About Our Ingredients

Why Organic?

Organic ingredients contain no synthetics, chemicals or pesticides. Authentic organic products such as ours must be certified organic by an official third-party agency, ensuring that the producer has grown and handled the ingredients by adhering to strict standards and procedures.

Organic products are typically more expensive than other products because producing them is more labor intensive and intricate in order to ensure that these more stringent regulations are satisfied.

Why Biodynamic?

You will see that some of the ingredients in our shampoos and conditioners are biodynamically farmed. Biodynamic agriculture is a method of organic farming in which the soil, crops, animals, and even the farmer, perform as one united, self-contained entity. While traditional farming preparations intrinsically harm the soil, biodynamic farming preparations enhance soil structure and replenish it through the use of holistic herbs and minerals.

Biodynamic agriculture originated in the 1920s through the work of Rudolf Steiner, one of the founders of the organic farming movement. Rudolf Steiner introduced a new methodology for spiritual development, providing unique and innovative approaches to the arts, education and healing. The Biodynamic Farming and Gardening Association’s website provides fabulously comprehensive information on Rudolf Steiner.

What ingredients don't we use?

You may believe that all ingredients in skin care products are safe to use because they are applied externally. The fact is, the skin absorbs ingredients in skin care products directly, even faster than taking them internally because they bypass the digestive process. All of these ingredients end up in the blood stream.

Parabens - Government, industry and academic studies have linked parabens to cancer, developmental, and reproductive problems and to organ system toxicity and neurotoxicity. They are often linked to allergies and rashes, causing irritation to the eyes and skin.

Sulfates - While often unrealistically, exaggeratedly vilified, for those with extremely sensitive skin can cause skin rashes, hives, itching, and swelling.

Mineral Oil - Because it inhibits natural oil production it can clog pores, interfering with their skin’s ability to eliminate nasty toxins. It has been linked with immune system and respiratory toxicity. In the presence of ear problems, oil in the middle ear can promote ear infections. Often causes dandruff when used on the hair or fur.

Propylene Glycol - PG is a petroleum derivative. Because it penetrates the skin, it can weaken protein and cellular structure. It is said to be strong enough to remove barnacles from boats!

Diazolidinyl Urea - Considered safe in minute quantities such as the quantities typically used in products, it does contain formaldehyde, which is a carcinogenic chemical. For those with contact allergies to the substance, it will cause irritation and dermatitis.

EDTA - While there is no “drastic” danger related to general applications of EDTA, we choose not to use it because is still not considered perfectly safe. It has an enhanced capacity for absorption into the body, and if large enough amounts are present, it is linked to cancer, neurotoxicity, developmental, reproductive and non-reproductive organ toxicity, and endocrine disruption.

TEA, DEA, MEA - TEA is corrosive to the eyes and severely irritating to body tissues. It also causes dryness of hair, fur and skin, and could be toxic if absorbed into the body over a long period of time. Repeated skin applications of DEA-based detergents often result in a major increase in liver and kidney cancer. MEA irritates body tissues and is corrosive to the eyes. TEA, DEA and MEA are banned in Europe because of their carcinogenic effects.

Synthetic Fragrances - Synthetic fragrances are mostly petroleum based and for pets with allergies, the chemicals in synthetic fragrances will cause sneezing, itchy, watery eyes, wheezing, headaches, skin irritations, and as we’ve learned from the recent oil disasters, are deadly to birds, not excluding pet birds.

Eco-Friendly Packaging!

Even our packaging is sustainable! We are proud to use two types of labels. Our FSC-certified labels are biodegradable, made with100% wind power using plant-based, non-toxic ink and natural, non-toxic glue, and they are printed on FSC certified, forest-friendly eco-paper. Our Terraskin labels are also degradable, made from stone (> 75% calcium carbonate) with a state-of-the-art production process which does not utilize water or emit toxic air. Terraskin is also free of bleach, strong acid or base. Our containers are made of either recyclable tins or BPA-free plastic.

Eco-Friendly Catalogues, Brochures and other Printed Materials

We print our materials on 100% Recycled, 50% Post-consumer waste paper which is processed chlorine free using vegetable or soy-based ink.

A Word about INCI Nomenclature

The INCI (International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients) system was established in the early 1970’s by the Personal Care Products Council in order to allow consumers to identify the ingredient content. Although INCI names are mandated on the ingredient statement of every ‘human’ personal care product, they are not required for pet products. We feel that consumers should know the ingredient content in the pet products they buy. While not all ingredients have INCI names, we’ve chosen to share with you the names of those that do. You’ll find these not-so-familiar names in parentheses next to the names we tend to recognize.

