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Herbs

At GARA, the foundation of our business is our approach to sourcing herbs for our formulations. We place immense importance on the quality and origin of these botanical ingredients. To achieve this, we've established partnerships with local farms that grant us access to the finest, seasonally fresh herbs.

Many of these herbs are carefully harvested and dried by our own hands, ensuring unparalleled potency, purity, and freshness. Additionally, we cultivate a variety of herbs in our own garden and maintain direct relationships with Earthtrine Farms, Shear Rock Farms, Earth Island Herbs, and numerous other small local gardeners. The bedrock of our philosophy is rooted in a commitment to 100% organic plant material, free from any harmful sprays or chemical fertilizers, as we firmly believe that only the highest-quality herbs can serve as the cornerstone for crafting truly potent and exceptional products.

Our herb sourcing process reflects our dedication to crafting products of the utmost quality. This commitment sets us apart, allowing us to offer formulations infused with the purity and efficacy that only the finest herbs can provide.

Calendula

Calendula officinalis

Hailed for its regenerative and protective properties, calendula is the ultimate skin-care herb. It contains a multitude of nutritional constituents such as carotenoids, vitamins A and E, and linoleic acid. Calendula is naturally antibacterial and anti-inflammatory and helps to soothe many problematic skin conditions, ranging from infections to scar tissue.

This abundant, resilient herb is grown on our micro-farm in Ojai, and its yellow pedals brighten up the garden throughout the spring and summer. Calendula flowers are also edible and add incredible vibrancy to salads, deserts and other delicious dishes.

Chamomile

Matricaria chamomilla

German Chamomile is a botanical gem celebrated for its remarkable benefits for the skin. Extensive scientific studies have underscored its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, making it an ideal choice for sensitive or irritated skin.

This delicate flower's essential oil is rich in azulene, a natural compound renowned for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. When applied topically, German Chamomile can help reduce redness, calm skin irritations, and promote a healthy complexion. Its gentle nature makes it suitable for a wide range of skincare applications, providing a nurturing touch to the skin and making it a cherished ingredient in natural and holistic skincare regimens.

We harvest and dry fresh German Chamomile from Earthtrine Farms in Ojai to infuse in our Zen Cream, Earth Oil and Chamomile Flower Oil. We also harvest the fresh flowers to make our Chamomile Hydrosol.

Camphor

Cinnamomum camphora

Camphor helps to improve capillary circulation, increasing blood flow to the targeted area. The vapors can be inhaled as treatment for upper respiratory tract ailments such as allergies, and chest or sinus congestion.

We use only steam distilled Camphor as a potent aromatic component in both the Menthol Rub and Herbal Balm.

Comfrey

Symphytum officinale

This medicinal plant has been harvested and used as a traditional treatment for bruising, inflammation, joint pain and muscle strain for more than 2,000 years in Japan. We grow and harvest our Comfrey from many local gardens. The roots and leaves are dried and solar infused in organic EV Ojai olive oil for up to six weeks.

We utilize this herb in our concentrated Herbal Balm for its potent calming properties.

*Not to be used during pregnancy. Do not apply to open wounds.

Helichrysum

Helichrysum italicum

Helichrysum, also known as the Immortelle or Everlasting flower, has a rich history of use for skin health, dating back to ancient civilizations such as the Egyptians. Modern medical studies have further substantiated its benefits. This remarkable plant is renowned for its ability to accelerate wound healing and minimize scars. It contains compounds that exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which play a pivotal role in tissue repair and regeneration. The ancient Egyptians, revered for their advanced medical knowledge, used helichrysum for various skin ailments, and today's research echoes their wisdom. This timeless botanical treasure has found its place in many of our formulas, offering the support for natural skin rejuvenation.

We harvest and dry this wonderful herb that is grown both in our garden and on several organic farms nearby. We infuse the herb in oil and add it to our Youth Serum, Zen Cream, Hemp Butter and Herbal Balm. We also distill fresh flowers to create our Helichrysum Hydrosol.

Hemp

Cannabis sativa

We work closely with our cultivators in Oregon to ensure 100% organically grown, pesticide-free, full-spectrum hemp oil (FSO). Our FSO is high in cannabidiol (CBD) a non-psychoactive cannabinoid that helps calm the mind and body, boost the immune system, and so much more. The results of using CBD on the skin can be immediate and lasting, as it helps to nourish and repair damaged or problematic skin. 

You can find more information about our approach to CBD cultivation and extraction here.

Arnica

Heterotheca inuloides

We cultivate this plant to be used as a topical remedy for bruises, sprains, rheumatism, varicose veins and arthritis. The active compounds in Mexican arnica have anti-inflammatory, pain-relieving and antiseptic properties. The flowers are solar infused for up to six weeks in organic EV Ojai olive oil and in Miron violet glass. We add this infused oil to our Herbal Balm and Menthol Rub.

*Not to be used during pregnancy. Do not apply to open wounds.

Menthol

Mentha arvensis

Menthol is the solid constituent of the essential oils of mint. Its cooling, tingling properties help melt away tension and muscle fatigue. Menthol’s powerful aroma helps to open airways and clear sinus and chest congestion. We use fair-trade, certified-organic corn mint in our Menthol Rub.

*Do not apply to open wounds. Avoid contact with eyes and other sensitive areas.

Rose

Rosa rubiginosa

Roses deliver not only a captivating fragrance but also genuine therapeutic benefits for a radiant and healthy complexion.These delicate blossoms possess natural anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antibacterial properties, making them an excellent ally for all skin types. Research has highlighted the potential of rose extracts to soothe and hydrate the skin, reduce redness, and support skin healing. The abundance of vitamins and minerals within roses, especially vitamin C, contribute to their capacity to boost collagen production and initiate natural cell repair.

We harvest and dry roses from our local gardens to infuse into the base oil of the Youth Serum. We also distill fresh petals to create the Rose Hydrosol.

St. John's Wort

Hypericum perforatum

This herb has been used in Europe to treat skin infections, small wounds and bruises. St. John’s Wort contains antibacterial and antiviral compounds which makes it an excellent ally to use topically. The flowers are solar infused in olive oil for six weeks before formulation in the Menthol Rub. 

*Not to be used during pregnancy.

Turmeric

Curcuma longa

Turmeric has numerous health benefits when taken internally as well as when it is applied externally. It’s packed with potent anti-inflammatory compounds, making it a perfect ingredient for soothing problematic, painful muscles and joints.

We add this herb to our Hemp Butter, Herbal Balm and Menthol Rub.

Yarrow

Achillea millefolium

Yarrow has a longstanding reputation for its skin-healing abilities that our ancestors knew well. Research has shown that yarrow contains compounds like tannins and flavonoids that can aid in wound healing by reducing inflammation and promoting tissue repair. Moreover, its natural astringent properties help to constrict blood vessels and control bleeding, making it valuable for minor cuts and scrapes. Yarrow's potential to diminish the appearance of scars is also noteworthy, as it may assist in the formation of new, healthy tissue. With this scientific backing, yarrow emerges as a versatile botanical ally in skincare, particularly for those seeking natural remedies to support wound healing and minimize scars.

We use locally grown and dried yarrow in the Youth Serum and Zen Cream. When we can get it fresh, we also distill an incredible Rosemary + Yarrow Hydrosol.

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