Neem (Azadirachta indica): We use both an infusion of whole leaves, twigs and bark as will as cold-pressed oil from the seeds and fruits of the Neem Tree. Variously known as “Sacred Tree,” “Heal All,” “Nature’s Drugstore,” “Village Pharmacy” and “Panacea for all diseases,” it is one of the most popular traditional Ayurvedic treatments for skin diseases. All parts of the whole plant are believed to be antiseptic, febrifuge, anthelmintic, antifungal, antibacterial, parasiticidal, pediculocid and antiviral yet is considered to have no side effects.
Basil (Ocimum basilicum) is considered “royalty” in some cultures as it can act as a potent adaptogen, meaning that it helps the body balance and adapt to stress. In addition, basil effectively manages the body’s natural microbiome as it actively reduces pathogenic microorganisms while supporting the microbiota that support the skin’s natural processes. This is one of the reasons why our pesto recipe is one of the favorites in our Microbiome: The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly workshops!
Organic Sesame Oil (see more below) The oil we infuse the above herbs into is just as important as the herbal actions for supporting the skin’s natural microbiome. The benevolent microbes that live on the skin (such as S. epidermis) feed on triglyceride-rich fatty acids found in our sebum, elevating Cow Fart Juice to the status of an effective and appropriate prebiotic skin-food for these healthy bacteria.