Herbs for Skin Care

Herbs have been used to treat skin and medical issues for centuries. Much of modern medicine has been discovered through the use of herbs. Herbs also provide alternative ways to enhance your skin's beauty without expensive trips to the dermatologist or spa.

Preparation

• To prepare herbs for skin use a tincture, infusion, decoction, compress or creme is used. Prepare a tincture by placing 4 oz. of dried herbs into a glass jar, adding 2 cups of vodka, sealing with a tight lid, and leaving for 2 weeks. Shake the jar every couple of days. Once the time has elapsed, strain the herbs from the vodka, and store in a dark colored bottle for up to 2 years. Create an infusion by steeping 1½ tsp. of dried herbs, or 2½ tsp. of fresh herbs in 1 cup of boiling water for 10 to 15 minutes. Strain the herbs and store for up to 24 hours. A decoction is often used for seeds and bark. Prepare a decoction by adding 1½ tsp. of herbs, seeds, or bark for every cup of water. Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower to a simmer for 10 minutes. Strain and keep for up to 24 hours. Prepare a compress by soaking a cloth in a hot decoction and wringing out the extra water. Then apply to the skin. To easily make the creme, purchase a water-based unscented creme. Add 2 oz. of herbs for every 10 oz. of creme. Boil the mixture for 25 minutes, and strain while it is still hot. Once the creme has cooled, return it to the original container and label.

Skin Wounds

• Birch, calendula, chamomile and witch hazel are a few of the commonly used herbs for skin wounds. Use birch as an infusion wash to disinfect wounds and treat inflamed skin. Calendula is an anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial. Apply it as a tincture to sunburn and red, irritated skin. The dosage is 20 drops added to 4 oz. of water. The U.S. National Library of Medicine states that, while not enough research has been done to supply conclusive evidence, improvement has been reported by patients using it to treat skin irritation from radiation. They also warn that those who are allergic to ragweed, chrysanthemums, marigolds and daisies are more likely to have an allergic reaction to calendula. Chamomile is known for its sedative properties, and is also an effective antiseptic. Used as an infusion wash it is good for sunburn, mild burn injuries, heat rash and scalp irritations. Witch hazel is widely used in the cosmetic industry because it is an astringent and anti-inflammatory. A compress of witch hazel can be used to treat insect bites and bruising.

Cosmetic Uses

• Yarrow flowers, lemon balm and sage leaves are popular choices for skin care. Yarrow flowers are an astringent used for their healing and soothing effects on the skin and hair. Yarrow flowers tone and strengthen skin, and are a good treatment for oily problematic skin. Use yarrow flowers as a creme or infusion in a bath, soaking for no more than 20 minutes. Lemon balm is also an astringent and as a compress is a soothing face toner. A steam facial of lemon balm infusion is also a wonderful remedy for tired and sensitive skin. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, lemon balm has been shown to help in the healing of herpes sores. Sage leaves, an herb found in many kitchens, can help improve oily, spotty or wrinkled skin. It can be used as a compress facial toner or creme.

Warnings

• Herbs should be taken and used with care. Many herbs interact with one another and may have adverse side effects. Herbs should be used under the care of a physician. Do not take while pregnant, and talk to a pediatrician before administering to children.