RADIANT SKIN

Who can resist healthy, attractive, glowing skin? Today’s lifestyle, food and stress play a major role in our skin’s appearance. Beauty companies advertise like crazy to tell us that their expensive soaps, creams and toners are ideal for us. Yet many of them are loaded with chemicals which do more harm than good. On the other hand while all natural alternatives are available they can be quite expensive. Our skin is the largest organ in our body. Often, it acts as a window into the health of our entire body. Healthy skin means a healthy body. Here are a few herbs that nature has provided for us. They nourish our skin.

ALOE VERA - This is the top of my list. Aloe moisturises, heals inflammation, and actually acts as a natural sunscreen. To use, break off a leaf, and slice down the side. Open it and scrape off the gel. Apply directly to your skin. Refrigerate the extra for up to 2 days. Consistent use will give your skin a glow that is attractive.

BURDOCK ROOT - This is a common weed in many parts of the world, that it makes a readily available herbal tonic. It is both anti- fungal and anti- inflammatory. It is used to help treat eczema, psoriasis, acne, dry or scaly skin and even oily skin. For internal use prepare as a tea. Externally make the root into an herbal oil or decoction, and apply to the skin as you would a toner.

CHAMOMILE - This is well known for its calming and relaxing properties. For topical use apply as a salve.

YARROW - This common wildflower has a rich herbal history. According to legend Achilles used the herb to heal the wounds fellow warriors. It also helps stop bleeding, and useful for oily skin. Make as poultice, oil, lotion or salve for use.

Give them a try. Your skin will smile back at you.