Creams that tighten and tone skin and diminish scars and imperfections can be pricey, causing some to forgo them. Herbs are natural remedies for health that offer an array of benefits for the skin. Traditional supplements and external applications are derived from plant life, rich in antioxidants that are known to counteract the effects of harmful exposure to the elements.
Black Walnut
Black Walnut is a medicinal herb with skin-nourishing properties. The shells of the black walnut are used in commercial beauty products; bark and husk are used for topical medicines. Benefits to the skin include anti-inflammatory agents, antibacterial and antioxidant value. These may improve overall skin health, relieve irritations and diminish scars and wrinkles. Topical applications are used to treat skin disorders, such as eczema, ulcers, sores, psoriasis and other bothersome conditions.
Chamomile
Chamomile is a historic herb, dating to ancient Egypt. The herb was deemed the sun god plant and touted for its healing properties. Later, it was used in folk medicine and in the Middle Ages as a component to love lotions and liquors, according to Chinese Herbs.Org. Today, chamomile is sipped as a calming tea, well known for its sedative qualities. The herb's anti-inflammatory effects make it an effective skin soother. The flowering tops of the plant are used in various concoctions for health, including liquid extracts, capsules and tablets. According to the National Center for Complimentary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM), chamomile can be applied to the skin as a beneficial cream or ointment, though its effects on wrinkles and scars are not verified.
Lavender
Lavender is a popular herb used in aromatherapy, esteemed for its fragrant qualities. The dried flowers and oil are constituents of a multitude of commercial products for bathing, cleansing and treating the skin. Cosmetics and lotions contain elements of lavender, as do bath gels and oils. These perfumed flowers have powerful medicinal properties, treating fungal infections, wounds, bites, burns and chronic conditions including acne and eczema. According to the NCCAM, lavender oil can be diluted with other oils and applied to the skin. Various recipes for smoothing skin wrinkles and reducing blemishes include lavender as a main ingredient (see Resources), though the effects are not proven.
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