Before closing the year, we are happy to share a couple of insights from the newsletter of one of our main partners: Zuplex, a South African company that produces botanical extracts with innovative technologies. We had already presented the company to you last year, in full pandemic. Today, however, we focus on two focuses dedicated to two products: Honeybush and Kalahari Melon seed oil.

Zuplex: Honeybrush

The name Honeybush (botanical name cyclopia) indicates a plant native to South Africa and belonging to the legume family, which is used for the preparation of tea and drinks with beneficial properties. There are more than 20 species but only some are used for commercial purposes.

Honeybush looks like a bush with yellow flowers, whose scent is reminiscent of honey. Hence the name which translated means “Honey Bush”, in fact. At first glance it resembles rooibos and red tea, but its flavor is much sweeter.

Some studies have shown that Honeybush extract helps to moisturize the skin, making it supple and protecting it from the signs of aging and the effects of sunlight. These characteristics also make it an excellent ally in the production of baby products.

Antifungal and anti-inflammatory, it also helps in the treatment of dermatitis and psoriasis. Honeybush extract can easily be found in preparations for:

• Moisturizers
• Serums
• Eye contour creams
• After shave lotions
• Face masks
• Shampoo
• Balms

Zuplex: Kalahari Melon seed oil

Little known but immediately becoming widely used in the cosmetic industry, this oil derives from the cold pressing of the seeds of a particular type of melon, native to the Kalahari desert, located in South Africa, between Botswana and Namibia.

Unlike many other natural oils, Kalahari Melon oil is the richest in polyunsaturated fatty acids which are the basis for the well-being of the skin’s cell membranes. These fatty acids also help in the production of the skin’s natural protective barrier, essential for keeping it hydrated, supple and young.

Kalahari Melon oil also contains Omega-6 fatty acids which give an additional boost to the moisturizing and regenerating properties of many cosmetic preparations. It also has a high sterol content!

The very high levels of Vitamin E make it a perfect antioxidant in the anti-aging treatment of many preparations. The high percentage of this vitamin also allows excellent stability and conservation of the product.

Finally, the presence of lineic acid makes Kalahari Melon oil easily absorbable by the skin, without leaving greasiness or residues.

Kalahari Melon oil is widely used in the preparation of:

• Make-up remover oils
• Essential oils
• Anti-aging products
• Balms
• Baby oils