Ingredient Glossary
Moon Water Botanicals
The Ingredient
Glossary
Every ingredient we use is chosen with intention — organic whenever possible, always non-toxic. Learn about the botanicals, oils, butters, and actives behind our formulas.
Powder
Arrowroot Powder
Maranta arundinacea
Plant Part Used
Rhizome (root starch)
Key Benefits
- Natural humectant — draws and retains moisture
- Soothes and hydrates dry or sensitive skin
- Reduces irritation and redness
- Provides a silky, non-greasy texture to formulas
- Acts as a natural thickener
Common Forms
Body powderDry shampooDeodorantLotion
CautionSuitable for most skin types. Avoid inhalation of fine powder. Patch test if you have known starch sensitivities.
Oil
Apricot Oil
Prunus armeniaca
Plant Part Used
Kernel (cold-pressed)
Key Nutrients
Vitamin AVitamin EOleic acidLinoleic acid
Key Benefits
- Deeply softens and moisturizes skin
- Replenishes the skin's moisture barrier
- Improves skin tone and reduces blemishes
- Antioxidant-rich — helps fight free radical damage
Common Forms
Face oilBody lotionMassage oil
CautionMay not be suitable for those with stone-fruit allergies. Patch test before use.
Oil✦ Organic
Avocado Oil
Persea americana
Plant Part Used
Fruit flesh (cold-pressed)
Key Nutrients
Vitamin AVitamin DVitamin EOmega-3 fatty acids
Key Benefits
- Anti-inflammatory — reduces swelling and redness
- Locks in moisture; speeds healing of dry or cracked skin
- Soothes eczema and psoriasis symptoms
- Maintains the skin's moisture balance
Common Forms
Body butterFace creamBody oil
CautionThose with latex allergies may have cross-reactivity. Patch test recommended.
Gel✦ Organic
Aloe Vera Gel
Aloe barbadensis miller
Plant Part Used
Inner leaf gel
Active Compounds
Salicylic acidLigninPolysaccharides
Key Benefits
- Hydrates skin without greasiness
- Cooling — soothes burns, sunburns, and irritations
- Antibacterial; helps control acne-causing bacteria
- Gently exfoliates; tightens pores
- Lignin enhances penetration of other actives
Common Forms
Cream baseAfter-sun gelToner
CautionRare aloe allergies exist. Patch test before first use.
Wax✦ Organic
Beeswax
Cera alba (Apis mellifera)
Source
Secreted by honeybees; harvested from hive combs
Key Benefits
- Soothes, calms, and helps repair damaged skin
- Forms a breathable barrier that seals in moisture
- Protects against environmental irritants
- Adds shine and locks moisture into hair
Common Forms
⚠ Not vegan
Lip balmSalveLotion barCream
CautionNot suitable for strict vegans. Those with bee or honey allergies should avoid.
Extract
Green Tea
Camellia sinensis
Plant Part Used
Leaves (unoxidized)
Active Compounds
EGCGVitamin EL-TheanineCatechins
Key Benefits
- Potent antioxidants fight free radicals and premature aging
- Balances oily and dry skin; controls sebum
- EGCG rejuvenates skin cells and boosts elasticity
- Anti-inflammatory; soothes irritated skin
Common Forms
TonerSerumMoisturizer
CautionGenerally well-tolerated. Patch test for reactive skin types.
Butter
Mango Butter
Mangifera indica
Plant Part Used
Seed kernel (cold-pressed)
Key Nutrients
Vitamins A–EFolatesCopper
Key Benefits
- Softens and plumps skin; reduces fine lines
- Heals scars and blemishes
- Soothes eczema, psoriasis, and dry skin
- Antibacterial and antimicrobial
Common Forms
Body butterLip balmLotion
CautionThose with mango or tree nut sensitivities should patch test.
Vitamin✦ Organic
Vitamin E Oil
Tocopherol
Source
Derived from vegetable oils (sunflower, wheat germ, or soybean)
Key Benefits
- Potent antioxidant — shields skin from pollutants and free radicals
- Humectant and emollient — helps skin absorb and retain moisture
- Anti-inflammatory; soothes dry and irritated skin
- Supports skin cell regeneration; reduces fine lines
- Extends shelf life of natural formulas
Common Forms
SerumSalveBody lotionCream
CautionUse in small amounts — highly concentrated. Verify source oil if you have soy or wheat allergies.
