Part 2: Herbal Products and Plants that are Great for Your Skin

Although applying quality products to our skin is essential for its radiance, a bigger part of skincare means looking after our skin from the inside out. Some of the most effective ingredients for our skin started in the earth, and many medicinal plants hold wonderful therapeutic advantages for our body’s largest organ. In addition to tackling skin issues, herbs and plants can greatly improve our skin’s cellular firmness and health – not to mention our overall well-being.  

We all want radiant, younger-looking skin, and I’m sure most of us have spent a lot of money on skin products that promise the world but short-deliver. It is time to start looking for solutions in our homes and gardens. There are so many wonderful herbs, spices, and other natural remedies for our skin, and they are so accessible and so easy to use. 

Because there are so many amazing herbal products that can do wonders for your skin, I divided this article into two bite-sized blogs rather than present a small book’s worth of information in one go! If you missed Part One, you can find it here.    

Four more amazing herbal products and plants to revitalize your skin

1. Calendula Oil

Calendula is a member of the daisy family and has been used as a medicinal plant for centuries. You’ve probably heard about the amazing health benefits of a diet rich in essential fatty acids. Well, those same valuable fatty acids, like the linoleic acid in calendula oil or extract, can also nourish our skin. These fatty acids give our skin cells the ability to absorb nutrients and hold onto water longer which is great news for those with perpetually dry skin. For hundreds of years, calendula has been a favorite for wound healing. One study even found that calendula considerably decreased the healing time for C-section scars. The healing properties of calendula come from its ability to increase blood flow and oxygen to our skin, which means more nutrition, which helps our skin function healthier, and therefore look its best. The dried calendula flowers can be brewed into herbal tea, or you can apply calendula oil directly to your skin.

2. Chamomile 

Chamomile herbal tea was historically used by Greeks, Egyptians, and Romans to promote healing and treat wounds. Just like chamomile helps calm the mind and body, it has similar effects on the skin. Chamomile contains powerful antioxidants, including phytochemicals and polyphenols. When applied to the skin, it can help reduce signs of aging by protecting the skin from free radical damage. Chamomile accelerates tissue and cell renewal, reducing the appearance of fine lines and giving the skin a youthful glow. Chamomile also reduces redness because of its anti-inflammatory properties. Skin redness is a side-effect of underlying inflammation. If an ingredient is anti-inflammatory, it will help soothe the skin and reduce redness and irritation. You can make a chamomile scrub by filling a bowl with the contents of two or three chamomile tea bags. Mix in some sugar and a few drops of olive oil. Apply the scrub to a clean face and give your skin a gentle massage with your fingertips using light, circular motions. After a few minutes, rinse your face with cold water.

3. Ashwagandha

Ashwagandha is considered a miracle herb for the skin. Ashwagandha is a medicinal herb, otherwise known as Indian ginseng. It’s classed as an adaptogen, which means that it resists all types of stressors, whether chemical, physical, or biological. When it’s applied topically, it soothes and brightens, and increases the cellular energy of the skin. Ashwagandha has anti-inflammatory properties, making it beneficial for pimples as well as skin inflammation, rashes, skin redness, and boils. If you struggle with oily skin, ashwagandha will be more beneficial than products containing harsh chemicals. Ashwagandha naturally prevents the secretion of oil, which will automatically reduce oily skin. This herb can make the skin calm, clean, and oil-free without stripping essential moisture. Ashwagandha contains antioxidants that help with free radicals to help with that youthful glow. Ashwagandha has another amazing property; it fights hyperpigmentation. Ashwagandha reduces excess melanin production and protects our skin from pigmentation. Ashwagandha is readily available in powder form. You can prepare a face mask using the powder for instantly glowing skin. Add 1 to 2 teaspoons of ashwagandha powder in a bowl and mix it with some water to get a paste-like consistency. Then apply it all over your face and neck and let it dry. Wash the paste off with normal water and pat dry.

4. Cilantro

Cilantro is one of those herbs that people have a love-hate relationship with. However, it is one of the best herbal remedies for skin issues. Cilantro is packed with antioxidants, beta-carotene, iron, and vitamin C and promotes soft and supple skin. It can also fight free radicals and prevent skin cell damage, reducing the signs of aging, wrinkles, and pigmentation. The juice from coriander works like a charm for breakouts and acne due to its disinfecting and detoxifying properties. To reap the benefits of this amazing herb, you can both eat it and apply it topically. Cilantro can be added to a variety of dishes and smoothies. However, if the taste is just too overpowering, the good news is that you can still make a rejuvenating face mask for yourself or use the juice directly on your skin. Combine 1 tablespoon of Greek yogurt with 2 tablespoons of oatmeal, ¼ cup fresh cilantro, and 1/8 cup of freshly chopped cucumber. Add the ingredients to a blender and pulse until it’s smooth. Apply the mixture liberally to your face and relax for 20 minutes before washing the mask off and patting dry. And don’t forget those cucumber slices for your eyes for a full spa mode!

In summary 

Commercial beauty products can often end up causing imbalances in your skin which can result in damage and dullness. Luckily, there are many natural herbal products to choose from to help you achieve healthy, radiant skin. Herbs and plants can heal your skin problems and give you a natural glow from the inside out. However, always be sure to consult with your health practitioner before trying anything new. For more brilliant herbal remedies, check out part one of this blog.