All About Edelweiss Extract

Edelweiss is not only a protected plant but also the symbol of the Swiss Alps. It has become very popular for its beauty, rarity and unique properties such as its effective antioxidant and soothing activity. The Edelweiss Extract we carry is produced exclusively by a family-owned Edelweiss plantation in Switzerland.

Due its special requirements the Edelweiss flower must be cultivated in high alpine areas and can be harvested only twice a year. It must be manually harvested and only the top part of the Edelweiss flowers can be used. The flower is cut only partially while the stems and roots of the plant are left untouched until a second cut later in the year. After the snowy winter the cycle is repeated. Only the naturally occurring soil and mountain water are used to grow the plant with no pesticides or fertilizers. The Edelweiss Extract we carry has recently received the Fair for Life Certification for its initiative with a farmers’ cooperative in Switzerland.

Unique Antioxidant Properties

The human body is constantly under attack of free radicals. Free radicals are highly reactive molecules generated by the biochemical redox reactions that occur as part of normal cell metabolism, and by exposure to environmental factors such as UV light, smoke, pollutants and gamma radiation. Once formed, free radicals attack all structures (DNA, cells membranes, proteins) within the body. As a result, free radicals have been implicated in numerous diseases and aging. There are also a number of indications supporting the theory that free radicals are the primary cause of aging. To prevent damages caused by free radicals attacks, the use of antioxidants is necessary.

Multiple in-vitro and in-vivo studies have shown that Edelweiss Extract acts as a very potent antioxidant agent able to reduce 286 × 1014 radicals per mg of Edelweiss Extract. It's antioxidant efficacy is even more potent than that of vitamin E. Especially after sun exposure, Edelweiss Extract has been found to significantly reduce the production of free radicals in the skin. We highly recommend to add Edelweiss Extract to every after-sun product and it can also be a very valuable ingredient in anti-aging formulas.