No skincare product can be made without herbs. So imagine how effective they would be if used directly on one’s skin. The best part is that they are found in your kitchen. So why waste time? Let’s get to know the mind-blowing benefits of magical herbs!
Magical herbs for hair and skin-
Aloe vera (Aloe vera)
Known for its gel, Aloe has cooling and healing properties and is reputed to have been one of the ancient queens’ beauty secrets. Aloe is anti-inflammatory, antifungal, emollient and rejuvenating. It treats acne, boils, burns, dandruff, eczema, herpes, insect bites, psoriasis, ringworm, scars, sunburn and wounds.
Basil (Ocimum basilicum)
Basil leaves have antiseptic and circulatory stimulating properties. They work as insect repellants; treat acne, insect bites, fungal infections and ringworm. Basil is added to facial steams, cleansers, toners and hair rinses and its essential oil is used in soaps and perfumes. It is considered one of the best magical herbs for hair growth.
Bay (Laurus nobilis)
Bay leaves have antifungal, antiseptic and stimulating properties. They are used in facial steams. When used as hair rinses, they help treat dandruff. When used in the bath, they treat sore muscles and joints. Use a few drops of Bay leaf essential oil diluted in a bowl of warm water as a soak for getting rid of nail fungus.
Cinnamon (Cinnamomum cassia, C. zeylanicum)
The bark of the cinnamon tree has antifungal, aromatic and astringent properties. It is used in facial scrubs, soaps, cleansers, masks and motions. Also considered an aphrodisiac, the essential oil of cinnamon is included in massage oils to improve love life. Unbelievable, right? Cinnamon hair rinse prevents baldness, and mouthwash freshens the breath.
Lavender (Lavendula species)
Lavender is highly aromatic and antiseptic. It has cell regenerating properties and prevents wrinkles and scars. When mixed with hair oil, it promotes hair growth. Lavender is also used in facial steams, cleansers, toners, lotions and soaps. It helps treat acne, eczema and psoriasis and is suitable for all skin types. A foot soak in lavender tea or water scented with the essential oil is what you should go for to relieve the tension of the whole day. I use a lavender water spray to brighten up my mood. Believe me, it works wonders!
Nutmeg (Myristica fragrans)
Nutmeg is a magical herb known for its anti-inflammatory, aphrodisiac, astringent and circulatory stimulant properties. It is incorporated in skincare to treat eczema, ringworm and scars.
Rose (Rosa species)
Rose petals are used for their antiseptic, aromatic, astringent, hydrating and soothing properties. The beautiful red flower has a pleasant scent and is used in facial steams, cleansers, lotions, toners and moisturizers. Rosewater maintains the PH balance of the skin, which makes it the best toner. ]it maintains the PH balance of the skin. Rose is considered a cell rejuvenator. It is the best hair rinse for dry hair.
Witch hazel (Hamamelis Virginia)
The bark, twigs and leaves of witch hazel are valued for their anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, astringent, cleansing properties. It treats acne, blemishes, bedsores, oily skin, insect bites. Using it in the bathwater treats sunburn. Witch hazel is used as a toner to treat acne. It is a perfect herb for hair as its hair rinse is best for treating dandruff and oily hair conditions. But ensure that you do not apply it around your eyes!
Ylang ylang (Cananga odorata)
Ylang ylang has an appealing fragrance. It is used in skincare products such as cleansers, soaps, toners and moisturizers for oily skin. It is also used as a hair rinse for hair growth.
Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus globulus)
Eucalyptus has antiseptic, aromatic and astringent properties. It is used in the bath as it is a magical herb for sore muscles. It decongests clogged sinuses and is included in facial steams. My favourite time to use it is while showering. I put two drops of eucalyptus essential oil on the floor.
Chamomile (Matricaria recutita)
The flowers of chamomile are known for their anti-inflammatory properties. Chamomile helps in healing wounds by promoting tissue granulation. It is used in dry skincare face packs and helps relax facial tension. Chamomile promotes relaxation when used in massage oil. It helps cleanse pores, clear acne and reduce puffiness.
Cloves (Eugenia aromatica)
Cloves have antiseptic, aromatic and astringent properties. They are used to treat athlete’s foot owing to their antifungal properties. If you have obnoxious breath issues, cloves are what you need!
Jasmine (Jasminum species)
Jasmine is an aphrodisiac and has a beautiful fragrance; it is used in skincare products for sensitive skin. You can use a few drops of jasmine essential oil in the hair rinse for beautifully scented hair.
Myrrh (Commiphora myrrha)
Myrrh is an analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antifungal, antiseptic, aromatic, rejuvenating herb. It is used in anti-wrinkle creams and skin toners; it treats acne, boils, eczema, ringworm; and helps promote tissue granulation. Myrrh is a powerful preservative; ancient Egyptians used it for mummification.
I use these magical herbs in face masks, hair rinses and toners. You can get creative here and opt for different ways to incorporate these herbs into your skincare routine.