Beauty, like a pearl, is formed in layers caressed by time and the elements. Pearls suggest enduring loveliness. It takes the oyster three years to make a pearl. When a grain of sand penetrates a mollusk shell, cells located inside the shell mantle secrete concentric layers of mother of pearl around the particle, finally creating the pearl. Pearls culled from depths of 48 to 120 feet are found in waters of the Persian Gulf, the Gulf of Mannar near Sri Lanka, Indonesia, islands in the South Pacific, the Gulf of Mexico, and the Mississippi River. In China, pearling was known before 1000 BC. Powdered pearl, ingested as an anti-inflammatory herbal medicine or applied to the skin as a beauty treatment was preferred by CiXi, the last Empress of China, during the Qing Dynasty. Her flawless complexion was renowned. In Bernardo Bertolucci’s epic film, The Last Emperor, a giant black pearl was placed in the Empress’ mouth the moment she died–in homage to her as a precious jewel.
In China traditional herbalists and medical research doctors work together in clinics and hospitals. If you take a calcium supplement, Dr. Raymond Chang, a New York oncologist, recommends vitamin D3 to improve absorption of calcium and to help prevent cancer. Vitamin D3 breaks down cancer cells. Most people do not get enough vitamin D in their diet or from exposure to sunshine. They therefore cannot absorb calcium adequately. Avoiding the sun, they more frequently develop breast and uterine cancers, while trying to reduce their chances of skin cancer. Pearl may be one way to get your calcium and trace minerals. My favorite way to take pearl powder internally is to blend one tiny tube of pearl powder with a tablespoon of yogurt at bedtime.
Pearl is also a complexion treatment for acne and tired skin. The chief ingredient of powdered pearl, calcium carbonate (CaCO3), can be absorbed through the skin. Pearl powder, a powerful exfoliant, applied externally speeds the skin’s natural process of shedding dead cells and replacing them with new cells. Exfoliating treatments refine the skin’s appearance. Pearl powder, used externally and also taken internally, both prevents and treats acne and other skin disorders, helping to heal blemishes and reduce redness. Pearl powder is sprinkled into wounds in Chinese hospitals because its antiseptic action speeds healing. Pearl powder also absorbs excess oil and moisture, and it is used in surgeon’s gloves to keep their hands dry during operations.
In China and Japan there is considerable ongoing scientific research into the properties of pearl and other traditional herbal remedies. Only some of the results are available in articles published in English, usually on the Internet. Current research does verify the pearl’s health and beauty benefits. Pearl’s nacre (mother of pearl) is made of aragonite (CaCO3) and a small amount of conchiolin, an organic albuminoid substance found in the mollusk’s outer shell. While, in the Western view, calcium carbonate is the sole active ingredient in pearl, natural products should be used whole whenever possible because of the benefits of their trace ingredients.
PEARL FACIAL TREATMENTS
Pearl is a class ingredient found in expensive complexion creams. If you are a smart shopper, you will pay much less for the same quality. The simplest Chinese pearl creams contain lanolin, mineral oil, and beeswax along with pearl powder. They may feel heavy and waxy, but I like to smooth some around my eyes at night to hold in natural moisture. It softens wrinkles. Some of the Chinese pearl creams contain ginseng, sheep placenta used as a moisturizer, or an herbal combination called Pien Tse Huang, which helps fight blemishes. Chinese made Beanne Extra Pearl creams, one to remove wrinkles and one to lighten freckles, are yellow-colored resurfacing creams with ingredients such as apple pectin for refining the skin. They can be irritating to delicate complexions and should be used sparingly and with care.
At Latin botanicas or anywhere products from Mexico and Spain are sold (including most Rite Aid pharmacies), you will find fine quality soaps and creams made with mother of pearl. The pearl’s inner shell (the nacre) contains the same excellent source of minerals as the pearl. In southern California I discovered Concha Nacar De Perlop day cream distributed by Perlop Cosmetics in Santa Monica. Its main ingredients include water, glycerine, cetyl alcohol, castor oil, oyster shell powder, beeswax, lanolin, cocoa butter, natural color and fragrance. I find it a bit sticky-sweet.
I prefer Mother of Pearl Cream with Concha Nacar made in Mexico by Grisi, which is light-weight and has a mild fragrance. In addition to mother of pearl, it contains zinc, magnesium, ascorbic acid, and calcium carbonate; mineral oil and beeswax are used as a base. Apply it as a velvety moisturizer for the whole body. Grisi also makes a Mother of Pearl soap (Jabon Madre Perla) that is very reasonably priced for a beauty bar. Aside from mother of pearl, it contains neutral soap, cold cream, lanolin and a fresh fragrance.
