The vast African continent can conjure visions of deepest desert tundra, raging waterfalls sprung from the Nile River, and vast arid safari. It may also lure the memory toward scenes of ancient tribes deep in their roots and finely attuned to their environment: people who have a rich and entrenched connection to the land beneath their feet. And in this landscape they have sourced some of the most exclusive botanicals on the face of Mother Earth to heal, soothe, medicate and relax themselves in the most extreme climates.

You may find tales of how people there have protected and decorated their body and hair with clays, natural vegetal dyes, bone, stone and shell. You may learn of how the very earth is one with their bodies. A sense of all natural things being sacred permeates this land and a primal instinct is reawakened reminding you of your place in the food chain.

All the while you may think of ways to apply some of these phenomenally nutrient abundant ancient remedies exclusively from this land to your own body worship rituals. Keep in mind as you hunt for some of these natural, perhaps wild crafted, botanic ingredients that the sources are limited since some of these plant sources are found in specific regions of the African continent. Once you have felt the instant healing in the pores of your skin from some of these plants, you are likely to be a greater skeptic of the average chemical laden skincare products on local store shelves.

Black Soap

This African soap is made of peels of plantain (a known anti-inflammatory for skin), and Shea butter, among other varied natural African botanicals. It is used as a natural cleanser for hair and skin that serves as known reliable remedy for acne, eczema, psoriasis and skin inflammation. From all reports it is regaled as the ultimate soap that can be found in bulk by the many fans in the virtual world. The glowing reviews claim black soap to bring brilliant radiance to the tresses and the glorious canvas that we sport as our skin. The soap originates in Ghana as “Anago,” a softer version of the soap, and in Nigeria as a more saponified variety, called Dudu-osun.

Buchu

Also known as Agothosma betulina, the leaves and roots of this South African plant can be applied topically to heal bruised skin and relieve sunburn. It is recognized as a superb skin tonic and is used as a natural anti-inflammatory cream that can be found in many beauty products. Buchu is rich in calcium and iron, among other nutrients, and is recognized as a powerful inhibitor against oxidative skin damage by the Immunology Department at Stellen Bosch University.

Rooibos

Pronounced “royboss,” this potent antioxidant plant is an anti-allergen found exclusively in South Africa that can help to restrict the free radicals in our skin cells that can cause a wide range of skin damage. This plant is also known to treat skin conditions such as skin cancer and eczema. What is very impressive about this product is that it can protect us against the bad side effects of the sun’s rays and yet maintain the natural nourishment and beauty of the skin.

There is an overwhelming treasure trove of vegetal and clay extracts in the nature that can help us to achieve the same radiant skin naturally. By using these ingredients on a regular basis, one can prevent harmful skin reactions and treats skin conditions such as acne, eczema and psoriasis. The botanical ingredients such as witch hazel extract, aloe, marigold, peppermint, lavender and lotusmore, when combined with coconut and olive oil, make an effective natural skincare regimen.

The African desert has a wealth of secrets from which to draw their share of skincare miracles. One should not continue to repeat the mistakes of the past without making sure that their skin is properly maintained. In less than 10 minutes, a natural skincare regimen can produce wonders that provide great rewards.