Herbs, Oils and Miscellaneous Ingredient Benefits

HERBS

angelica root (Angelica archangelica)

Angelica root is good for the skin because it has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. It helps to calm irritated skin, reduce redness, and support the healing of skin. Angelica root also enhances skin hydration, making it soft and smooth.

anise (Pimpinella anisum)

Anise is good for breastfeeding women because it can help increase milk supply and ease digestive issues. It also has soothing properties that may help calm both mother and baby.

burdock root (Arctium lappa)

Burdock root is good for the skin because it has natural antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. It helps to cleanse the skin, reduce redness, and can soothe conditions like acne and eczema. Its ability to detoxify makes it beneficial for maintaining clear and healthy skin.

calendula (Calendula officinalis) 

Calendula can improve wound healing, skin hydration, irritation, and    conditions due to its antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, and moisturizing properties. It can also protect against skin alterations and early aging.

chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile)

Chamomile's antioxidants can protect, calm, and heal skin, while also reducing signs of aging, brightening the complexion, and treating acne. 

Chamomile tea bathes are ideal for sensitive skin. They can calm redness and help reduce scars or marks, promoting healing and a smoother complexion. Tea bathes offer a variety of skin benefits that can enhance your skin’s health and appearance. When you soak in a tea bathe, you’re not just relaxing; you’re giving your skin a beneficial treatment. Tea bathes are known for their cleansing properties, aiding in detoxifying your skin and reducing inflammation. This promotes overall skin health, leaving your skin looking fresh and rejuvenated.

chickweed (Stellaria media)

Chickweed is good for the skin because it has soothing and anti-inflammatory properties. It helps to calm irritation, reduce itching, and promote healing, especially for conditions like eczema, rashes, and minor wounds. Chickweed also hydrates and nourishes the skin, keeping it soft and healthy.

comfrey root (Symphytum officinale radix)

Comfrey root is good for the skin because it promotes healing and reduces inflammation. It helps speed up the recovery of cuts, bruises, and sprains, while also soothing irritated or dry skin. Comfrey root contains allantoin, which supports cell regeneration and keeps the skin soft and healthy.

dandelion (Taraxacum officinale)

Dandelions have anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antioxidant properties that can help with skin conditions like rosacea, eczema, acne, and psoriasis. They also provide hydration, stimulate collagen production, and offer UV protection.

fennel (Foeniculum vulgare)

Fennel is good for breastfeeding women because it can help boost milk supply and ease digestive discomfort. It also has soothing properties that may help with colic in babies.

fenugreek (Trigonella foenum graecum)

Fenugreek is good for breastfeeding women because it can help increase milk supply and improve milk flow. It also supports overall digestion and can help with postpartum recovery.

hyssop (Hyssopus officinalis)

Hyssop is good for the skin because it has natural antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. It helps cleanse and purify the skin, reduce irritation, and promote healing of minor wounds and acne. Hyssop also supports overall skin health by keeping it clear and refreshed.

lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)

External: Lavender helps soothe and calm the skin, reducing irritation and promoting healing. It also has antibacterial properties, making it useful for minor wounds and acne.
It helps calm the nervous system and may improve sleep quality.

lemon balm (Melissa officinalis)

Lemon balm is good for the skin because it has calming and antiviral properties. It helps to soothe irritated skin, reduce redness, and support healing, especially for cold sores and minor wounds. Lemon balm also refreshes the skin, leaving it feeling cool and rejuvenated.

lemon peel (Citrus limonum)

Lemon peel in tea adds a zesty flavor and is rich in vitamin C. It helps boost immunity, aids digestion, and adds a refreshing taste.

marshmallow root (Althea radix)

Marshmallow root is good for the skin because it soothes irritation and hydrates dry areas. Drinking marshmallow root tea helps calm the digestive system, ease throat irritation, and reduce inflammation throughout the body. 

meadowsweet (Filipendula ulmaria)

Meadowsweet is good for the skin because it has natural anti-inflammatory and astringent properties. It helps to reduce redness, soothe irritation, and tighten pores. Meadowsweet also contains salicylic acid, which gently exfoliates the skin and helps prevent acne, keeping the skin clear and balanced.