Chinese herbalists believe that a pearl powder facial mask tones the skin, while adding vitality to the complexion. Pearl powder has cooling, disinfectant, and balancing properties for the skin. The pack should be applied to clean, dry skin and allowed to penetrate for about ten minutes, then washed off with warm water. Do this once weekly to help refine your complexion. A convenient time may be right after a shower. The pearl powder mask will tingle and feel warm as it removes dead cells. Lie down and elevate your feet to enjoy the full benefits of facial stimulation.
To make a pearl mask:
Mix one teaspoon of pure Chinese pearl powder with the juice of one lemon, one beaten egg white, and one teaspoon of raw honey–this will nourish and moisturize aging skin.
Or, mix one teaspoon of pearl powder with sufficient extra virgin olive oil to make a paste–this will revitalize dry, dull skin.
Or, mix one teaspoon of pearl powder with sufficient whole milk to make a paste. This is also anti-aging and is said to reduce large skin pores.
I prefer not to wear makeup immediately after using a pearl mask. The skin may feel irritated or warm for a few minutes after removing the mask. Let your skin breathe for as long as possible.
If you spend much time in the sun, mix one teaspoon of pearl powder in an atomizer containing freshly brewed and strained green tea. Add a drop or two of witch hazel extract and keep the liquid in the refrigerator to preserve its freshness. This spray helps prevent sun damage because of the green tea’s high antioxidant content.
PEARL POWDER REDUCES STRESS, BLEMISHES AND ODORS
To clear and brighten complexion, Chinese herbalists recommend pills for internal use, such as “Margarite Acne Pills,” which are made of 24% pearl powder combined with antiseptic herbs such as dandelion and honeysuckle flowers. I often recommend a dandelion and honeysuckle flower tea (blood-cleansing and antibiotic) for eczema. It is made by simmering one handful of each herb in a quart of spring water for twenty minutes. One or two cups daily works as a laxative. The addition of pearl, in the form of the above pills, is cooling to the skin and quieting to nerves.
Chinese herbalists believe that taken internally on a regular basis pearl powder can quiet nervousness and reduce fear or restlessness, improve vision, and reduce a variety of inflammatory illnesses, including insomnia and hyperactivity. Pearl powder is said to “cool the blood.” That means that pearl’s anti-inflammatory action counters excess acid conditions. For treating anything from eczema and boils to high blood pressure, no traditional Chinese home would be without it.
Pearl has a remarkable range of uses. The pure powder, when taken internally along with a cleansing diet of fruits and vegetables, will help to clear and sooth irritated skin and scalp. Pearl is said to calm strong emotions and reduce unpleasant body odors. You can use it as a powder to brush your teeth, and it is safe enough to swallow. Or sprinkle the powder into shoes to absorb odor and moisture. Dosage for internal use: Mix one tiny tube of pearl powder to a dab of yogurt at bedtime.
PEARL CALCIUM AND YOUR BONES
Scientific studies from Japan, China, Denmark and the United States show that calcium carbonate from oyster shell and mother of pearl are effective in preventing and repairing bone loss. One study published by the Calcium Research Institute of Osaka, Japan (April, 1958) was a randomized, double-blind test carried out to compare the effects of oyster shell seaweed calcium (AAA Ca) and calcium carbonate versus a placebo in 58 elderly, hospitalized women. Lumbar spine and radial bone mineral density were measured at three-month intervals. The results were that oyster shell calcium appears to be effective for increasing bone mineral density in elderly subjects.
According to one study published in the December, 1988 issue of the Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine, titled “The Anti-aging Effect of Pearl Oyster Shell Powder,” a combination of powdered sea pearl, mother of-pearl and freshwater pearl has been shown to have tonic and anti-aging actions. Based on Chinese pharmacological studies, the positive effects of the sea pearl and mother-of-pearl powder is higher than that of freshwater pearl powder. This would indicate that the best quality of pearl powder for health and beauty originates from Japan and China, where they are highly prized.
Pearl calcium (CaCO3) is absorbed in the large intestine. Absorption is enhanced by taking vitamin D3 at the same time. Women need to consume additional calcium before and during the menstrual period, and both men and women need more of it when under stress. According to one study done in Maine, the body uses more calcium during winter’s cold, dark months. Reduced calcium can result in weakness, poor muscle tone and heart irregularities. We might feel nervous and drawn. Winter is a good time to drink orange juice (for absorption) with a dash of pearl powder. And remember, a sunny disposition makes for a beautiful person.
