Antiseptic Herbs

Lavender

Lavender plants are traditionally known for their beautiful purple flowers and fragrant smell, but when lavender oil is extracted from the lavender flower it has great skin care benefits. The anti-fungal and antibacterial qualities of lavender work wonders for the healing of cuts and scrapes and by decreasing healing time and reducing the risk of scarring.
 
Lavender oil also boosts the circulatory system and promotes the delivery of nutrients and oxygen to cells, keeping them healthy and renewed, thus becoming a catalyst of the anti-aging process and the prevention of acne. Add lavender oil to your bath to rehydrate dry skin and add a few drops to a steam of boiling water to open up pores. For acne prone skin, apply lavender oil directly to the problem areas.

Calendula

Calendula is derived from the “pot marigold” plant, which is a variety of flower close to that of a daisy, not to be confused with other marigold plants. Calendula is beneficial to the treatment of minor skin irritations including, rashes, eczema, chapped skin or lips, acne, and minimal burns. Calendula can be used as oil, as a component in lotions or creams.

Calendula oil or lotions containing calendula can be applied directly to the skin or problem area. Tinctures made from calendula may be diluted with water and used as a face wash. If you are purchasing calendula product be sure it contains at least 10% calendula extract for optimum results.

Thyme

Thyme has wonderful antiseptic qualities. If you grow thyme at home, you can mash up the thyme and apply it directly to scrapes and cuts as an antiseptic cleanser. In addition, thyme can inhibit the growth of fungus and bacteria, it is believed that thyme can defend your skin against parasites including scabies and lice. Additionally, when applied externally thyme can be beneficial in the treatment of tumors, dental decay, and thrush.

Fennel

Fennel has long been utilized in the kitchen, and it is not only healthy to eat but it can be an effective skin treatment as well. Fennel is loaded with vitamins that are essential in maintaining healthy skin. Fennel contains Vitamin C, which the body utilizes in producing collagen. Collagen is responsible for the appearance of smooth, firm skin. Additionally, drinking fennel tea on a regular basis can be an effective treatment for acne and the antioxidants in fennel can fight dangerous free radicals that can damage skin cells.
 
Eating fennel provides the body with many vitamins and minerals that are beneficial to a healthy skin appearance. In addition, fennel oil can be added to avocado oil and massaged into the skin to fight the effects of aging. You can make your own fennel skin toner by boiling fennel seeds, letting them cool and adding a bit of fennel oil. Apply the mixture to the face and neck area with a cotton ball daily.

Utilizing natural herbs is a wonderful way to maintain beautiful, healthy-looking skin. Generally, herbs are a safe treatment, as they do not have many side effects. When considering the purchase of costly skin care products, it may be better to go out to the garden or local health food store. You can make your own skin care products using nature’s herbs in your kitchen. Herbal skin treatments are a safe, healthy and effective way to ensure clean, gorgeous skin.