, has astringent and antiseptic qualities and is recognised as both stimulating and soothing. It has a fresh, pine-needle aroma. Believed to be magical, Juniper was used to avert and protect from evil. Some traditional uses suggest it can energise and relieve exhaustion, ease inflammation and spasms, improve mental clarity and memory. It is renown for purification, disinfecting and reducing fluid retention. Also good for treating the accumulation of toxins, cellulitis and obesity.

Kaolin - Kaolin is a clay composed essentially of the mineral kaolinite. It is characterised by its white colour and is formed as a result of the decomposition of the alumina - silicate minerals, especially the feldspars. The term kaolin is derived from the Chinese word "Kau-ling", meaning high ridge, having reference to the locality from which the richest supplies were obtained. Used in paper manufacture and as the main constituent of China clay it is noted for its purity and absorbent qualities.

Rose – Rose oil is excellent for dry and mature complexions. It is used for poor circulation and liver congestion. Rose oil lifts depression, relieves headaches and eases nervous tension and stress-related complaints. ‘But the rose procures us one thing above all: a feeling of well being, even of happiness’.

Vitamin E - Vitamin E is a fat-soluble vitamin discovered in the early 20th century and is best known as an antioxidant that may, among other things, reduce oxidative stress associated with the development of coronary heart disease. Vitamin E (tocopherol) assists in maintaining cell integrity and is easily obtained from foods such as sunflower oil, safflower oil, canola oil, and olive oil, many grains, nuts and fruits.

Zinc Oxide - Because it absorbs ultraviolet light, zinc oxide can be used in ointments, creams, and lotions to protect against sunburn. Crystalline zinc oxide exhibits the piezoelectric effect, is luminescent, and is light sensitive. Zinc oxide occurs in nature as the mineral Zincite. Zinc peroxide is a white to yellow powder used in antiseptic ointments and is a prime constituent of Calamine and Caladryl lotion.