milk thistle (Carduus (silybum) marianus semen)

Milk thistle is beneficial for breastfeeding women because it supports liver health, which can aid in overall well-being. It may also help improve milk supply and quality, promoting better lactation.

moringa (Moringa oleifera)

And Moringa is great for breastfeeding women because it can help increase milk supply and is packed with essential nutrients like vitamins and minerals. It also supports overall energy and well-being, aiding in postpartum recovery.

oats (Avena sativa)

Oats are good for the skin because they are soothing and moisturizing. They help to relieve dryness, reduce itching, and calm irritated skin, making them ideal for conditions like eczema and rashes. Oats also gently cleanse and exfoliate, leaving the skin soft and smooth.

peppermint leaf (Mentha x piperita)

Drinking peppermint leaf tea can help soothe digestive issues, relieve headaches, and reduce stress. It also provides a refreshing taste and can boost energy levels.

plantain leaf (Plantago major)

Plantain leaf is good for the skin because it has healing and anti-inflammatory properties. It helps soothe irritation, reduce redness, and speed up the healing of cuts, scrapes, and insect bites. Plantain leaf also promotes healthy skin by drawing out impurities and moisturizing dry areas.

raspberry leaf (Rubus idaeus)

Raspberry leaf tea is good for pregnant women because it helps strengthen the uterine muscles, which can support an easier labor. It also may help reduce pregnancy-related discomfort and support overall reproductive health.

rosehips (Rosa mosqueta)

Rosehips are fantastic for the skin because they are rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, which help brighten and even out skin tone. They also support collagen production, promoting firmness and reducing signs of aging. Additionally, rosehips have anti-inflammatory properties that can soothe and calm irritated skin, making them beneficial for conditions like acne and eczema.

rose petals (Rosa canina)

External: Rose petals soothe and hydrate the skin, reduce redness, and provide a gentle, natural fragrance. They also have mild astringent properties that help tighten and tone the skin.

john's wort (Hypericum perforatum)

St. John's Wort is excellent for the skin due to its natural anti-inflammatory and healing properties. It helps soothe irritated skin, reduce redness, and speed up the healing of minor wounds and burns. Additionally, it can aid in relieving symptoms of conditions like eczema and acne, making it a versatile and beneficial skincare ingredient.

stinging nettle (Urtica dioica herba)

Stinging nettle is beneficial for breastfeeding women because it can help boost milk supply and provide essential nutrients like iron. It also supports overall energy levels and helps with postpartum recovery.

white willow bark (Salix alba)

White willow bark is excellent for external use because it has natural pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory properties. It helps soothe sore muscles and joints, reduce swelling, and ease discomfort. Its gentle astringent action can also help with minor skin irritations and promote healing.

yarrow (Achillea millefolium)

Yarrow is great for external use because it helps to reduce inflammation, soothe irritated skin, and promote healing of wounds and cuts. It also has natural astringent properties, which can help to tighten and tone the skin, making it ideal for minor skin issues and overall skin health.

OILS

almond oil (Prunus amygdalus) 

Almond oil is obtained from the dry kernels of the almond. Also referred to as sweet almond oil, this light oil absorbs quickly and does not clog pores. It is suitable for most skin types and is used as a moisturizer. Found in a great number of products, almond oil is high in vitamins a and e. It is extremely rich in oleic acid (up to 86 percent) and also linoleic acid. It is also full of antioxidants such as quercetin, quercitrin, kaempferol and Morin.  Suitable for most skin types. It’s high in fatty acids, anti inflammatory, softens skin and may help improve hair health and growth. It makes for a good massage or after bath oil. 

apricot kernel oil (Prunus armeniaca) 

A light yet nourishing oil that softens and moisturizes, and is suitable for all skin types. Apricot oil absorbs readily and helps relieve eczema and other itchy skin conditions. Recommended mainly for dry, mature and sensitive skin.

argan oil (Argania spinosa)

Absorbs quickly and is wonderful for hair and nails. It improves and repairs skin, reduces the appearance of wrinkles and can be used in formulations to prevent stretch marks. It’s expensive, try using almond oil or other light oil in its place.

