Minimalism in the practice of herbalism can be seen as a historical necessity — traditional herbalists have long focused on using plants selectively, prioritizing those most abundant and effective in their local environment — as well as part of a therapeutic strategy and philosophy.
This strategy and philosophy, historically represented in the phrase the Vis medicatrix naturae, or, the healing power of nature, highlights the long co-evolutionary process of human and plants, and also is informed by the reality that our bodies have the potential to heal themselves — especially in conjunction with natural agents.
When supporting the skin's inherent healing mechanisms, "Skinimalism," goofy marketing-speak, and a portmanteau of "skin" and "minimalism," does nonetheless highlight some important concepts in natural skincare that dovetail nicely with the traditional practice of herbal medicine.
Plants are complex enough
Plants in and of themselves are already quite complex, often containing some 10,000 phytochemicals in a single plant, that all work in concert toward a therapeutic effect.
Simple and Sustainable
The skins integrity, barrier health, and appearance are better supported by minimally processed natural products like plants and plant extracts than by complicated lab-based synthetic chemicals, born from an unsustainable and toxic fossil fuels industry.
Stacking functions
Using formulas that typically contain one to five plant extracts, often in oils that have healing properties as well, Wild Rose is also able to 'stack functions,' combining several herbs which each have many properties beneficial to the skin. For example we regularly use the herb known as Pot Marigold (Calendula officinalis) which has both anti-inflammatory, vulnerary and antimicrobial actions, as well as gotu kola (Centella asiatica) which has properties that help tone vasculature and reduce inflammation.
Below are a few products that harness the simplicity, efficacy and sustainability of traditional herbalism to usher your skin back into optimal health.
Renewal Botanical Serum contains whole plant extracts and oils to support skin health and absorption, naturally.
Refresh Stimulating Facial Mask is formulated with gunpowder green tea and jasmine petals.
Clarity Blemish Treatment contains Oregon grape root extract, one of our favorite antimicrobial herbs.
*This content is for informational purposes only and doesn't constitute medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare practitioner before making medical decisions.
Leave a comment