Castor Oil
This plant seed oil is derived from castor beans (Ricinus communis). It is rich in ricinoleic, oleic,
and linoleic acids. According to Cosmetic Ingredient Review, castor oil can absorb UV light and
enhance penetration of other ingredients (CIR Expert Panel 2007). In cosmetics, castor oil is used as
an emollient and surfactant in lipsticks, moisturizers, and soaps. Castor oil is also used to make
antifungal and antibacterial ointments. Russian scientists reported that castor oil ointment
“accelerates the healing and cleaning of infected skin wounds, and produces bacteriostatic action”
(Spasov et al. 2007).
Chamomile (Matricaria recutita)
This plant, also spelled as camomile, has been used for hundreds of years in cosmetics for its skin-
healing properties. Essential oil from German chamomile is rich in terpene alcohol, also known as
bisabolol, which is well-studied for its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant effects.
During an experimental study in 2008, scientists found that “chamomile extract in the form of rubbing
oil had a good potential for acceleration of burn wound healing” (Jarrahi 2008). Please note,
however, that chamomile in the form of tinctures, distillates, or essential oils is known to cause
contact dermatitis, so if you have a family history of allergies, perform a patch test before adding
chamomile to your do-it-yourself beauty products.
Chrysin
This natural flavonoid is derived from passionflower (Passiflora incarnate). In addition to its
proven antioxidant abilities, chrysin demonstrated potential as a cancer preventive. In recent studies,
chrysin even minimized metastatic spread of cancer after surgery (Beaumont et al. 2008). In green
beauty preparations, chrysin appears to protect skin against UV-induced photodamage (Steerenberg et
al. 1998). As an active ingredient in Hylexin and many other eye creams that claim to diminish under-
eye circles, chrysin seems to activate the enzyme that dissolves the buildup of debris in the delicate
eye area (Walle, Walle 2002).
Coconut (Cocos nucifera)
Coconut oil is extracted as a fully organic product from fresh coconut flesh, and it is used as a
highly effective emollient in face and body moisturizers, shampoos, and massage oils. Coconut butter,
derived from copra, is one of the most stable butters used in cosmetics. Extra virgin coconut oil has
been found to be as effective and safe as mineral oil when used as a barrier cream (Frosch et al.
2003).
Coenzyme Q10
This enzyme is a crucial molecule in the respiration of all living cells. Naturally present in human
skin, this enzyme helps maintain healthy energy levels in skin cells, which may help improve the
skin’s texture and elasticity, improve collagen production, and ward off free radicals. When taken
internally, coenzyme Q10 can help prevent diabetes, cardiovascular disease, hypertension, congestive
heart failure, age-related deterioration of brain function and vision, immune problems, as well as
other age-related health problems (Janson 2006). It is known that levels of coenzyme Q10 diminish