Our Science
THE SCIENCE OF SACRED BOTANICALS
Where advanced cosmeceutical science meets the wisdom of Scripture
At Mount of Olives, we formulate at the intersection of modern dermatological science and the enduring botanical wisdom found throughout Scripture. Every product in our collection begins with the same plants, resins, and extracts that have been revered for millennia — frankincense, myrrh, spikenard, hyssop, pomegranate, rose of Sharon, and lily of the valley — and elevates them through evidence-based cosmeceutical formulation.
The result is a line of anointing oils that honor the sacred tradition of biblical anointing while delivering clinically meaningful concentrations of polyphenols, terpenes, and bioactive compounds to the skin.
POLYPHENOL ALPHA (α)™ — OUR PROPRIETARY COMPLEX
Central to every Mount of Olives formulation is Polyphenol Alpha (α)™, our proprietary antioxidant-rich polyphenol complex derived entirely from natural botanical sources. This carefully calibrated blend harnesses the synergistic activity of multiple polyphenolic compounds — flavonoids, phenolic acids, stilbenes, and lignans — each selected for its demonstrated capacity to neutralize free radicals, support the skin's natural barrier function, and promote cellular vitality.
Polyphenol Alpha (α)™ is not a single ingredient — it is an orchestrated matrix of bioactives working in concert, much the way Scripture describes the body: "many parts, but one body" (1 Corinthians 12:20). Each compound amplifies the efficacy of the others through complementary mechanisms of action, resulting in a complex that is greater than the sum of its individual constituents.
OLIVE-DERIVED SQUALANE — THE BIOAVAILABILITY CARRIER
We formulate our anointing oils in a base of 100% olive-derived squalane — a naturally occurring lipid that is bioidentical to the squalene already present in human skin. This is not a coincidence; it is by design.
Squalane serves as far more than a moisturizer. As a high-performance delivery vehicle, it enhances the bioavailability of every botanical extract in our formulations. Its molecular weight and lipophilic structure allow it to penetrate the stratum corneum efficiently, carrying our polyphenol complex and active botanical compounds deeper into the skin where they can exert their full therapeutic potential. The result is superior absorption, longer-lasting hydration, and measurably enhanced efficacy — without synthetic penetration enhancers, chemical solvents, or artificial emulsifiers.
Derived from the fruit of the olive tree — a tree that appears in Scripture more than any other — squalane connects our advanced delivery science directly to the biblical tradition of olive oil anointing.
NATURALLY DERIVED. SCRIPTURALLY ROOTED. SCIENTIFICALLY VALIDATED.
Every active compound in our formulations is a natural derivative of a plant, resin, fruit, or seed with deep biblical significance. We do not synthesize our actives in a laboratory — we extract, purify, and concentrate them from the same botanical sources that God placed in creation.
- Boswellic acids from Boswellia serrata (frankincense) — anti-inflammatory terpenes from the resin of the Magi
- Terpenoids and sesquiterpenes from Commiphora myrrha (myrrh) — antimicrobial and regenerative compounds from the resin of purification
- Ellagitannins and punicalagins from Punica granatum (pomegranate) — potent antioxidants from one of the seven blessed fruits of the Promised Land
- Hydroxytyrosol and oleuropein from Olea europaea (olive) — among the most powerful natural antioxidants ever measured, from the tree of peace
- Apigenin and flavonoids from Hyssopus officinalis (hyssop) — anti-inflammatory actives from the herb of purification (Psalm 51:7)
- Jatamansone and sesquiterpenes from Nardostachys jatamansi (spikenard) — neuroprotective and skin-soothing compounds from the precious oil of Mary of Bethany
- Labdanum and polyphenols from Cistus ladaniferus (rose of Sharon) — regenerative and astringent actives from the flower of Song of Solomon
These are not synthetic analogs or lab-created substitutes. They are the authentic molecular constituents of the very plants Scripture names — isolated, concentrated, and formulated for optimal dermal delivery.
