Modern Botany

I love supporting local brands for so many reasons and this multipurpose essential for face, hair, nails and almost any part of the body (externally that is!) is no exception. Formulated on Ireland's Wild Atlantic coastline - the Crookhaven peninsula and the beaches of Barley Cove to be exact - Modern Botany is the brainchild of John Murray and pharmacognosist Dr. Simon Jackson.

Essential Oils

Hardly surprising really that the adjectives 'clean' 'fresh' and 'natural' come to mind when describing this beautiful oil that is perfect for moisturising and cleansing and works wonders on dry cuticles and scars. This science-led company ticks all the boxes - all ingredients are ethically sourced - think Flax Seed Oil (hugely nourishing) Calendula (anti-inflammatory), Arnica (damaged skin and bruising) and the ultra soothing Chamomile. In fact, the oil is so pure that it is suitable for babies and those with skin conditions including eczema and psoriasis. the packaging is clean, simple and perfect.

Naturally Ethical

Both men are refreshingly passionate about the purity of the essential oils chosen for the blend and this to me speaks volumes. The oil was developed based on the principles of pharmacognosy - the study of natural products and the traditional use of plants. Jackson is pleading with local farmers to start growing ingredients like flax and chamomile here as they are ideally suited to the Irish climate. He quotes a 1933 paper by Prof J.O Reilly of the Chemistry Department, University College Cork, advising the then government that: 'there were three indigenous industries that could be developed for the betterment of the economy. These were the development of peatlands, forestry and the growing of herbs and essential oil extraction.' Two of the three were delivered as we know, but the third was not to be...at the time. But now is the time.

Dr Jackson's

Jackson enjoys a successful history in skincare being the founder of Dr. Jackson's natural skincare which continues to retail worldwide. Now in addition to creating this luxurious oil he is an Entrepreneur in Residence at Trinity College Dublin - impressive credentials and I am really looking forward to more from this niche brand.

Modern Botany is available at Lloyd's pharmacies & Seven Wood in Dublin and online for €35.