Gemmotherapy is part of phytotherapy. It was initially called phyto-embryotherapy by its founder, the Belgian Dr Pol Henry (1918-1988).
It is based on the use of extracts prepared from young, growing plant tissues, such as buds and shoots.

The buds and young shoots (or, in some cases, seeds, roots or flower buds) come from trees, shrubs and other plants: sequoia, pines, chestnut, birch, fig, mulberry, blackcurrant (cassis), lingonberry, grapevine, rosemary, bilberry, etc.

Young plant tissue in the growth phase is considered to carry all the information conveyed by the plant. It is in early spring that buds and shoots concentrate the plant species’ “active principle”.

The founder of gemmotherapy stated that growing tissues carry the principle of rejuvenation. Therefore, one of the effects of gemmotherapy is the revitalisation of mature, lacklustre skin, as well as supporting skin regeneration and improving skin firmness and elasticity. Buds and young shoots concentrate valuable nutrients and active ingredients such as:

• Flavonoids
• Alkaloids
• Essences
• Mineral salts
• Vitamins
• Phytohormones
• Growth hormones
• ... and plenty of vital energy

Uses of gemmotherapy in cosmetics.

Gemmotherapy is very useful for improving the appearance of the skin, revitalising and rejuvenating tissues, and caring for mature skin, providing non-toxic active ingredients and being suitable for almost all skin types. It is particularly interesting for:

• Supporting skin detoxification
• Regenerating and revitalising skin tissues
• Soothing and protecting the skin against environmental stress
• Preventing the appearance of wrinkles and improving firmness
• Deeply hydrating and combating dryness

Buds and young shoots are harvested in spring and macerated in a mixture of water, alcohol and glycerine (or agave syrup or honey) for 2 months. The pure concentrated macerate or the 1D dilution (1/10) is used in topical applications.

Application in natural cosmetics.

Extracts of buds and young shoots have attracted the interest of many cosmetics laboratories seeking rejuvenating active ingredients, and their benefits have been studied since the 80s. Some bud extracts are already used in cosmetic products, such as beech, blackcurrant (cassis), lime tree, rosemary and lingonberry bud extracts.

These extracts are undoubtedly very interesting for revitalising the skin, preventing dehydration, reducing the appearance of wrinkles, regenerating and rejuvenating mature skin, and soothing inflammation.

The extracts are selected by Antonia Jover, who works directly with the source of these wonderful ingredients and checks their quality and suitability before listing them on our website. All the information published is based on her experience and expertise.