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Page 57
| Herbs for Skin, Hair and Nails |
| Alfalfa (Medicago sativa) |
| The above ground portion of this herb is used for its anti-inflammatory, nutritive and tonic properties. Use as a tea internally to treat itchy skin. In cosmetics alfalfa is included in facial steams for normal skin, as a soothing bath herb and a strengthening hair rinse due to its high protein content. It is also included in poultices to treat wounds. Alfalfa is rich in chlorophyll, which promotes wound healing, is naturally deodorizing and helps prevent infection. Some people may exhibit sensitivity to this plant and should avoid it. |
| Aloe vera (Aloe vera) |
| Known for the gelatinous substance in its leaves, aloe is appreciated for its cooling and healing qualities and is reputed to have been one of Cleopatra's beauty secrets. Aloe is useful as an anti-inflammatory, antifungal, demulcent, emollient and rejuvenative. It is used topically to treat conditions such as acne, boils, burns, dandruff, eczema, herpes, insect bites, poison ivy and oak, psoriasis, ringworm, scars, sunburn and wounds. It is found in lotions, moisturizers, salves, soaps, sprays, toners, shampoos and conditioners. |
| Anise seeds (Pimpinella anisum) |
| An anti-inflammatory agent as well as a mild stimulant, anise has a pleasant licorice-like aroma. It is often included |
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