Tepezcohuite, also known as mimosa hostilis, has a long history of use in Mexican and Brazilian culture. The herb is widely known for its skin-regenerating and wound-healing properties. Its root bark powder has been used for ages to treat burns, lesions, and scars, and to enhance beauty and wellness.
The Mimosa hostilis tree is also adoringly called “the skin tree,” signifying its tremendous healing potential and numerous skincare uses. The rich phytochemistry of the plant is responsible for making this herb a powerhouse of nourishment. Mimosa root bark powder has been found to contain various compounds that are beneficial for the skin, including flavonoids, tannins, alkaloids, lipids, phytosterols, xylose, saponins, and glucosides.
The dried powder of mimosa hostilis bark is packed with immense benefits for the skin. It works in multiple ways, which on regular use, can boost overall skin health and make it resilient to environmental factors. Let’s dive deeper into some of these benefits and how you can include mimosa in your skincare routine.
Repair. Replenish. Rejuvenate!
Mimosa is best known for its ability to promote cell regrowth and tissue regeneration. It has been traditionally used to treat scars, stretch marks, and burns, and to promote wound healing. The dried powder of mimosa bark is remarkably effective in boosting collagen production. Collagen is a type of protein that makes part of our skin and hair structure.
Mimosa is also rich in flavonoids – a class of strong antioxidants. High amounts of flavonoids, alkaloids, and phytosterols present in the bark fight free radical damage and help restore skin vitality. When used on a regular basis, these compounds can improve the elasticity of the skin and reduce the appearance of wrinkles, dark spots, undereye bags, and other signs of aging.
Boost moisture retention
Tepezcohuite is incredibly rich in micronutrients like iron, zinc, magnesium, manganese, copper, and various antioxidants that altogether help in rejuvenating the skin inside-out. It also contains high amounts of lipids and xylose – and both these compounds are known to boost moisture retention by strengthening the skin barrier. A healthy skin barrier can prevent water loss and help protect the skin against external damages, such as allergens, bacteria, sun damage, or pollutants.
Skin problems
Mimosa root bark is known to possess powerful antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties that can help protect the skin from all kinds of problems. It is popularly used in creams and lotions to prevent acne, pimples, irritable skin, boils, scars, rashes, eczema, allergies, and other kinds of inflammatory conditions. Tannins present in mimosa hostilis are responsible for their anti-inflammatory activity. These compounds can help tighten large pores and soothe red and inflamed skin.
Boost hair health
The strong antibacterial activity of mimosa can help treat many scalp issues, such as itchiness, flakiness, dandruff, lice, and inflammation. Its complex phytochemistry and various micronutrients also work great for overall hair health. Iron and zinc are two nutrients that your hair needs to stay strong, and mimosa contains sufficient amounts of both! The deficiency of iron has been associated with severe hair loss and thinning hair, which may become even more pronounced with hormonal imbalances and heavy periods. With regular use of mimosa root bark, you can supply your hair with enough of these essential nutrients.
Further, mimosa also contains glucosides, a compound that works as a mild cleanser. Adding its powder to shampoos and hair packs can help clean the scalp and remove chemical buildup. Scalp buildup is a major reason for hair loss and causes various scalp infections.
Make your own skincare products
In an interview with Elle, Salma Hayek revealed that she doesn’t use botox or pills, and her secret ingredient is a Mexican herb called mimosa hostilis. Ever since then, mimosa has been under the radar as a promising herb for natural skincare. Scientists across the world are also actively exploring this herb for its traditional claims, and many of these claims are receiving scientific validation. In recent years, many companies are also coming up with
mimosa-based soaps, creams, lotions, shampoos, and other skincare products.
We now have a Salma Hayek Tepezcohuite beauty line, a whole range of products based on and inspired by mimosa.
However, making your own skincare products has its own benefits. Firstly, you know what goes into it, so you can control the ingredients. Secondly, you can make customized products that are especially suited for your skin type. And lastly, if something goes wrong, you can always change them!
If DIY is not your thing, you can always buy a mimosa-based product. But if you can, buy fresh mimosa hostilis powder and make your own creams. For skincare uses, 10% strength is considered safe. Also, always look for 100% pure, unadulterated, moisture-free, and fresh powders that do not contain any additional preservatives.
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