castor oil (Ricinus communis) 

A thick oil that lends a glossy shine to homemade lip balms, protects skin and has mild anti fungal properties. Its low comedogenic status means it’s unlikely to clog pores. From castor beans, castor oil is extremely rich in the monounsaturated fatty acid linoleic acid region. Even though the thick, somehow sticky texture of this oil is not cosmetically appealing, castor oil has some benefits to offer. It is a powerful humectant and anti-aging oil and is also thought to promote healthier, fuller and longer eyelashes. In soap recipes, it helps boost lather. Because castor oil is non-comedogenic, it helps with acne breakouts and is excellent to reduce excess oil. 

coconut oil (Cocoa nucifera) 

Coconut oil melts at 76°, moisturizes and protects skin. It’s popular for use in hair masks and treatments, and its antibacterial properties make it a good addition to homemade deodorant recipes. In soap, it makes a hard bar and lots of lather. Some people experience redness and dry skin after using coconut oil for an extended period of time, and it also has been known to exacerbate acne. It’s available unrefined (hard) and refined (liquid). Unrefined oil is suggested for use, as it may contain beneficial properties lost in the refinement process, but refined can be used equally as well if that’s what you have available. Soap making, refined oil is best due to cost.

grapeseed oil (Vitis vinifera)

From the seeds of vitis vinifera the common grape vine, this oil is rich in antioxidants. It absorbs quickly and is therefore a god choice for oily skin and whenever oily residues are to be avoided. It can be used full strength or diluted with other oils. Add it to facial serums and other skin preparations at a 1-3 percent level. It makes a good base for preparations when nut allergies are a concern. A light oil that absorbs quickly, without leaving a greasy feeling. It’s durable for those with oily or acne prone skin. Grape seed oil works well as a massage oil or blended with heavier oils to improve absorption.

jojoba oil (Simmondsia chinensis) 

Pressed from the seeds of the jojoba plant, this golden oil resembles natural skin oils. It is low in polyunsaturated fatty acids and high in tocopherols (vitamin E) which helps it resist rancidity and why it is preferred among carrier oils. Its properties are those of both an oil and a liquid wax, and it is sometimes referred to as liquid wax. This skin friendly oil is a good choice for all skin types. It improves skin softness and moisture and can help reduce fine lines. It is a great addition to both skin and hair products. It can be used as a 100 percent oil base or diluted to lesser concentrations. It is specifically recommended for acne-prone skin because it helps balance skin oils and break down sebum in clogged pores. It also makes a good base for scalp oils. A liquid plant wax that closely mirrors how our skin’s sebum performs. Because of this it’s outstanding for hair, scalp and skin care. Jojoba is considered non comedogenic making it excellent for problem skin, while at the same time able to soften and soothe very dry skin.

marula oil (Scleroclarya birrea) 

Used medicinally, marula oil works to diminish the appearance of scars, stretch marks, dryness, and cracking. It helps to eliminate harmful bacteria, prevent the onset of acne breakouts, address flaking, facilitate wound healing, and promote skin regeneration. Its light texture and rich moisture content properties have made it a popular treatment for skin, hair, and nails. Marula oil is used as an ingredient in a wide range of cosmetic products. It can also be purchased as an essential oil. Its beneficial components include: Amino Acids L-arginine and glutamic acid, which have hydrating, anti-aging properties. Fatty Acids including palmitic, stearic, oleic, and myristic acids, which have emollient and moisturizing benefits. Antioxidants such as phenolic compounds and vitamins e and c, which fight free radicals and may stave off skin damage caused by the ultraviolet rays of the sun and pollution. Because marula oil is lightweight, it absorbs easily. This makes it an effective moisturizer for dry or aging skin. It may be beneficial for smoothing and softening fine lines, preventing stretch marks, and keeping skin hydrated and well-nourished. It’s also an effective lip moisturizer. There is no scientific evidence indicating that marula oil is beneficial for skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis. However, anecdotal evidence points to its ability to reduce the irritation, itching, and dryness associated with these conditions. Marula oil makes a good moisturizer for oily skin and treating acne because it’s non-greasy. It also has anti microbial and may be effective against the bacteria that contribute to the formation of pimples, whiteheads, and blackheads. Marula oil can help nourish hair from root to tip, without making it overly greasy.

