Natural Ingredients

  • Cold-pressed Rice Bran Oil

    For centuries, Japan has harnessed the power of rice bran oil, with its roots tracing back to Edo-era folk medicine. Today, we bring you the finest cold-pressed rice bran oil, derived from traceable, often non-GMO Japanese rice, ensuring both quality and security.

    Our cosmetic-grade oil is gently extracted using only mechanical pressure at low temperatures, preserving its impressive array of natural nutrients and antioxidants – including gamma-oryzanol, tocopherols, and tocotrienols – along with its subtle, natural aroma and flavor.

    Unlike conventionally processed rice bran oil (which undergoes extensive refining using advanced Japanese techniques), our cold-pressed method prioritizes the integrity of these beneficial compounds.

    The result is a highly valued oil in the cosmetics industry, renowned for its skin-brightening, moisturizing, and anti-aging prowess. Its nutrient density and natural flavor also make it a delicious and healthy addition to your kitchen.

    Unlock the Health Power of Cold-Pressed Rice Bran Oil

    Packed with antioxidants, healthy fats, and unique bioactive compounds like gamma-oryzanol, cold-pressed rice bran oil offers a spectrum of potential health advantages, making it a valuable addition to your daily life.

    For Your Heart: It may help improve cholesterol profiles by lowering LDL and triglycerides while potentially raising HDL. The combination of these factors can contribute to a reduced risk of heart disease and lower blood pressure.

    Antioxidant Richness: A potent source of gamma-oryzanol (fighting free radicals and potentially cancer), Vitamin E (protecting cells), and ferulic acid (combating oxidative stress and aging).

    Blood Sugar Support: Early studies suggest potential benefits in improving insulin sensitivity and lowering blood sugar levels.

    Inflammation Fighter: Antioxidants like gamma-oryzanol and ferulic acid may help reduce inflammation linked to chronic diseases.

    Skin's Best Friend: Vitamin E and fatty acids protect against free radical damage, potentially reducing wrinkles and keeping skin hydrated and supple.

    Beyond the Basics: May also contribute to a stronger immune system and offer some protection to the liver.

  • Shea Butter

    Shea Butter: Nature's Nourishment 

    Shea butter is a rich, ivory-colored fat extracted from the nuts of the Shea tree (Vitellaria paradoxa), also known as the Karité tree or "butter tree." This remarkable tree grows wild in the savannah regions of West and East Africa, across a belt stretching from Senegal to Uganda. For centuries, shea butter has been a cherished traditional ingredient in these regions, used for cooking, skincare, and even medicinal purposes.

    The journey of shea butter begins with the harvesting of the fallen shea fruits. The nuts are then separated, cracked open, and the kernels inside are extracted. These kernels are then crushed and often roasted before being ground into a paste. This paste is kneaded and mixed with water, and through a process of boiling and churning, the precious shea butter rises to the surface. Traditionally, this entire process is done by hand, often by women, who have passed down their knowledge through generations. This has earned shea butter the nickname "women's gold" in many African communities, as it provides a vital source of income and empowerment.

    Why is Shea Butter so good for the skin?

    Shea butter's exceptional skin benefits stem from its unique composition, rich in:

    Fatty Acids: It's packed with beneficial fatty acids like oleic, stearic, linoleic, palmitic, and arachidic acids. These deeply moisturize the skin, creating a protective barrier that prevents moisture loss and keeps the skin soft and supple. This makes it excellent for dry and dehydrated skin.

    Vitamins: Shea butter is a natural source of Vitamins A and E, both powerful antioxidants. Vitamin A helps with skin cell turnover and can contribute to a more youthful appearance, while Vitamin E protects the skin from free radical damage caused by environmental stressors like pollution and UV rays.

    Triterpenes: These plant compounds have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help soothe irritated skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and even sunburn. They are also believed to contribute to collagen production, potentially reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

    Phytosterols: These compounds can also contribute to shea butter's anti-inflammatory effects and may help to improve the skin barrier function.

    Unsaponifiable Matter: Shea butter has a high percentage of unsaponifiable components, which are fats that cannot be turned into soap. These components are believed to contribute to its healing and regenerative properties.

    Shea Butter in Japan for Natural Cosmetics:

    In Japan, with a growing consumer interest in natural and gentle skincare, shea butter has become a popular and highly valued ingredient in natural cosmetics. Its rich moisturizing properties and skin-friendly nature make it ideal for various applications:

    Moisturizers and Body Butters: Shea butter's ability to deeply hydrate and create a protective barrier makes it a key ingredient in creams, lotions, and body butters designed to combat dryness, especially during Japan's dry winter months.

    Lip Balms: Its emollient properties effectively soothe and protect dry, chapped lips, a common concern in various climates in Japan.

    Hand Creams: Frequent hand washing and exposure to varying temperatures can dry out hands. Shea butter provides intense moisture and helps maintain soft, healthy hands.

    Hair Care: While you specifically asked about skin, it's worth noting that shea butter is also used in some natural Japanese hair care products to moisturize the scalp and hair, reduce frizz, and add shine.

    Soaps: Natural soap makers in Japan often incorporate shea butter for its moisturizing and conditioning properties, resulting in gentler and more nourishing cleansing bars.

    Baby Care: Due to its gentle and natural nature, shea butter is often found in products formulated for delicate baby skin.

    The appeal of shea butter in the Japanese natural cosmetics market lies in its natural origin, its proven effectiveness as a moisturizer, its soothing properties for sensitive skin, and the growing awareness of its ethical sourcing and the empowerment of women in Africa. As Japanese consumers increasingly seek out sustainable and skin-friendly ingredients, shea butter is well-positioned to remain a beloved component of natural cosmetic formulations. Its gentle yet powerful properties align perfectly with the desire for healthy, radiant skin using nature's gifts.