Find out more about our ingredients

Almond Oil (Prunus amygdalus dulcis) is a great emollient and lubricant, restoring moisture in the body and combating itching and inflammation.

Aloe Vera (Aloe barbadensis), an all-natural skin tonic, is healing and ultra-gentle on the skin. It is an effective treatment for allergies, abscesses, fungal infections and many types of dermatitis. It will decrease inflammation and help to remove dead skin cells, encouraging the healing of wounds. Aloe Vera is also a wonderful plant source for producing a clean, vibrant coat.

Beeswax is a by-product created by bees in the construction of their hives. It is antibacterial, antimicrobial, healing and purifying, and is applied to wounds to fight infection. With a wholesome sweet scent, pure and natural beeswax reduces moisture loss from the skin and has an almost immediate soothing effect on cracks and fissures of the skin. It has a sweet, honey-like fragrance and golden color. We believe in cultivating cruelty-free beeswax that protects bees’ normal, natural production cycles.

Basil (Ocimum basilicum) provides relief from pain, and its antibacterial, analgesic properties make it an effective natural treatment for cuts, wounds, burns and skin infections.

Burdock Root (Arctium lappa) plant has been used to treat both bacterial and fungal infections because of the phytochemicals it contains.

Biodynamic Avocado Oil (Persea gratissima), a natural sunscreen, is mild, good for sensitive skin, and rich in vitamins A, C, D & E, amino acids and minerals.

Biodynamic Macadamia Oil (Macadamia ternifolia), pressed from the Australian macadamia nut, nourishes dry skin and moisturizes the coat, leaving it soft and silky.

Calendula’s (Calendula officinalis) inherent anti-inflammatory, astringent, antifungal, and antiseptic properties make it a wonderful topical agent. It is used to treat boils, rashes, sunburn, chafed skin, insect bites, and other skin irritations.

Canadian Wild Crafted Red Clover (Trifolium pratense) is used as a poultice to treat skin conditions. It contains high amounts of vitamins, minerals and proteins, including calcium, iron, magnesium, potassium, silicon, niacin, thiamine, and vitamins A, B-12, C, E and K.

Candelilla Wax (Euphorbia Cerifera) is a vegan substitute for beeswax. It is derived from the leaves of the candelilla shrub, native to northern Mexico and the southwestern U.S.

Chamomile’s (Matricaria recutita) essential oils act by soothing irritated skin and tissues. They assist in the healing the body and easing the pain of burns and other skin ailments.

Citrus Seed Extract (Citrus grandis), derived from the seeds, pulp and white membranes of grapefruit provides antibacterial, antiviral and anti-fungal properties.

Coconut Oil (Cocos nucifera) - The native people of South and Central America use Coconut Oil as both a food and a medicine. It has been known to aid in the healing of burns and skin irritations and has a powerful antimicrobial effect.

Comfrey (Symphytum Officinale) is an amazing tonic with a high number of beneficial nutrients, chemical compounds, and vitamins and minerals. As a plant with a wide range of medicinal uses for both internal and external ailments, it is emollient, antibacterial, antifungal and antiinflammatory. As if that weren’t enough, it heals wounds and injuries, alleviates pain and increases cell growth.

Fennel Oil (Foeniculum vulgare dulce) is antiseptic and is used for its soothing, cleansing and toning effects on the skin.  It is an active antioxidant and is helpful in cleansing the body of toxins. It even improves circulation.

Grapefruit Extract (Citrus grandis), also known as citrus seed extract, is a liquid derived from the seeds, pulp and white membranes of the grapefruit. It is used as a natural antimicrobial.

Grape Seed (Vitis vinifera) has a high content of linoleic acid, a fatty acid essential for healthy cell membranes and skin. Grape seed oil serves as a wonderful, nourishing moisturizer.

Guar Gum (Cyamopsis tetragonoloba) - A natural resin from the seeds of the Asian guar bean tree, it is simply used as a binder and thickener.

Hemp Oil  (Cannabis Sativa) has anti-inflammatory properties, superior healing benefits, and is extremely moisturizing and hydrating to the skin.

Henna Extract  (Lawsonia inermis) conditions the skin and has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.

Hop Extract  is used for the prevention and control of dandruff and flaky skin while keeping fungal infections at bay.

