Achyrocline satureioides

Macela has been the subject of western research and many of its long-time uses in herbal medicine have been validated by scientists. Macela is known to possess an amazing broad spectrum of proven pharmacological, medicinal and therapeutic properties such as pain-relieving, anti-inflammatory, and smooth-muscle (gastrointestinal) relaxant properties internally without toxicity, in addition to anti-inflammatory and pain-relief actions externally. This may explain why Macela has long been used effectively for many types of pain, gastrointestinal difficulties, menstrual cramps, and asthma. It also has shown to be a strong antioxidant, to increases the flow of bile from the gallbladder, to help protect against liver damage and to lower liver enzymes levels. Again, this certainly supports its traditional uses for liver and gallbladder problems of various kinds.

Some of the in vitro antioxidant testing performed suggested that Macela interfered in the degenerative processes of arteriosclerosis (it reduced blood stickiness, blood fats, and blood oxidation). In 1996, researchers in Texas demonstrated its in vitro antiviral properties against HIV, and Argentinean researchers found it to be active against Pseudorabies (a type of animal herpes virus). In vitro studies have demonstrated its effectiveness against against Salmonella, E. coli, and Staphylococcus. This could explain its long history of use for dysentery, diarrhea, and infections. Other research on Macela has concentrated on its antitumorous, antiviral, and immunostimulant properties and with so many active biological properties documented thus far, Macela should continue to be the subject of further research.

Cosmetic use
Phytochemical analysis of Macela, which began in the mid-1980s, shows that it is a rich source of flavonoids - including novel ones never seen before. Many of its active properties are attributed to these flavonoids as well as to other very important chemicals such as Azulene and Choline.

- Azulene: Is an excellent anti-inflammatory, extraordinary healing, anti-bacterial, analgesic and detoxifier. Extremely calming and soothing to the skin.
Benefits: In clinical studies Azulenes has shown a dramatic anti-inflammatory effects and also showed significant antioxidant protection.

- Choline: Is a chemical similar to the B-vitamins, and is often lumped in with them. In addition to its role as a nutritional element, Choline is also used in the treatment of liver disorders, Alzheimer's disease, and bipolar depression.

In practical terms this means that application of Macela oil with these wonderful natural substances will help to prevent skin blemishes from developing and will help stop deterioration of skin cells that leads to wrinkles, fine lines and pigmentation. Macela is a perfect example of a herb having diverse therapeutic uses. Macela oil preparations are widely used in skin care products to reduce cutaneous inflammation and other dermatological diseases.

Macela Oil soothes, heals, combats inflammation, stimulates cell regeneration and it is a calming, refreshing, and also work as a balancing toner for dry, normal and sensitive skin.