Oil
Safflower Oil
Carthamus tinctorius
Plant Part Used
Seeds (cold-pressed)
Key Nutrients
Linoleic acid (Omega-6)Oleic acidVitamin E
Key Benefits
- Lightweight and fast-absorbing; no greasy residue
- Rich in linoleic acid to support healthy skin barrier
- Non-comedogenic — suitable for acne-prone skin
Common Forms
Body oilLotionMassage oil
CautionThose with ragweed or Asteraceae family allergies should patch test.
Butter✦ Organic
Shea Butter
Vitellaria paradoxa
Plant Part Used
Nut kernel (cold-pressed)
Key Nutrients
Stearic acidOleic acidVitamin AVitamin E
Key Benefits
- Superb moisturizer — deeply nourishes and softens skin
- Anti-inflammatory; reduces swelling and discomfort
- Boosts collagen production for firmer skin
- Reduces the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines
Common Forms
Body butterLip balmSoapCream
CautionTree nut product — consult a physician if you have nut allergies.
Essential Oil✦ Organic
Sweet Orange Essential Oil
Citrus sinensis
Plant Part Used
Fruit peel (cold-pressed)
Active Compounds
LimoneneMyrceneAlpha-pinene
Key Benefits
- Refreshing, uplifting citrus aroma; used in aromatherapy
- May boost mood and ease stress
- Antibacterial and anti-inflammatory in skincare
- Brightening effect on dull complexions
Common Forms
Body oilLotionSoap
CautionPhototoxic — avoid applying to skin before sun exposure. Always dilute in a carrier oil. Not for internal use.
Essential Oil✦ Organic
Lemongrass Essential Oil
Cymbopogon flexuosus
Plant Part Used
Leaves and stalks (steam-distilled)
Active Compounds
CitralGeraniolLimonene
Key Benefits
- Antibacterial, antiseptic, and antifungal
- Astringent — tones skin, minimizes pores, controls sebum
- Anti-inflammatory; soothes redness and irritation
- Uplifting citrus-herbal aroma; reduces stress
- Antioxidant-rich; supports overall skin health
Common Forms
Body butterSoapDeodorant
CautionAlways dilute before topical use. May irritate sensitive skin. Avoid during pregnancy. Patch test recommended.
Oil✦ Organic
Fractionated Coconut Oil
Cocos nucifera (MCT)
Source
Coconut fruit; long-chain fatty acids removed to keep it liquid at all temperatures
Key Nutrients
Caprylic acid (C8)Capric acid (C10)
Key Benefits
- Lightweight and non-greasy; absorbs quickly
- Non-comedogenic — will not clog pores
- Excellent carrier oil for essential oils
- Antibacterial and antioxidant properties
- Softens and deeply hydrates skin and hair
Common Forms
Body butterLip balmMassage oil
CautionGenerally suitable for all skin types. Rare coconut allergies exist — patch test if unsure.
Butter
Cocoa Butter
Theobroma cacao
Plant Part Used
Cacao seed (cold-pressed)
Key Nutrients
Stearic acidOleic acidPalmitic acidPolyphenols
Key Benefits
- Rich emollient — melts at body temperature to deeply moisturize
- Locks in moisture; supports skin elasticity
- Anti-inflammatory; soothes dry and irritated skin
- Adds shine and conditions dry or damaged hair
Common Forms
SalveLip balmBody butter
CautionMay be comedogenic for some acne-prone skin types. Patch test if you have chocolate sensitivities.
Oil✦ Organic
Castor Oil
Ricinus communis
Plant Part Used
Seeds (cold-pressed)
Key Nutrients
Ricinoleic acidVitamins A–EOmega-9
Key Benefits
- Deeply hydrates and softens skin
- Soothes irritation; supports clear, balanced skin
- Antibacterial and antifungal
- Seals moisture into hair; smooths the cuticle
- Enhances absorption of other botanical ingredients
Common Forms
SalveHair oilLip balm
CautionVery thick — typically used blended. Patch test for sensitive skin.