The traditional uses of pearl demonstrate how health and beauty are intertwined, and how body, mind, and spirit harmoniously create beauty. Improve your complexion with pearl and you will feel like smiling. Another gift of pearl, that gem born as an irritant, which takes the oyster years to create, is the knowledge that we also are precious and rare. Pearls bring the calm assurance of the sea and the gentle flow of tides.
Excellent article. I was searching google and have been reading several pages so far. Your article is expansive in content and well researched. Thanks.
Thank you Dale.
Best wishes for the holidays.
Letha
hello Madam!
As i’am studying about chinese perls benefits, it would be very helpful to me if you give me any pearl chinese cream company which produces those kinds of creams, in order to contact with them.
Thank you
Maja
Hello
Beane Pearl cream is well known. They are made and sold throughout Asia. I am sorry I don’t know of a special company other than them. Pearl creams are also made in mexico.
In my book Healthy Beauty I mention ways to make your own pearl creams using Chinese pearl powder. See your local Chinese herb shops and http://www.asiachi.com for ordering pearl powder. You can mix it with millk, homey, or other mediums and apply it to the face. Be careful, pearl is full of minerals and is an exfolient – It takes off a layer of dead skin and can burn very sensitive skin if left too long.
L .
Thank you so much for you very informative article. My mother wants to try it and I just wanted to make sure Concha Nacar face cream is safe.
Concha Nacar is popular in south Florida and throughout Latin America. I have seen it in Asian health shops. If Mom has sensitive skin avoid all products that contain alcohol or fragrance – because they are preserved with alcohol. I try to avoid products with Parabins – methalparabin etc. because they can be risky.
If you want something very safe, clean and easy to make, soak herbs – extra fine pearl powder or skin-beautifying natural remedies for a month in refrigerated canola oil or olive oil. The oil will help the herbs, pearl powder to penetrate the skin.
L.
The article on concha nacar is very interesting. By the way, I have my own recipe of making a homade concha nacar mask. First, I apply lemon juice inside a concha nacar shell, then I applly 2 drops of vitamin E oil. Then I let it sit there for a few days until a white paste is formed, then I apply it on my face. The results are brighter, clearer skin.
That sounds very interesting!
thanks, L.
Hello guys,
Thanx for the very informative blog!!!! I’ve been looking for something just like it!!! I’ve been kinda’ interested in using pearl powder latley but wasn’t sure how….this article answered a lot of questions but…I still have a few more….lol!!! I heard that you can just mix some pearl powder straight in to your favorite moisturizer and use that but you said that pearl powder’s pretty sensative if left on skin. Do you think that if I mixed some in my daily (Face & Body) moisturizer that it will irritate my skin?? If not… how much pearl powder do you think I need to add into a 4 oz. bottle of moisturizer to get the benefits of the pearls?? (can pearl powder be used on skin everyday??? if not how often???) Second q….I also heard that you can also just sprinkle some straight into your bath….what’s your opinion on that??? (again how much would you guys recommend in a tub of water???) Also about the pearl mask recipes posted…how often should it be used??? Thanx so much for reading guys!!!! How else do you guys use pearl powder??? plz share!!! lol!!! bye!!!
P.S.: What do you guys think about adding it to body powder for a shimmer??? Pearl powder is edible right?? ( I was thinking of adding into my fav homemade edible body powder…) if so how much pearl powder for an ounce of body powder??? Thanx so much for your time!!!!!
Hi Iman
Pearl is used in beauty products in Latin America and Asia, but I think you will have to get an extremely fine powder in order to mix it with lotions. I would not add it into something that you would leave on for a long time because it may irritate the skin over time.
If you want to use it and never have, try one of my ideas for a facial pack and see how it feels after 15 minutes. If it does not irritate the skin too much (pearl is used to exfoliate–remove dead skin–) then you might use it once a week for normal skin and less frequently for sensitive skin.
If you have very sensitive skin it will feel too warm and turn too pink if you use it for too long.
I do not know if it will mix with water in a bath. Besided you would have to use too much and it might settle like sand at the bottom of your tub – ouch!
For minerals, I add goat’s milk (powdered or concentrated) into my bath. Very good mix of minerals in it.
The pearl powder you buy from chinatowns is meant for consumption. You might add it to a tsp. of yogurt. When I have tried to swallow it as is, it just gets stuck in the throat.
Edible face and body powder?
I am not a manufacturer so experiment with quantities.
Do you make beauty products?
