Adaptogens are the new buzzword in skincare but these ingredients that have been used for hundreds, maybe thousands, of years in herbal medicine to restore the body to its natural state.

In skincare, adaptogens work like antioxidants in that their main purpose is to protect the body from external stressors and bring it back to its normal state. They can decrease inflammation, cleanse the skin by killing bacteria, viruses, and fungi, decrease oil production, protect, and hydrate while providing potent antioxidants.

Traditionally, adaptogenic herbs have grown in some of the most inhospitable areas of the planet which likely gives them their stress and fatigue-fighting properties. Some adaptogens are considered extremophiles of the plant kindgom.

Bioavailability is key

Adaptogen plants need to be quality-controlled to have bioavailability and proven ability to reach the targeted skin layer. The best way to do this is to leave them in their natural state, undisturbed by heat and processing as we do with our whole-plant ingredients at Telluride Glow. Care and thoughtfulness must be applied at every step, from harvest to formulation, if the skin is to reap the full benefits. 

Adaptogen plants often grow in stressed environments, bestowing potent nutrients as a survival mechanism. For us, that means delivering better skin nutrition. 

TellurideGlow transports raw plant energy from alpine survivalist plants right to your skin. We source worldwide to provide the highest ratios and greatest variety of cytoprotective high-altitude botanicals on the market. 

Age-old adaptogenic botanicals

Each adaptogenic ingredient in our formulas uniquely supports the skin, bringing overall balance and resilience to the complexion. 

Tremella mushroom (aka snow mushroom)

The polysaccharides (naturally occurring long chains of carbohydrate molecules) found in tremella have immunological properties. They help adjust the immune system to assist the body in fighting off skin stressors. You can find snow mushroom in our Snow Rose Recovery Mask.

Aloe vera

Aloe is known to contain twelve substances that play a role in soothing inflammation. The disinfecting and antimicrobial properties also play a role in fighting harmful bacteria. This wonder plant is perfectly suited to assist the body with defense mechanisms. And it's just one of the many reasons we choose aloe as our first ingredient (as opposed to water) in our best-selling Aspen Dew Illuminating Essence. 

Marchmallow root

Stress has been shown to impair the skin barrier, leaving it prone to water loss and dehydration. Marshmallow root helps to fortify the skin barrier and increase skin hydration. The healing, moisturizing, and soothing qualities of marshmallow root make it highly effective for revitalizing stressed skin.

Goji berry

Lycium barbarum (Goji) contains antioxidant and anti-inflammatory carotenoids, and flavonoids. Goji berries can help stimulate collagen, improving your skin's elasticity to keep it looking radiant. Goji reduces irritation and minimizes sun damage that leads to wrinkles, age spots, and sagging skin. 

Moringa

Moringa is an Ayurvedic favorite that is ultra-hydrating and boasts a high antioxidant content that helps protect against pollution. Discover the hydrating powers of moringa for yourself in our Alpine Phytonutrient Serum. 

Lavender and chamomile essential oil 

These are aromatic nervines that support the nervous system. They are used to help relieve muscle tension, circular thoughts, wakeful nights, and the occasional worry...or perhaps ongoing worry that many are experiencing during the coronavirus.

Sea buckthorn

A super fruit that contains all of the omegas — not just 3, 6, and 9, but also the ultra-rare 7 — as well as more than 60 antioxidants and at least 20 minerals.

Known as “Holy Fruit” in the Himalayan Mountains where it is grown, it is often used to improve skin health, as it has been linked to healing psoriasis and to slowing aging. Sea Buckthorn is recognized for its outstanding cellular regeneration properties for skin, you can find it in our Purist Delicate Skin Serum.

Do you know what damages skincare nutrients? 

Heat, light, and air.

To keep your products at top efficacy, look for dark containers to keep out light, and avoid products in clear glass, especially those with fragile antioxidants.

Seek out treatment pumps over droppers to keep out air, and choose companies that use cold processing and cold formulating.

Lavender, known by it's Latin name as Lavandula, has captivated our senses for millennia, not just with its delightful aroma but also with its extensive medicinal and therapeutic properties.

