Pichirina
Native to certain areas of South America, Vismia angusta commonly named 'Pichirina', has a well earned reputation and a long history of traditional use in medicinal remedies aimed at treating a variety skin ailments.
Healers extract resin from the leaves and berries of the tree adding it to macerated blends of multiple medicinal fruits, often including Genipa americana or 'Huito'. This thick blended mash is then rubbed into the skin relieving topical issues such as psoriasis and dermatitis. It is also trusted as a disinfectant and remedy for burns and itching by those who work deep in the jungle with limited or no access to care centers.
The Canopy Medicine Skincare team uses a patent-pending ethical harvesting technique to extract and naturally refine the resin of Pichirina.
Benefits of Pichirina in Supporting Healthy Skin Renewal:
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Tannins: Tannins have natural antimicrobial properties that help reduce acne breakouts and blemishes by reducing excess oil. Astringents help to tighten skin and contain anti-inflammatory properties minimizing redness and inflammation. For those who wish to reduce cell damage, tannins act as an antioxidant against free radicals. |
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Flavonoids: Flavonoids have been found to improve skin health by lightening skin tone and protecting against aging. All of the beneficial effects of flavonoids can be utilized through direct application on the skin. |
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Saponins: Research has revealed that saponins can accelerate numerous biological activities including hemolytic, anti-bacterial, anti-viral, and anti-oxidative functions. Anti-inflammatory activity which can reduce edema and skin inflammation has been reported. Since antiquity, this type of plants have been used in the elaboration of cosmetics for skincare. |
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Quinones: May help to prevent damage to DNA and restore damaged DNA. Quinones can act as anti-oxidants and protect healthy cells against ROS, or act as cytotoxic agents, generating ROS in unhealthy cancer cells. |
Publications on Vismia angusta:
Rainforest Conservation Fund: Vismia angusta Overview
Method and Topical Composition of the treatment of hyperpigmented skin
(Loreto Field Leader, Walter Dahua, Pichirina 2021.)