USING PLANTS AND HERBS FOR SKIN CARE

Introduction
Using herb and plant-based products for skin care is very vital. It is one of the best ways that can be used to promote the skin’s health. There are different categories of functions that herbs and plants play in promoting healthy skin. Below is a list of the categories and benefits of using herbs for skincare.
1. Herbs and plants used for red puffy and inflamed skin
The skin can become inflamed due to several reasons. It can be as a result of allergic reactions, menstrual cycle, and poor individual health or even because of reduced immunity. Herbs in this category provide good skin care by simple herbal use. Herbs and plants skin care products in this category include:
- Speedwell: this is an anti-inflammatory flower used to relieve redness and itching caused by eczema and similar skin conditions.
- German chamomile: this gentle herb is used to soothe areas of the skin that is irritated by eczema.
- Cucumber: this is a common garden vegetable, and it is used to relieve puffiness, tighten the skin, and to soothe irritation.
2. Plant and herbs used to moisture the skin
Dry skin is a skin condition that is caused by various factors, some of which includes dehydration, hot weather, certain topical products, and some medical conditions.
Natural remedies for dry skin include violet, common plantain, roses and marshmallow, amongst others.
3. Toning and astringent herbs
These are herbs and plants that are used to cleanse excess oil, tighten the skin and reduce the size of skin pores. Examples of herbs in this category are:
- Rosemary: applicable for all skin types, rosemary can be used as an astringent to promote healing by stimulating blood flow.
- Lemon balm: this herb has antiviral properties, and it is used as a refreshing skin toner and an astringent for skin care.
- Witch hazel: with its mild anti-inflammatory property, the witch hazel is a commercial skin toner and an astringent for skin care.
4. Herbs and plants for healing damaged skin
Some herbs and plants have healing properties and amongst the endless list include:
- Calendula: extracts that are gotten from the petals of this flower serves purposes of healing the skin, heal burns, sunburns, acne, skin abrasion and to reduce inflammation.
- Comfrey: comfrey is an effective herb whose leaves and flowers have anti-inflammatory properties that are used for inflamed and erupted skin.
- Echinacea: the extract of this herb speeds up skin regeneration and promotes wound healing. It is most beneficial for the reduction of inflammation and treatment of acne.
Conclusion
Some of the skin care products that are purchased in cosmetic shops contain plant and herbal based products as the constituent of its ingredient. In other to use herbs and plants for skin care, you can get it from the direct source as the natural herb or form the extracted form. Therefore, it is worthy to note the kind of product to use for your skin because natural forms are by far the best.