Witch Hazel
Witch hazel is a powerful medicinal herb that grows in the Eastern United States. Native Americans historically used it in several forms medicinally, and us modern folk have found it to be an indispensable member of our cultural medicine cabinet. It is effective as an astringent, antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antibacterial and antifungal.
Witch Hazel is also an anesthetic and has been used to treat bedsores, bruises, eczema, insect bites, hemorrhoids, poison ivy, bruises, sore muscles, swelling, psoriasis, cracked or blistered skin, diaper rash, windburn, razor burn and sunburn.
This herb also has everyday uses that are amazing. Witch hazel extract is used as an aftershave, facial astringent, blemish treatment, varicose vein relief and is used to cleanse oil from the skin, remove make-up, decrease bags under eyes, reduce skin puffiness, and shrink pore size. It is beneficial for both oily and dry/mature skin, and is commonly used in anti-aging products as well as in products for blemished or acne-prone skin.
Lavender
Everyone knows lavender is a delicious, soothing and calming scent, but it is also a powerful healer. Lavender contains ursolic acid which is not only a natural antibacterial agent, but a strong inhibitor of inflammation and tissue degradation (such as in psoriasis and excema). It also contains the powerful anti-aging antioxidant known as rosmarinic acid, which adds “anti-carcinogenic” to our long list of “Antis”.
And then there is the scent. Lavender transports us to a place of calm and serenity. Its use in aromatherapy has been effective against stress, depression, anxiety, insomnia, and even migraines. Just a whiff of lavender can lift our energy and bring us to a higher plane.
Amber Oil
Amber oil is another ancient healer with many medicinal uses. The Greeks and Romans used it to treat asthma, arthritis and a host of other ills. The modern world has discovered that it is a fantastic source of negative ions.
Negative ions are invisible molecules, itty bitty naturally charged particles that we inhale in abundance in certain dynamic natural environments like beaches, waterfalls and mountains. Once they reach our bloodstream, it is believed that negative ions produce a biochemical reaction that increase levels of serotonin, thusly effecting mood. It helps to alleviate depression, promotes wellbeing, relieves stress, and increases energy and focus.
Uplifting and soothing at the same time, we think it’s the bee’s knees. Which brings us to its subtle, euphoric, warm and exotic aroma. Just the tiniest hint of amber in Aysta N° 1 adds a sexiness and depth to our lovely scents of clean lavender and woody witch hazel. Studies have shown that the scent of amber oil has a psychoactive effect. Through biofeedback it has demonstrated a positive effect on alpha, beta, and theta brain waves and has been shown to enhance heart energy and increase sensual pleasure.