To wrap up our voyage this week, let's talk about the skincare ingredient that is making South Africa a skincare mecca.

MARULA OIL.

The drought-resistant marula tree grows tall and leafy in the harsh, dry weather of the South African bush. It has been used for thousands of years for everything from food and medicine, to alcoholic beverages and fertility predictions. And while each part of the tree is usable, the healing properties of the oil in the marula fruit’s kernel are particularly noteworthy. So what is all the buzz about?

It. is. a. powerhouse. Exceptionally rich in omega oils -6 and -9, it hydrates like none other without leaving skin greasy. Rich in Vitamin E and Vitamin C, with 60% more antioxidant power than argan oil, it reverses photo-damage and smooths fine lines. Its small particles reach the deepest layers of skin to boost cellular activity, increasing collagen and elastin while strengthening the lipid layer. This means skin is firmer, smoother and brighter (read: GLOWING). Marula oil’s antibacterial and soothing effects heal scar tissue and blemishes while reducing redness and inflammation. And because it absorbs effortlessly without clogging pores, all skin types will benefit from its miracle-working powers.

Pale to golden in color, with a nutty-sweet aroma, marula oil is your skin’s new best friend. Because we love it so much, we made it the base of our Anti Aging oils. A few drops at nighttime will ensure you wake up looking better than ever. Find yours here.

Last week, we showed some of our favorite images of South Africa. This week, we'll share some of its beauty secrets. Add them to your skincare arsenal, sit back and scroll through those pictures again and bask in South Africa’s glory without leaving your home.

ROOIBOS TEA.

Rooibos tea, also known as Redbush tea for the red hue it takes on during natural fermentation, is a caffeine-free, herbal tea grown only in South Africa’s Western Cape Province. The unique flavor is compelling enough, tasting slightly of honey and caramel, but its health benefits are what has everyone talking, due to its ability to treat conditions such as headaches, eczema, hypertension, allergies, insomnia, diabetes, arthritis, and the list goes on!

Packed with alpha hydroxy acids and minerals, along with a potent antioxidant content, it supports and strengthens skin from the inside out while fighting premature aging, even improving mental focus and clarity. At bedtime, it promotes relaxation and improves sleep. We’re currently loving fairly-traded Zumi Organic’s Rooibos Chai, which packs all the punch of traditional rooibos with the added spices of chai, all-around perfection on these chilly, Fall nights.

Here at Native Atlas, we are fueled by our love of beautiful people and places. Today, we kick off our Explore series, where we'll dedicate the blog to places around the globe that inspire us and produce some of our key ingredients. This week, we'll be in one of the most diverse and endearing countries in the world: South Africa.

One journey to South Africa and it's easy to understand why it regularly ranks among the top destination spots in the world. This place is a bucket-list must! Pristine beaches, exotic animals, endless adventure, great wine, and an enduring, vibrant people with a rich history. Scroll through to get a glimpse of its charm, and stay tuned for Part 2, where you'll find out how to bring some of this beauty home. 

Rooibos tea is crushed and laid out to dry in the fields. Photo: Rodger Bosch, www.MediaClubSouthAfrica.comKaroo semi-desert. Carnarvon, Northern Cape province. Photo: Graeme Williams, www.MediaClubSouthAfrica.comRed earth is used to protect the skin from the sun. Central Drakensberg, KwaZulu-Natal. www.MediaClubSouthAfrica.comQuiver trees, used by the Bushmen to make quivers for their arrows. Photo: Graeme Williams, www.MediaClubSouthAfrica.comDesigner Laduma Ngxokolo creates brilliant, modern clothing steeped in cultural pride. Photo: MaXhosa by LadumaA fruit trade in Johannesburg's city centre. Photo: www.mediaclubsouthafrica.comA guide at Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned for 18 years.

T U R M E R I C

In the West, turmeric (Curcuma longa) has been known for years primarily as the powdered root that gives the characteristic golden color to curry powder and to most Indian dishes. However, in the East, turmeric has been used for more than mere culinary applications. For example, it has been used to dye the robes of Buddhist monks in Thailand. In Chinese medicine, turmeric has been highly valued as an anti-inflammatory for centuries, and as a remedy for colic and menstrual cramps.

Now, it would appear that the West is finally catching up to the East in its appreciation of turmeric, and for good reason. Turmeric contains significant amounts of manganese and iron. It's also an excellent source of fiber, vitamin B6, potassium, vitamin C, and magnesium. Turmeric aids in the digestion of fats, reduces gas and bloating, decreases congestion, and improves skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, and acne.

The anti-inflammatory properties of turmeric have been attributed to its main pharmacological agent, curcumin. The effects of curcumin are comparable to over-the-counter anti-inflammatory drugs, as well as some prescription medications. However, curcumin does not produce the side effects associated with some of these medicines, such as ulcers and internal bleeding. When used regularly, the curcumin in turmeric can reduce joint swelling and relieve joint pain, which allows for a greater range of motion. More recent research indicates that turmeric inhibits the proliferation of cancer cells. Many supermarkets have turmeric available in both tablet and capsule form.

Used externally, turmeric can stop pimples in their tracks. All that is required is to mix turmeric with a little water, in order to form a paste, and then apply it to the affected area. This is undoubtedly due to turmeric’s documented antibacterial qualities. In fact, a turmeric and water paste will keep bacteria away from cuts and burns, and aid in their healing.

Taken internally, turmeric can improve the elasticity of the skin, due to the spice’s many antioxidants. These same antioxidants are helpful when applied externally as well. One recipe combines equal parts rice powder, milk, and tomato juice, to be applied directly to the skin. Many people swear by turmeric as a way to even their skin tone. Products that are marketed for this purpose may use the Indian word for turmeric, which is “Haldi.” Turmeric can even be used – in combination with castor oil and coconut oil – to soften cracked heels, as well as other troublesome dry areas of skin.