OUR FORMULATION STANDARDS
We believe that what we place on our bodies — temples of the Holy Spirit — should meet the highest standards of both purity and performance. Our commitment:
- 100% naturally derived active ingredients — every bioactive compound originates from a botanical source
- Free from parabens, phthalates, sulfates, and synthetic fragrances — we exclude ingredients that do not align with our values or our science
- Non-comedogenic and dermatologist-conscious formulation — designed to nourish without disrupting the skin's natural microbiome
- Cruelty-free — we honor all of God's creation and never test on animals
- Sustainable, eco-conscious packaging — recyclable and biodegradable materials as part of our stewardship of the earth
- Full ingredient transparency — we publish every compound and its botanical origin because we believe informed customers are empowered customers
OUR ANTHOLOGY OF INGREDIENTS
A comprehensive reference of the naturally occurring bioactive compounds found across our formulations — each one derived from plants, resins, fruits, and seeds with documented use in both biblical tradition and modern dermatological research.
A
Apigenin — A flavonoid naturally present in Petroselinum crispum (parsley), Matricaria chamomilla (chamomile), Apium graveolens (celery), and Hyssopus officinalis (hyssop). Exhibits antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity, contributing to the mitigation of oxidative stress and inflammation in dermal tissue.
B
Boswellia Serrata (Frankincense) — A pentacyclic triterpenic resin extracted from the bark of the Boswellia serrata tree native to India and the Middle East. Contains boswellic acids (AKBA, KBA) — potent inhibitors of 5-lipoxygenase — with demonstrated anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. One of the three gifts presented to the Christ child by the Magi (Matthew 2:11), and a cornerstone ingredient in ancient anointing formulations.
C
Caffeic Acid — A hydroxycinnamic acid found in coffee, wine, and numerous botanical sources. Demonstrates antioxidant activity through free radical scavenging and metal chelation, supporting cutaneous defense against photooxidative damage.
Catechin — A flavan-3-ol polyphenol abundant in tea (Camellia sinensis) and various fruits. Provides broad-spectrum antioxidant protection and supports collagen integrity through inhibition of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs).
Chlorogenic Acid — A phenolic compound found in coffee and stone fruits. Acts as an antioxidant and UV-absorbing agent, contributing to photoprotective and anti-inflammatory skin benefits.
Cistus Ladaniferus (Rose of Sharon) — The labdanum-producing Mediterranean shrub referenced as the Rose of Sharon in Song of Solomon 2:1. Rich in polyphenolic compounds with documented astringent, antimicrobial, and tissue-regenerative properties.
Commiphora Myrrha (Myrrh) — An oleoresin harvested from the Commiphora myrrha tree of the Arabian Peninsula and northeastern Africa. Contains terpenoids (curzerene, furanoeudesma-1,3-diene), sesquiterpenes, and flavonoids with validated anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial efficacy. A gift of the Magi and a biblical symbol of purification, consecration, and healing.
E
Ellagitannins — Hydrolyzable tannins found in pomegranates, raspberries, and walnuts. Metabolized to ellagic acid and urolithins, which demonstrate potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-aging activity through modulation of NF-κB signaling pathways.
Epicatechin — A flavanol found in tea and cocoa with demonstrated antioxidant capacity, supporting skin barrier integrity and microcirculation.
F
Ferulic Acid — A phenolic compound derived from rice bran, wheat, and oats. A potent UV-absorbing antioxidant that synergistically enhances the stability and efficacy of other antioxidants in formulation. A key component of our Polyphenol Alpha (α)™ complex.
G
Gallic Acid — A trihydroxybenzoic acid found in grapes, tea leaves, and oak bark. Exhibits antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antiproliferative properties, contributing to comprehensive cutaneous protection.
H
Homovanillic Acid — A phenolic compound found in vanilla beans and select botanical sources. Possesses antioxidant activity that may contribute to free radical defense in dermal tissue.
Hydroxytyrosol — An ortho-diphenol found primarily in olives and olive oil. Regarded as one of the most potent natural antioxidants measured by ORAC value, with exceptional capacity for neutralizing reactive oxygen species and protecting lipid membranes from peroxidation.
