WRITTEN BY INNERGY TEMPLE | PUBLISHED MARCH 14, 2024

Get to Know No. 1 Ensō Face Bar Soap & Massage Body Bar formulated with Tea Tree & Lemongrass Essential Oils

Unleash your inner zen with Ensō Apothecary's hand-poured, one-of-a-kind vegan soaps made with simple, organic ingredients. This 100% natural bar soap is our namesake and signature bar. Our formulation includes essential oils because they will not overpower the senses unlike artificial fragrances that can irritate allergens and trigger headaches or migraines. In this blog post you will learn important facts about Tea Tree (Melaleuca alternifolia) Essential Oil and Lemongrass (Cymbopogn flexuosus) Essential Oil supporting why we selected this particular combination to use in these beautifully curated acne-fighting vegan soaps. 

Understanding Aromatherapy Chemistry

Aromatherapy is a millennia-old practice. It has been practiced all around the world. Essential oils are highly concentrated volatile molecules collected from multiple plant parts, such as flowers, leaves, stems, bark, and roots. These oils have the unique scent and chemical components of the plant from which they are extracted, making them effective aids for supporting healing and your overall wellness.

Essential Oils: Nature's Essence

 

Essential oils comprise a complex mixture of chemical compounds, each contributing to their unique scent and therapeutic effects. These compounds are part of what is referred to in Chemistry as a chemical family. Chemical families include terpenes, esters, aldehydes, phenols, ketones, oxides, and esters. For example, terpenes such as limonene and pinene impart uplifting and energizing qualities, while phenols like thymol and eugenol exhibit strong antimicrobial properties.

Chemical Composition: The Building Blocks of Healing

The chemical makeup of essential oils varies greatly according to the plant species, region, climate, and extraction method & procedure. For example, lavender essential oil includes significant quantities of linalool and linalyl acetate, which help to relax and soothe the skin and mind. On the other hand, tea tree (Melaleuca alternifolia) oil contains terpinen-4-ol, which is an effective antimicrobial.

Importance of Understanding Chemistry for Therapeutic Use

Understanding the chemistry of essential oils is key to leveraging their therapeutic benefits effectively and safely. Here's why.

• Efficacy: Being aware of the chemical makeup allows you to select oils with qualities that are matched to your personal desired outcome. This is why, when purchasing aromatherapy items or essential oils, you should look for companies that have GC/MS tested their oils and are willing to provide this report to you.  
• Safety: Certain chemical components that make up essential oils might produce undesirable reactions, particularly when used poorly or kept inappropriately, resulting in oxidation. Understanding which substances may cause certain sensitivity or interactions with pharmaceuticals if you are under the care of a physician, pregnant, nursing, taking over-the-counter medication, or consuming herbal products, or have questions contact your licensed medical provider before using aromatherapy or essential oils. This will empower you to utilize aromatherapy and essential oils more safely as a consumer.
• Synergy: Combining essential oils with complementary chemical profiles can enhance their therapeutic effects through synergy. 
• Quality Control: Knowledge of chemistry aids in assessing the quality and purity of essential oils. Genuine oils should contain specific compounds in appropriate concentrations for optimal efficacy.

In essence, understanding the chemistry of essential oils empowers individuals to make informed decisions when incorporating aromatherapy into their wellness routines. By leveraging the diverse chemical profiles of these natural extracts, we can unlock their full potential for promoting physical, mental, and emotional well-being.

Introduction to Tea Tree (Melaleuca alternifolia) Oil: The Natural Wonder

 

Tea tree (Melaleuca alternifolia) essential oil is extracted through steam distillation from tea tree leaves. The essential oil provides numerous benefits such as pain reduction and acne treatment due to its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory characteristics. Tea tree (Melaleuca alternifolia) oil is a popular means of treating a range of skin care disorders, including acne, simply because of this. 

