Your skin is one of your most prominent physical features, and is reflective of your age and health. For this reason, skin care is a huge industry, with products for acne, scars and anti-aging abounding. Herbs are a natural approach to health and can help improve the look and feel of skin, heal wounds and scars, and help you improve your overall appearance.
Echinacea
Echinacea is widely known for its ability to aid the immune system and is a common cold and flu season supplement. It is a colorful perennial plant with large, vibrant purple and pink flowers, which grows wildly in Ohio, Iowa and the South. Echinacea has been used to heal topical wounds and treat acne and boils, according to the National Center for Complimentary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM). The roots and tips of the flowers are dried or used fresh in medicinal extracts, juices, teas and capsules. Preparations for external use can also be applied to the skin. Side effects include allergic reactions and gastrointestinal effects. However, when taken orally, echinacea does not typically cause side effects.
Lavender
Lavender, a floral herb native to the Mediterranean region, is known for its fragrant qualities and uses in aromatherapy. The herb was used in the mummifying process in ancient Egypt and as a bath additive in Persia, Greece and Rome, according to the NCCAM. Today, lavender is a component to a host of commercial preparations, such as bath oils, lotions and soaps, as well as a supplement for mental and physical health. As an antiseptic, lavender is useful for soothing skin and is said to have anti-inflammatory properties, making it beneficial for skin heath and healing wounds, insect bites, skin burns and other skin irritations. With oral use, lavender may cause headaches, constipation and changes in appetite.
Turmeric
Turmeric is well known as a kitchen constituent, related to ginger; it can be found in mustards and cheeses. In traditional Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine, turmeric was used to aid digestion, improve liver function, normalize menstruation and relieve aches and pain. In modern uses, turmeric is an anti-cancer agent, used to both prevent and treat cancer. When applied to the skin, turmeric may promote wound healing and ease eczema symptoms. Side effects may include indigestion (when used in high doses).
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