10 Herbs For Beautiful Skin

When you think of herbs you probably think of food, and maybe herbal medicines, but what about skin care?

The first records of actual skin care routines (as opposed to simple washing) go back to the Egyptians in 3000BC. Along with olive oil, honey, ostrich eggs and milk, herbs such as aloe vera, cinnamon, myrrh and parsley were some of the herbs used to keep their skins clean, soft and supple. They made scrubs, masks, soaks, creams and, lets not forget Queen Cleopatra’s favourite, a goat’s milk bath.

Rather than buying expensive skin care products you can make your own herbal remedies. ,

There are herbs for every skin type and most will grow easily in a small garden. In fact, some of these herbs can be used for cooking, medicine and home cleaning as well. Making your own skin products is another very good reason to start a small herb garden. (Find out how)

Here are 10 herbs that can be used in creams, cleansers, masks, scrubs or simply applied to the skin as an infusion.

Aloe vera

Excellent for dry, sensitive skins or skin irritations such as sunburn, eczema or chapped hands. Moisturizer, hydrating, tones and corrects texture, softening, healing. Dry-normal skins

Pot Marigold (Calendula)

Cleansing, healing, softening, hydrating, plumps skin, improves circulation, healing for acne and heals inflammations. Any skin type

Recipes: Eczema Cream , Heavy Duty Handcream, Calendula Ointment

Chamomile

Lightens skin, softens, reduces inflammation, reduces under eye shadows, eases discolouration from sun damage. soothes acne, rashes and eczema. All skin types

Lavender