Please see my book Health Beauty (iUniverse.com) for more beauty tips.
all best, Letha Hadady
I am trying Margarita Pills and the Concha Nacar for the first time. From this well-researched article and your feedbacks, I hope, all the regimens you recommended will bring out good results on my skin. I am sick of trying all antibiotics and topicals to cure my adult acne.
Hi Lyna
Also see the chapter on beautiful complexion that I wrote in my book Healthy Beauty available at iUniverse.com
all the best for your natural health and beauty, L.
Hello Letha,
I would like to appreciate your very informative website, great work!
I have a question, I want to go for oral consumption of pearl powder as I mostly believe in its skin beauty effective through blood stream, are you with me on this? and please lemme know if it is ok to buy natural pearls and have them ground into a powder at home and consume daily? and how much gr daily and at what time? do I also mix it with something for better digestive of it?
I wanna go like this form!
btw I order my chinese herbs directly from china from a big chinese herbal shop,company,hospital,college and thier site is: http://www.tcmtreatment.com
Regards
I forgot to mention why I go like this form, because I have less faith in different manufactured pearls powder and as usual like to consume herbs in thier original herbal form! thank you!
Hi John
Chinese herbalists have used powdered pure pearl since the Emperors to clear acne, fever, and hypertension. You cannot grind them up at home – too uneven in quality and too rough to swallow. You can find good quality pearl powder for internal use from Chinese herb shops. I have bought my tiny tubes of pure powdered pearl from Lin Sisters in New York. See my list of links on the home page for their website. I add the powder to water at bedtime or cook some with other herbs when making water extracts for blood deficiency. The calcium carbonate in pearl combines will with moistening blood-enhancing herbs.
best, L.
Hi Letha,
I was prescribed Margarite Pills by my acupuncturist and it seemed very strange to be consuming ground pearls. I still have to get used to the idea! I wanted to see if it was safe and now that I’ve come across your website, I have more peace of mind. One thing my acupuncturist didn’t tell me was how long I should take it for? A week, a month, a year?
Also I’ve stopped breastfeeding for 5 months now and it seems my hormones have been irregular. Motherhood seemed to zap me of any beauty I had. I break out, my skin is dull and so is my hair. Is there anything I can take for that? It’s so hard to feel ‘normal’ again.
Thanks,
Erin
Hi Erin
You can take the Margarite pills for as long as you have red, inflamed blemishes. That is what the pearl does – it reduces inflammation.
You need to supplement your diet and vitamins and minerals as you breast feed. Your body is drained of nutrition during pregnancy and for quite a while afterwards.
Another safer alternative to Margarite pills is
Skin Balance pills from Health COncerns in Calif.
It is for acne and dry dull complexion.
To order it call 1 800 233 9355 and use my name LETHA as a password.
Remember this summer to eat lots of berries and black cherries – a good source of minerals
especially iron. Hair and skin need protein, zinc and iron for beauty.
all best, L.
does the pearl powder help with scars? thanks
HI
PEARL powder is an exfolient that removes the dead dried skin from the top layers of skin. It turns the skin pink when mixed with honey and left on the skin for 15 min. You might try it for a very superficial scar that is not too deep or dark or old. It is mainly used to refine skin texture not big irregularities.
There are scar creams in pharmacies. One has onion extract an irritant as an ingredient. Pearl sounds more appealing than onion.
do you know if grisi’s concha nacar cream is used for hyperpigmentation/melasma problems? does it have natural sunscreen in it?
No sunscreen in it that I know of.
It reduces the signs of hyperpigmentation – not the cause. It exfoliates – reduces dry flaky skin.
I want to know what are the effects of Pearl Powder in pregnancy??? Is it safe to use by pregnant women such as me? should I be worried of side effects to my baby?
Hi Meg
Congratulations on becoming a parent. How lucky.
Pearl powder should be safe during pregnancy because it is not laxative. It is anti-
inflammatory for skin blemishes or fevers. Avoid it if it makes you feel too relaxed and
chilled. It is a source of calcium.
However,
With all the worry about products from china, I would take a homeopathic remedy such as Bioplasma – a source of 12 essential minerals including several forms of calcium –instead of pearl powder.
I cannot vouch for its purity. Homeopathic minerals are safer also because you can take a dose that you need. You could add the homeopathic minerals to water and sip it between meals. It would be very strengthening.
all best, Letha
Hi, Letha.
