Herbs for the Skin
Jo Francks MH
Our skin is the largest organ of the body. It is often
referred to as the third kidney. It is a channel of elimination and also a
channel of absorption. The skin absorbs what is applied to it which is why it
is so important to be aware of what types of products you are using on your
skin and the ingredients that are in those products. Chemicals are absorbed by
the skin and are moved through the bloodstream to all the organs of the body. Our skin is the first line of defense and
provides protection to our internal organs. The health of our skin is an
indicator or the health of the rest of the body.
All through history there have been many natural botanicals
used to promote the health of the skin. Here is a small list of some of the
herbs I like to use in skin care products.
Aloe – This is my number one plant for burns. I like to
apply the fresh cut leaf to a burn because it is soothing and healing. It has
cell proliferant properties and is antiseptic.
Calendula – This is my number one herb for all skin
conditions. It relieves pain and itching, prevents infection, and promotes
healing. It is used for insect bites and stings, cuts, bruises, and burns.
Comfrey – Historically this herb is the healer of healers.
It has nick names of knit bone, and people putty. It’s used for broken bones,
wounds, burns, and skin problems of all types. This herb helps put people back
together. It is full of nutrition and is one of the few plant sources of
vitamin B12.
Plantain – This is my go to herb for bee stings. Pick a
fresh leaf or two, chew it up a little and apply it directly over a bee sting.
Secure it with a bandage. The plantain takes the pain away very quickly and
draws the venom out of the sting. It will also draw toxins and poisons out of
any wound and prevent blood poisoning and promote healing.
Chamomile – This is a soothing herb and is antibacterial. It
is very good for blemished skin and helps promote a clear complexion. It is
used both internally and externally as a tea and a wash for the skin.
Slippery elm – This is the herb I will use as a poultice and
will often combine it with other herbs that have the properties needed for a
particular issue. I have often combined slippery elm with dried plantain when
the fresh wasn’t available for a drawing poultice. Slippery elm is a powerful
contact healer. It will heal anything it comes in contact with.
Skin brushing – Dr. Christopher recommended skin brushing to
move lymph, to improve circulation, and to remove dead skin cells from the
surface of the skin. Use a dry brush with natural bristles on dry skin before
you bathe or shower. Start with the soles of the feet moving up the legs then
to the hands, arms and body. Brush towards the heart with gentle pressure.
Nutrition – Healthy skin begins within. Eating a healthy
diet of lots of fresh fruits and vegetables and making sure you are eliminating
properly will do a lot to improve the health of the skin.