Jojoba Oil (Simmondsia chinensis) moisturizes and rejuvenates tired skin weathered by the elements. Like both macadamia oil and safflower oil, it naturally conditions the coat, leaving it soft and silky.

Kakadu Plum (Terminalia ferdinandiana) is an Australian wild-harvested fruit and is the highest known fruit source of Vitamin C in the world. The highest form of antioxidant found in nature, it is used worldwide to refresh and revive the skin.

Lavender Oil (Lavandula angustifolia), with its clean, fresh scent and calming, balancing properties, provides gentle care for the skin and is often applied to itchy spots as a healing aid.

Organic Lemon Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus citriodora) - A strong antiseptic and antifungal agent, this essential oil is effective in warding off insects.

Lotus Bean Gum is a natural antioxidant with anti-inflammatory properties. It cleanses and purifies the skin.

Biodynamic Macadamia Oil  (Macadamia ternifolia) - Pressed from the famous Australian nut, this is richest botanical source of palmitoleic acid, which nourishes and moisturizes dry skin and coat, leaving them soft and silky.

Oatmeal (Avena sativa) has been used by the Egyptians and Arabians as a skin beauty treatment and by the Romans and Greeks as a bath for skin conditions since as early as 2000 BC. Oatmeal removes dead skin cells, restores natural moisture balance and continues to be used to soothe dry, itchy, irritated skin and numerous skin disorders.

Olive Oil (Olea europaea) is rich with antioxidants and living enzymes which offer superior therapeutic effects. It is readily absorbed by the skin and an ideal emollient, containing rich amounts of vitamins A and E as well as minerals and and antioxidants. Applied to rough, cracked dry spots, it is softening and moisturizing.

Plantain Oil  (Plantago ovata) is a soothing lubricant with beneficial properties for outer skin tissues. It’s a great treatment for damaged skin.

Organic Pennyroyal Oil (Mentha pulegium)is a fabulous, antibacterial flea, tick and insect deterrent.

Organic Peppermint (Mentha piperita) - With its naturally medicinal properties, peppermint provides a cooling relief from pain, improves blood circulation and nourishes the skin. Peppermint has also been used to get rid of lice.

Pumpkin Seed Oil (Cucurbita Pepo) is loaded with vitamins and essential fatty acids, it can help with minor skin irritations, is effective in fighting free radicals, and it helps the skin retain moisture.

Purified Rain Water  - The purification process removes undesirable chemicals, materials, and biological contaminants from raw water.

Organic Rosehips and Rosehip Oil (Rosa canina) have been used for generations to maintain healthy s kin. With its wonderful healing properties, rosehip oil hydrates the skin and nourishes a dry coat.

Organic Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) - This natural disinfectant soothes and reduces inflammation in the ear and treats bacterial, fungal and mite infections. An effective healer and pain reducer, it tones and nourishes the skin, and replaces bad odors with a clean, refreshing scent.

Organic Spearmint (Mentha viridis) - A natural antiseptic and insecticide, spearmint provides a relaxing and cooling effect on the nerves. Its antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral properties make it an effective remedy for both internal and external infections. Like peppermint, spearmint improves blood circulation.

Spring Water is harvested straight from a natural spring and is considered to contain a beneficial level of minerals.     

Shea Butter (Butyrospermum parkii), the “queen” of moisturizers, is a common health and healing balm. This high-fat butter is full of Vitamins A, E and F, which aid in eliminating uncomfortable dry patches, heal wounds and chapped, cracked skin and restore natural body oils.

Safflower Oil (Carthamus tinctorius) provides relief from inflammation and rashes and soothes skin irritations. It is nourishing and moisturizing to skin, and naturally conditions a dog’s coat, leaving it soft and silky.

Sunflower Oil - Rich in nutrients and antioxidants, sunflower oil is widely used for medicinal and cosmetic purposes, thanks to its calming and moisturizing properties. Extremely high in Vitamin E, which is essential for preventing sun damage, it is effective in reducing general redness and irritation of the skin.

Organic Tea Tree (Melaleuca alternifolia) - This natural wonder-drug is replete with antibacterial, antimicrobial, antiseptic, antiviral, stimulating, anti-inflammatory, healing, pain relieving and disinfecting properties. It is also used worldwide as an overall immunity booster.

Tocopherol, or Vitamin E, is a fat-soluble, naturally occurring antioxidant and vitamin. It aids in the treatment of skin conditions, and offers some benefit in preventing and treating sunburns.

Yarrow (Achillea millefolium) is anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, astringent and helps heal burns, cuts, swelling, and external wounds on the skin and body.