I was surfing the net and ran into your website. I enjoyed reading all of the great tips that you provide to your readers. We really need your help. I am a parent who so desperately wants her 17-year-old son to have a clear complexion. This young adult has tried everything the market has to offer it seems like and nothing has worked for him. Not to long ago, he used Proactive that sent him to the ER after 2 days of usage. He had a horrible reaction to the product. Just a week or so ago, it seems that God sent an angel to us. Out of nowhere, he came up to us an asked if we had ever used a cream by the name of concha naca. I let him know that I had heard of it; however, our son had not tried this. He suggested that he use it to clear up his young adult acne. I sure would like to get your feedback. What concha naca is best to purchase? We are looking for something that will not burn his skin. He is trying to clear up the acne + the scarring he has. He is tall, dark and handsome. It’s just the acne that is getting in the way. Please HELP us. Thank you!
I recommend my book Healthy Beauty for you and son. Diet and herbs mentioned in that book will greatly help. Applying a cream cannot clear complexion. Impurities from the blood have to be eliminated and nerves quieted.
A good way to start is Skin Balance (herbal pills from Health Concerns in Oakland, Ca.
They combine cleansing herbs that treat acne, etc. and dry skin.
all best, Letha
Awesome information. I was searching for re confirmation on benefits for sea shell powder. Your article has confirmed more than enough information. I am currently using the “Mexican” Product Concha Naca and I would have to say, is working on my skin. Is helping acne go away, I feel it fresher, smoother and clearing pores, etc. Thanks again for all the great information.
Nancy
Oh, one more thing.. As far as making your own cream w/ sea shell powder, how long should I leave the cream on? Thanks, Nancy
Hi Nancy
If you are using Chinese powdered pearl, mix it with honey or yogurt. It might feel warm. That’s ok but do not let it get uncomfortable. I would wash it off after 15 min. for rough skin and 5 minutes for very sensitive skin.
My current favorite complexion exfoliant is real papaya enzyme powder. (It is white and smells slightly of sulphur– not at all sweet.) I bought it online from a supplier. Google it to find sources. I mix about 1 tsp. or less with a mild liquid soap and leave it on 5 or less minutes until it dries. I put it on face, neck and chest. Warm and invigorating. It leaves skin soft and smooth and bright.
L.
I love the Perlop Concha Bleaching creme. I have been purchasing it at Walmart for approx. 4 years. It is very inexpensive and I was surprised to notice THAT IT WORKS!! The Walmart that I purchase it at no longer carries it and I can’t find a secure location on the internet in order to purchase it. Help!
I would recommend this to EVERYONE.
I believe I have seen that pearl bleach cream at the natural products sections of some RiteAids but it varies. Here is a website that sells it–www.beautyofnewyork.com
hi, I’m looking to use pearl powder and if I mix it with water and apply on face after shower usinf a body wash sponge, how long should I leave it on the face? and do i then wash it off with water or leave it on?
Of the following which one is recommended or proven to be more effective:
Pearl Powder (Zhen Zhu Mo)
OR
Zhuji Xishi Brand Pearl Powder
i’ve been using PERLOP’S CONCHA NACAR for two days..i haven’t really seen any results yet but i use it with Dickinson’s witch hazel toner..PM AM respectively..the only thing i ‘ve noticed so far is how fast my large acne dry up..i hope i see more promising results soon..i’ve tried so many OTC acne meds..and dermatologists too..i hope this works..my self esteem has been affected..
Hi Kittykat87
I do not think cream are effective for acne. Most cannot penetrate enough. They cannot clear the skin because they do not affect the blood like diet and herbs can.
I recommend more vegetables and water, reduced fat, meat, sweets, and caffeine.
For herbs, Health Concerns makes Skin Balance pills
1 800 233 9355, Use LETHA as a password
Or over the counter chinese patent remedy Lien Chiao Pai Tu Pien.
See my book Healthy Beauty for more advice.
best, L.
Hello Gurgit
I do not know which of the two brands of pearl powder are more effective. Try to get something pure – food grade that might be used internally. Mix it with honey and apply for up to 5 min.
It depends on your skin. Some people with sensitive skin will find that it burns and becomes pink
That is temporary. No more than 3 – 5 min. the first time and then use accordingly.
If your husband as a beard his kiss my scratch you. Your skin will feel more sensitive and smooth.
Hi,
I have a mild case of cystic acne and it’s been plaguing me for a few years. I see that your recommendations are geared towards internal treatment rather than external treatment. I would like some suggestions to help manage this and I would also like some suggestions with dealing with the scarring that the acne leaves behind. I am dark skinned African American woman and nothing is really helping with the acne or it’s scarring. I am open to suggestions.
