Basil for Skin: 7 Ways to Use It

Basil, a popular herb used in Italian and Thai cuisine, is also an effective skin care ingredient. If you’ve been wanting to add a fresh, natural twist to your skin care routine, try using basil for your skin. Rich in antioxidants and essential oils, basil offers a natural and effective solution to a variety of skin concerns. From fighting acne and reducing inflammation to promoting a youthful glow, basil has become a versatile and valuable addition to skin care routines. Learn about the benefits of basil for skin and how to use it to get glowing skin.

What is basil?

Basil belongs to the genus Ocimum and is scientifically known as Ocimum basilicum. It is an aromatic herbaceous plant widely used in cooking and traditional medicine. It belongs to the mint family and is known for its characteristic aroma and taste, according to a study published in the journal Essential Oils in Food Preservation. The leaves, which are the most commonly used part of the plant, are oval-shaped and bright green. There are many types of basil, each with its own unique flavor profile. Some of the most popular are:

• The most common type is sweet basil, known for its mild, sweet flavor.
• Thai basil has a pungent, licorice-like flavor.
• Lemon basil has a citrusy flavor.
• Cinnamon basil has a warm and spicy flavor with hints of cinnamon.

“Basil leaves are also beneficial for the skin due to their rich content of antioxidants and essential oils. These compounds work together to provide various benefits to the skin,” says dermatologist Dr. Manoj Sethi.

5 Benefits of Basil for Skin

Basil leaves, commonly used in various cuisines, also provide significant benefits to your skin. Here is a list of the top basil benefits for skin:

1. Rich in antioxidants

Basil leaves are a natural source of antioxidants, a study published in the journal found. Journal of Functional Foodsin particular eugenol and camphor. These components help protect the skin from the harmful effects of free radicals. Free radicals are highly reactive molecules that can damage skin cells, leading to a number of skin problems. When free radicals damage skin cells, oxidative stress occurs, which can lead to premature aging, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation. The antioxidants in its leaves help prevent oxidative stress and maintain healthy skin, protecting it from environmental damage and aging.

2. Has high anti-inflammatory properties.

“Basil leaves are rich in anti-inflammatory properties like linalool, which helps soothe irritated skin and reduce redness and swelling. This makes basil especially beneficial for people with acne-prone skin. Acne breakouts are often accompanied by inflammation, which can lead to redness, swelling, and even scarring,” says the expert. By reducing inflammation, it can help relieve acne symptoms and prevent long-term skin damage, as found in a study published in the journal Industrial crops and productsThis makes basil a natural and effective remedy for those looking to improve skin health and reduce acne.

3. Rich in antibacterial properties.

“Basil has antibacterial properties that make it a valuable ally in the fight against acne. Acne is often caused by an overgrowth of Propionibacterium acne, a type of bacteria that thrives in pores. By targeting and killing this bacteria, basil can help prevent acne and make the skin clearer. It can help minimize the danger of infection and can also help avoid other skin conditions, including boils and abscesses,” says the expert. This makes basil a natural and effective choice for those looking to improve their skin health and get brighter skin.

4. Promotes wound healing.

Basil leaves are not only effective in treating acne and reducing inflammation, but they also have wound-healing properties. Compounds present in basil can help speed up the skin’s natural healing process, making it useful for treating minor injuries such as cuts, scrapes, and abrasions. By promoting healing, this herb can help reduce the risk of infection and scarring, according to a study published in the journal MoleculesRegular use of basil can help improve the appearance of existing scars, making your skin smoother. It can also help you fight acne, inflammation, wound healing, and scarring.

5. Gives skin a glow

Hyperpigmentation, which occurs when there is excess melanin in the skin, can lead to dark spots and uneven skin tone. “Basil contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties that can help brighten your skin and reduce hyperpigmentation. It targets the underlying causes hyperpigmentation and makes your skin glow and improves its overall appearance,” the expert explains. Regular use of basil-based products can help exfoliate the skin, remove dead skin cells, and reveal a smoother, softer texture. This can lead to younger, more beautiful skin.

How to use basil for skin?

Here are some effective and easy ways to use basil for skin, suggested by an expert.

1. Basil and honey mask

Ingredients:

• A handful of basil leaves
• 1 tablespoon basil leaves

Method:

• Mix crushed basil leaves and 1 tablespoon honey in a bowl to create a mask with soothing and moisturizing properties that can reduce inflammation.
• Apply the mask gently onto your skin.
• Leave for 10-15 minutes.
• Rinse with warm water.

2. Basil Toner

Ingredients:

• A handful of basil leaves
• Water

Method:

• Boil basil leaves in hot water, let cool and use as a wonderful refreshing skin toner.
• After cleansing your face, pat it dry with a towel.
• Gently spray the toner onto your face and massage with your fingertips.

3. Basil and lemon scrub

Ingredients:

• A handful of basil leaves
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon sugar

Method:

• Combine chopped basil, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, and 1 tablespoon sugar of your choice to create a scrub that hydrates and exfoliates skin for a glowing complexion.
• Apply the product to your skin and rub it across your face with your fingertips.
• Rinse with warm water.

Read also: 7 Reasons Why Holy Basil or Tulsi Is Good for Your Health

4. Basil and yogurt mask

Ingredients:

• A handful of basil leaves
• 1 tablespoon yogurt

Method:

• Mix basil and 1 tablespoon of yogurt to create a mask that moisturizes, nourishes, and soothes dry skin.
• Apply to skin.
• Leave for 10-15 minutes.
• Rinse with warm water.

5. Basil infused oil

Ingredients:

• A handful of basil leaves
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil

Method:

• Soak basil leaves in 1 tablespoon of coconut oil to make a moisturizer for dehydrated skin.
• Apply to skin.
• Leave for 10-15 minutes.
• Rinse with warm water.

6. Basil and turmeric paste

Ingredients:

• A handful of basil leaves
• 1 tablespoon turmeric powder

Method:

• Mix crushed basil and turmeric to make a paste that can hide pimples and reduce inflammation for various skin diseases.
• Apply gently onto skin.
• Leave for 10-15 minutes.
• Rinse with warm water.

7. Steamed basil

Ingredients:

Method:

• Boil basil leaves and then steam the leaves on your skin to open up your pores and moisturize at the same time.

Are there any side effects of basil leaves?

As the expert notes, basil is generally safe, but some people may experience some side effects.

• People who are allergic to basil may experience skin rash, itching, or other allergic symptoms when using it.
• Applying basil-based products to sensitive, damaged or scabby skin may cause irritation.
• Overuse of basil-based products can strip your skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness and flaking.
• Some basil products may make your skin more sensitive to sunlight, increasing risk of sunburn or other skin damage.
• Overuse of basil can disrupt the skin's natural balance over time and lead to unwanted changes.

What to keep in mind!

• Before applying a new basil mask, test for allergic reactions.
• Dilute concentrated basil oils or extracts with a carrier oil, such as coconut or jojoba oil, before applying them directly to the skin.
• Use basil-based products sparingly and avoid using them too often.
• Take precautions to protect your skin from sunlight if the products you use contain photosensitizing ingredients.

By following these guidelines, you can safely enjoy the benefits of basil for your skin while minimizing the risk of side effects. Also, consult your doctor before incorporating any of these products into your beauty regimen.