JUARA Skincare
JUARA Skincare

10 Herbs for the Skin and How to Use Them

Metta Murdaya -
Best Herbs For Skin Repair

Every year, more studies are published showing the power of herbs in supporting skin repair, regeneration, and overall health. But with so many different plants to choose from, you might not know where to start. That's why we've created this comprehensive guide to some of the most powerful herbs for the skin. 

Key Takeaways

  • Herbs have been used in skincare around the world for thousands of years.
  • Today, science has identified the bioactive ingredients that make many herbs such powerful skincare and wellness ingredients.
  • Different herbs have different potential benefits, which may make them more suitable for people with different skin types or skin needs.
  • Many herbs, like black tea and turmeric, can protect the skin from oxidative stress and help you maintain a glowing complexion.
  • Some herbs, like Aloe vera and chamomile, have even been shown to support skin repair and recovery.

See More: Are Coffee Grounds Good for the Skin?

The Science of Herbal Skincare

Metta Murdaya, co-founder of JUARASkincare, says:

"Many herbs have powerful bioactive ingredients that can support healthy skin and even support skin repair. That's why they've been used in skincare and wellness routines for thousands of years."

All around the world, people have been using herbs for skin health for generations. In Indonesia, for example, people have followed the herbal medicine and wellness tradition called Jamu for centuries. 

Jamu is rooted in restorative, ritualistic wellness practices that use natural ingredients to support and promote overall well-being. Today, the term Jamu is also commonly used to describe an herbal drink made from many of those natural ingredients, like ginger and turmeric. 

In recent decades, research has confirmed the potential benefits of dozens of time-tested herbal remedies. 

Different herbs provide different potential benefits. Some have powerful anti-inflammatory properties. Others are great for dry skin and skin irritation. A few have even been shown to aid in skin healing. 

Which herbs you choose, whether in a dedicated skincare product or through an at-home remedy, depends on your skin and its needs. After all, everyone's skin is different.

This list contains 10 of the most powerful herbs for skin to help you build your perfect and personalized herbal skincare regimen.

10 Natural Herbs for Skin Health 

#1. Turmeric

Turmeric isn't just a kitchen staple. Its active ingredient, Curcumin, has been found to have anti-inflammatory properties. And it's a powerful antioxidant.

For example, turmeric is widely used to help brighten skin.¹⁰ In that sense, it's like vitamin C.¹¹ Little wonder, then, that turmeric and vitamin C are often combined in botanical-based skincare serums.

Turmeric may also help protect the skin from sun damage. One 2025 scientific review noted that research suggests Curcumin can protect the skin from the damage caused by UV rays.¹² For example, one study found that turmeric extract helped prevent a reduction in skin elasticity and the formation of wrinkles caused by UVB exposure.¹³

person applying turmeric mask irritated skin dry skin conditions skin diseases skin care promoting hair growth

#2. Aloe Vera

When it comes to herbal skincare, few herbs are more well-known and widely used than Aloe vera. People have been using Aloe vera for thousands of years, from ancient Greece to India, Mexico to Japan, Egypt to China.¹

Today, various studies have confirmed the many benefits of Aloe vera.²

For example, Aloe vera is widely used to soothe irritated skin. You can use an Aloe vera gel or make some at home.³

Research suggests Aloe vera has many other potential benefits. One study found it can support wound healing. Another found it improves skin elasticity, reducing the appearance of wrinkles.

Bonus: The 10 Best Anti-Aging Creams for Your 50s

#3. Jasmine

Jasmine, a type of flowering plant, doesn't just smell great. It's also packed with powerful ingredients that can support skin health.

Research has found that jasmine can soothe inflamed skin and help fight acne.⁶ In one study, jasmine extract was found to have potent antioxidant effects, helping to protect the skin from oxidative stress.

Another study found that jasmine extract could help support aging skin. The extract promoted skin firmness and smoothness, and also helped reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

"What I like about it," dermatologist Dr. Arini Widodo says during a discussion with JUARA co-founder Metta Murdaya, “is that it helps to strengthen skin immunity … and defend [from] environmental damage."


JUARA offers two products centering jasmine, a body creme and perfume oil. Both combine this potent herb with other bioactive ingredients, like magnolia petals, candlenut oil, illipe butter, and more to help keep skin soft and smelling great. They’re two examples of how JUARA uses plant-derived ingredients often used in traditional medicine.

#4. Tea

Tea is one of the most potent herbs for skin health. Different kinds of tea provide different potential benefits.

Research has found that white tea can reduce inflammation and prevent collagen breakdown.¹⁴ Green tea is a common ingredient in acne treatments because it contains a polyphenolic compound that can help reduce excess oil production.¹⁵ Black teas contain tannins, which can protect the skin from environmental damage and lock in moisture.¹⁶

These are just three of the most popular types of tea. There are many more, each with their own potential benefits.

