Organic Health, Beauty & Food in the French Alps

Natural Skin Care, Aromatic & Medicinal Plants, Restaurant Bio

Nov 5, 2009

Natural products abound in the French Alps where plants, herbs and organic food offer a healthy alternative in harmony with the environment.

The different landscapes and eco-systems of the French Alps ensure a rich diversity of natural products, growing out in the wild and on mountain farms. From natural skin care to aromatic and medicinal plants or the new generation of restaurant bio, alpine mountains and valleys provide the perfect haven for those who wish to return to nature.

The growing trend towards organic health, beauty and food promotes a better quality of life while the ban on chemicals and fertilisers favours small scale production and greater respect for the environment.

Pure Altitude products offer natural skin care inspired by mountain plants. Top of the range is the exclusive Sève de Vie, or Sap of Life, based on rare herbs and plants gathered in unpolluted areas, such as eldelweiss known for their anti-ageing and antioxidant properties. Other components include maca root to soothe and repair, birch sap to rehydrate, daisy to regenerate, jojoba oil to nourish, argan and much more.

The Flower Mist spray is designed to refresh and soothe, the Concentré Sève de Vie to prevent or treat wrinkles, the Ultra Régénérante with vitamin E to stimulate new cells. Cleansers and toners encourage a clear complexion and a firm and supple skin. Products can be bought online or from Pure Altitude spas in Mégève ski resort.

Organic Food in Restaurant Bio

French ‘restaurants bio’ are popular in the Alps where natural produce from farms, lakes and mountains is found in abundance. Producers and restaurateurs work hand in hand to offer healthy organic menus, some including vegetarian options.

High up on the slopes above Annecy, with superb views of the lake, the Chalet de la Pricaz has secured a high reputation for innovative and traditional cuisine, 100% organic and complemented with Savoie wines and others from the organic cellar. Reblochon cheese is made just steps away and appears in many guises, such as served in gingerbread with bacon and herbs. There are succulent meat and fish dishes, some accompanied by light verveine or mushroom mousse, followed by a tempting choice of fruit based desserts.

The Bauges Regional Park is rich in aromatic and medicinal plants gathered or grown organically for their health giving properties. They enhance local food and are used for herbal teas, organic liqueurs and natural balms and lotions. Among the favourites are bergamot mint, rich in vitamins A and C, the antiseptic hyssop, relaxing lavender, verveine and lemon balm to relieve anxiety. Gentian is good for the liver and digestion while wild roses may prevent cancer and lower blood pressure.

Specialised farms, such as l'Herbier de la Clappe, welcome visitors, offering guided tours, shopping opportunities and in some cases, accommodation. Production is strictly controlled with minimum impact on the environment.

The copyright of the article Organic Health, Beauty & Food in the French Alps in France Travel is owned by Solange Hando. Permission to republish Organic Health, Beauty & Food in the French Alps in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.