This wonder ingredient can transform your skin; find out how

It is an excellent skin care plant that is high in critical nutrients such as vitamins A, C, and K, as well as manganese, copper, calcium, iron, magnesium, and omega-3 fats

The plant has a rich history of medicinal and spiritual importance in Indian culture. For centuries, it has been used in Ayurvedic medicine to treat several ailments and is also considered to be holy in Hindu religion. (Source: Freepik)

Tulsi, also known as basil, is a plant with numerous benefits. It is used in cooking as well as in various skin care products for its ability to transform the skin and give it a healthy glow. The plant also has a rich history of medicinal and spiritual importance in Indian culture; for centuries, it has been used in Ayurvedic medicine to treat several ailments and is considered to be holy in the Hindu religion.

Dr Trupti D. Agarwal, Trichologist and Aesthetic Dermatologist, Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital, Mumbai said, “Fresh basil is an excellent skin care plant since it is high in critical nutrients such as vitamins A, C, and K, as well as manganese, copper, calcium, iron, magnesium, and omega-3 fats.”

Here are some ways basil leaves can revolutionise your skincare routine, according to the expert:

Reduces signs of ageing

While ageing is a natural process, its effects can be mitigated through diet and lifestyle changes. Packed with antioxidants, basil is an excellent anti-ageing ingredient. It can prevent skin damage from free radicals, which heightens the ageing process. Its anti-inflammatory properties help in reducing redness and irritation, which are contributors to ageing. By using basil leaves, you can get youthful skin.

Treats acne

Basil leaves have natural anti-fungal and anti-bacterial contents which make them a great treatment for acne. The leaves can also aid eliminate germs that cause acne breakouts. The plant can also mitigate other factors of acne such as clogged pores and inflammation. Dr Agarwal said, “It also acts as an astringent, which helps to absorb excess oil and moisture and reduce existing acne.”

You can prepare a homemade face pack by combining neem and basil leaves in a grinder and adding some honey to the mixture. It can help keep excess sebum production under control which causes the worsening of acne.

Evens out skin tone

Containing high levels of vitamin C, basil leaves act as a natural skin-brightening ingredient. Vitamin C lessens the appearance of hyperpigmentation and dark spots, in turn, evening out the skin tone.

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You can use tulsi powder, lime juice, and a tablespoon of honey to smoothen out the skin.

You can restore the moisture content of the skin by using basil leave extract or oil. (Source: Freepik)

Hydrating

Due to its moisturising properties, basil leaves help make the skin soft and plump. It also contains essential oils which are excellent for nourishing dehydrated and dry skin. You can restore the moisture content of the skin by using basil leaf extract or oil.

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Relieves skin irritation

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Basil leaves contain eugenol, a compound with anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties that help soothe skin and reduce redness. Rich in antioxidants, it can also protect the skin from environmental stressors such as sun damage and pollution. By washing the leaves and mixing them with fresh white yoghurt, you can purify the skin.

Additionally, Dr Agarwal said, “The calming properties of basil leaves aid in the treatment of eczema, while its vitamin C content improves the metabolism and suppleness of skin cells.”

However, the expert noted that basil includes estragole, a substance that has been linked to liver cancer in experimental mice. “Basil oils and extracts may decrease blood coagulation and increase the risk of bleeding in persons who have bleeding problems, therefore, it should be used with caution.”

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