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| hair products to treat dandruff and even head lice. When neem is added to skin and hair products, it has strong preservative properties which help to extend shelf life. |
| Nettle (Urtica dioica) |
| The above-ground portions of nettle are used for their astringent, nutritive and stimulating properties. Nettle is included in facial steams and cleansers, especially for oily skin, and is added to shampoos and conditioners to treat dandruff and hair loss. The growing plant can cause a stinging rash due to the presence of formic acid and histamine; however the dried or heated plant has no such effect. When used internally as a tea, tincture or in capsules nettle is an excellent herb to strengthen hair, skin and nails due to its high concentration of nutrients, including calcium, iron, silica and beta-carotene. It is used internally for the treatment of acne, boils and eczema and helps to improve circulation. |
| Nutmeg (Myristica fragrans) |
| Nutmeg kernels are used for their anti-inflammatory, aphrodisiac, astringent and circulatory stimulant properties. Nutmeg is incorporated into salves to treat eczema, ringworm and scars. The essential oil is used in lotions, soaps and perfumes and added to massage oils to soothe sore muscles. It is also a popular ingredient in aftershaves. |
| Oregon Grape (Mahonia repens) |
| The root and root bark of Oregon grape are primarily used internally as teas, tinctures or in capsules for their antiseptic properties to treat conditions such as acne, boils, eczema, herpes and impetigo. It is also made into a salve for itchy skin, boils, wounds and various skin infections. |
| Orris (Iris florentina) |
| Native to southern Europe, North Africa and India, the peeled rhizome of orris is used in cosmetics for its aro- |
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