Herbs have been used for a wide variety of health care remedies since the beginning of time. Using elements that occur naturally can effectively treat acne and other skin conditions. Herbal skin care is affordable, accessible and less like to cause skin irritation and sensitivity than traditional medications. When certain herbs are applied to your skin topically, they can be a healthy alternative solution to prescription medications.
Eucalyptus: This essential oil comes from the eucalyptus tree, which is one of the tallest known trees in the world and can be found in Australia, Africa, North America, India and Southern Europe. Eucalyptus is the most powerful antiseptic in its class and has outstanding astringent qualities, which aid in the treatment of acne-prone skin.
Papaya Enzyme: The papaya is a tropical fruit that has a nutrient-rich enzyme called papin. This enzyme is used to dissolve unwanted proteins and other dead materials on the surface of your skin. The papaya enzyme works to open pores, exfoliate, promote the turnover of skin cells, soften and smooth skin and improve your overall skin tone.
Sage: This silvery-green plant has fragrant leaves and is found growing in the Mediterranean and North America. Sage oil contains chemical substances and other constituents, such as as camphor, cineole, rosmarinic acid, tannins and others. The substances found in sage oil have antifungal, antibacterial and antiviral effects, which make it an outstanding medicinal skin treatment.
Tea Tree Oil: Tea tree oil is obtained from the leaves of the native Australian Melaleuca alternifolia tree. This oil has natural antibacterial qualities, contains antiseptic compounds and is proven to be a very good skin disinfectant. When used to treat acne, it is just as effective as 5% benzoyl peroxide and less drying. However, the results of treatment with tea tree oil take just a little bit longer to see than with benzoyl peroxide.
Thyme: Thyme is the general name for herbs of the Thymus species, which are native to the western Mediterranean region. The essential thyme oil is located in the small glands on the leaves and contains thymol, linalol and paracymene. Thyme is effective in treating acne-prone skin because of its multiple actions, including antibacterial, antioxidant, antiseptic and astringent.
Witch Hazel: Witch hazel is the common name for a genus of shrubs known as Hamamelis and is rich in natural astringents such as volatile oils and tannins. Witch hazel has antiseptic capabilities that tone the skin and blood vessels, as well as draw out clogged pores.
Exploring holistic remedies can give you clearer, more healthy skin. Incorporating herbal skin care products with natural ingredients into your daily skin care regimen will improve your skin’s overall appearance over time.