Herbs for improving the condition of the skin of the face and body have a rich history of use in cosmetology. Today they are also actively used for both preventive and therapeutic purposes. If you choose the right herbal remedy for a specific problem and a specific skin type, the effect can exceed the most modest expectations. Do you want to look younger than your age and literally radiate health? Then this article is for you.
Main facial skin types
It will be much easier to achieve a rejuvenating and healing effect with the help of herbal remedies if you know your skin type. Let's do a little dermatological educational program.
- Normalthe skin does not require serious care beyond standard cleansing and moisturizing. This type is characterized by the absence of blackheads, oily shine, and a feeling of dryness and tightness. But prevention is never too much.
- Drythe skin is the most vulnerable and sensitive to temperature fluctuations. The consequences of winter cold and summer heat are literally reflected on the face of its owners. Very often, a capillary mesh clearly appears through it, causing physiological and aesthetic discomfort.
- Fat. With this type of skin in winter, you don’t need to wrap your face with a scarf. However, all imperfections in the form of enlarged pores and characteristic shine are visible to the naked eye. In addition, it is a real magnet for all kinds of rashes and inflammations.
- Combinedtype is common to most people. Its characteristic feature is oily skin in the T-zone (forehead, nose, chin) and normal skin in other areas.
- Sensitiveskin, like dry skin, is intolerant to the vagaries of the weather, is characterized by increased irritability and intolerance to the vast majority of cosmetics. Itching, peeling, feeling of tightness - that's all about it. Medicinal herbs that have a softening and calming effect are the optimal remedy for eliminating these problems.
Benefits of herbs for skin
Using medicinal plants for cosmetic purposes, you can count on the following results:
- Saturation of the skin with all necessary nutrients.
- Deep cleansing and tightening of pores.
- Normalizes the functioning of the sebaceous glands, helping to eliminate oily shine for a long time.
- Elimination and prevention of inflammation, disinfection.
- Moisturizing, smoothing, whitening skin.
- Refreshing and toning effect.
What dermatological disorders can be treated with medicinal herbs?
The above properties of phytotherapeutic agents help cope with the following diseases, damage and age-related changes in the skin:
- acne;
- dryness, irritation, peeling;
- greasy shine;
- blackheads, enlarged pores;
- sagging skin, wrinkles;
- dark circles under the eyes;
- age spots (including freckles).
A complete list of herbs to care for different skin types
Since it probably wasn’t difficult for you to determine your facial skin type, we suggest you familiarize yourself with the herbs that are suitable for their action.
| Skin type | Suitable herbs |
|---|---|
| Normal | stinging nettle leaves, peppermint leaves, string of tripartite herbs, chamomile flowers, linden blossom, large plantain leaves |
| Dry | stinging nettle leaves, hop fruit, yarrow herb, calendula flowers, sage leaves, chamomile flowers, oregano herb, creeping thyme herb |
| Fat | wormwood herb, chicory herb, yarrow herb, calendula flowers, coltsfoot leaves, St. John's wort herb, juice of aloe leaves, silver birch leaves and buds, common oak bark, linden blossom, large plantain leaves, large burdockroot, stinging nettle leaves, butterbur root, peppermint leaves |
| Combined | peppermint leaves, St. John's wort herb, sage leaves, horsetail herb |
| Sensitive | calendula flowers, salvia officinalis leaves, chamomile flowers, peppermint leaves, string of tripartite herb, lavender herb, flax seeds, tricolor violet herb, bearberry leaves |
The most beneficial herbs for skin
As you can see, in the table above, some medicinal plants are mentioned more than once, which indicates their versatility. These herbs should be discussed in more detail.
Stinging nettle
This pungent plant has long been used for cosmetic purposes for skin and hair care. It owes its unique properties to its rich chemical composition. Thus, a stinging "cocktail" of nettle juice consisting of silicon salts, histamine, choline (vitamin B4) and formic acid, stimulates blood microcirculation, improving skin nutrition. Vitamin A has a bactericidal effect, helping to quickly eliminate pimples, acne and irritation.
