Let's talk history
Local to the Andes highlands, ranging from Colombia to northern Argentina to southern Chile, Quinoa is believed to have been cultivated multiple times all throughout 3,000–5,000 years ago. Much like more well-known crops like corn and potatoes, the grain was a staple in pre-Columbian Inca, Aymara, and Quechua diets, but never made it to Europe when the Spaniards returned home, possibly because of its religious importance to the Indigenous peoples or bad handling during the trip.
Colonizers who came into the territory later on brought foreign grains such as wheat, which was way less labor-intensive, and that led to a decline in quinoa production. It wasn't until the late 20th century that the grain was rediscovered and grown primarily by low-class farmers in Peru and Bolivia.
Its precious benefits
In the late 1970's, the agricultural researcher Duane Johnson crowned quinoa as a superfood, which skyrocketed its popularity around the world. Compared to traditional cereals, the golden grain contains all nine essential amino acids, making it one of the few plant sources of whole protein. High in fiber, oil, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, calcium, zinc, copper, vitamin E, and a number of other antioxidants, the seeds carry a slightly nutty flavor and are similar to brown rice in texture.
Found on their outside shells, the saponins – organic compounds that interfere with heart contractions – can be utilized to produce pharmaceuticals, such as synthetic steroids, and can be used in soaps, detergents, cosmetics, beer production, and even fire extinguishers.
When applied topically, quinoa's benefits once again exceed expectations: quinoa oil is a generous source of omegas 3, 6 and 9, winning 30x over coconut oil, 4x over avocado oil, and 2x over almond oil. Moreover, Quinoa is super emollient and delivers moisture to the skin’s surface resulting in a firmer and smoother appearance.
Quinoa, our own way
Nativa SPA has an exclusive, patented process that enables the extraction of 100% pure quinoa oil from this golden grain, preserving its whole essence and nourishing properties. When ancient wisdom meets modern technology, we are able to unlock superior care for your skin, body, and whole self, while honoring the preciousness of this generous and timeless plant.
