While best known as a culinary herb, basil (Ocimum basilicum) also has some impressive benefits for the skin. Research shows that antioxidant rich basil can help to smooth & hydrate skin and reduce wrinkles (Singletary, 2018). It also provides protection from sun damage (Kale et al., 2010). It is antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory and can be helpful for treating acne (Yarnell & Abascal, 2006).
Because of these skin loving properties, basil is a lovely addition to cosmetics. Combined with antimicrobial tea tree, astringent witch hazel extract, and soothing aloe it makes a facial toner that is particularly well suited for balancing oily and acne-prone skin.
One study that compared tea tree (Melaleuca alternifolia) with benzoyl peroxide, a common ingredient in acne cleansers, spot treatments, and gels, found that it was equally as effective at treating acne and was significantly less irritating to the skin (Yarnell & Abascal, 2006).
Witch hazel (Hamamelis virginiana) extract helps to reduce skin inflammation and redness. It cleanses the skin and absorbs excess oil, which can help to prevent breakouts.
Aloe (Aloe vera) is gently toning, mildly astringent, and helps to balance the pH of skin. Its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties make it beneficial for preventing and soothing acne.
Ingredients:
Basil infused witch hazel —
- Fresh basil
- Witch hazel
Balancing Basil Facial Toner —
- 30ml witch hazel extract infused with basil
- 20ml tea tree hydrosol
- 1 tsp aloe vera gel
Directions:
To make the basil infused witch hazel extract—
Fill a jar 3/4 full with fresh basil leaves. Pour in the witch hazel extract, leaving a little bit of headspace at the top of the jar. The leaves should be fully submerged.
Cap the jar and give it a good shake. Stash it out of direct sunlight to infuse, shaking it as often as you remember. Let steep for 4 weeks, then strain out the plant matter and rebottle the infused witch hazel.
To make Balancing Basil Facial Toner—
Combine the basil infused witch hazel, tea tree hydrosol, and aloe vera gel in a spray bottle. Shake to combine.
To use: Shake well before each use. Spritz onto face and gently rub onto skin with your fingers, a cloth, or a cotton ball. Finish with your favorite moisturizer.
References
Kale, Surendra & Sonawane, A. & Ansari, A. & Ghoge, P. & Waje, A. (2010). Formulation and in- vitro determination of sun protection factor of Ocimum basilicum, Linn. leaf oils sunscreen cream. International Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences. 2. 147-149.
Singletary, Keith W. PhD. (2018). Basil: A Brief Summary of Potential Health Benefits. Nutrition Today 53(2):p 92-97, 3/4. DOI: 10.1097/NT.0000000000000267
Yarnell, Eric & Abascal, Kathy. (2006). Herbal Medicine for Acne Vulgaris. Alternative and Complementary Therapies. 12. 303-309. 10.1089/act.2006.12.303.
