organic essence

It is so gratifying to encounter a company that considers many levels of environmental responsibility. I am so glad to have discovered Organic Essence body products. They make amazing, highly concentrated, organic shea butter hand and body creams (as well as soaps and lotion).

To start, their products are of excellent quality. Their products are actually certified USDA Organic because it is the definitive organic standard which requires the products to adhere to strict food-quality organic standards. On site inspections and certifying approval on every formula guarantees the highest quality available for the consumer. No synthetic preservatives are used. That includes parabens and grapefruit seed extract which are a growing concern. Also, not allowed are fragrances, GMOs detergents like sodium laureth sulfate (SLS) or petrochemicals.

The main ingredient is pure organic shea cream, which is a natural cold pressed oil from the african karite nut. It is well known for promoting capillary circulation and is considered to be a superior healer and rejuvenator for troubled, dry or aging skin. Organic Essence's Shea Cream is fairly traded and produced by a community of over 600 women in Ghana. The product is incredibly pure and safe for use on babies.

The shea creams are also available with essential oil varieties, such as grapefruit, lavender, lemongrass and mint, and vanilla orange. I have the lemongrass mint and like it.

But one of the most exciting things about this line is that it is packaged in new biodegradable jars. The company was not satisfied with the packaging options available and decided to make their own.

"Based on a paper tube, this organic jar defines a new level of environmental responsibility - even the label is biodegradable - it’s made of soy inks printed on 100% PCW recycled paper with an organic adhesive and glaze. You could actually plant the entire container in your garden. Whether or not you have a garden, this container will actively help the environment."

And to top it off, they are not even patenting the jar in the hopes that other manufacturers will copy it and do something good for the earth.

It is so rare to find a product that is so completely eco-thoughtful. I would imagine it should be considered for cradle to cradle certification. Bravo!