Healing Herbs For Skin: 7 Ancient Ingredients We Still Use Today

The tradition of using natural ingredients in skin care is as ancient as civilization itself. Throughout history, cultures from the banks of Egypt’s Nile to China’s dynasties have embraced spices and healing herbs to improve the appearance and scent of the skin as well as its health. These ingredients have played a vital role in beauty rituals for centuries.

Today, this tradition continues, with many of these ancient ingredients remaining front and center in modern skin care products due to their proven effectiveness. Let’s delve into some of these enduring natural elements and their significance.

7 Spices & Healing Herbs For Skin

1. Calendula

Our very own Trevor T’úýtemken Ellestad Van Somer is not only the Senior Public Relations and Communications Manager at Eminence Organic Skin Care — he is also a seasoned Consultant Herbalist, Aromatherapist and Plant Educator with over two decades of experience in herbalism. One of his favorite skin care ingredients is calendula (Calendula officinalis). He says, “Not only is calendula supported by clinical science for being highly efficacious and gentle, but it has a long history of traditional use. In fact, calendula has been used for centuries for its gentle healing and skin-protective properties.”

“Several scientific studies have confirmed its numerous benefits for the skin,” he explains. “In a study published in Acta Poloniae Pharmaceutica – Drug Research, the international journal of the Polish Pharmaceutical Society, researchers found that a cream containing Calendula officinalis helped tighten the look of the skin, preventing damage and delaying the aging process. The same study also found that calendula increased skin hydration, which is important for normal skin metabolism and can prevent skin alterations and premature aging.”

2. Turmeric

Turmeric, a staple in Ayurvedic practices since ancient times in India, is celebrated for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. In traditional Ayurvedic medicine, it was commonly mixed with yogurt to combat acne. Today, we recognize turmeric for its ability to brighten the look of the skin and improve our complexion. This is attributed to its antimicrobial and antioxidant properties that can help prevent or reduce acne by preventing pore blockages and breakouts.

Dr. Taz Bhatia MD, Integrative Health Expert, and Founder and Medical Director of CentrespringMD, highlights turmeric’s role in skin care. She notes its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, saying: “Turmeric is an anti-inflammatory and antibacterial — these properties help tighten pores and improve skin tone and pH balance.” The effectiveness of turmeric in skin care primarily comes from its curcuminoids, particularly curcumin. Curcumin is known for its potent anti-inflammatory effects and its ability to inhibit tyrosinase, an enzyme that initiates pigment production in the skin.

3. Lavender

Throughout history, lavender’s calming fragrance and potential skin-soothing properties have made it a valuable herb in the beauty space. Ancient Egyptians used lavender in cosmetics and beauty treatments. Its fragrant oil was likely a component in skin care formulations for its aroma and soothing properties. In the cultures of Ancient Greece and Rome, lavender’s primary use was for its scent, particularly in the context of bathing, where its fragrance provided a luxurious and relaxing experience.

Today, our understanding of lavender’s benefits has deepened. We recognize that lavender contains compounds like linalool and linalyl acetate, which are known for their anti-inflammatory properties. These components are effective in reducing skin issues such as redness, swelling and itching. Additionally, the soothing effect of lavender extends beyond physical symptoms; it can also mitigate stress-related skin conditions like hives and rashes.

4. Yellow Sweet Clover

Once known as “King’s Clover,” this herb was used topically for its soothing, anti-inflammatory properties. Historically, yellow sweet clover gained its royal association from its link to King Henry VIII. Despite the herb’s negative reputation among Tudor farmers for invading pasturelands and impacting crops, it held significant value for the king for its medicinal properties. Traditionally, it was applied topically for its anti-inflammatory benefits and used in the treatment of ulcers, wounds and rheumatism. These days, yellow sweet clover is used in skin care for its ability to reduce the appearance of redness and irritation, leaving the skin looking radiant and youthful. Its soothing properties are especially beneficial for sensitive skin types.

5. Chamomile

Known for its regenerative and soothing qualities, chamomile has been a go-to herb for skin care since ancient times. Its calming properties make it a common ingredient in contemporary products for sensitive skin. Traditionally, chamomile has been used for centuries as an anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and healing medicine for a variety of ailments including wounds, ulcers, eczema, gout, skin irritations and other conditions. Similarly today, chamomile is used in skin care for its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties, making it beneficial for conditions like eczema, skin irritations and inflammations. Its antioxidant properties can also contribute to skin health, potentially helping to combat signs of aging and environmental damage.

6. Peppermint

Historically, peppermint was recognized for its cooling and refreshing properties. In ancient cultures, it was likely used for its soothing effect on the skin, helping to calm irritation and reduce redness. Today, this herb is still celebrated for its soothing qualities for the skin as well as its antioxidant properties.

7. Paprika

Paprika, made from ground, dried red peppers (Capsicum annuum), has been used historically not just in cooking but also in skin care for centuries. This spice is packed with Vitamin A, beta-carotene and lutein, nutrients which are celebrated for their antioxidant abilities, crucial in fighting free radicals. Free radicals are unstable atoms that can damage cells, leading to issues like premature aging. Antioxidants, like those in paprika, neutralize free radicals, protecting our skin from their aging effects.

It’s clear that the wisdom of the past still has so much to offer. From the gentle healing of calendula to lavender’s soothing touch, and from the radiant power of turmeric to the calming effects of chamomile, each of these natural ingredients has stood the test of time.

Have you had a chance to try these herbs and spices in your skin care routine? Share with us on social media about how these natural ingredients benefit your skin.