The meadowsweet often grows in the meadows, it is from there that it takes its pretty name. It is also nicknamed “vegetable aspirin” because it has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. So many properties used in cosmetics.
Its small, tight white flowers look like an elegant parasol. Present in Europe, the meadowsweet (or false spirea) grows naturally in France. Very common and moisture-loving, it thrives near watercourses, but also at altitude. “Classified in the category of honey plants, it receives daily visits from bees, which appreciate its richness in sugars. Butterflies also like to land there”, specifies Didier Thevenin, director of training at Melvita. Its almond flavor has been used to flavor drinks for centuries. But these are its salicylated derivatives, with anesthetic properties similar to aspirin, which made her famous. The Druids employed her in this capacity and worshiped her. In cosmetics, it has more than one quality since it is both soothing, moisturizing, firming and anticellulite. It is therefore found both in formulas for the body and for the face.
The meadowsweet, a plaster for the skin
This pretty herbaceous plant helps to maintain the water balance of the skin, and therefore a good hydration of this one. “Its sugars retain water in the upper layers of the epidermis,” explains Didier Thevenin. It also contains polyphenols, which relieve tingling or heating sensations in sensitive skins. “It is also rich in flavonoids, continues our specialist. These powerful antioxidants help to preserve the youth of the features.” Finally, thanks to its restorative and anesthetic properties, it is often integrated in formulas intended for mature skin, as well as in soothing treatments. Especially since its salicylated derivatives act as painkillers …
A slimming ally
In the form of a drink, capsule or even cream, meadowsweet is one of the essential ingredients of slimming formulas. Because, on its own, it combines several actions that help fight against cellulite. “Its tannins and the presence of phenolic glucosides, which are derivatives of aspirin, facilitate tissue drainage, explains our expert. This flower is also effective for limit water retention. “Diuretic, it promotes the elimination of waste, water and fat. Astringent when applied to the skin, it tightens pores and improves skin firmness. And its analgesic properties help reduce sore orange peel.
3 products we love
The skin is gently washed and exfoliated, thanks to the soothing and repairing combination of meadowsweet and acacia honey, hazelnut powder and royal jelly.
Exfoliating shower of meadowsweet and acacia honey, Melvita, € 9 for 200 ml.
This roll-on formulated with alum crystals contains meadowsweet floral water, with astringent, purifying and soothing properties. It offers long lasting protection.
Bergamot lotus care deodorant, Acorelle, € 6.95 per 50 ml roll-on.
Formulated with meadowsweet floral water, this economical size organic shower shampoo is pleasantly scented. It is suitable for children from 3 years old as well as for adults.
Reine-des-meadows shower shampoo, Naturalia, € 8.60 per 1 liter bottle.