Hyssopus Officinalis (Hyssop) — The biblical herb of purification referenced in Psalm 51:7: "Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be clean." Contains apigenin, rosmarinic acid, and essential oil terpenes with demonstrated antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties for skin health.
I
Isoquercitrin — A quercetin glycoside found in apples, onions, and various botanical sources. Demonstrates enhanced bioavailability compared to free quercetin, with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity that supports skin resilience.
L
Ligstroside-aglycone di-aldehyde — A secoiridoid compound found in olives and extra virgin olive oil. Contributes antioxidant defense through scavenging of peroxyl radicals, supporting protection against environmentally induced oxidative damage.
Luteolin — A flavone found in celery, parsley, and thyme. Exhibits potent anti-inflammatory activity through inhibition of pro-inflammatory cytokines and supports UV-protective mechanisms in the skin.
N
Nardostachys Jatamansi (Spikenard) — The precious aromatic rhizome used by Mary of Bethany to anoint Jesus before his burial (John 12:3). Contains jatamansone, nardosinone, and sesquiterpene compounds with documented neuroprotective, anti-inflammatory, and skin-soothing properties. One of the rarest and most valued botanicals in our collection.
O
Oleuropein-aglycone dialdehyde — A secoiridoid polyphenol from olives with potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, contributing to the protection of dermal collagen and elastin fibers.
Oleuropein-aglycone mono-aldehyde — A structurally related olive-derived secoiridoid with complementary antioxidant activity, enhancing the polyphenolic defense matrix in our formulations.
Olive Oil (Olea europaea) — Cold-pressed from the fruit of the olive tree — the most frequently referenced tree in all of Scripture. Rich in oleic acid, squalene, hydroxytyrosol, and tocopherols. Serves as both a nourishing emollient and a natural source of the bioactive compounds central to our Polyphenol Alpha (α)™ complex.
P
Pinoresinol — A lignan found in olives, olive oil, and sesame seeds. Demonstrates antioxidant activity and may support skin's resistance to environmental aging through modulation of oxidative stress pathways.
Punica Granatum (Pomegranate) — One of the seven species blessed in the Torah (Deuteronomy 8:8). The fruit and seed contain ellagitannins, punicalagins A&B, punicalin, gallic acid, and ellagic acid — a remarkably dense polyphenolic profile that confers antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and collagen-supportive benefits for skin elasticity and firmness.
Q
Quercetin — One of the most abundant dietary flavonoids, found in apples, onions, berries, and tea. A powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent that modulates histamine release and supports dermal defense against UV-induced photodamage.
Quercetin-3-rhamnoside (Quercitrin) — A quercetin glycoside with enhanced bioavailability, found in citrus fruits and berries. Contributes complementary antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity within our polyphenol matrix.
R
Resins (Botanical) — Natural oleoresins derived from frankincense, myrrh, and labdanum. Contain complex mixtures of terpenes, sesquiterpenes, and phenolic acids with astringent, antimicrobial, and wound-healing properties used in traditional formulations for millennia.
Rutin — A flavonoid glycoside found in buckwheat, apples, and citrus. Supports capillary integrity and provides antioxidant protection, contributing to an even, healthy-looking complexion.
S
Squalane (Olive-Derived) — A fully saturated, stable hydrocarbon obtained by hydrogenation of squalene extracted from Olea europaea (olive). Bioidentical to the squalene naturally present in human sebum, it functions as a superior emollient, occlusive moisturizer, and lipophilic delivery vehicle that dramatically enhances the percutaneous absorption and bioavailability of our botanical actives. Non-comedogenic, odorless, and oxidatively stable — the ideal carrier for our Polyphenol Alpha (α)™ complex.
T
Tyrosol — A phenolic antioxidant found in olives, olive oil, and wine. Exhibits protective activity against lipid peroxidation and oxidative stress, supporting long-term skin health and resilience.
Mount of Olives — Where the science of nature meets the nature of faith.