Our latest Beauty Boss is Josephine Musco, Founder of Olyxir—a wellness line that combines ancient medicine and modern science to harness the healing powers of the olive leaf, which is used to make the brand’s signature olive leaf powder. The line of products includes organic chocolate and dissolvable tea strips that offer anti-inflammatory, restorative, and preventative benefits. In addition, Musco is also the co-founder and CEO of creative fashion label House of Malakai, which is a favorite among celebrities and has been worn by everyone from Beyoncé to Emily Ratajkowski, and more.

Another cause that is very important to Musco is helping liberate women around the world. 5% of Olyxir’s net profits are donated to charities that support the health, education, and independence of women so they can pursue their dreams while practicing a safe and healthy lifestyle.

We interviewed Musco, who shared the inspiration behind the creation of her successful brand, favorite beauty and wellness tips, and more. 

When was Olyxir founded? What does the name mean?

I have been working on Olyxir (R) since 2013, then launched it on the market in 2016. Olyxir means “olive leaf elixir.” The name came as the result of the potency of the olive leaf powder that’s obtained through our patented process, and its extremely powerful health benefits and high concentration in stable and bioavailable antioxidants. Antioxidants attach to free radicals helping rid the body of them, hence preventing premature aging and giving us a natural glow. A deeper dive here: free radicals are responsible for premature aging by attaching to oxygen molecules, which in turn asphyxiates our healthy cells due to oxygen deprivation. Dead cells are one of the primary causes of hangovers, headaches, as well as overall premature aging. 

What inspired the creation of the brand?

My father’s teachings and strong belief in holistic health—specifically the healing powers of the olive leaf. I wanted to prove his theories and teachings through proven science, and that’s exactly what I did through Olyxir (R).

Does Olyxir have a hero product?

The ginger peach tea strips. People absolutely love them and kids enjoy them cold with a little pinch of sweetener of choice. Bonus: parents find it a great way to boost their childrens’ immune systems naturally and keep them hydrated with a fun yet heathy alternative to flavored juices.

What are your favorite products from the brand?

I enjoy the mandarin orange organic chocolate every day around midday, it's my pick-me-up snack. At 120 calories, it’s pretty sinless.  I meditate twice a day and before I do so, I enjoy a warm cup of the honey lemon rose tea—it helps me relax my mind and unwind before I enter into a meditative state.

Where are your products sold?

Hot Pilates West Hollywood, all Bristol Farms stores, Lazy Acres, Erewhon Market, Ceremony Meditation, Amazon, and on my website. 

Future plans for the brand?

A very special beauty line!

What inspires you?

The list is long here, but I could say that Anne Frank and her outlook on life inspires me at the root. Here’s my favorite quote: “How wonderful is it that nobody needs to wait a single moment before starting to improve the world?”

Secret to success?

Perseverance, hard work, and optimism. If we never give up and always look at the world with a bright eye, odds are we will succeed.

Beauty secrets?

I believe that beauty is an inside job, be it what we put in our bodies or our inner peace and happiness. That’s why I’m very mindful of what I put in my body and how I approach life. That being said, I drink Olyxir at least three times per day—it’s my beauty food. I follow a vegan, gluten-free diet. And I practice yoga/meditation.

Wellness tips?

Stay active and be mindful of what goes in your body. Avoid sugar and caffeine.

Best advice?

Time is the most precious thing we have—spend it wisely.

Favorite ways to relax?

By painting, taking a nature walk, or watching cartoons with my daughter and a cup of Olyxir tea in hand. The beautiful colors and shapes help take my mind off all that’s going on.

For more information, visit olyxir.com and follow on Instagram: @olyxir

[Images courtesy of Olyxir]

Kamala Kirk is a University of Southern California graduate and has been an editor/writer for more than a decade. She has written for E! Online, Total Beauty, TravelAge West, Malibu Times Magazine, and many more. She resides in Los Angeles and is a proud pug mom. Follow her on Instagram: @kamalakirk