What are the best herbs to improve skin appearance and develop healthy glowing skin?

A.

Herbs can be used internally and externally to support healthy skin. Herbs for internal use include dandelion, yellow dock, burdock, milk thistle, echinacea, oregon grape, goldenseal, nettles, and calendula. These herbs fall into three main categories of action. Dandelion, yellow dock, burdock, milk thistle and oregon grape all support good liver function. If the liver is not functioning well, toxins in the body will not be processed and excreted via the bowels and kidneys and are often excreted through the skin. Many skin problems can be helped by supporting good liver function. Echinacea, goldenseal and calendula all have antimicrobial action, making them useful when infections are causing skin disorders. Nettles are very high in vitamins and minerals and are an excellent nutritive tonic for healthy skin and hair.

The list of plants that are helpful externally on the skin includes aloe vera, chickweed, comfrey, elder flower, goldenseal, calendula, echinacea, marshmallow, slippery elm, witch hazel and self heal. All are good for promoting healing, preventing infection, and soothing and nourishing the skin. Any can be prepared as a tea for washing or compresses and there are many creams, salves and lotions made from one or more available for purchase.

Vital for healthy skin is a healthy diet with adequate protein, lots of fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains and essential fatty acids. Plenty of pure fresh water to drink keeps the skin hydrated and helps to flush toxins from the body. Exercise promotes good liver function and perspiration to open pores and wash out impurities.

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* The information presented in this web site is intended to inform and educate. It is not intended replace a qualified medical practitioner to diagnose or treat medical conditions.