From Tradition to Science
Ingredient Library
Every ingredient inside an EMDIRA formula has to answer one question: does it deserve to be there? Explore the botanicals and science-backed ingredients at the heart of our formulas.
Qasil
Ziziphus spina-christi
The botanical that inspired EMDIRA.
The Story
Some ingredients become part of a formula. Others become part of your story. Long before EMDIRA became a skincare brand, there was Qasil. For generations, the leaves of the Ziziphus spina-christi tree have been treasured throughout Somalia and across parts of East Africa as part of traditional skincare and haircare rituals. Long before modern cleansers, masks and exfoliants existed, families used Qasil to gently cleanse, refresh and care for their skin using the wisdom passed down through generations.
Through the Lens of Modern Cosmetic Science
Research into Ziziphus spina-christi has identified naturally occurring compounds such as saponins, flavonoids, polyphenols and tannins, which are of scientific interest because of their cleansing and antioxidant-related properties. Within cosmetic formulations, Qasil is valued for helping gently cleanse the skin while supporting a comfortable cleansing experience.
Skin Concerns It Can Support
From the Formulator's Journal
"If someone asked me which ingredient changed the course of my life, my answer would be immediate: Qasil. It was the ingredient that first made me curious enough to ask 'why.' That curiosity led me to study cosmetic formulation, and eventually to create EMDIRA. Whenever I formulate with Qasil, I feel a sense of responsibility. I'm not simply adding a botanical to a product; I'm honouring a tradition that shaped me while applying everything I've learned through cosmetic science. To me, Qasil isn't just an ingredient. It's the beginning of EMDIRA's story."
— Faduma Abdi, Founder & Cosmetic Formulator
Where You'll Find Qasil in EMDIRA
At EMDIRA, we don't believe tradition and science compete with one another. We believe they strengthen one another.
Continue Exploring
“Innovation doesn't always mean discovering something new. Sometimes it means seeing ancient wisdom through a new lens.”
— Faduma Abdi, Founder & Cosmetic Formulator