It’s even possible to combine multiple different teas into a single product. For example, JUARA’s Triple Tea Antioxidant Essence blends white, black, and green tea extracts.

Kombucha, or fermented black tea, is a powerful herbal ingredient used in natural skincare routines. Research has found that kombucha has antibacterial properties, making it a great option for tackling acne.¹⁷ Dermatologist Dendy Engelman says it's "excellent for balancing the skin's microbiome by promoting a healthy ratio of good bacteria."¹⁸

JUARA’s Sweet Black Tea and Rice Moisturizer blends kombucha with complementary bioactive ingredients like rice bran oil and five-flavor berry to protect and hydrate the skin barrier.

#5. Witch Hazel

Witch hazel, or Hamamelis virginiana, is a small tree or shrub native to Eastern North America. People have used it in herbal medicine for hundreds of years. It's used to soothe irritated skin, is applied to insect bites, and can help reduce inflammation.

A 2025 scientific review notes that multiple studies have confirmed witch hazel's anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, and antioxidant effects.¹⁹ For example, one 2024 study found that witch hazel can enhance skin barrier function and protect the skin from free radical damage.²⁰

#6. Gotu Kola

gotu kola leaves and tea reduce inflammation fungal infections blood circulation fatty acids reduce redness vitamin a skin care blood flow

Gotu kola is an herb in the parsley family that's played a central role in Ayurveda, the traditional Hindu system of medicine, for thousands of years. It's even nicknamed the "herb of longevity." ²¹

One of its chief uses is maintaining youthful skin.²² Research suggests it can inhibit enzymes that normally break down the skin, can support collagen production, and even protect skin cells from oxidative stress.²³

That makes gotu kola a powerful ingredient for skincare. It’s one of the central ingredients in JUARA’s Sensica Gentle Gel Cleanser. Here, it complements the cleansing and hydrating properties of sodium hyaluronate and ceramides. 

#7. Chamomile

Chamomile is often brewed into tea. But it's also a potent herbal skincare ingredient that can soothe sensitive skin, smooth rough skin, and support skin repair and regeneration.²⁴ 

In one fascinating study, chamomile demonstrated potent healing properties. Small wounds were created and infected with bacteria. Those treated with a chamomile ointment healed in 5.3 days on average, while those treated with antibiotics healed in 6.3 days.²⁵

#8. Rosemary

Rosemary is another herb known for its unique, pleasing scent. It's widely used in cooking, but is becoming an increasingly common herbal ingredient in natural skincare regimes. 

Research shows rosemary can help damaged skin and even reduce scarring.²⁶ One 2025 study found that rosemary can improve rough skin, reduce redness, and generally promote a radiant complexion.²⁷

#9. Lavender

bottle of lavender oil and lavender flowers healthy hair follicles potent anti inflammatory hair fall fatty acids

Lavender's fragrance is famous for its ability to soothe irritation and reduce stress. It's widely used in essential oils, candles, diffusers, and other similar products.²⁸

But lavender itself has the potential to support healthy skin. Lavender oil, for example, is a powerful antibacterial agent, making it great for treating acne. It's also used to help with skin problems like roughness, dryness, redness, and irritation.²⁹

#10. Ashwagandha

Ashwagandha is an ancient herb used in Ayurvedic medicine. It's an adaptogen, which means it can help the body manage stress.³⁰

It's also a potent skincare ingredient.³¹ Ashwagandha has been shown to help keep skin hydrated, tight, and plump.³²

One double-blind, placebo-controlled study found that Ashwagandha caused improvements in skin hydration and elasticity.³³

various herbs and bottles of oil with pestle on table hair growth skincare products skin conditions

Conclusion

Herbs have been used for thousands of years to promote healthy skin and overall wellness. Today, we have the benefit of hundreds of scientific studies confirming (and explaining) the many benefits of the plants our ancestors relied on.

The wide variety of herbs makes herbal skincare particularly powerful, as everyone's skin has its own unique needs. There are herbs that can help with oily skin and others that are great for supporting mature skin. Some herbs, like Aloe vera and chamomile, have shown promise in helping with skin injuries, while others, like black tea, have astringent properties that can help keep skin tight.

The herbs you use depend on your individual skin type and needs. Fortunately, there's no shortage of botanical products out there from which you can choose. 

Keep Reading: A Guide to Holistic Skincare in 2026

Frequently Asked Questions

What Herb Is Best For Healing Skin?

Several herbs have healing properties. Aloe vera, for example, has been shown to help soothe skin and support healing. Chamomile has also been shown to support skin repair.

What Is the Strongest Healing Herb?

There isn't necessarily one single "strongest" healing herb. Different herbs have different uses, and that's true when it comes to healing.

For example, Aloe vera is often used after sunburn because it's intensely hydrating and soothing. Meanwhile, chamomile has been shown to promote wound healing.