Chemical Components of Tea Tree (Melaleuca alternifolia) Oil: Unveiling the Magic

 

Tea tree (Melaleuca alternifolia) oil's effectiveness lies in its chemical composition, which includes key components such as terpinen-4-ol and 1,8-cineole. Terpinen-4-ol, in particular, is recognized for its potent antimicrobial activity, while 1,8-cineole lends additional therapeutic benefits, including anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. 

 

Antimicrobial Properties: Battling Acne-Causing Bacteria

One of tea tree (Melaleuca alternifolia) oil's most celebrated feats is its ability to combat acne-causing bacteria, notably Propionibacterium acnes*. Research has shown that tea tree (Melaleuca alternifolia) oil possesses significant antimicrobial activity against P. acnes, making it an effective natural alternative to conventional acne treatments. Studies have demonstrated tea tree (Melaleuca alternifolia) oil's ability to inhibit the growth of P. acnes bacteria, thereby reducing the risk of acne breakouts and promoting clearer skin.

Source: Carson, C. F., Hammer, K. A., & Riley, T. V. (2006). Melaleuca alternifolia (tea tree) oil: a review of antimicrobial and other medicinal properties. Clinical Microbiology Reviews, 19(1), 50–62. 

Reduction of Inflammation and Redness: Soothing Skin Woes

Beyond its antimicrobial prowess, tea tree (Melaleuca alternifolia) oil is also renowned for its anti-inflammatory properties, which play a pivotal role in calming inflamed and irritated skin associated with acne. By inhibiting pro-inflammatory cytokines and enzymes, tea tree (Melaleuca alternifolia) oil helps alleviate redness, swelling, and discomfort, promoting a clearer, more balanced complexion.

Source: Kim, S., Kim, H., & Yoon, Y. (2019). Anti-inflammatory effect of Melaleuca alternifolia essential oil on human keratinocytes. Biomolecules & Therapeutics, 27(4), 358–363.

In conclusion, tea tree (Melaleuca alternifolia) oil stands as a testament to nature's healing prowess, offering a potent blend of antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that make it a valuable ally in the battle against acne. By harnessing the power of this botanical wonder, you can unlock clearer, healthier skin without harsh chemicals or synthetic additives.

Lemongrass Essential Oil: Nature's Acne Fighter

 

Lemongrass (Cymbopogn flexuosus) essential oil is extracted from the Cymbopogon citratus (DC.) Stapf plant. It is well-known for its citrus scent and therapeutic applications. It has been used for centuries in conventional therapies and aromatherapy because of its numerous skin health-positive benefits.

 

Key Chemical Constituents:

 

Lemongrass (Cymbopogn flexuosus) essential oil has several powerful chemical compounds, including citral, geraniol, limonene, and others. These chemicals contribute to its characteristic scent and therapeutic effects.

Antimicrobial properties:

Lemongrass (Cymbopogn flexuosus) oil is famous for its powerful antibacterial capabilities. Research suggests that it can effectively limit the growth of acne-causing bacteria like Propionibacterium acnes. Lemongrass (Cymbopogn flexuosus) oil stands out as a natural and efficient acne treatment because it combats these dangerous germs.

Anti-inflammatory properties:

Lemongrass (Cymbopogn flexuosus) oil has been found in studies to have strong anti-inflammatory effects. This attribute is especially relevant in the context of acne since inflammation is a common feature of the blemish. Lemongrass (Cymbopogn flexuosus) oil decreases inflammation, which helps to relieve the redness, swelling, and agony associated with acne breakouts.

Antioxidant activity:

Lemongrass (Cymbopogn flexuosus) contains chemical components with high antioxidant properties. These antioxidants are critical for defending the skin against oxidative stress and free radical damage. Lemongrass (Cymbopogn flexuosus) oil prevents acne breakouts by neutralizing free radicals and improving overall skin health.

