Herbs That Help Skin Health

Herbs That Help Skin Health
Photo Credit lavender image by Lytse from Fotolia.com

There are many products available for skin care, and keeping your skin healthy is not only beneficial for its appearance, but also essential for the proper functioning of your skin, according to Cindy L.A. Jones, PhD. In addition to prescription skin care products, cosmetic treatments and home remedies, various herbs such as lavender, chamomile and turmeric, among others, are highly effective for proper skin care. These herbs help to brighten and soften skin, while also treating skin conditions such as acne, aging skin, eczema and psoriasis.

Lavender

The lavender flower is primarily found in southern France and the Canary Islands and has a unique scent that comes from oil glands in its flowers, leaves and stems, according to Natural Body Skin Care.com. Lavender has been used throughout history for its healing, antiseptic, cleansing and germicidal effects, all of which make it beneficial for healthy skin. Lavender is a powerful antibacterial, anti-inflammatory agent that helps treat acne, eczema, burns and wounds. It works as an effective astringent and moisturizer, and is non-toxic, non-irritant and non-sensitizing.

Chamomile

There are different types of chamomile plants, including German chamomile and Roman chamomile, which produce flowers that are commonly used for medicinal and cosmetic purposes, according to Jones. Chamomile has anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and soothing effects that make it beneficial for skin care. Chamomile is useful in treating skin inflammation disorders such as eczema, psoriasis and rash. Chamomile extract is used to heal wounds on the skin and can be used regularly to prevent skin infections and inflammation.

Turmeric

Turmeric is a powerful antiseptic and anti-oxidant, and has a variety of uses in beauty treatments, according to India Parenting. Turmeric is part of the ginger family and has been used for healing due to its anti-inflammatory properties. It is available in different forms, such as powder packets, pure turmeric powder or a root, which can be made into a paste and used directly on the skin. Turmeric is effective in reducing pigmentation to improve skin tone and color. Turmeric is also useful for softening the skin and making it supple, which is beneficial for reducing and preventing stretch marks.

References

Article reviewed by Elisa Loar Last updated on: Jun 30, 2010

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