HERBS ARE incorporated as essential oils in cleansers, toners and moisturisers for the skin.
Winsome Belnavis, holistic health practitioner based at the New Lifestyle Holistic Health Clinic and Spa on Phoenix in Kingston notes that among the popular ones used for the treatment of acne are T-3 oil and eucalyptus.
Both T-3 and eucalyptus are antibacterial, antiseptic, anti-fungal and also analgesic, which means that they reduce pain and inflammation.
Other herbs which have a healing and stimulating effect on the skin are:
Rosemary as a herb is excellent for stimulation of the skin and the brain. It makes the skin soft and supple and gives this organ a healthy glow. Rosemary is also good for the hair.
Peppermint is a very powerful stimulant of the circulation and also boosts the mood. Peppermint also stimulates the brain and gives the skin a healthy glow. As circulation increases with the application of peppermint, the supply of nutrients and oxygen to the skin also increases. Enhanced circulation also means that there are more red blood cells present to fight infections in the skin.
Lavender soothes the skin and has antiseptic, antibacterial and anti-fungal properties, which reduce inflammation and pain. Lavender is also a healing agent with effects, which are dramatic and immediate, working to prevent scarring in the skin.
Aloe vera is a powerful anti-inflammatory agent which heals, soothes and nourishes the skin.
Herbs will also help in stress reduction, which is another method of keeping the skin free of acne and other inflammatory conditions. Take adequate amounts of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. Poor nutrition will cause stress factors to worsen. Take camomile tea as well. Both camomile and rosemary are good for stress.
Those who are prone to acne and other skin problems should reduce sugar, carbohydrates and large quantities of red meat and other proteins which will also cause stress in your body.
Other nutritional elements which improve relaxation and health, thereby reducing stress, are zinc and the B Vitamins.
Outlook Team. Information provided by Winsome Belnavis.