rosehip seed oil (Rosa mosqueta also known as Rosa rubiginosa) 

This oil is obtained mainly from the seeds of wild rose bushes. This amber colored oil is recognized as one of the richest cosmetic oils. It contains up to 80 percent polyunsaturated fatty acids, such as linoleic and gamma linoleic acids, as well as vitamins an and c. It is also high in Lycopene, which is a natural antioxidant found in tomatoes and watermelon. Rosehip oil helps with skin regeneration; improves the appearance of scars; reduces wrinkles, especially around the eyes and mouth; and protects from sun damage. It makes a good choice for dry, mature skin. It is most commonly used at a 10 percent ratio, but could be used up to 100 percent, because it is very gentle and affordable. A premier anti aging oil that helps smooth the appearance of wrinkles, regenerates skin and reduces scars. It’s light, non greasy, absorbs quickly and doesn’t leave your skin feeling oily. 

sea buckthorn oil (Hippphae rhamnoides) 

Sea buckthorn oil is known for its numerous health benefits, thanks to its rich nutritional profile. Here are some of the key benefits: Skin Health: Sea buckthorn oil is rich in vitamins A, C, E, and K, as well as antioxidants and fatty acids, which help protect and rejuvenate the skin. Heart Health: The oil contains omega-3, omega-6, omega-7, and omega-9 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health. It can help vaginal dryness in Perimenopausal and Menopausal women.

shea olein (Butyrospermum parkii)

Shea oil is a great emollient, humectant, and moisturizer, it is quick absorbing, keeps dry skin healthy and helps cells function better. It reduces inflammation and irritation of the skin. Straightens frizzy hair, calms and controls the dry, unruly and frizzy flyaway hair. It decreases split ends, adds volume to your locks, eliminates dandruff and decrease hair loss itself. Shea oil eliminates wrinkles, slows skin aging by preventing free radical damage. It eases and prevents cracked skin on heels of feet and elbows; just a little oil goes a long way. Use Shea oil as a massage for sore muscles, and joints; it is good for osteoarthritis complaints. It is good for use on face for inflammation and for bags under the eye. The use of shea oil curtails issues like dermatitis, damaged or peeling skin and stretch marks. It is high in antioxidants of Vitamin E and A, which help fight free radicals that damage your skin. Shea nut oil can increase your production of collagen; a protein that is vital for the structures of your muscles, bones and skin. Vitamin E inhibits the enzyme that destroys collagen, and therefore, boosts collagen production.

sunflower oil (Helianthus annus)

Cold pressed from the seeds of the sunflower, this oil is widely used for culinary purposes but can be very useful as a cosmetic ingredient in formulations destined for dry, weathered skin. Because it is so gentle, sunflower oil is recommended for sensitive and delicate skin. It is high in oleic acid and provides good amounts of vitamin an and e, which makes it a great oil for mature skin. A light non comedogenic oil that’s high in lecithin and vitamins a, d and e. Sunflower oil is one of the best oils for applying to broken, damaged or aging skin.

tamanu oil (Calophyllum inophyllum)

A high quality, unrefined Tamanu oil has a distinct, deep scent. If you have tree nut allergies, consult with your physician first. It’s remarkable for treating scars, sores, stretch marks and a variety of skin conditions. Its anti bacterial properties make it a good addition to acne formulations and with its anti inflammatory traits, it’s a nice addition to sore muscle salves and balms.

