Bruno Burlando, PhD, is a professor of Physiology at the University of Piemonte Orientale, Alessandria, Italy. His research interests concern the modulation of cell signaling in normal and transformed cells by redox mechanisms and bioactive compounds. Luisella Verotta, PhD, is an adjunct professor of Environmental Chemistry at the University of Milan and a contract professor of Phytochemistry at the University of Pavia, Italy. Her main research studies are in the realm of bioactive natural products, especially from plant sources, aimed at obtaining lead compounds for the development of new therapeutic agents. Laura Cornara is a senior researcher of Botany at the University of Genova, Italy, where she holds courses in Plant Biology, Applied Botany, and Ethnobotany. Her research interests are in ethnobotany and phytoremediation. Elisa Bottini-Massa is an expert in Pharmacy and Cosmetic Science and Technology. She is founder, managing director, and cosmetic designer of Helan Cosmesi di Laboratorio srl, a cosmetic manufacturing enterprise whose mission statement is to produce natural cosmetics in the respect of the environment and living beings.
A panel of experts come together in this excellent book to address chemistry and molecular aspects of how herbs work on skin and the compounds in them that are responsible. The bulk of the text contains very comprehensive monographs on 70 popular herbs used for skincare that provide a detailed look at their properties and toxicity. All the newest ingredients, such as argan oil (Argania spinosa) are included ...Photos and chemical diagrams accompany each entry. This is all presented in an accessible format and very readible style. --American Herb Association, February 2011