There is no shortage of herbs with potential benefits, but only a handful of them are proven to be beneficial. Nevertheless, some herbal extracts do work exceptionally well, and there is scientific research to back that up. We have a list of seven herbal extracts for you today, each of which have some degree of proven beautifying properties to them.
Polyphenol Curcumin
Polyphenol curcumin in turmeric is a powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent. The spice has been studied for multiple decades at this point, and as indicated by several reliable test results, ingestion (with piperine) and topical application of turmeric in small amounts can have significant antiaging effects on human skin. Reduced skin inflammations (acne, pimples, puffy eyes, puffy face, etc.), rejuvenation of inactive skin cells (faded fine lines and wrinkles), regeneration of collagen and reduction of oxidative stress are some of turmeric’s well-known beautifying effects.
Cannabigerol
Cannabigerol or CBG isolate is derived from the cannabis plant, which is also the source of cannabidiol (CBD). There are quite a few similarities between the two cannabinoids, but CBG is rarer and the more potent of the two. It affects the human endocannabinoid system in a different way, as it primarily interacts with the CB1 and CB2 receptors. Post interaction, the following skin improvements can be expected:
- Goes beyond the epidermis and reduces inflammation from under the skin (dermis and subcutaneous action)
- Cleans out the skin pores and prevents over-secretion of sebum
- Lightens blemishes, fine lines and wrinkles at a dermal level
CBG isolate can be found in powder form, which is easy to add to a number of different recipes. If you’re looking to buy CBG isolate, look for reputable suppliers like Herbal Health.
Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil comes from the tea tree (Melaleuca alternifolia) found in Australia. It is not to be ingested in any concentration, as the oil is poisonous for humans. Even when used topically, the concentration must be kept low. If allergic reactions are not noted after a small dab on one’s skin, tea tree oil can be used as effective treatment against:
- Acne and pimples
- Fungal skin infections such as athlete’s foot or ringworm
- Dandruff
Much of tea tree oil’s benefits are based on its antibacterial, antifungal, and antimicrobial properties, but those same properties make it too strong for callous, undiluted, or regular usage.
Aloe Vera Extract
Aloe vera extract contains essential nutrients such as zinc, sodium, selenium, potassium, manganese, magnesium, calcium, copper, chromium, vitamins (C, E, B9 – Folic acid, B12). One of the most researched herbs out there, aloe vera is not known to have too many negative side-effects except possible drug interactions (CYP2D6 and Cytochrome P450). Aloe can be ingested as a beauty supplement and used for topical application. Proven skin health benefits of aloe vera include:
- Moisturisation and skin hydration
- Mitigating the immediate effects of sunburn/overexposure to the sun
- Preventing infections from makeup by using it as a primer
- Cooling and soothing the scalp
Although gingko is a well-researched herb with medicinal and skin enhancing properties, it was not included here because gingko seeds are poisonous. Some of its extracts can be carcinogenic as well, which was found during a study on rodents.
