The Shocking Miracle of Paulownia

What is Paulownia?

Paulownia is a unique tree species known for its fast growth. There are about nine variations of the Paulownia tree which are valued for their high-quality timber, large beautiful flowers, and large leaves. Hybrids of Paulownia are often used for commercial use due to their attractive aesthetic. Their high resistance to drought and compatibility with various soil compositions make this tree species prized in the plant industry.

Unique to this species is the ability to regenerate after cutting or clipping, removing the need for repotting. Paulownia’s long lifespan and quick growth have made it ideal for industry use, negating the cost of new planting and land cultivation. The Paulownia root can live 70-100 years and 4 to 9 lifecycles. [1]

 

Paulownia Roots

Originating in Asia, Paulownia trees can be traced back to 2,600 AD. Documents and chronicles note the use of this tree for its beauty, practical uses, and cultural significance. In Japan, Paulownia trees are known as “Kiri,” meaning life, and were considered a sacred tree that symbolized good fortune. 

The Paulownia tree expanded its roots further in 1823 when Phillip Franz von Siebold brought seeds to his homeland in Holland. The name “Paulownia” comes from this period, named in honor of the beloved Netherlands Queen. As the title “Anna” was already used for another species, they elected the European parent of the name instead, resulting in “Paulownia.” [1]

 

Uses Throughout History

As timber, Paulownia trees have been used for furniture, veneer, rafts and panels, toys and for raw material such as paper. It has become an irreplaceable substance for shipbuilding. In addition to a high ratio of strength and weight, Paulownia timber can be air-dried quickly, retain moisture as needed, and is considered water-resistant. These qualities also make this timber valued for instruments. [2] 

The leaves of Paulownia trees have been shown to possess beneficial effects for the liver, kidney, gallbladder, and lungs. Asian countries have made use of the health properties of these leaves for many years, such as incorporating Paulownia-based medicine into its pharmaceutical industry. Properties from this miracle tree have been used to prevent a variety of diseases (such as bronchitis and asthma) and as a method of treatment of tonsillitis, bronchitis, asthmatic attacks, and bacterial infections. [3]

Cosmetic Uses

Using Paulownia leaves in cosmetics is a longstanding practice in Asian countries, developed alongside their medicinal use. This ingredient is novel to Europe, however, and has only recently begun making its way into the global cosmetic industry through creams, skin care, and perfumes. The skin benefits of Paulownia extracts have been found to reduce DNA damage and induce the DNA repair process within skin cells. 

Through the DNA repair process, Paulownia extracts have been shown to encourage improvement in signs of aging and inflammation. This has led to the cosmetic use of Paulownia extracts toward evening skin tones, fading pigmentation and aging spots, and fading acne scars. It is also used to increase the skin's natural radiance and luminosity. [4]

 

Paulownia Product Recommendation

Paulownia Facial Wipes use 100% Paulownia fiber extracts to create their natural face wipes. Gentle enough for sensitive skin and made without the use of alcohol or fragrances, Paulownia Facial Wipes work as a makeup remover, cleaners, toner, exfoliator, and hydration for skin. Each wipe is water activated, so you won’t have to worry about the product drying out! 

 

 

 

 

 

Sources:

[1] “About Paulownia.” Paulownia Professional ®, https://paulownia.pro/en/paulownia/.

[2] “History of Paulownia.” Paulownia Trees, 30 Jan. 2014, http://paulowniatrees.eu/learn-more/history-of-paulownia/. 

[3] He, Ting, et al. “Paulownia as a Medicinal Tree: Traditional Uses and Current Advances.” European Journal of Medicinal Plants, vol. 14, no. 1, Oct. 2016, pp. 1–15., doi:10.9734/ejmp/2016/25170.

[4] Kaur, Simarna, et al. “Paulownia Tomentosa (Princess Tree) Extract Reduces DNA Damage and Induces DNA Repair Processes in Skin Cells.” Advances in DNA Repair, 2015, doi:10.5772/60005.

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