Regulation of sebum production:

Acne is frequently associated with excess sebum production. Lemongrass (Cymbopogn flexuosus) oil has been studied for its ability to control sebum production in the skin. Lemongrass (Cymbopogn flexuosus) oil, by regulating sebum levels, helps to prevent blocked pores and acne outbreaks.

Skin Soothing Properties:

Lemongrass (Cymbopogn flexuosus) oil is recognized for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory capabilities, as well as its skin-soothing benefits. Its use can help reduce acne-related skin inflammation, redness, and pain. Lemongrass oil soothes the skin and provides a cleaner, more balanced complexion.

Source: Das, K., Parulekar, P., & Purohit, H. J. (Year). Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus (DC.) Stapf): A Review on Its Phytochemical Composition, Pharmacological, and Industrial Applications. Planta Medica International Open, Volume(Issue). DOI: 10.1055/s-0041-1730280

In conclusion, Lemongrass (Cymbopogn flexuosus) essential oil emerges as a powerful ally in the fight against acne due to its multifaceted therapeutic properties. From its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects to its antioxidant activity and regulation of sebum production, Lemongrass (Cymbopogn flexuosus) oil offers comprehensive support for achieving clearer, healthier skin. Incorporating Lemongrass (Cymbopogn flexuosus) oil into skincare routines can provide natural and effective solutions for managing acne and promoting overall skin wellness.

 

You can experience the acne-fighting power of these two essential oils in the  No. 1 Ensō Face Bar Soap and the No. 1 Ensō Massage Body Bar. Both bar soaps are lightly scented with tea tree (Melaleuca alternifolia) and lemongrass (Cymbopogn flexuosus) essential oils offering acne-fighting benefits for your face and body and aromatherapy benefits while supporting your health and wellness. Clean skin + balanced skin equals #ZEN4SKIN!

 

 

 Sources:

1. Carson, C. F., Hammer, K. A., & Riley, T. V. (2006). Melaleuca alternifolia (Tea Tree) oil: a review of antimicrobial and other medicinal properties. Clinical microbiology reviews, 19(1), 50–62. https://doi.org/10.1128/CMR.19.1.50-62.2006
2. Kim, S., Kim, H., & Yoon, Y. (2019). Anti-inflammatory effect of Melaleuca alternifolia essential oil on human keratinocytes. Biomolecules & Therapeutics, 27(4), 358–363.
3. Das, K., Parulekar, P., & Purohit, H. J. (Year). Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus (DC.) Stapf): A Review on Its Phytochemical Composition, Pharmacological, and Industrial Applications. Planta Medica International Open, Volume(Issue). DOI: 10.1055/s-0041-1730280

*Propionibacterium acnes is a gram-positive human skin commensal that prefers anaerobic growth conditions and is involved in the pathogenesis of acne (Kirschbaum and Kligman, 1963). Acne is one of the most common skin diseases, affecting more than 45 million individuals in the United States. Source:Bhatia A, Maisonneuve JF, Persing DH. PROPIONIBACTERIUM ACNES AND CHRONIC DISEASES. In: Institute of Medicine (US) Forum on Microbial Threats; Knobler SL, O'Connor S, Lemon SM, et al., editors. The Infectious Etiology of Chronic Diseases: Defining the Relationship, Enhancing the Research, and Mitigating the Effects: Workshop Summary. Washington (DC): National Academies Press (US); 2004. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK83685/

Disclaimer: The content provided in this blog post is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice. The information presented here is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before using any essential oils or making changes to your healthcare regimen, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, have a medical condition, or are taking medications.

Furthermore, the statements made regarding the benefits of essential oils have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Essential oils are not intended to substitute for professional medical advice or treatment. It is essential to conduct thorough research and seek guidance from healthcare professionals before using essential oils, particularly if you have any underlying health concerns.

Individual results may vary, and the efficacy of essential oils may differ based on individual circumstances. The author and publisher of this blog post are not liable for any adverse effects or consequences resulting from the use of information presented herein.