Herbs for oily skin

Witch hazel

It is an excellent herb for absorbing excess oil from the skin. It is antibacterial in nature. It is a good astringent. It is also commonly uses in aftershaves and mouthwashes. It is used in creams for treating pigmented skin and also clears blemishes. With hazel water, lotion and ointment is easily available on all leading drugstores.

Lemongrass contains an essential oil. This oil is sherry coloured with a pungent taste and lemon like odour with citral as the principal constituent. The plant can be used for sauna facial two- three times a week.

Licorice has long history as a rejuvenating herb in Ayurveda. It has a harmonizing action in the body and in herbal formulas. Licorice has the ability to reduce infection and fight viral growth. It is best suited for oily skin as it absorbs the excess oil and makes the skin soft and smooth. It also promotes the growth of naturally occurring antibodies in the body.

It contains a high content of protein, calcium and vitamin A. The leaves of neem are antiseptic and are good for the oily skin suffering from boils and pimples. The bark of neem is commonly used as datum to clean teeth and tongue. They prevent rotting by moths and worms and can be used to line woolens and silk clothes in trunks and cupboards.

Essential oils

It contains vitamin A and C, calcium, potassium and menthol. It is the most widely used of all aromatic herbs. Peppermint essential is used for flavouring chewing gum, candy and mints. The essential oil is used in various skin lotions and bathing soaps that provides a cooling and refreshing feeling to the oily skin.

Diet for oily skin

Diet is also one of the important factors in controlling the production of excess oils from the sebaceous glands of the skin. The individuals with oily skin should avoid fried foods, junk foods, soft drinks, sugar and chocolates. The intake of fat in the diet should also be reduced to minimum. The fluid intake should be increased to flush out the toxins from the body and to keep the skin hydrated. The diet should include proteins, fresh fruits and green leafy vegetables.