A Powerful Source of Moisture

Many foods get the moniker “super” applied before them. Amaranth, a featured ingredient in our latest collection, Lotus Santal, is one that truly deserves it.

Ancient cultures around the world have sung the praises of the amaranth plant, invaluable for its nutrient-rich leaf and profuse seeds, along with its ornamental blossom. Indeed, its name comes from the Greek words for “unfading flower.”

The type of flower depends on its particular variety; it can resemble a bright globe, a feathery plume or a brain-like cockscomb. Often a brilliant scarlet, the plant was the source of the deep red natural dye common in Hopi weaving.

As a food source, amaranth has long been consumed. For centuries, and maybe even longer, it was grown across Mesoamerica for use in ritual drinks and foods, and it was a staple foodstuff of the Inca and Aztecs. Easily harvested and an excellent source of protein, its “grain”— actually a seed, like quinoa—continues to be cultivated from Peru to Nepal.

Agriculture experts particularly praise amaranth as a rural crop, as it grows readily and provides valuable nutrients. Because it contains no gluten, amaranth seed appeals to many on restricted diets, who use it as an alternative to wheat and rye. The grain can be popped like popcorn or flaked like oatmeal.

Amaranth seed serves up a robust supply of squalene, a natural moisturizer that quickly penetrates the skin.

In skin care, it serves up a robust supply of squalene, a natural moisturizer that quickly penetrates the skin, and antioxidant vitamins that protect against environmental factors. It also contains high amounts of tocopherols, tocotrienols and linoleic acid nutrients that help to restore smoothness and moisture to skin.

At Thymes, it seemed only natural to infuse amaranth seed into Lotus Santal, a lulling hush that smoothes the rhythms of the day. Experience its benefits at your local specialty retailer or here, at thymes.com. And enjoy the moment of tranquility Lotus Santal inspires.