Help
DEAR Joi
Thanks for your comment.
My preferred herbal pill for acne, itchy skin and allergic conditions and dry skin is
SKIN BALANCE by Health Concerns
call 1 800 233 9355 use my name LETHA as a password to order. Otherwise, they sell only to health food stores or acupuncturists. It contains safe chinese herbs, made in Calif. for these conditions.
Externally I prefer using pure pepain –papaya enzyme powder – that I ordered online. American distributors sell it (originally from India)
I add it to a mild glycerine soap to make a paste and apply it as an exfoliant to the skin for up to 5 minutes. It leave skin smooth and exfoliated. If skin is tender, use it for a shorter period of time.
all best, L.
Letha, for the actual facial mask itself, which one do we use or do you recommend? thanks
Hello Gurjit
I no longer use pearl powder as a facial mask. I use pure powdered pepain – papaya enzyme that I ordered online. The source is India, but the distributor is in Calif. You can see several good brands and compare prices. I had to buy a pound of papain powder. I mix it with a couple of drops of castile soup and apply to exfolliate the complexion. You can also add the powder to bath, but do not keep it or apply it near very sensitive areas –it can burn.
Hi Letha, for serious acne/spots, what would you recommend? Is pearl powder ok for this or do u recommend anything else?
Hi Suj
I think you mean to ask about bleaching or lessening the spots, yes?
Pearl creams and powders can help remove dead skin. So can pepain powder – pure organic papaya enzyme powder. The latter may be easier to order and use. Please see my other comments above.
best, L.
Hi Letha,
Thank you for all your advise, it’s very very helpful.
I have some questions though. My mom bought me some Pearl Powder from Taiwan from her vacation, and she mentioned that this Pearl powder is very expensive from the top mountain in taiwan (she spent about USD800 for 3 small bottles pearl powder). The reason I am asking because I didnt see you mentioning Pearl powder from Taiwan. Could it be fake? Also, I am planning to have kids(I AM NOW 31yrs old),would this pearl powder be harmful to my body and effect my baby when I become pregnant later this year?
Please let me know
Thanks
Sorry, the reason I wanted to take the pearl powder (with water) because I have freckles on my right face that and chin (only right side). I went to doctors and skin clinics and they said the the freckles are not from the sun, they are from the inside of my body. And some said that freckles are from my liver…
Again, please advise what I can do with pearl powder to lighten my freckles but save to have kids
Thanks
Hello Jernei
The best thing for you to do to get yourself in shape to have a child, clear your complexion, and calm nerves would be to consult a Chinese or other herbalist privately.
pearl powder–probably very high quality from Taiwan but I do not know– is recommended for nervous insomnia, hypertension, and blemishes. Taken regularly it is not enough to remove freckles.
There is a capsule called patch removing pills available in some chinese herb shops. It contains blood enhancing herbs including rehmannia. That is a useful herb except for people with herpes. It tends to bring out such rashes.
Some women need to take herbs to enhance blood production to insure fertility because they have hormone irregularities or nervous inflammation leading to problems when trying to conceive. Others need herbs that enhance energy so they do not miscarry. Best for you to find out what you need most.
Get on a good regime of diet and exercise, reduce stress naturally and give up bad habits. That can improve complexion and fertility.
best, L.
Hi Letha, Thank you very much for your dedication in helping others. I feel very lucky to have come across your book, Asian Health Secrets, and now I just found this website! Awesome. It is a gift. My question is, can you reccomend which papaya enzyme powder to purchase? I googled it, but am hesitant as to which one to select, as they all sound alike, and I want to ensure good quality. You have inspired me to live healthy , so thanks again, Mary
Hi Letha, I’ve recently discovered a website which sells skin brightening pills. The main ingredient is Pearl Calcium. I did a search on Pearl Calcium and came across your website which helped build my confidence towards it. But before i buy it i would like it if you would visit the website and tell me if you recommend it. the website is: http://www.skinbleaching.net/
Have you ever wondered how comes so many Black, Asian
and Indian celebrities are all very light skinned? Have you wondered why early childhood photos of many top celebs show a much darker skin colour than they have now?
The official research program for ” Whitening Pills” was launched on 7 august 1961by a group of specialized clinical researchers headed by a leading figure in the dermatology research field in Japan. Research for “Skin Whitening” was undertaken with the aim of creating a product that would help dark-skinned individuals to attain a lighter and fairer complexion tone, without using any chemical bleaching agents such as Hydroquinone, which may cause skin irritations that might result in edema, erythema and desquamation.