What Is a Natural Skin Healer?

Many herbs have healing properties and could therefore be considered natural skin healers. Aloe vera, chamomile, gotu kola, rosemary, witch hazel, and many more herbs have demonstrated healing properties in scientific studies and through anecdotal and historical evidence. 

The herb you choose depends on what kind of healing you're looking for. A herb that may help with skin infections, for example, might not be the best option for someone looking to soothe skin irritation. 

Sources

  1. ALOE VERA: A SHORT REVIEW - PMC
  2. Study on the application of Aloe vera in cosmetology and clinical treatment of skin diseases - ScienceDirect
  3. Aloe Vera: Health Benefits, Common Uses, Side Effects, and Risks
  4. The Effects of Aloe vera on Wound Healing in Cell Proliferation, Migration, and Viability
  5. Dietary Aloe Vera Supplementation Improves Facial Wrinkles and Elasticity and It Increases the Type I Procollagen Gene Expression in Human Skin in vivo
  6. Analysing the Impact of Jasminum sambac in Cosmetic Applications: A Comprehensive Review
  7. Jasminum sambac Cell Extract as Antioxidant Booster against Skin Aging - PMC
  8. Jasmine rice panicle: A safe and efficient natural ingredient for skin aging treatments - PubMed
  9. Why is Turmeric Good for Your Skin? – JUARA Skincare
  10. Can Turmeric Serum Remove Dark Spots?
  11. Turmeric’s Unexpected Benefits, According to Doctors | Vogue
  12. Curcumin: a potential anti-photoaging agent
  13. Effects of a turmeric extract (Curcuma longa) on chronic ultraviolet B irradiation-induced skin damage in melanin-possessing hairless mice - ScienceDirect
  14. The 4 Best Teas for Skin Health | SkinMindBalance
  15. Benefits of Green Tea for Skin: Acne, Skin Cancer, and Others
  16. Tea in Skin Care: 7 Types for a Healthy Complexion
  17. Kombucha benefits, risks and regulatory frameworks: A review - ScienceDirect
  18. 4 Benefits Of Kombucha Skincare
  19. Hamamelis virginiana L. in Skin Care: A Review of Its Pharmacological Properties and Cosmetological Applications
  20. Revealing the Therapeutic Potential: Investigating the Impact of a Novel Witch Hazel Formula on Anti‐Inflammation and Antioxidation
  21. Getting to Know Gotu Kola: The Ayurvedic Herb for Longevity & Glowing Skin – Paavani Ayurveda
  22. The Beauty Benefits of Gotu Kola (Centella Asiatica) – JUARA Skincare
  23. The Anti-Aging Benefits of Gotu Kola | LearnSkin
  24. Chamomile: A herbal medicine of the past with bright future - PMC , Unwind with Beauty: Exploring Chamomile’s Cosmetic Values
  25. A Comprehensive Study of Therapeutic Applications of Chamomile - PMC
  26. Study says rosemary in skincare trend is worth the hype | Penn Medicine
  27. A Single-center, Double-blinded, Randomized, Placebo-controlled Trial Evaluating the Safety and Efficacy of a Dietary Supplement Containing Rosemary Extract on Visible Facial Skin Quality - PMC
  28. 6 Lavender Benefits and How To Use It
  29. Lavender Oil for Skin: Uses and Benefits
  30. Ashwagandha: Is it helpful for stress, anxiety, or sleep? - Health Professional Fact Sheet
  31. The Real Beauty Benefits of Ashwagandha in Skincare
  32. 9 Ashwagandha Benefits for the Skin , 10 Benefits of Ashwagandha for Skin and Hair | Forest Essentials
  33. A Study of Efficacy and Safety of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) Lotion on Facial Skin in Photoaged Healthy Adults

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Juara Skincare incorporates ancient rituals with Western skincare science, creating the ultimate beauty experience. We aim to transport you from the mundane to the extraordinary with our exotic ingredients, intoxicating scents, and powerful, skin-improving formulas. All of our products are nutrient-rich and botanically based. We are proud to be certified cruelty-free. Get the latest skin care tips and info on Juara products by learning more about our founders and following us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and Pinterest.

Metta Murdaya Headshot

Metta Murdaya

Co-founder and CEO

Metta Murdaya is co-founder and CEO of JUARA Skincare, a skincare and beauty company inspired by the Indonesian wellness traditions of Jamu. Her award-winning book, Jamu Lifestyle, captures the essence of the Jamu philosophy, emphasizing the power of healthy, intentional, and joyful living. Guided by a deep commitment to societal betterment, Metta inspires individuals to thrive in mind, body, and spirit. As a wellness speaker and retreat guide, she contributes to the Global Wellness Institute’s Aesthetic Health Initiative and serves on the board of Mentari, supporting trafficking prevention and education initiatives in Indonesia and wellness programs in the U.S.