MISCELLANEOUS INGREDIENTS

beeswax (Cera alba) 

It has beneficial skin softening properties and helps your skin retain moisture. 

castile soap (Sapo castelliensis) 

A mild and gentle all purpose liquid soap that can be used in a variety of body, hair and cleaning recipes.

clay (Argilla) 

Clays are naturally rich in minerals, exfoliate skin, and take away toxins and excess oils. That is why most clays are great for oily skin. They also give body and texture to beauty mixes and are a art of all spa regimens around the world. Kaolin, bentonite, illite, Moroccan rassoul and French green are all good examples of cosmetic clays. Unlike technical clays, cosmetic-grade clays should be very low in lead content. If you have dry skin, choose a clay that is appropriate for your skin type, such as yellow kaolin, which does not wash away skin oils. Comes in a variety of mineral rich natural colors, including kaolin (white and rose), bentonite (gray), French (green), Cambrian (blue) and Brazilian (yellow, purple, red and pink). Clays draw out and absorb oils and dirt, making them great for use in face masks, body powders and deodorants. They’re also excellent, long lasting colorants in soap and some cosmetics.

cocoa butter (Theobroma cacao)

From the seeds of cocoa, also known as the cocoa bean, comes this butter, which is rich in fatty acids and polyphenols. Unless deodorized through a special process, this solid butter has a typical chocolate smell. Cocoa butter is well known for reducing stretch marks and improving skin elasticity  and is therefore included in many pregnancy belly creams. Even though it is moisturizing, the fact that it could be comedogenic (lending to clog pores) makes it poorly recommended for facial use, especially in cases of acne-prone skin. Rich and creamy, high in vitamin e and other antioxidants, helps soothe and protect skin. The unrefined version has a strong chocolate like scent that carries through to the final product. Works well paired with peppermint or orange essential oils. 

epsom salt 

Used to relieve sore and achy muscles or as a scrub for exfoliation purposes. There’s also evidence suggesting some of the magnesium and sulfate from Epsom salts is beneficially absorbed via the skin while bathing.

essential oils 

Strong concentrated extracts distilled from flowers, herbs and other plants. It takes a massive amount of plant material to produce just a tiny bit of oil. Essential oils are suggested in some recipes for fragrance or to complement a products effect. Essential oils work synergistically with natural herbs. 

kokum butter (Garcinia indica)

Obtaned from the Indian garcinia tree. It has regenerative properties that help with skin healing. This astringent butter is rich in fatty acids and absorbs easily when it liquefies upon contact with the skin. Add it to your balms, soap bars, lip products and foot care creams.  A hard and flaky cosmetic butter. Combine it with other oils and ingredients to help treat dry, cracked, inflamed or damaged skin. It also makes a good substitute for cocoa butter.

shea butter (Vitellaria paradoxa, previously called Butyrospermum parkii)

Pressed from the nuts of the shea tree  this highly moisturizing butter is also known as karite (beurre de karite, in French) which means tree of life. This age old African butter has a lot to offer: it is an excellent moisturizer, is rich in vitamins an and e, nourishes skin and improves elasticity. It also contains a number of antioxidant phenolic compounds. Add it to your creams, balms, lotions, even hair products for softening. Because it is noncomedogenic, it is more suitable for acne-prone skin than cocoa butter and can help improve the appearance of acne scars. High in vitamins an and e, ideal for treating dry, weathered or damaged skin. Unrefined Shea has a rather strong scent that some find unpleasant. Look for a refined version that hasn’t been processed with bleach or chemicals. Avoid extreme temperature fluctuations and overheating, or your Shea butter may develop graininess.

sunflower wax (Helianus annus seed wax) Another vegan option to use instead of beeswax. It has very firm holding power, which means you only need a fraction of it to replace beeswax in a recipe. It has no detectable odor and tends to leave a finished product a bright white unless tinted with natural colorants.

vegetable glycerin (Brassica napis) A clear, sweet liquid used to soften and moisturize skin. It’s also useful for making alcohol free tinctures. A small amount can be added to toners to keep them from being too drying especially if you’re using witch hazel but if you add too much your product could be sticky.

vitamin e (Tocopherol) It’s fairly easy to find in gel caps or liquid form. While it’s also terrific for skin care and minimizing scars, try adding the contents of one gel cap or around 1 percent to lip balms and salves, balms to help lengthen shelf life. Not considered a preservative.

witch hazel (Hamamelis virginiana) An anti inflammatory and astringent that tones and tightens skin. It’s particularly well suited to treating varicose veins, hemorrhoids, bruises and rashes, such as those caused by poison ivy.