Vitamin C improves skin elasticity and increases the tone of the capillaries that nourish it. Vitamin K has an antiseptic anti-inflammatory effect, and in combination with a natural "bleach" helps get rid of freckles and other age spots. Carotene, which this plant is also rich in, gives the skin freshness and a healthy glow. The tandem of flavonoids, tannins and organic acids helps smooth out wrinkles, providing a visible rejuvenating effect. And finally, the bioavailable potassium contained in nettle provides natural hydration to the skin.
pharmaceutical camomile
This plant is remarkable because it is suitable for any skin type, providing a softening, antiallergic, bactericidal, antifungal, anti-inflammatory and regenerating effect. Chamomile bioactive substances stimulate blood circulation and relax facial muscles, thereby helping to reduce wrinkles. Lotions made from the infusion of flowers of this plant help with sunburn, allergies and acne, eliminate bags and dark circles under the eyes, accelerate the healing of wounds and microcracks, and form an invisible protective film on the skin.
This herb is also ideal for cleansing facial skin. Moreover, both for external and internal use. In the second option, it promotes the removal from the body of toxic and ballast substances that provoke dermatological disorders.
There is, however, one important nuance: not every chamomile is a medicine. The real one should be bitter, which indicates the presence in its composition of a valuable essential oil component - chamazulene, which determines the lion's share of its beneficial properties. Take note!
Calendula officinalis
Speaking about which herbs are most useful for facial care, it is impossible not to mention this wonderful plant, which is more familiar to many as marigolds. Thanks to its unique composition, it is ideal for oily, dry and sensitive skin at the same time. Oleanolic acid in the composition of calendula flowers improves blood supply to cells and tissues, glycosides provide anti-inflammatory properties, and the flavonoid complex provides antioxidant properties of the plant. The last group of substances mentioned, among other things, promotes the accumulation of hyaluronic acid in the body, which is the key to natural skin hydration. Carotenoids, which give the flowering part of the marigold a rich orange color, are precursors of vitamin A, the important properties of which we have already discussed above.
The combination of these and a number of other bioactive substances moisturizes, soothes, softens, cleanses, protects and tones the skin, restores its structure at the cellular level, has a brightening and anti-aging effect, improves complexion, giving it a healthy glow.
To maintain the natural beauty and elasticity of the body's skin, warm medicinal baths with the addition of a decoction of calendula flowers and sea salt are perfect. And hot water herbal treatments soothe skin itching, have a disinfecting and wound-healing effect, helping with any dermatological disorders. At the same time, the essential oils released during bathing have a beneficial effect on the entire body as a whole, stimulating the immune system and improving mood.
Looking for a truly healthy and environmentally friendly skin care product? Then we advise you to pay attention to the Kalta variety of calendula, which is grown without the use of chemicals at a great distance from large cities and industrial enterprises. And, what is also important, in terms of the content of useful substances (in particular, flavonoids and carotenoids), it is significantly superior to wild or cultivated analogues.
Peppermint
Another incredibly beneficial herb for any skin type. Moreover, everyone can easily name at least one of its properties. A complex of flavonoids, ascorbic acid and mint essential oil, rich in menthol, has a refreshing and tonic effect, eliminating puffiness and dark circles under the eyes. Ramnose stimulates the production of collagen, thereby helping to get rid of wrinkles and prevent the appearance of new ones. The rejuvenating effect is enhanced by the amino acid arginine, also present in the plant. The tannins of mint are also very useful in the fight against age-related changes in the skin, while the resinous substances accelerate the healing of wounds and microcracks.
Steam baths with mint are great for cleansing the deep layers of the skin, getting rid of blackheads and rosacea (microvascular) networks, and improving complexion. In addition, based on this plant, you can prepare wonderful moisturizing, softening and whitening masks, which will have a visible effect after the first use.
As for the most valuable varieties of mint from a biological point of view, it is better to give preference to the "Kip" variety, as the leader in the content of flavonoids and tannins.
Salvia officinalis
This plant deserves special mention because it is a source of phytoestrogens. As is known, a deficiency of sex hormones in women, most noticeable during menopause, negatively affects the health of the fair sex in general and the condition of the skin in particular. Taking sage individually or in combination with other herbs of similar properties helps reduce prolactin and at the same time increase estrogen levels to optimal values, which literally creates a rejuvenating effect, returning women to a healthy and blooming appearance. Oral use of sage has been scientifically proven to inhibit 50% of the activity of enzymes associated with aging.
For those who are too early to think about age, drinking sage is useful for preventive purposes. And as an external product, it is ideal for combination skin, tightening pores and permanently eliminating sebaceous shine in the T-zone. Decoctions, masks, scrubs and other cosmetic herbal products based on this plant have anti-inflammatory, soothing, bactericidal and wound-healing properties, helping to eliminate any dermatological disorders and their causative agents.