Oil✦ Organic
Sweet Almond Oil
Prunus dulcis
Plant Part Used
Kernel (cold-pressed)
Key Nutrients
Vitamin B1Vitamin B2Vitamin B6Vitamin D
Key Benefits
- Gentle conditioning oil for all skin types
- Supports moisture retention and skin softness
- Rich in Vitamin B for hair strength and growth
- Lightweight; suitable for sensitive skin
Common Forms
SalveLip balmSoapLotion
CautionContains tree nuts — avoid if you have a nut allergy. Patch test before use.
Oil✦ Organic
Neem Oil
Azadirachta indica
Plant Part Used
Seeds (cold-pressed); used in Ayurvedic medicine for thousands of years
Key Nutrients
Vitamin EFatty acidsAntioxidants
Key Benefits
- Bactericidal — helps prevent skin infections including eczema flares
- Contains antihistamines to relieve itching and swelling
- Hydrates and nourishes dry, irritated skin
- Anti-inflammatory and antifungal
Common Forms
SalveSpot treatmentScalp treatment
CautionVery potent — always dilute. Has a strong earthy odor. Avoid during pregnancy. Patch test for sensitive skin.
Essential Oil✦ Organic
Lavender Essential Oil
Lavandula angustifolia
Plant Part Used
Flowers (steam-distilled)
Active Compounds
LinaloolLinalyl acetateCamphor
Key Benefits
- Anti-inflammatory and analgesic — soothes irritated skin
- Antimicrobial; helps calm eczema and acne
- Calming floral aroma reduces stress and promotes sleep
- Supports wound healing and skin repair
Common Forms
SalveLotionAromatherapy
CautionAlways dilute before topical use. Patch test for sensitive skin.
Essential Oil✦ Organic
Peppermint Essential Oil
Mentha piperita
Plant Part Used
Leaves (steam-distilled)
Active Compounds
MentholMenthoneMenthyl acetate
Key Benefits
- Cooling and refreshing sensation via menthol
- Anti-inflammatory; soothes irritated skin
- Antimicrobial properties help fight bacteria
- Stimulates circulation; invigorating aroma
Common Forms
Lip balmLotionSoap
CautionDo not use on children under 2 or near infants' faces. Always dilute. Avoid contact with eyes.
Oil✦ Organic
Jojoba Oil
Simmondsia chinensis
Plant Part Used
Seeds (cold-pressed); technically a liquid wax ester
Key Nutrients
Vitamin EVitamin B complexEicosenoic acid
Key Benefits
- Closely mimics skin's natural sebum — balances oil production
- Non-comedogenic; excellent for all skin types
- Anti-inflammatory; soothes psoriasis and eczema
- Enhances absorption of other actives
Common Forms
Body oilFace oilHair serum
CautionSuitable for most skin types. Rare sensitivities exist — patch test before use.
Essential Oil✦ Organic
Tea Tree Oil
Melaleuca alternifolia
Plant Part Used
Leaves (steam-distilled)
Active Compounds
Terpinen-4-olCineoleAlpha-terpineol
Key Benefits
- Widely recognized antibacterial and antifungal
- Combats acne, fungal infections, and skin inflammation
- Anti-inflammatory; speeds wound healing
Common Forms
Body oilSoapSpot treatment
CautionNever ingest. Toxic to pets — do not diffuse around animals. Always dilute before skin application.
Oil✦ Organic
Extra-Virgin Olive Oil
Olea europaea
Plant Part Used
Fruit (cold first-pressed)
Key Nutrients
Oleic acidSqualeneVitamin EPolyphenols
Key Benefits
- Rich antioxidants protect against free radical damage
- Deeply moisturizing and nourishing
- Gentle and well-tolerated by most skin types
- Adds shine and reduces frizz in hair
Common Forms
Lip balmSoapLotion
CautionMay be comedogenic for some acne-prone skin types. Heavier texture — best blended with lighter oils.
Emollient✦ Organic
Lanolin
Adeps lanae (Ovis aries)
Source
Wool grease naturally secreted by sheep; purified for cosmetic use
Key Benefits
- Exceptional emollient — closely resembles human skin lipids
- Seals in moisture without blocking skin's natural functions
- Soothes dry, chapped, or cracked skin and lips
- Promotes healing of minor skin irritations
Common Forms
⚠ Not vegan
Lip balmHand creamNipple balm
CautionNot vegan. Those with wool or lanolin sensitivities should avoid. Patch test recommended.
