Across the globe, treatments inspired by indigenous foods offer a sensory journey that nourishes body and soul. From the immune-boosting benefits of Greek yogurt in Santorini to the detoxifying properties of Costa Rican coffee, these experiences embody the essence of their origins.
1. Yogurt Facial | NOŪS Santorini, Greece
The Greek principle of Ef Zin (well-being and self-care) informs the healing methodology at Santorini’s NOŪS Spa, where facials and massages incorporate pampering ingredients such as white pine bark to help with menopause symptoms and Greek yogurt to strengthen the immune system.
2. Organic Coffee Wrap | Nayara Gardens, Costa Rica
Costa Rican coffee beans are known for their stimulating and detoxifying properties. This coffee wrap at Nayara Gardens helps reduce water retention and flushes out toxins, leaving the body feeling light and energized.
3. Almescar Facial | UXUA, Brazil
Pure Almescar oil, or breu branco, is revered by Brazil’s Indigenous Pataxó people for its restorative qualities, musky scent, and its ability to ward off insects and bad spirits. At UXUA, the resin is combined with a base of Bahian passionfruit for a highly aromatic facial experience that leaves the complexion vibrant and bright.
Related: 5 Mud Treatments for Detox and Grounding
4. Hammam Experience with Saffron | Royal Mansour, Marrakech
Taliouine saffron hails from the eponymous mountain village just south of Marrakech on the edge of the Argan forest. This hammam experience at Royal Mansour Marrakech incorporates the brightly colored, antioxidant-rich spice to promote well-being and emotional balance.
5. Marine-based Skin Care | Dromoland Castle, Ireland
The new Castle Spa at Ireland’s Dromoland Castle features a range of exclusive treatments, including the SEABODY Beauty and Wellness Spa Experience. This leverages the power of marine-based nutraceuticals harvested from the country’s Atlantic coast to optimize the skin’s health and vitality. Drawing inspiration from Ireland’s deep connection to the sea, the treatments utilize seaweed (once a staple ingredient in traditional Irish cuisine). Today, rare Irish seaweed species, often called “the truffle of the ocean,” are celebrated by chefs incorporating them into butters, salads, stews and more.
6. Marine Extracts Body Wrap | Shou Sugi Ban House, The Hamptons
Inspired by the nearby Atlantic, this treatment envelopes the body in algae to firm and tone the skin while combating water retention and dehydration. Sea minerals and essential oils of wild thyme and cypress provide a detoxifying, oxygenating, and lifting effect as they targets excess adipose tissue. A hydrating massage follows to replenish the skin’s hydrolipidic barrier.
