When you find something that is good for you it is natural to want to keep it and continue to use it. If it is readily available so much the better. Herbs are most effective when eaten or when applied to your skin as a poultice, a mash or a compress. Medicinal herbs for skin are easy to find and here are six for your use and benefit.

Liquorice

Liquorice has proved to be useful in the treatment of eczema and psoriasis. The acid contained in the herb works well in many inflammatory skin conditions. Liquorice is an herb with strong anti-inflammatory properties. You can use it as a tea by soaking in water for 10 to 15 minutes. In this form it is good for sore throats, coughs and your immune system generally. It also helps the liver function and is good for aches and pains. Best of all it is an antioxidant.

With all its good properties it can have side effects and if taken in excessive amounts it can cause hormone problems. Taken sensibly and for short periods it will not harm you. If you have any doubts, always seek advice.

Marshmallow

Marshmallow is a root plant which contains an anti-inflammatory compound. When you add boiling water to the dried out root it forms a slimy paste which is very soothing for dermatitis and chapped skin on hands. Do allow the paste to cool before applying it to your skin. It eases coughs and sore throats when taken internally.

Soya Bean

Soya bean has been recommended by Naturopaths for the treatment of seborrhoeic dermatitis. It is rich in biotin, a vitamin of the B complex. It is also reported that good results were achieved when soya was used as a way of dealing with dandruff. You may eat it in small doses, about 7 grammes at a time. It is quite nutritious.

Wild Pansy

Wild pansy is an herb which is recommended for the treatment of itch, rash, acne, eczema and dermatitis. As the name implies, it is classed as a weed because it grows everywhere. It is effective also as a tea which is approved when taken for seborrhoeia.

Oak Bark

Oak bark is used to treat dermatitis. It has a soothing witch hazel effect on the skin. Like so many herbs it can be used as a compress by making it into a tea. This is done by reducing the oak bark to a powder, soaking it in boiling water for 10 minutes and when cool removing the plant material before applying it to the skin.

Knowing what is good for you is only the first step on the way to any skin care routine. To go that little bit extra you have to start using your knowledge to make the right decisions. The best time to do so is now.

Sean Prenderville-Finn is a keen researcher of skincare health and products. He shares his findings on his website http://beauty-skin-site.com/ If you have any unwanted skin problems visit http://beauty-skin-site.com/ now to learn about the skincare line Sean personally recommends.