Humectant✦ Organic
Raw Honey
Apis mellifera (Mel)
Source
Unprocessed honey from honeybees; retains all natural enzymes and antioxidants
Active Compounds
Hydrogen peroxideGluconic acidFlavonoids
Key Benefits
- Natural humectant — draws moisture to the skin
- Antibacterial and antimicrobial
- Soothes and calms irritated or inflamed skin
- Gentle exfoliant; supports a clear complexion
Common Forms
⚠ Not vegan
Lip balmSoapFace mask
CautionNot vegan. Avoid if allergic to bee products. Not suitable for infants under 12 months.
Extract✦ Organic
Vanilla Extract
Vanilla planifolia
Plant Part Used
Seed pods (alcohol extraction)
Active Compounds
VanillinPolyphenolsHydroxybenzaldehyde
Key Benefits
- Antioxidant properties help protect skin from free radicals
- Anti-inflammatory; may soothe irritated skin
- Warm, comforting scent with calming aromatherapy effects
- Natural fragrance — no synthetic perfume
Common Forms
Lip balmBody butterLotion
CautionTypically well-tolerated. Patch test for fragrance sensitivities. May contain trace alcohol from extraction.
Base✦ Organic
Goat's Milk
Capra aegagrus hircus (Lac)
Source
Fresh goat's milk; used in both soap base and powder form
Key Nutrients
Lactic acidVitamin AFatty acidsSelenium
Key Benefits
- Lactic acid gently exfoliates and brightens skin
- Deeply moisturizing; strengthens the skin barrier
- Anti-inflammatory; soothes eczema, psoriasis, and dry skin
- Supports skin cell renewal; gentle for sensitive skin
Common Forms
SoapLotionFace wash
CautionNot vegan. Avoid if you have a dairy or milk allergy.
Botanical✦ Organic
Oats
Avena sativa
Plant Part Used
Whole grain / colloidal oat (finely milled)
Active Compounds
AvenanthramidesBeta-glucanSaponins
Key Benefits
- Deeply soothing — relieves itch, redness, and dry skin
- Natural cleanser via saponin content
- Beta-glucan supports skin barrier and hydration
- Gentle exfoliant suitable for sensitive skin
Common Forms
SoapBath soakFace mask
CautionAvoid if you have a confirmed oat or gluten sensitivity. Patch test for topical use.
Botanical✦ Organic
Calendula Petals
Calendula officinalis
Plant Part Used
Flower petals (dried or infused)
Active Compounds
FlavonoidsTriterpenoidsCarotenoids
Key Benefits
- Anti-inflammatory and antifungal
- Promotes wound healing and skin regeneration
- Soothes dry, irritated, or eczema-prone skin
- Gentle enough for sensitive and baby skin
- Rich in antioxidants that protect against skin damage
Common Forms
SoapSalveInfused oil
CautionThose with ragweed or Asteraceae (daisy) family allergies should patch test before use.
Botanical Extract✦ Organic
Wild Yam Extract
Dioscorea villosa
Plant Part Used
Root (extracted); long used in traditional and Ayurvedic wellness
Active Compounds
DiosgeninSaponinsAlkaloids
Key Benefits
- Traditionally used to support hormonal balance in women
- Diosgenin may support the body's natural hormone-producing pathways
- Anti-inflammatory properties
- Traditionally used for PMS and menopausal comfort
Common Forms
Topical creamWellness product
CautionConsult a physician before use if pregnant, breastfeeding, or on hormonal medications. Does NOT convert to progesterone in the body.
Botanical Extract✦ Organic
Chaste Tree Extract
Vitex agnus-castus
Plant Part Used
Berries (also known as Vitex or Chasteberry)
Active Compounds
Iridoid glycosidesFlavonoidsDiterpenes
Key Benefits
- Traditionally supports hormonal balance and healthy cycles in women
- May support pituitary gland function and prolactin balance
- Used traditionally for PMS and cycle irregularities
- Works synergistically with Wild Yam
Common Forms
Topical creamWellness product
CautionConsult a physician before use if pregnant, breastfeeding, or on hormonal or dopamine-related medications.
FDA Disclaimer
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The information provided is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Always perform a patch test before using a new product and consult a qualified healthcare provider if you have specific health concerns, allergies, or medical conditions.