The Story…
Claire Osterstock is a Physiotherapist in Adelaide, Australia, with a special interest in helping women and men with management of pelvic pain. Claire was disappointed with the personal lubricants on the market. Almost all lubricants contain synthetic chemicals and preservatives, which can cause irritation. They can interfere with the sensitive vaginal tissues, and clients would often report burning and itching after their use. Most women are also not comfortable buying lubricants, mostly due to their names and packaging. So Claire teamed up with a compounding pharmacist and went about creating a new, all-natural, intimate cream.
Simply Olive and Bee was born!
26 recipes later, the perfect product was created! Extra virgin Olive Oil was chosen as a base, as it is naturally antibacterial and anti-fungal, and is high in antioxidants, hence is self-preserving without the need to add chemical preservatives. Olive Oil also has a low comedogenic rating, hence it is less likely to block pores than other oils such as coconut oil. It was formulated with beeswax as this is a natural thickener with anti-inflammatory properties. Both substances are anhydrous, which means they have low water activity, hence don’t grow nasty bacteria, fungi or mould. The low water content also means that they won’t interfere with vaginal pH as other substances can.
Why an Intimate Cream?
We have decided to use the term “Intimate Cream” as opposed to “Personal Lubricant”. Firstly, this has less of a sexual connotation, and we feel it makes the purchase easier. Secondly, this product has multiple uses apart from intercourse! Women can experience vaginal dryness or itching from several causes, such as menopause, breastfeeding, and skin issues. This product is safe to use as a vaginal moisturiser, or for moisturising of sensitive mucosal tissues such as a protruding prolapse. It may also be used to help insert a pessary, tampon or dilator.
If you have any questions about Olive & Bee please send me an email : claire@oliveandbee.com.au.