Herbs for sensitive skin

Skin Facts

Skin is the largest organ of human body. It is exposed to everything you eat or drink, the air that you breathe and every cosmetic or chemical product you use. This condition affects the more people than you could even imagine, in fact 1 of 2 people is having some problems with the skin. Sensitive skin is not a definite term. Many people have red and irritated skin, acne, rosacea, or contact dermatitis. All this conditions describe sensitive skin; their skin reacted to something (soap, pollution, dry air, preservatives in cosmetics, etc.) and get inflamed.

Best Herbs for Sensitive Skin

Many natural products may help to relieve the symptoms of the sensitive skin. Before you try any of them, consult your doctor or naturopath.

You could make your personal skin toner or soothing ointment. Chose some herbs and then make strong tea. Use at least ½ of a cup of dried herbs for a cup of water. To make a salve, melt beeswax, add some olive oil and then add the prepared tea, essential oils or dried herbs.

Following plants are proven to be good for sensitive skin:

Chamomile (Matricaria recutita) has a calming effect to inflamed skin. It is also an excellent cleanser for oily skin or itchy scalp. Use the chamomile infusion as a tonic for your face or add some infusion to a bath.

Rose petals (Rosa spp.) are most commonly used to make rosewater. This herbal tonic is an excellent antiseptic, and is used for normal and oily skin. You could also use rose infusion, made as any other herbal infusion.

Evening primrose (Oenothera biennis) is used for its highly appreciated essential oil. This oil is full of fatty acids, which hydrate and rejuvenate the skin. Often, this herb is said to have anti-aging effects.

Nettle (Urtica dioica) tea is used to cleanse and illuminate sensitive skin.

Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) with its lemony smell is used to clean open pores on your skin. Usually, naturopats make toners out of it or use lemon balms in steam baths.

Calendula (Calendula officinalis) is great for sunburns and wounds. Calendula ointment helps them heal quickly. It works for any type of skin, not just sensitive skin.

St. John’s Wort (Hypericum perforatum) lotions and ointments are calming the irritated skin. It could make you sensitive to sunlight, so use those preparations at bedtime. This herb is also known as a natural antidepressant.

Plantain (Plantago spp.) poultice is a great way to relieve insect bites or burns and scratches on the skin. Sometimes, plantain is used to remove splinters.

Lavender (Lavendula angustifolia) essential oil helps to heal red, irritated skin. This is a natural antiseptic substance, often used in preparations for normal and dry skin.

Comfrey (Symphytum spp.) is a moisturizer for damaged, rough skin. It should be used only externally, as a salve.