5 ayurvedic herbs to try for glowy skin

Ayurveda has been used as a form of medicine in India for centuries. While used to improve overall health, it also helps to give you better-looking skin. Here are five ayurvedic herbs to try.

1. Turmeric

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This powerful herb gives skin a natural glow and reduces acne, pigmentation and skin inflammation.

It has antibacterial properties and slows down the aging process too. Take it as a supplement or use it directly on your skin as a night cream - make a paste from turmeric and milk or yogurt and apply onto your face; wash it off in the morning using a gentle cleanser.

2. Aloe Vera

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It might be a common ingredient in skincare products today but aloe vera has been used as an ayurvedic herb for ages.

The gel has a cooling effect on skin and reduces inflammation. It's also useful in treating skin problems such as acne, rashes, burns and pigmentation.

Apply aloe vera gel directly onto skin as a cream to keep skin hydrated and radiant.

3. Saffron

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Particularly useful for lightening the skin, saffron is also a must for radiant skin.

Soak some saffron strands in water; when the water turns a shade of yellow, add in olive oil and raw milk. Stir the mixture and apply it onto your face using a cotton ball. After 15 minutes, wash it off with cold water.

Do this at least three times a week and your skin will be glowing in no time.

4. Almond Oil

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This makes your skin glow and keeps it hydrated as it's loaded with vitamin E.

If you have dry, itchy skin, it soothes and moisturises it. If you have chapped lips, put a bit of almond oil on it and it'll work quicker than using a lip balm.

A welcome benefit is how it helps get rid of dark circles. Put a drop of almond oil underneath your eyes in the morning and at night and the dark circles and puffiness will soon disappear.

Do note that you shouldn't use this if you have a nut allergy.

5. Cucumber

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Because it contains 90 per cent water, cucumber keeps your skin hydrated. It cools and nourishes the skin, covers wrinkles and fine lines, and has anti-aging properties too.

Place raw cucumber slices onto affected areas of skin to rejuvenate it.

Make a mask with shredded cucumber (chill before use for best effect) or mix the juice with aloe vera or rose water. And it works wonders for dark circles - place a slice over each eye for up to 10 minutes.

It also soothes tired eyes, an especially useful remedy for those of us who stare at computer screens all day.

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