Jambu: The Amazonian Botanical known as "Nature's Botox"
At Salvaterra, our skincare range uses several powerful Amazonian botanicals that deliver results. One of these is Jambu extract. But what is Jambu extract? And how has it earned the name “Nature’s Botox”?
We break down this botanical anti-ageing ingredient, including how Jambu works in skincare, which skin concerns it targets, and what to look out for in ingredients listings.
In This Post:
Why Jambu is Called “Nature’s Botox”
The Key Skincare Benefits of Jambu
How to Spot Jambu in skincare?
Are Botanical Actives the Future of Skincare?
What is Jambu?
Also known by its botanical name, Acmella oleracea, Jambu is native to the Amazon rainforest in Brazil, and has been used in medicine by forest communities for centuries.
One of the best Amazonian anti-ageing ingredients in the skincare world, it’s commonly referred to as “nature’s Botox”. This is because of its non-invasive ability to help relax facial muscle tension, visibly soften expression lines and smooth wrinkles – all without needles, downtime, or synthetic peptides.
In fact, it goes by several different aliases. Its numbing abilities mean it’s known as “the toothache plant”. The tingling sensation it creates has lent it the name “the electric plant”. And, it’s also known as “Paracress” because it originates from the Pará region of Brazil.
What is Spilanthol?
Jambu’s active compound is Spilanthol, which is widely credited for the plant’s tingling sensation, and its anaesthetic, muscle-relaxing, wrinkle-softening effects. Spinthanol is known to act as a natural neuromodulator, helping to soften expression lines by reducing facial tension.
That’s not all. Spilanthol also helps stimulate collagen synthesis, improve skin firmness, and improve the skin penetration of other active ingredients.
Why Jambu is Called “Nature’s Botox”
Spilanthol helps relax facial muscle contractions, which softens the look of lines and wrinkles, including expression lines and crow’s feet. Quite simply, it’s called “Nature’s Botox” because it acts similarly to the anti-ageing injections, minus the needles.
A powerful expression line treatment, it’s lauded as a non-invasive, topical alternative to injectables.
The Key Skincare Benefits of Jambu
Jambu has multiple skincare benefits, which is why we’ve included it in every one of our formulas: our Replenishing Cleansing Balm, Universal Serum, Revitalising Cream and Vitamin C Radiance Oil. In skincare, jambu can help to:
- Smooth expression lines – Jambu’s muscle-relaxing effect acts like a natural wrinkle relaxer to reduce the appearance of deep and fine lines
- Firm and tighten skin – it supports collagen synthesis and improves the feel of elasticity
- Soothe irritated skin – Jambu is known for its anti-inflammatory and calming properties
- Provide antioxidant protection – it helps defend against free radicals and environmental aggressors
Who Should Use Jambu?
If you have any of the following skincare concerns, it could be beneficial to use Jambu in your skincare routine:
- Expression lines
- Fine lines and wrinkles
- Loss of elasticity
- Irritated, sensitive or reactive skin
If you’re considering Botox, seeking natural alternatives to injectables or want to take your skincare to another level, Jambu is the perfect ingredient to include.
How to Use Jambu in a Routine
A potent Amazonian botanical, Jambu works well in serums, moisturisers, oils and targeted treatments. You can find it in all of our products: Replenishing Cleansing Balm, Universal Serum, Revitalising Cream and Vitamin C Radiance Oil.
Want to know more? Read: What Is the Salvaterra Skin Ritual? Everything You Need to Know
It works best when teamed with nourishing, protecting ingredients like hyaluronic acid, peptides and antioxidants. Look for pairings with:
- Hydrating agents like hyaluronic acid and glycerin – ideal for amplifying moisture, resulting in a plump, hydrated, and firm look.
- Nutrient-dense oils like Patauá, Andiroba and Buruti – these can help enhance Jambu’s soothing and firming properties.
- Anti-ageing actives like peptides and collagen – Jambu pairs perfectly with peptides to strengthen the skin barrier and increase firmness.
- Brightening and protective antioxidants like vitamins C and E – Jambu is already rich in vitamins C and E, making it a powerhouse when combined with additional antioxidants to combat free radicals, reduce dark spots, and enhance radiance.
- Soothing agents like Centella Asiatica and Calendula – while generally fine for sensitive skin, Jambu can be paired with soothing ingredients to further calm skin
How to Spot Jambu in skincare?
What should you look for on ingredient labels to ensure your skincare contains Jambu? If a product contains Jambu, you’ll see its scientific name, Acmella Oleracea Extract or Spilanthes Acmella Extract in its ingredient listings.
Are Botanical Actives the Future of Skincare?
Unequivocally, yes. We’ve seen a huge rise in plant-based actives in skincare products – many of which have been utilised by traditional communities for centuries. Jambu bridges the gap between traditional medicine and modern skincare, taking anti-ageing results to the next level.