From alpine garden to the skin

Around 60% of the surface of Switzerland is covered by the Alps. The Alps, with their majestic peaks and verdant valleys, are home to an exceptional flora, rich in aromatic and medicinal plants. Alpine flowers are nature's treasures, renowned for their resilience and beneficial properties. In this article, you'll discover all the steps needed to transform beautiful alpine flowers into cosmetics.

Switzerland has a long tradition of cultivating and using aromatic and medicinal plants. Over 100 species are cultivated for commercial use in herbal teas, sweets and cosmetics. [1]

The canton of Valais is home to 83% of the country's plant species. It’s hot, dry climate favors the cultivation of aromatic and medicinal plants. [2]

Alpine plants must adapt to these difficult conditions, which include:

• high levels of UV radiation
• large temperature variations between day and night
• strong wind causing dehydration

To defend themselves at high altitude, these plants produce secondary metabolites. As it turns out, these are also powerful active ingredients for protecting the skin. Indeed, it is interesting to note that these conditions (radiation, temperature variations, wind) are also those experienced by the skin on a daily basis.

The quality of the active ingredients depends on the stress felt by the plant.

Cultivation and harvest 

In Valais, production has become more professional with the arrival of the Valplantes cooperative. It groups together some forty certified organic growers cultivating at altitudes of between 800 and 1400 metres. Swiss organic certification guarantees that plants are grown without pesticides or chemical fertilizers, and that processing methods are sustainable. [3]

More than 30 plant species are cultivated. These include:

• Edelweiss
• Alpine skullcap
• Mallow
• Sage
• Peppermint
• Lemon balm
• Thyme

When mature, the plants are transported to dryers close to the fields.

 Cultivation has made rare plants accessible.

Although the majority of plants are cultivated, some are harvested in the wild. The practice is controlled to ensure that it is sustainable. Some examples,

• Rhododendron
• Daisy
• Arnica

Processing 

To be used in cosmetics, plants must be converted into stable extracts. These extracts can be obtained from various plant parts.

Companies specialize in the extraction of active ingredients from plants. The process must preserve the plant's quality and active ingredients. Extraction agents such as alcohol, water or oil are used. In phase with the organic sector, they respect the principles of green chemistry.

Research & Development

The power of plants was already known in the Middle Ages [2]. Before the advent of modern medicine, these plants were essential for curing various ailments.

Today, empirical knowledge is being transformed into scientific innovation. Laboratories are investing in research to better understand the properties of Alpine plants and develop new extracts.

The market has evolved considerably, and customers are looking for proof of product efficacy.

Over the last 10 years, the efficacy of certain plants as anti-ageing agents has been scientifically proven.

It's important to note that effectiveness will depend on the quantity of extracts used in the finished product.

For example, for edelweiss, the finished cosmetic product must contain 1-3% extracts to be effective.

Unfortunately, there are edelweiss-based cosmetics on the market which contain only traces of edelweiss and are therefore ineffective. Unlike herbal medicines, cosmetics law does not require manufacturers to indicate the % of extracts used.

Manufacturers

Manufacturers create the recipe and produce the final product. These are brands or companies that specialize in the production of cosmetics. It is very common for brands to outsource the development and manufacture of cosmetics.

Valyxir develops and produces all the products in its own laboratory.

Conclusion 

Alpine plants are true gems of nature, combining beauty and health benefits. Their rich history and exceptional properties make them valuable ingredients in organic cosmetics. In Switzerland, the aromatic and medicinal plant sector, with its sustainable practices and quality standards, guarantees products that respect both our skin and the environment.

As a committed Swiss organic cosmetics brand, we're proud to highlight the power of alpine flowers and offer you skincare products that draw their strength from the heart of the mountains. Enjoy the benefits of alpine plants and let yourself be carried away by the magic of the summits.