If you’re like me, before entering the world of modern apothecaries, you had no idea what Orris Root Powder was (unless you’re an MF DOOM fan).
However, Orris Root powder, derived from the roots of the iris flower, is used in a variety of apothecary products. It’s also one of our bestselling herbs.
As far back as Ancient Greece, Orris Root Powder has been used in beauty products. In ancient Greece and Rome, Orris Root Powder was applied to the face and in hair to dispense its sweet scent, and put in sachets worn on the body (this was before the marvelous modern invention of deodorant).
It has also been thought to have medicinal properties, when applied directly to the source of toothaches, joint aches, and bad breath, but most of the medicinal properties of Orris Root have since been disproved.
However, Orris Root Powder can be a useful tool for skincare when used in lotions, powders, and creams, as it may naturally soak up excess oil to promote soft, healthy skin. It also has naturally nourishing properties, and may act as a skin and hair hydrating agent.
However, in the modern world, it’s primarily used for its scent, which is soft, creamy, and floral. Coco Chanel used it in her original Chanel No. 5 formulation, and a variety of other perfume houses feature Orris Root as a key note in their fragrances.
Here at Smallflower, we’re no strangers to Orris Root. In addition to selling Orris Root Powder to be used in potpourri and sachets, a variety of products we carry utilize Orris Root. If you’re curious about this multi-faceted ingredient, we carry so many unique personal care products that use the botanical for you to explore. Browse our favorites and let us know what herbs you want us to showcase next!
Molton Brown Suede Orris Body Lotion
The Molton Brown Suede Orris Body Lotion is a creamy, caressing, and perfectly perfumed body lotion. Providing decadent moisture to the skin, this body lotion is a luxury lover’s dream.
MALIN + GOETZ Strawberry Eau De Parfum
The classic brightness of strawberry reimagined, the MALIN + GOETZ Strawberry Eau De Parfum packs a punch with top notes of Begamont, Jasmine, and (naturally) Orris. Under the surface, grounding notes of warm musk adds a softness that creates a wearable and magical sensory experience.
Santa Maria Novella Toothpaste Fior D’Iris
Santa Maria Novella products hail from the oldest apothecary in the world, founded by Dominican Friars in Florence, Italy in 1221. Made with classic and historical ingredients, this toothpaste uses Orris Root Powder to add a fresh aromatic flavor. The Orris Root powder is also astringent, which prevents gum disease. The aroma of costmary gives the toothpaste a singular, minty-spicy taste leaving the mouth feeling fresh.
Salt & Stone Santal and Vetiver Natural Deodorant
This natural deodorant is formulated with baking soda and designed for any skin type. Hyaluronic acid hydrates and neutralizes the skin while probiotics neutralize odor. The fragrance contains notes of violet, cardamom, and Orris(!).
The Tabac Original Shaving Soap creates a creamy lather that allows a razor to float gently across the skin. Tabac products are a German classic, and carry a nostalgic scent of Lemon, Neroli, Lavender, and Begamont, all rounded out by the sweet smell of Orris.
Four Elements Detoxify Body Oil
This massage oil is recommended for massaging in tissues to support healthy lymphatic function. This decadent massage oil contains violets, Viola spp, flowering tops, burdock, Arctium lappa, whole plant, figwort, Scrophularia nodosa, flowering tops, and poke root, Phytolacca americana.
Smallflower Orris Root - Powder (Iris Florentina)
The end-all-be-all. Our very own Orris Root Powder can be used for all the uses above, including as a skin and haircare product and for producing the trademark soft and pleasing fragrance.