Indications: Slows down the production of melanocytes which is responsible for the production of melanin pigments giving us skin color.Benefits: Whitens overall complexion evenly including dark underarms and bikini line area.
It is also very good for acne and clears away all pigment marks.
Thank you for your time.
Ashley
Hi Letha, Can i consume my baby pearl powder in her milk?
Will it cause any chemical reaction?
Hi Letha, I’m still waiting for a reply. Would be grateful if you would respond as soon as you can.
Much appreciated.
Ashley
Dear Ashley and Ying
It is interesting that you should both be asking about pearl powder for such different reasons.
In china a very pure fine grade pearl powder sold in herb shops is used internally for fevers, insomnia and sometimes rashes.
For a baby I could not recommend using pearl powder because there are better things to use for fever or fussy insomnia. For example for babies cutting teeth or with colic, try homeopathic chamomile instead. The dose is easier to use and predict good results. With pearl you take the chance of using too much and oversedating the baby. Besides, I do recommend herbs for such small kids. They may be too strong.
For Ashley -
I do not sell products. I report on them as I can. I would have to know the ingredients of the skin whitening treatment. Pearl does not lighten the skin. Some sort of bleach is being used in the formula. The pearl quiets the nervous system to ease nervousness.
Hi Mary
I don’t know if there is a better brand of papain enzyme. The source is India. I ordered online from a company in Calif.
Starwest botanicals. But You have to buy it by the pound.
Hi Letha,
You mention that conch nacar has calcium carbonate but i heard that it´s better to consume calcium citrate instead of calcium carbonate? what do you reccommend?
Thank you,
Reina
Since I wrote about pearl as a source of calcium – I have reconsidered the source – polluted oceans.
The best sources of calcium are no longer shells or dolomite a rock. Consider a mixed mineral supplement from a good company such as puritan pride, vitamin shoppe, or twin labs. The important thing to remember about minerals–aside from purity and cost–is to use a combination that supports absorption. You will also need magnesium, potassium and other trace minerals to best use any calcium source.
If we use honey, just wondering is it best to use processed honey or unprocessed honey? Which is best to use when using with pearl powder?
Thank-you for the post . Not a bad article . To cleanse your
face , I believe that you may want to read this posting on taking care of your skin http://www.betweenclosefriends.com/2008/10/28/herbal-cosmetic-treatments-cleansers/
This is the best post I ever read, I will bookmark this, thx!
is it safe to use concha nachar while pregnant?
Hi
There should be no problem to use a complexion product that contains shell or calcium during
pregnancy.
I have a newly-formed “keloid” scar on my finger, and was told by an Hispanic friend that concha naca (mother-of-pearl cream) would be helpful to soften the scar. Please advise! Thank you.
Hi Lisa
The concha cream may help but very slowly. It contains mother of pearl, a source of calcium and trace minerals. There are special creams in pharmacies especially for reducing scars. Some of the ingredients in them include onion and other irritants. They work by encouraging new skin. You can try the concha cream as a soothing cream. IT may reduce redness, but I doubt it can reduce the thickness of the scar.
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Hello Letha,
I recently saw a woman on tv drinking a freshwater pearl mix for her beautiful complexion. I was wondering if it’s possible to eat/drink the pearl powder you mentioned, rather than apply it to my face? I have sensitive skin, but no acne/other skin issues. I was just interested in starting a great skin care regime to give myself beautiful/radiant skin.
I live in Hawaii, do you possibly know any sources here? Or shall I just check out a natural food store/chinese herb store?
Thank you so much for your time.
Jennifer
Hello Jennifer
Lucky you! living in Hawaii !!
Chinese herb shops have an extremely finely powdered pearl for internal use.
It comes in tiny tubes. You are supposed to mix it with water and swallow, but I find that
difficult. It gets stuck in the throat. You might mix it with 1/2 tsp yogurt or apple sauce.
It is used in China for troubled ruddy complexion, fever, insomnia and anxiety. It can be used
long term to improve hypertension. I do not know of a source in Hawaii – google chinese herb
shops in your area and you may find a source. Do not consume anything other than the fine
pearl powder meant for internal use.
Jennifer – You can find pearl powder in Hawaii on the Big Island at the offices of pearlcium near Keaau and Hilo. The phone number is 808-982-3544 or if you want to order and have it mailed to you anywhere in the world, you can call 866-446-2015 and tell Denni that Lynn Ferguson sent you to get the best pearl powder available in the States.