Since one of the main values of sage is its unique essential oil, for medicinal purposes it is better to choose a product that has the maximum content of this component.
Yarrow
If we talk about which herb is best for scalp care, then yarrow will be at least in the top three. Of particular interest in this case is its antiseborrheic property, or, more simply put, getting rid of dandruff. This is achieved due to the presence of essential oil in the plant, the components of which together provide an antibacterial, cleansing, moisturizing and soothing effect.
At the same time, the complex of tannins, organic acids and the natural form of vitamin K provides the anti-inflammatory, astringent, wound-healing effect of yarrow, relieving itching and flaking of the skin on the scalp, reducing the intensity of acne on the face and body.
Masks with yarrow perfectly cleanse, nourish and soothe the skin, making it fresher, smoother and softer. Moreover, this effect is achieved after several procedures. You can rinse your hair with a decoction after washing, thanks to which its structure is restored.
For many, this will be a discovery, but yarrow is also selected and cultivated, due to which the concentration of bioactive substances in it increases significantly. Thus, one of the varieties is characterized by a high content of flavonoids, saponins, tannins and essential oils.
Tripartite sequence
It is difficult to name at least one disease or violation of the integrity of the skin for which this amazing plant would not help. A decoction of the herb, used externally as a lotion or bath, effectively copes with dermatitis, allergic and acne rashes, psoriatic lesions, purulent wounds, urticaria, scrofula, and seborrhea. Numerous reviews indicate that such procedures even help reduce warts.
In the form of a drink, this herb for the skin improves the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract, normalizing metabolism, which helps eliminate the root causes of dermatological problems. The series owes its unique properties to a whole complex of biologically active substances, including flavonoids, tannins, carotenoids, essential oil and vitamin C.
The plant is equally suitable for both clean and sensitive skin. It is an invariable component of various herbal preparations.
The best recipes for beauty and healthy skin based on medicinal herbs
We bring to your attention proven recipes based on the above herbs for the care of various skin types.
Herbal masks for normal skin
A small clarification: apply the masks in a thin layer to previously cleansed skin. Wash off with lukewarm water. If they are made on an oil/fat basis, then warmer, but not hot. To achieve a uniform consistency, it is recommended to first grind the plant material in a coffee grinder before brewing.
Recipe No. 1
Mix 1 tablespoon of crushed dry nettle leaves with the same amount of warm milk and half a raw egg yolk. Mix until smooth and apply for 15–20 minutes.
Recipe No. 2
Take 1 tablespoon each of chopped dry herb and mint leaves. Pour 1 cup (150 ml) of boiling water over the herbal mixture and let it brew under the lid for about half an hour. After cooling, add 1 teaspoon of starch or any flour for thickness. Mix. Apply the mask for 30 minutes.
Herbal masks for oily skin
Recipe No. 1
Take 1 tablespoon each of crushed dry plantain and mint leaves, brew with 1 cup of boiling water. After cooling, drain off excess liquid and add 1 dessert spoon of liquid honey. Apply the mask for 20 minutes.
Recipe No. 2
Take 1 tablespoon of chopped dry herb St. John's wort and chamomile flowers, pour 1 glass of boiling water and keep on low heat for 10 minutes. Cool to a comfortable temperature, add a teaspoon of wheat or rice flour and mix until smooth. Keep the mask on your face until completely dry.
Recipe No. 3
Boil 1 tablespoon of crushed dry coltsfoot leaves for 10 minutes over low heat. Concentrate the cooled broth, as in the previous recipe, with a teaspoon until it becomes a thick flour. Keep the warm mixture on the skin for 20–25 minutes. To achieve a long-term effect, the procedure should be done at least 2 times a week.
Herbal masks for dry and sensitive skin
Recipe No. 1
Pour 1 tablespoon of crushed dry chamomile flowers into ½ cup of boiling water and leave covered for 25–30 minutes. Cool, drain off excess liquid, add 1 teaspoon of honey, mix until smooth. Apply the mask for 15 minutes.
Recipe No. 2
Take 1 tablespoon each of crushed dried chamomile, calendula and hop flowers. Brew the herbal mixture with 1 cup of boiling water. After cooling, drain off excess liquid and add 1 teaspoon of full-fat sour cream, then mix thoroughly until mushy. Apply the mask for 20 minutes.
