It is a common misconception that the term holistic simply refers to the use of non toxic and natural remedies versus more conventional options. And although this is typically true, holistic medicine is so much more than that. Holistic means finding the root cause of a specific problem and treating it at the root. So whether you are having a specific skin condition you are trying to target or just simply trying to improve your skin routine; holistic skincare takes into account the individual’s overall health, environment, lifestyle, and mind.
When you first begin this practice you will first want to take into consideration your diet, environment, level of stress, and any other factors that could potentially lead to or currently be causing skin problems.
Best Diet for Healthy Skin
It is no secret that processed and genetically modified foods cause many of our nation’s health problems. In today’s fast paced society, it is normal to want grab a bite to eat on the run or throw a frozen meal in the oven for a quick dinner after a long day. But the truth is, these foods do not contain the nutrients our bodies need to function properly. So, if this sounds like you, the first thing you should do is cut out processed foods from your diet. Cutting excess sugar, alcohol, and caffeine from your diet will also make a world of difference.
Healthy fat’s contains many of the nutrients our skin needs to stay healthy so adding these into our diet will be the next step. Things like salmon, avocados, nuts, and seeds are a great source of healthy fats. In our bodies, we have something known as free radicals. Free radicals are harmful molecules that lead to various diseases, cause damage to our cells, and contributes to the aging process. By consuming antioxidants we can neutralize these molecules preventing them from causing further damage to our bodies. In doing so, we can reduce our risk for developing cancer, protect against aging, reduce inflammation, protect our skin from UV damage, and so much more. Berries (especially blueberries), dark leafy greens, nuts and seeds, colorful veggies, whole grains, legumes, and fruits are all sources of antioxidants. Incorporating these into your diet on a regular basis will ensure your body is able to combat oxidative stress and improve your overall well being. Lastly, staying hydrated is going to be crucial for maintaining healthy skin. Adequate hydration helps the skin to retain it’s moisture, improve elasticity thus reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, regulate oil production, speed up the healing of wounds, and add to an overall healthy complexation. For the average person, 8 glasses of water (64 oz) is a good goal to aim for per day.
Herbs for the Skin
Taking care of your skin naturally can be as simple as incorporating herbs into your daily skin care routine. Herbs have been used for centuries by people all around the world for their benefits. These herbs are safe and gentle on the skin but it is still so important to patch test before using any new herb to ensure that an allergic reaction does not occur. When taking any herb, consistency and patience is key. You are not going to see results after just one use. So whether you are ingesting it in the form of a tincture or a tea, you should be sure that you are following the recommended dose and give it at least two weeks for results. I would also like to mention that I am not a doctor and you should always consult your physician before starting anything new.
- Burdock {Arctium Lappa} – Burdock is renowned for it’s ability to clear and remove toxins from the skin. If you are trying to combat eczema, psoriasis, or acne this herb may be a great option for you. With this herb, the roots are the most potent part so try and find burdock root if you can. Seeds and leaves can also be used but will be less potent. This herb also helps to lower toxicity from arthritis, stimulates the liver, promotes appetite, and aids in bloating associated with stress, anxiety, and food intolerances. Directions: Take 1 tsp per 1 C. Water decocted up to three times per day or 2-4 mL of a 1:5 tincture taken up to three times per day. Contraindications: This herb can have hypoglycemic actions and therefore should be avoided in diabetics.
- Nettle {Urtica Dioica} – Nettle cleanses and cools the skin of heat and toxins making it great for inflamed or irritated skin. For breast feeding mamas – Nettle also promotes milk flow so if your supply needs a boost then taking this herb will be a win win! Nettle also helps to ease symptoms of UTIs and arthritis and can be used to manage benign prostatic hyperplasia in men improving the flow of urine and reducing pain. Directions: 2-3 tsp of dried nettle leaf infused in 1 C. Water taken up to three times daily or 3-5mL of a 1:5 tincture taken up to three times per day. Contraindications: Do not take alongside anticoagulants.
- Marigold {Calendula Officinalis} – This is another herb that is great for cooling and clearing inflamed and irritated skin. On top of combating external fungal infections, it can also be used for deeper skin wounds and ulcers without the risk of abscess formation like you see with many other herbs. Marigold is also useful for it’s ability to increase lymphatic drainage, improve digestion and candida of the gut, and balance hormones helping with things such as PMS and painful or heavy menstrual cycles. With this herb, we use the flowers only. Directions: 1-2 tsp dried flowers per 1 C. boiled water taken up to three times per day or 2-4 mL of a 1:5 tincture taken up to three times per day. Contraindications: Avoid internal use during pregnancy.
- Chickweed {Stellaria Media}: Reduces itching, cools inflammation related to eczema, psoriasis, allergic reaction, and promoted healing of the skin. Is also great for dealing with GERD, IBS, and infections or inflammation of the respiratory and urinary tracts. The great thing about chickweed is, you may very well have this growing in your back yard! Directions: Infuse 1-2 tsp of dried herb in 1 C. cold water for a cold infusion and take up to three times per day or 2-4 mL of a 1:5 tincture taken up to three times per day. Contraindications: None!
External Use
Since the above herbs are for the skin they can be used externally in any of the following ways:
- Cool Compresses
- Bath
- Salve
- Infused Oil
- Tallow: Tallow is going to be my absolute top recommendation as it is going to lock in moisture, protect your skin from environmental factors as well as reduce inflammation. If you’re interested in rendering your own beef fat into tallow you can read more about that here.
- Jojoba: Is easily absorbed into the skin provided ample moisture without leaving the skin greasy.
- Rosehip: Full of antioxidants and fatty acids which help improve skin tone, texture, and hydration.
- Grapeseed: Helps balance oil production, a great option for those with oily or dry skin.
- Sweet Almond: Has Vitamin A and E and helps heal dry and irritated skin.
Subscribe to Our Newsletter
*This post contains affiliate links which I may earn a small commission from at no extra cost to you, thank you for your support*
