What is beauty?
Beauty can be defined by “a characteristic that provides a perceptual experience to the eye, the ear, the intellect, and gives pleasure, meaning and satisfaction to the senses.” Beauty will stand out, draw you in and inspire you. Beauty is more than skin deep.
Did you know that the beauty products we apply to our skin also go more than skin deep? Our skin is the largest organ of our body and since it is porous what we put on our skin goes directly into our bodies.
The majority of mainstream body care products contain carcinogenic chemicals, allergens, and irritants. These harsh, toxic chemicals, colors, and fragrances quickly and quietly make their way into your body. In time this will wreak havoc on your blood and lymphatic system. This is not a very beautiful thing.
But what if we could turn that around and redefine what beauty is and what beauty care products can do? What if they could help instead of harm? Be nourishing instead of noxious?
Enter Annatto, the Seed of Beauty.
If you’ve ever seen Annatto in full bloom it is a sight to behold. Brilliant red blooms stand out against the greens of the garden and the blues of the sky.
When the Annatto is blooming, it is beauty defined.
The seeds which the sacred oil comes from are found inside the flower-like shell and are no larger than the tip of a pencil. If you happen to join us for a farm tour when the Annatto is blooming, it is a sight you will never forget!
This rich red color carries health benefits far beneath the skin. When you apply Annatto oil to your face you are feeding your whole body.
5 Benefits of Annatto Oil for Healthy, Glowing Skin:
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Annatto oil is rich in carotenoids and bixin, these are important antioxidants which fight free radical damage and protect your skin from harmful UV rays.
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Annatto is anti-microbial and was used traditionally to treat skin issues and wounds.
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Annatto is rich in tocotrienols which is a type of Vitamin E that has been known for its anticancer components. More research needs to be done but it could have a positive effect in the prevention of certain types of skin cancers.
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Annatto seed extract brightens your skin. This can help to even out skin tone which means a reduction in the appearance of dark spots and hyperpigmentation.
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Annatto has soothing and hydrating properties that can help to lock in moisture and prevent dryness. This can be particularly beneficial for individuals with dry or mature skin.
This inspiring list of benefits reassures us that nature knows what it is doing. Using Annatto oil in place of mainstream skin care goods and toxic makeup products can help us to connect to our ancestral roots.
Plus, our Annatto salve is made with locally and sustainably harvested Kaua‘i Beeswax. Beeswax has traditionally been known for its skin-softening properties. It enhances skin elasticity and helps reduce the signs of aging. Beeswax is anti-allergenic, anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, antibacterial, and germicidal. This protective layer gets applied to your skin when you use our Annatto salve.
Ancient Traditions, Modern Applications
Traditionally Annatto was used by the Mayans and Aztecs in ceremonies and in keeping cultural records. Indigenous people still use the pulp mixed with oil for cosmetic purposes: as a hair dye, as lipstick, or to decorate the body. It is used as body paint to repel insects and protect against sunburn. Annatto has a spiritual energy of protection and is used with reverence.
How to Use Annatto
There are many fun and fabulous ways to use Annatto and harness its energy of beauty and protection.
Here’s how we at the Farm like to use our NEW Annatto salve.
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In place of makeup. Apply a little to your cheeks and lips for a bright and benevolent look. Annatto has also been called the “Lipstick Plant.”
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As a morning moisturizer. A little goes a long way! Just a dab first thing in the morning will offer up a glow AND UV protection.
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To have a little fun. Because of its rich coloring, Annatto can be used to transform your skin and adopt an otherworldly look. Great for costumes or creative play. Plus, it’s safe for kids.
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Ward off insects. Take note of the indigenous tribes who use it to protect themselves in the forests.
Beauty Redefined
As this world continues to promote beauty as a specific look in a magazine or on social media, let’s remember what truly makes someone beautiful.
A kind heart, a strong spirit, good health, and a reverence for nature and the living earth.
When we tap into what the earth offers to us we do more than achieve beauty that is just skin deep. We connect to the life pulse of the earth, to indigenous wisdom, and live more in step with what is at the heart of living a beautiful life, Balance.
Now isn’t that beautiful?