High-altitude lavender, with its unique adaptogenic properties and rich phytochemical content, stands out for its enhanced phytochemical richness which play a pivotal role in enhancing skin health and emotional well-being.

History and traditional uses of lavendar

The story of lavender is woven deeply into the fabric of history, dating back to ancient civilizations.

In Ancient Egypt, lavender played a crucial role in the mummification process and perfumery.

It is famously associated with Cleopatra's seduction of Julius Caesar and Mark Antony. Its protective qualities were revered, believed to ward off evil spirits and diseases such as the plague and cholera in medieval Europe.

In Roman times, lavedar was a symbol of cleanliness and purity. Fun fact,  its name is derived from the Latin lavare, meaning "to wash," indicative of its use in Roman bathing rituals.

Lavender's healing properties were also recognized in early medicine by Greek physician Dioscorides and further celebrated by herbalist John Parkinson and in Traditional Chinese Medicine for its cooling and soothing effects.

The 20th century saw the pioneering work of French chemist Rene-Maurice Gattefosse, who, after experiencing lavender's healing effects first hand. After sustaining a burn on his hand he famously plunged it into a vat of lavender oil and was reportedly astonished at the speed with which his hand healed.

Gattefosse's study of lavendar contributed significantly to the foundation of modern aromatherapy, highlighting its antimicrobial and skin regeneration benefits.

The unique benefits of high-altitude lavender

Enhanced relaxation and improved sleep

The sedative properties of high-altitude lavender essential oil have been well-documented, showing significant improvement in sleep quality and stress reduction. Its intense aroma, rich in linalool and linalyl acetate, contributes to its calming effects on the nervous system.

Anti-inflammatory effects

Research highlights lavender oil's ability to mitigate inflammatory responses and soothe skin conditions. Its anti-inflammatory properties make it an excellent choice for reducing redness and discomfort on reactive skin.

Antimicrobial activity

Lavender oil's broad-spectrum antimicrobial properties are effective against skin pathogens, supporting its traditional use in cleansing wounds and preventing infections.

Promotes skin recovery and collagen synthesis

Studies have shown that lavender essential oil may help speed skin recovery by enhancing fibroblast activity and collagen synthesis. This property is crucial for improving skin health and integrity.

Guards against premature aging

The polyphenols in high-altitude lavender offer significant antioxidant protection, safeguarding the skin from environmental stressors, UV damage, and preventing signs of premature aging.

Lavender in skincare & wellness

The historical and scientific narratives of lavender converge to underscore its timeless appeal and enduring value in skincare and wellness.

High-altitude lavender, with its unique adaptogenic properties, represents the pinnacle of this botanical's potential, offering a holistic approach to nurturing the skin and calming the mind.

Incorporating high-altitude lavender into your daily routine can help to enhance sleep quality, reduce stress, promote skin health and protect against premature aging.

Lavender oil is a true testament to the power of nature in supporting our overall well-being.

Lavender's journey from ancient rituals and royal endorsements to modern-day aromatherapy and skincare formulations encapsulates its multifaceted role as a botanical treasure.

As we continue to explore and appreciate lavender's many benefits, we honor a tradition that blends ancient wisdom with contemporary science, ensuring that lavender remains a cherished ingredient in our pursuit of natural health and beauty.

Article References

1. Lytle, J., et al. (2014). "Study on the Effect of Inhalation of Lavender Essential Oil on Patients with Insomnia." Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine.
2. Donelli, D., et al. (2019). "Effects of Lavender on Anxiety: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis." Phytomedicine.
3. Sánchez-Vidaña, D. I., et al. (2017). "The Effectiveness of Lavender Essential Oil on Inflammatory Responses and Skin Conditions." International Journal of Molecular Sciences.
4. Zu, Y., et al. (2010). "Antimicrobial Activity of Lavender Oil Against Common Skin Pathogens." Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine.
5. Mori, H. M., et al. (2016). "Accelerated Wound Healing by Lavender Essential Oil in Mice." BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies.
6. Pandey, K. B., & Rizvi, S. I. (2009). "Plant Polyphenols as Antioxidants in Human Health and Disease." Free Radical Biology and Medicine.