Recipe No. 3
Pour 2 tablespoons of chopped dry sage herb into 1 cup of boiling water. Cool to +40 °C, drain excess liquid, add ½ teaspoon of olive or sesame oil and stir until smooth. After applying such a mask, a warm and damp cotton napkin must be applied to the face. Keep the mixture for 25 minutes, rinse it with warm water, and then wash with cold water.
Herbal masks for combination skin
Recipe No. 1
Pour 3 tablespoons of crushed dry chamomile flowers into 200 ml of boiling water and let it brew. After cooling the infusion to a comfortable temperature, moisten a layer of cotton wool in it and apply the resulting mixture for 25 minutes, covering it with a napkin on top. After removing the mask, wash with warm water and apply nourishing cream to your face.
Recipe No. 2
Pour 2 tablespoons of chopped dry string herb into 1 cup of boiling water. Leave for 1 hour, strain. Moisten a gauze cloth in the finished infusion and apply it as a mask on the face. Keep for about 20 minutes. In the first week, do the procedure 2-3 times, then 1 time.
Herbal masks for skin elasticity and wrinkle smoothing
Recipe No. 1
Mix 4 teaspoons of crushed dried chamomile flowers with the same amount of full-fat kefir and 1 raw egg. Apply the resulting mass to your face for 20–25 minutes, then rinse with warm water.
Recipe No. 2
Take 1 tablespoon each of crushed dry chamomile, mint, St. John's wort, coltsfoot and sage. Brew the resulting mixture with boiling water, close the container tightly and leave for 30 minutes. Then drain off the excess liquid, add 1 teaspoon of olive oil (for oily skin types, use low-fat sour cream instead of oil). Spread the mixture evenly over your face and cover with a cotton cloth on top. Keep the mask on for 20 minutes.
Recipe No. 3
Take 1 teaspoon each of crushed dry mint leaves and green tea, add 1 tablespoon of fat sour cream. Mix until smooth. Apply the mixture to your face for 40 minutes, then wash off with warm water and soap.
Healthy and beautiful skin starts from within
The listed herbs for cleansing, moisturizing or smoothing the skin can become your faithful assistants in preserving youth and beauty for many years. However, without helping the body from the inside, cosmetic phytoprocedures will be only a half-measure.
The first thing that comes to mind in this case is taking vitamins. And this is absolutely fair, since it is simply impossible to get all the nutrients necessary to keep yourself in good shape and in excellent shape from food. It would seem that the problem is not worth a damn - everything that our body lacks can easily be found at the pharmacy. It’s just that all this vitamin and mineral wealth is absorbed in synthetic form extremely reluctantly. In addition, many other important problems remain unresolved, leading to deterioration of the skin and its early aging.
The best option, taking into account all the nuances voiced, would be to take a natural complex. The first thing you should pay attention to when studying the composition of this drug is the antioxidant trio of flavonoid from the quercetin group + vitamins C and E. The fact is that any negative processes occurring in the human body are in one way or another associated with the activity of free radicals. It has been scientifically proven that 90% of the signs of early aging and over 50 serious diseases are on the conscience of these saboteur particles. Antioxidants are designed to neutralize their violent activity, the strongest of which in the plant world is the flavonoid of Siberian larch. And in combination with vitamins C and E, this substance acts even more confidently and effectively. Among other things, it is an excellent vascular tonic and capillary protector, ensuring uninterrupted nutrition of connective tissue - the basis of the organs and systems of our body. Ascorbic acid is also a catalyst for many biochemical processes. Thus, it promotes the formation of collagen fibers, which is also very important in strengthening the skin and increasing its elasticity.
The multivitamin part of the complex is represented by only two components. But what kind! About 250 useful substances are contained in the royal jelly included in the preparation and more than 100 more in bee pollen (pollen). This list contains 20 amino acids, including essential ones, about 30 macro- and microelements, dozens of vitamins, free fatty acids, enzymes that help all of the above to be absorbed as well as possible. The icing on this nutritional cake is the hormone-like substances in royal jelly, which, in particular, provide a natural increase in estrogen levels. And the latter, as we already know, are extremely important for maintaining the natural beauty of women and preserving youth.
However, men should not ignore the complex either. The combination of bee products in the drug promotes the production of your own testosterone - the hormone of strength, confidence and sexual activity. So everyone will definitely win. Stay healthy and the rest will follow!