Beauty Elixirs

Coconut fruit collector, Indian Watercolor of Unknown Artist, 1785 Victoria and Albert Museum Cocos nucifera, the Tree of Life of the Tropics  Even if coconut's origin is subject for speculation, it is believed that its birthplace are the islands of south Pacific and Indian oceans. The coconut was spread throughout the tropical zone due to its ability to float and sail pushed by the ocean currents. Once washed ashore on places with the appropriate climate they were able to spring up  and colonize the area. It is said that this expansion took place 3.000 years ago, a long period before its systematic cultivation. Travelers from Polynesia, Malaysia and Arabia contributed to coconut's spreading in the Pacific islands, Asia and East Africa. In 16th century European sailors launched the coconut palm in West Africa, in the Caribbean and the Atlantic coast. Coconut became the dominant fruit of the  tropics.

This post was originally published in Greek in August 2007. The reason for this article was the high price of the calendula creams sold by strong brands of natural cosmetics. Since I consider this cream as an all-time classic preparation, ideal for after-sun usage, suitable for all skin types and especially the sensitive ones, I decided to share my all natural calendula cream recipe. The herbal oils and extracts as well as the active ingredients included in this recipe will make a soothing, nourishing & protective cream. There you go!