Evidence-based potential of some edible, medicinal and aromatic plants as safe cosmetics and cosmeceuticals

Abstract

According to complementary and alternative medicine which is based primarily on traditional or folkloric medicines of different world civilizations there is a constant growing interest on cosmetics and cosmeceuticals using botanical ingredients. Since ancient times, humans used distinctive natural ingredients as medicine or cosmetic products. Cosmetics alone are not sufficient for skin care. Active ingredients from natural or synthetic sources have been added to prevent and/or to treat damaged and ageing of the skin. Herbal cosmetics are more prevalent than synthetic ones. Since synthetic cosmetic products may cause severe skin damage, natural herbs are included directly in the skin care formulations. Usually plant based cosmetics are made using plants well known throughout history to be safe and side-effects free. Aromatic plants and fixed oils were mostly used by different civilizations in religious rituals, and for the care, cleansing and decoration of the skin to enhance beauty and to promote good health. Additionally, in most cases the herbs used in cosmetics contain antioxidants and anti-inflammatory ingredient that can alleviate skin problems like rashes or skin itching. Given the emphasis on the trend in the use of natural sources in the cosmetics industry, in this review, effective skin care properties of some herbs and plants and their evidence-based benefits in the skin care, as well as in solving a multitude of skin problems are discussed, the international nomenclature of the cosmetic ingredients of the parts used are also mentioned.