Herbal cosmetics use natural plant-based ingredients to promote skin health, enhance beauty and improve overall wellness. They are preferred for their safety, minimal side effects and long-term benefits. Below is a brief and clear explanation of the sources, major chemical constituents, commercial preparations and therapeutic or cosmetic uses of popular herbal cosmetic ingredients such as Aloe vera gel, Almond oil, Lavender oil, Olive oil, Rosemary oil and Sandalwood oil.
1. Aloe Vera Gel
Source: Obtained from the leaves of Aloe barbadensis (Family: Liliaceae).
Chemical Constituents: Polysaccharides (acemannan), vitamins, enzymes, amino acids, anthraquinones.
Therapeutic & Cosmetic Uses:
- Moisturises and hydrates the skin
- Reduces inflammation and sunburn
- Promotes wound healing
- Effective in acne, rashes and minor burns
- Used in hair gels and scalp treatments
Commercial Preparations: Aloe gel, Aloe creams, Aloe face washes, soothing lotions, hair gels.
2. Almond Oil
Source: Obtained from seeds of Prunus amygdalus (Family: Rosaceae).
Chemical Constituents: Oleic acid, linoleic acid, vitamin E, proteins and minerals.
Therapeutic & Cosmetic Uses:
- Nourishes dry and sensitive skin
- Reduces dark circles and puffiness
- Strengthens hair and promotes shine
- Improves complexion and reduces blemishes
- Used in baby oils and massage oils
Commercial Preparations: Almond massage oil, almond shampoo, baby oils, moisturising creams.
3. Lavender Oil
Source: Extracted from flowers of Lavandula angustifolia (Family: Lamiaceae).
Chemical Constituents: Linalool, linalyl acetate, cineole and tannins.
Therapeutic & Cosmetic Uses:
- Calms the skin and reduces irritation
- Used in aromatherapy for relaxation
- Helps treat acne, eczema and inflammation
- Promotes hair growth and reduces dandruff
- Natural fragrance in perfumes and soaps
Commercial Preparations: Essential oils, lavender soaps, body mists, aromatic candles, shampoos.
4. Olive Oil
Source: Fruits of Olea europaea (Family: Oleaceae).
Chemical Constituents: Oleic acid, squalene, polyphenols, vitamin E.
Therapeutic & Cosmetic Uses:
- Deep moisturiser for dry skin
- Strengthens hair and reduces split ends
- Protects skin from oxidative damage
- Used in anti-ageing creams and soaps
- Softens cuticles and treats cracked heels
Commercial Preparations: Olive oil soaps, moisturising creams, hair conditioners, lip balms.
5. Rosemary Oil
Source: Leaves and flowering tops of Rosmarinus officinalis (Family: Lamiaceae).
Chemical Constituents: Cineole, camphor, borneol, rosmarinic acid.
Therapeutic & Cosmetic Uses:
- Improves blood circulation in the scalp
- Promotes hair growth and reduces hair fall
- Antiseptic and antioxidant properties
- Refreshes skin and reduces oiliness
- Used in massage oils for muscle pain relief
Commercial Preparations: Hair growth oils, shampoos, face cleansers, herbal massage oils.
6. Sandalwood Oil
Source: Wood of Santalum album (Family: Santalaceae).
Chemical Constituents: Alpha- and beta-santalol.
Therapeutic & Cosmetic Uses:
- Cooling and soothing effect on skin
- Reduces acne, blemishes and pigmentation
- Anti-inflammatory and antiseptic activity
- Used in perfumes for long-lasting fragrance
- Ideal for sensitive or irritated skin
Commercial Preparations: Sandalwood face packs, oils, soaps, perfumes, creams and lotions.
