Basil for skin: 7 ways to use this herb
Are you looking for a way to reduce acne and have beautiful skin? Try using basil peel and get rid of these problems.
Basil is a herb that is often used in Italian and Thai cuisine and is an excellent skin care product. If you want to add something new to your skin care routine, try using basil in your skin care routine. Basil is rich in antioxidants and essential oils, providing a natural and effective solution to many skin problems. From fighting acne and reducing inflammation to promoting youthful skin, basil has become a versatile and beneficial addition to your skincare routine. Learn the benefits of basil for skin and how to use it to get glowing skin.
What is basil?
Basil belongs to the Ocimum genus and is scientifically called Ocimum Basilicum. It is an aromatic substance widely used in cooking and herbal medicine. According to research published in the journal Essential Oils for Food Preservation, it belongs to the mint family and is known for its unique aroma and flavor. The leaves, which are mostly used as part of the plant, are oval-shaped and bright green in color. There are many varieties of basil, each with its own unique flavor. Some of the most popular include:
- Sweet basil is the most common type and is known for its mild and sweet flavor.
- Thai basil has a spicy, licorice-like flavor.
- Lemon Basil has a citrus flavor.
- Cinnamon Basil has a warm and spicy flavour, with a slight cinnamon flavor.
Basil leaves are beneficial to the skin due to their rich antioxidant and essential oils. These ingredients work together to provide multiple benefits to the skin.
5 benefits of basil for skin
Basil leaves are often used in different dishes and also provide important benefits for your skin. Here is detailed information about the main benefits of basil for skin:
1. Rich in antioxidants
A study published in the Journal of Functional Foods found that basil leaves contain natural antioxidants, especially eugenol and camphor. These components help protect the skin from free radical damage. Free radicals are reactive molecules that can damage the skin and cause various skin problems. Oxidative stress occurs when free radicals damage the skin, causing premature aging, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation. The antioxidants in its leaves help prevent oxidative stress and protect the skin from environmental damage and aging, keeping the skin healthy.
2. High anti-inflammatory properties
Basil leaves are rich in anti-inflammatory substances such as linalool, which helps soothe irritated skin and reduce redness. This makes basil especially beneficial for people with acne-prone skin. Acne often occurs with inflammation, which can cause redness, swelling, and even scarring. A study published in the journal Industrial Crops and Products found that by reducing inflammation, it can help reduce acne symptoms and prevent long-term skin damage. . This makes basil a natural and effective choice for those looking to improve skin health and reduce acne.
3. Rich in antibacterial properties
Basil has antibacterial properties, which makes it effective in combating acne. Acne is often caused by an overgrowth of Propionibacterium acnes, a type of bacteria that clogs pores. By targeting and destroying these bacteria, basil can help prevent acne and brighten skin. Experts say it can help reduce the risk of infection and may also help prevent other skin conditions, including rashes and abscesses. This makes basil a natural and effective choice for anyone looking to improve skin health and achieve brighter skin.
4. Promote wound healing
Basil is effective in treating acne and reducing pain, as well as having wound-healing properties. Chemicals in basil can help the skin heal, making it useful for treating minor injuries like cuts, abrasions, and scrapes. A study published in the journal Molecules found that the herb may help reduce the risk of infection and scarring by promoting healing. Regular use of basil can help improve the appearance of existing scars, making your skin appear smoother. It can also help you fight acne, inflammation, wound healing, and scarring.
5. Make your skin glow
Pigmentation occurs when there is too much melanin in the skin, causing wrinkles and uneven skin tone. Basil has antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties that can help you get a glowing complexion and reduce pigmentation. It targets the root cause of pigmentation, makes your skin look bright and improves its overall appearance. Regular use of basil products can help exfoliate your skin and remove dead cells, making your skin smoother and softer. This makes the skin look younger and more beautiful.
How to use basil in skin care?
Here are some good and easy ways to use basil in skin care, as recommended by experts.
1. Basil Honey Mask
Ingredients:
A handful of basil leaves
1 tablespoon basil leaves
Directions:
Combine basil leaves and 1 tablespoon honey in a bowl to make a pain-relieving, soothing, and moisturizing mask.
Gently apply the mask to your skin.
Leave on for 10-15 minutes.
Wash off with warm water.
2. Basil toner
Ingredients:
A handful of basil leaves
Water
Method:
Boil basil leaves in hot water, let it cool, and then use it as a nice, refreshing toner.
After washing, pat your face dry with a towel.
Spray the toner lightly onto your face and massage in with your fingertips.
3. Basil and Lemon Scrub
Ingredients:
A handful of basil leaves
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon sugar
Directions:
Combine crushed basil, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, and 1 tablespoon sugar of your choice to create a scrub that hydrates and exfoliates skin, while also leaving it radiant.
Apply to skin and scrub your face with fingertips.
Rinse with lukewarm water.
4. Basil yogurt mask
Ingredients:
A handful of basil leaves
1 tablespoon yogurt
Directions:
Mix basil with 1 tablespoon yogurt to create a mask that moisturizes and nourishes dry skin and creates a soothing effect.
Apply to your skin.
Leave on for 10-15 minutes.
Wash off with warm water.
5. Basil oil
Ingredients:
A handful of basil leaves
1 tablespoon coconut oil
Directions:
Mix basil leaves with 1 tablespoon coconut oil to make a moisturizer for dry skin.
Used on skin.
Leave on for 10-15 minutes.
Wash off with warm water.
6. Basil and Turmeric paste
Ingredients:
A handful of basil leaves
1 tablespoon turmeric powder
Directions:
Mix crushed basil and turmeric to make a paste that can cover acne and reduce inflammation in many skin types.
Apply gently to skin.
Leave on for 10-15 minutes.
Rinse with warm water.
7. Basil steam
Ingredients:
A handful of basil leaves
Method:
Boil basil leaves and steam the skin with the leaves to open the pores and hydrate at the same time.
Steamed Face
Make your skin glow by mixing basil with steam!
Are there any side effects of basil leaves?
Basil is generally safe, but as experts have noted, some people may experience some side effects, including:
- People who are allergic to basil may experience a rash, hives, or other allergic reactions when using basil.
- Applying basil products to sensitive, broken, or scaly skin can cause irritation.
- Excessive use of basil products can strip the skin of its natural oils, causing dryness and flaking.
- Some basil products can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight, putting you at risk of sunburn or other skin damage.
- Excessive use of basil can affect the skin’s balance over time and lead to irreversible changes.
Remember:
- Before using your new basil face mask, do a patch test to check for allergies.
- Dilute concentrated basil oil or extract with a carrier oil like coconut or jojoba oil and apply directly to the skin.
- Use basil products in moderation and do not overuse.
- Be careful to protect your skin from the sun if you use products that contain photosensitive ingredients.
You can reduce the risk of side effects while enjoying the benefits of basil for the skin by following these tips. Also, please talk to your doctor before adding this product to your beauty routine.