This is a story of the development of a product that we’ve grown to love. It entails the by-product of soap-making, an avocado (you know how much we love avos) and the ultimate creation of a most remarkable and, most importantly, natural joint relief product!

Plant oils have long been a favourite of makers of natural, dye- and chemical-free soaps. Among the most popular oils used to make soap are those of the avocado plant.

The process of making soap is called saponification. The oily, waxy by-product that is not soluble enough to make soap is called the unsaponifiables. In the 1950s Dr. Henri Thiers began research that suggested that this by-product may help patients with osteoarthritis…and so 40 years later our story begins!

Why we like avocado unsaponifiables.

Avocado unsaponifiables contain a range of bioactive compounds, including phytosterols, tocopherols, and polyhydroxylated fatty alcohols. Here are some benefits associated with avocado unsaponifiables:

1. Anti-inflammatory effects: Phytosterols have been shown to exhibit significant anti-inflammatory properties. They can modulate immune responses by influencing the activity of T-helper lymphocytes, which play a crucial role in inflammation and immune reactions. 
2. Skin health: These natural compounds can improve skin elasticity, hydration, and collagen synthesis, making them perfect for skincare products as they have anti-ageing and moisturizing effects.
3. Cardiovascular health: Phytosterols in avocado unsaponifiables can help lower cholesterol levels, thereby reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
4. Antioxidant properties: Tocopherols are known for their antioxidant capabilities. They help protect cells from oxidative stress, which can exacerbate inflammation and joint pain.
5. Wound healing: They can promote wound healing by enhancing collagen deposition and reducing inflammation at the wound site.
6. Hair health: In hair care, these compounds can help improve hair strength and shine, and may also help with scalp health.

Why we like rice bran unsaponifiable (oryzonal 98%)

Oryzanol, often referred to as gamma-oryzanol, is a mixture of ferulic acid esters of sterols and triterpenoids, primarily extracted from rice bran oil. It is known for its various health benefits, particularly when present in high concentrations, such as 98%. Here are some of the benefits:

1. Antioxidant properties: Oryzanol exhibits significant antioxidant activity, which helps combat oxidative stress in the body. This property is crucial for preventing cellular damage and reducing the risk of chronic diseases. Research indicates that γ-oryzanol enhances the activity of antioxidant enzymes like catalase and superoxide dismutase, thereby improving the body’s defense against oxidative damage
2. Cholesterol management: Gamma-oryzanol has been found to lower total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels in individuals with hyperlipidemia. It works by reducing cholesterol absorption from foods, which can help manage cardiovascular health.
3. Anti-inflammatory effects: Studies have shown that oryzanol possesses anti-inflammatory properties. It can reduce levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) while increasing anti-inflammatory cytokines like interleukin-10 (IL-10). This modulation of inflammatory markers suggests its potential use in managing inflammatory conditions.
4. Menopausal symptom relief: Oryzanol is often used to alleviate symptoms associated with menopause, such as hot flashes and mood swings. The benefit of oryzanol and menopausal symptoms was seen when a 300-mg/day dose of that Oryzanol resulted in 85% of the subjects reporting an improvement in their menopausal symptoms.
5. Skin health: Oryzanol is often used in skincare products for its ability to protect the skin from UV rays, improve skin texture, and reduce the appearance of wrinkles.