This pearl powder can be safely used topically to make the skin supple, replenished, and beautiful. The substance can be taken internally with plenty of pure water and it will be cooling, it will pacify the spirit, and calm the mind. It will also support the regenerative process of cell renewal. It’s been used for this purpose for thousands of years in the East.
Thanks, Lynn.
I like making a facial pack of pearl powder and honey. In China pearl powder is taken internally for complexion blemishes, hypertension, and insomnia. Thanks for the source in Hawaii. Hope to get there some day!
L.
Very informative article. I really appreciate you taking the time to write this. I also appreciate the readers submitting their own 2cents and some of their solutions.
Ok, I recently ordered a pearl cream called Jenju. It worked AMAZING the first couple of days I used it on my face. I normally get dryness and redness on the sides of my nose, my nose itself, and the center part of my forehead. Well, the cream got rid of it but then I noticed with continuous use at night my face started becoming more red and sensitive. So I stopped using it and went back to using some Ponds cream for the time being. I also purchased a cream by the name of Pientzehuang Pearl Cream which I haven’t tried yet because I am weary that my face will become worse than it is.
So what I am wondering is this; Is there a limit how often I am supposed to use the pearl cream or am I using it wrong? I can go to a dermatologist about this but I would rather keep the medications and treatments natural. Aside from the pearl cream itself, what other options do I have to improve my dry skin on my face?
The Jenju cream states on the bottle that I am supposed to use it once in the day and once in the night and massage it in till it absorbs into the skin. As for the Pientzehuang Pearl Cream, I can’t even read the packaging or bottle since it’s in Chinese. Needless to say that I am weary of applying anymore pearl cream and would just like to get some expert advice on it before I try using it again. My facial skin is sensitive and red at the moment.
I notice that creams in general with alcohol in them irritate and burn my face when applied probably due to my dry skin. I have a friend that has been taking some pearl pills she purchased but I’m not sure where she got them from but says that they are great.
Apologies if my questions and everything in general is confusing or a little vague. I just really don’t know where to go from here. I noticed you mentioned a book in some of your replies which I am looking forward to purchasing soon.
Thanks.I do have an entire chapter on skin and beauty treatments in my book HEALTHY BEAUTY.
Pearl powder is used internallly for a number of inflammatory problems from ulcers to hypertension.
A lot of facial redness is due to diet and lifestyle. But there is a very useful herbaL PIlls
SKIN BALANCE from Health Concerns., If it does not cool redness enough add COPTIS PURGE FIRE pills for up to 2 weeks.
to order call 1 800 233 9355 use my name LETHA as password.
Also adjust diet to cooler, bitter, cleansing foods: greens, add aloe to juice or water; ;Avoid hot spice, orange, ginger because they send acids to skin.
hi i was told by a doctor i had syringomas (sweat gland) what it is small bumps around my eye lids.my mother recently visit me from central america she told me to take a empty shell and fill it with lemon juice it will turn into a cream and it does,with in 24hrs.but it been 3 months i have seen a scar i had done but the small bumps around my eye lids still there… i have hear about concha naca cream would this cream help me? please help….thanks
Hello Mauricio
pearl cream cannot remove enlarged sweat glands. The cream is a beauty cream for reducing inflammation or blemishes.
Those bumps on eye lids are usually removed by a dermatologist or surgeon.
Letha:
I have struggled with melasma for about fifteen years. I recently stumbled across a product from Dadashie. It is their skin lightening cream and it contains oyster shell and pearl. It has helped to lighten the melasma better than 6% hydroquinon. Will taking pearl powder internally also help with melasma?
Thanks for your question, Julie.
Powdered pearl taken internally is anti-inflammatory for nervous conditions, acne, or insomnia. It does not lighten skin.
Dear Letha, I learned from a naturopath that pearl powder capsules (2 every morning) may help my daughter by waking up her hormones, as she doesn’t ovulate often. What is your experience with this?
Hello Julie
pearl powder is an anti-inflammatory recommended for complexion blemishes, anxiety, insomnia, hypertension – I have not heard of a connection to hormones. The naturopath may be recommending the capsules for cooling PMS tension or other reasons. Chinese medicine uses kidney tonics and blood tonics for hormonal support. The tonics are chosen according to symptoms. Some are cooling/moistening; others more stimulating to circulation and energy. You naturopath would have to know about symptoms such as thirst, night sweats, feverish conditions which require cooling/moistening herbs. Or she may need a more warming blood-enhancing tonic that corrects weakness, pallor or diarrhea. See the chapter on menstrual issues in Asian Health Secrets my book and you will find out what sorts of herbs can be useful.