Important Ingredients of Herbal Cosmetics

Almond (Prunus dulcis)

The parts used are nut or seed, powder, oil pressed from the seed. The medicinal properties are demulcent, emollient, skin softener, used in body oils and lotions, nutritive, contains iron, calcium, potassium, copper, zinc, vitamin E, biotin, amino acids

Beeswax

The main properties of beeswax are – Obtained from the honeycomb of honeybees; holds fatty oils in emulsion in moisturizing creams and lotions; natural beeswax is dark yellow.

Cocoa Butter

Cocoa butter is very common ingredient used in many beauty cosmetics. The properties of cocoa butter are: the fat is used in making ointments and cosmetic creams; has a chocolate aroma.

Honey

Honey has several heath benefits and is used widely in herbal cosmetics. Its main properties are emollient, humectants, antiseptic; helps skin retain moisture; can be applied to a wound as a cooling analgesic.

Benzoin (Styrax benzoin)

The parts used are the tree resin and tincture of benzoin. The main properties of benzoin are antiseptic, astringent, used to heal inflamed, irritated and cracked skin; improves skin elasticity; cosmetic fixative and preservative of fats.

Lemon (Citrus limon)

The parts used are pulp, rind, juice and essential oil. Its main properties are astringent, bleaching, anti-inflammatory; disinfectant; scent is stimulating and refreshing.

Mint (Mentha spicata)

The parts used are leaves and essential oil. Its main properties are antispasmodic, diaphoretic, stimulant, carminative; relieve stomach complaints; can be used for flavoring.

Lavender

The parts used are flowers and essential oil. Its main properties are antiseptic, anti-depressive and antimicrobial; calming effect to relieve stress; essential oil can be used externally for aching muscles and to help prevent scarring.

Myrrh (Commiphora molmol)
The parts used are gum resin and volatile oil. Its main properties are anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, anti-viral agent; antiseptic, cooling and tonic; good for wounds that refuse to heal, boils and abscesses.