7 Best Herbs for Skin Health
It’s herb season. Whether you grow them yourself or pick them up at your local market, fresh herbs are a spring/summer mainstay. And they aren’t just for salads anymore. Did you know herbs for skin hold therapeutic benefits too?
Plant oils and extracts are the basis of nontoxic beauty products. Aloe, jojoba, rose, and lavender are a few healthy cosmetic ingredients regularly spied on labels. How about rosemary, mint, even licorice? Yes, all of these have their place in skincare too.
Herbs are made into oils, hydrosols, and extracts and used in cosmetics. As with other plant and flower ingredients, herbs hold their own health benefits. Let’s take a look.
7 Best Herbs for Skin
1. Lemongrass: Due to this herb’s natural antibacterial and astringent properties it is often used in skincare for acne. It is milder than chemical ingredients, but is powerful and can be too strong for sensitive skin. Aromatherapy benefits include tension relief and invigoration. Try Acure Organics Oil Control Facial Moisturizer.
2. Licorice: Dealing with rosacea, acne, or irritation? Licorice root may help. This herb holds the power to soothe skin and calm inflammation. It also protects against infection. Try Dr. Alkaitis Nourishing Treatment Oil to tame troubled skin.
3. Rosemary: This herb is super yummy. And guess what? Skin loves it too. Its antiseptic qualities make it ideal for use in acne treatments. But Rosemary is most widely used in hair care for its ability to stimulate hair growth and strengthen the hair. Have dandruff or dry scalp? Rosemary is said to help with that too. Try John Masters Organics Lavender Rosemary Shampoo and Kahina Antioxidant Mask.
4. Sage: As with the other herbs we’ve covered so far, Sage is antibacterial and antifungal making it suitable for acne prone skin types. Sage is also high in antioxidants and is anti-inflammatory which helps to prevent premature aging. Try Dr. Hauschka Sage Bath and Dr. Hauschka Quince Body Moisturizer.
5. Mint: Mint may be a bit strong for sensitive skin, but it works wonders on pimples. Antiseptic, antipruritic (relieves itching), and reduces swelling, Mint cleanses and calms blemishes. Also great for bug bites. Try Dr. Alkaitis Organic Soothing Gel and Zoe Organics Insect Repellent Oil.
6. Basil: This Caprese salad essential is also an effective skin tone booster. Basil’s zestiness revs up dull looking skin and hair. Try Pai Echium & Macadamia Replenishing Day Cream.
7. Eucalyptus: Often used to heal wounds and sore muscles, Eucalyptus is also used to prevent and treat skin infections. This herb is another effective natural insect repellent. Try Rahua Body Shower Gel.
Check out all of the herby products here:
Related on Organic Authority
Calendula: The Skin-Curing Herbal Remedy
4 Uncommon (but Delicious!) Green Herbs for Your Kitchen and Garden
Healthy Living Through Medicinal Herbs: Rodale’s ’21st Century Herbal’ Guide
Image of fresh herbs via Shutterstock
