Grow these magical herbs at home for an organic beauty and health regime. By Blossom Kochhar
Tne great thing about growing herbs at home is that if preserved, they live longer even after the plants are gone. The reason herbs exude aroma is because they contain essential oil - substances found in flowers' seeds, bark, grains, roots and leaves. These essential oils contain the vital energy of the plants and thus can have healing and powerful effect on your body, mind and emotions. let's concentrate on four amazing herbs namely - Carnation, Tuberose, Frankincense and Ylang Ylang to understand how effectively they can work for hair and skin.
Carnation: Known as the flower of gods (local name clove pink), carnation has its origin in Greece, being cultivated for at least 2,000 years now. The flower aids in reinstating and balancing natural hormones in women with nervous conditions. A perfect homeopathic remedy at home to treat fever, stomach aches and chest congestions. In oil form, it acts like a conditioner for skin.
HOT TIP: Simmer some carnation leaves in water and use this solution to wash your skin. Make your own cleansing creams and lotions from this herb as it cleanses and moisturises the skin.
Ylang Ylang: An aphrodisiac, Ylang Ylang can be used as bath oil and controls anxiety, tension and high blood pressure. It stimulates hair growth and can be used as a conditioner.
HOT TIP: You can use ylang ylang for hot oil treatment. Mix 3-4 drops of ylang ylang oil in 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil, heat this mixture and apply to your hair. You can also massage by mixing it in any carrier oil of your choice, the concoction is a natural hair loss treatment.
Frankincense: Acknowledged for its antiseptic and deodorising nature, frankincense is used in perfumes and incensed sticks. Mix frankincense oil in floral water and apply on skin for that smooth and soft feel. It helps in removing acne, stretch and surgery marks while rejuvenating the skin. For dandruff, it's a perfect treatment if used regularly.
HOT TIP: To disinfect your home, add a couple of frankincense oil drops in baking soda and lemon essential oil and scrub your kitchen sink. See how smoothly it removes all the grease leaving it squeaky clean and incensed. You can try the same method for keeping your fridge odour-free by adding a few drops of oil in water.
Tuberose: Though not a very popular herb, Tuberose (also called Night Queen or Raat ki Rani) has beautiful aroma and only blooms at night.
You can use this flower as a deodorant, a stress buster and even apply on inflammation. It also stimulates and increases blood circulation, especially in winters. Tuberose is excellent for smoothening hair and keeps them frizz-free, giving a natural sheen.
HOT TIP: The oil extracted from this flower soothes frayed nerves stimulating blood circulation. Add 2-3 drops of tuberose oil in your bathing water and take a warm aromatic bath. Use tuberose essential oil as a massage blend to treat dry skin in winters.