Irritated skin? Eczema? Acne? Bumpy Skin? One of the herbs I use and love is Alkanet Root Powder, because it will naturally soothe irritated skin.
Some know alkanet root as a soap additive to add a pretty natural purple or blue color to their soap. Traditionally it was used to brighten the color of some wines, give corks an aged look, or even to dye clothing. But did you know that you can soothe eczema and detox with alkanet?
Alkanet is actually a beautiful violet looking plant with fuzzy leaves and stem. Like many beneficial plants, it is not to be taken internally, but along with being a dye, it has been used traditionally to soothe itching or irritated skin.
It is also considered an astringent or blood purifier, and considered a detoxing agent because of this.
There has not been a lot of scientific study done on alkanet root , so I cannot give you lab tested evidence. Yet, I can give you experienced evidence. My niece and my brother-in-law (different sides of the family) have struggled with eczema. Both of them experienced tremendous relief after using cold processed soap or shampoo bars containing alkanet root powder. I’m sure just using a natural soap verses a chemically filled soap had its own soothing effect on the skin. Yet, I spoke with another soap maker last year who said she had testimony after testimony of people who said her alkanet root soap helped to soothe their irritated skin.
How Can You Use Alkanet Root Today?
1) Make Cold Processed Soap. I would highly recommend it to soap makers and those looking for soothing soap or soap for sensitive skin. See Homemade Soap for Recipes.
2) Add a small amount to your lotion – obviously in this method you cannot add a lot because you will dye your skin pink. But you can add a small amount of alkanet root powder and still get the benefits without the color.
3) Infuse Oil – Place 1 Tbsp alkanet root in 4 oz oil of choice (sweet almond, olive, grapeseed). Let it steep for a week then strain and rub over irritated skin.
4) Combine alkanet root powder with Arrow root powder for a homemade blush. See Natural Beauty for more recipes.
You can also Buy Lavender Soap with Alkanet Root Powder from My Shop
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