Herbs and the Skin Flashcards
What are some of the harmful ingredients found in commercial body care products?
Aluminum Coal Tar Dye DEA (diethanolamine), MEA (monoethanolamine), and TEA (triethanolamine): Isopropyl alcohol: FD&C color pigments: Fragrance/perfume/parfum: Nano or micronized ingredients: Palm oil: Phthalates: Triclosan: Formaldehyde: Retinyl palmitate:
What is the relationship between the skin and the liver?
if the liver isn’t operating at 100%, the body attempts to eliminate toxins through other channels, including the skin. This can show up as itching, blotchiness, eczema, acne, rashes and other irritations.
What are the main functions of the skin?
The skin protects the body from its environment, including from ultraviolet radiation and many microorganisms. The skin also regulates our internal temperature, excretes waste, guards against dehydration, and aids in the production of vitamin D. With its many sense receptors, the skin also allows us to feel and sense what is going on in our external environment.
What role does the skin play in detoxing the body?
Along with sweat and sebum, the skin excretes waste from the body. In fact, the skin is an important organ in detoxifying the body—hair follicles and sebaceous glands are very similar to the liver in the way that they process fats and hormones.
What are the 3 layers of skin?
Epidermis: The epidermis is the skin’s surface. Here, multiple layers of cells (also known as the epithelium) create a protective layer over the dermis and the hypodermis.
Dermis: The dermis contains connective tissue (tissue that connects, supports, or surrounds other tissues and organs), sweat glands, which secrete sweat (a salty fluid) to cool the body off, hair follicles, sebaceous glands, which secrete sebum (a fatty mixture that is meant to lubricate the skin and hair), muscles that pull the hair follicles into a vertical position to create goose bumps, nerve endings that monitor the external environment, and blood vessels.
Hypodermis: The hypodermis is a layer of adipose tissue (fat cells) that helps to keep the body insulated.
What is Eczema?
Eczema is a common skin condition characterized by inflammation of the skin and sometimes redness, swelling, oozing, scaling, and/or itching.
What is Psoriasis?
Psoriasis is a chronic and recurrent skin condition characterized by dry, well-circumscribed, silvery, scaling papules and plaques of various sizes (Das, 2017).
Is Eczema and Psoriasis caused by external or internal imbalances?
Sometimes eczema and psoriasis arise from external causes (e.g., soaps, dyes, and chemicals), but are often due to internal imbalances
Which herbal actions are used to support Eczema and Psoriasis?
Because these conditions are caused by internal imbalances, they can be ameliorated with nervous system, digestive system, and/or immune system support.
nervine, bitter, and immune-modulating herbs,
Alterative, antipruritic, and anti-inflammatory herbs are all useful for eczema and psoriasis.
Vulneraries may also be useful to support the healing of skin lesions;
emollients can be used to soothe the skin;
astringents are helpful in reducing weeping/oozing..
What is a common formula for eczema?
This tincture can be taken long-term to address the internal aspects of eczema. As mentioned above, this formula can be individualized by adding herbal support for areas of weakness in the individual (e.g., nervines, digestive bitters, and immune tonics).
Ingredients
20 mL (0.7 fl oz) cleavers (Galium aparine) aboveground parts tincture 20 mL (0.7 fl oz) nettle (Urtica dioica) leaf tincture 20 mL (0.7 fl oz) red clover (Trifolium pratense) aerial parts tincture
Directions
Combine tinctures in a dark-colored 60 mL (2 fl oz) glass bottle.
Suggested usage is up to 5 mL, 3x/day.
What causes Acne?
Related to hormone fluctuations, high levels of inflammation in the body, and a variety of other internal disharmonies.
What external support can be used for Acne?
sebum, dirt, or any other substance that can clog pores can exacerbate acne. Once a pore is clogged, bacteria can replicate and form pus. In this case, antimicrobial herbs can be used to keep the bacterial population on the skin in check. Astringent herbs can also be helpful to tighten pores before they become clogged, and anti-inflammatory herbs may also be helpful in reducing inflammation and minimizing redness.
What is a common formula used for the internal support of Acne?
This tincture includes many of the common herbs that are used internally in cases of acne. This formula can be used as-is or adjusted to fit the constitution and/or specific presentation of acne of the individual taking it.
Ingredients
20 mL (0.7 fl oz) burdock (Arctium lappa) root tincture 20 mL (0.7 fl oz) Oregon grape (Berberis aquifolium) root tincture 20 mL (0.7 fl oz) cleavers (Galium aparine) aboveground parts tincture
Directions
Combine tinctures in a dark-colored 60 mL (2 fl oz) glass bottle.
Suggested usage is up to 5 mL, 3x/day.
What are some herbal actions that support healthy skin?
Alteratives Anti-Inflammatories Antimicrobials Antipruritics Astringents Emollients Vulneraries
What are Alterative?
a substance that gently increases elimination of metabolic wastes through the major eliminatory organs (lungs, lymph, skin, kidney, liver, and bowel) thus improving the body’s abilities to heal and function in a healthy manner” (para. 4).
Alterative herbs improve nutrient assimilation, metabolic function, and elimination; they improve our ability to excrete metabolic waste products and often act by supporting the function of one or more of the excretory organs (liver, kidneys, colon, skin, and lungs) and/or the lymphatic system.
What is another term for Alteratives?
depuratives
How are Atleratives used for skin conditions?
To help relieve the skin’s pressure to “detoxify” the body while at the same time improving the skin’s ability to eliminate waste and heal. Because alteratives work through the bloodstream, these herbs are best used internally.
Which skin conditions benefit the most from alteratives?
psoriasis, eczema, acne, and any mysterious skin condition that doesn’t have an obvious cause
What are some commonly used alteratives?
burdock (Arctium lappa) root and seed,
meadowsweet (Filipendula ulmaria) aerial parts,
cleavers (Galium aparine) aboveground parts,
lady’s mantle (Alchemilla vulgaris) aerial parts,
yellow dock (Rumex crispus) root.
Oregon grape – Berberis aquifolium (Berberidaceae) – Root, bark
Red clover – Trifolium pratense (Fabaceae) – Aerial parts
Violet – Viola spp. (Violaceae) – Aerial parts
What is the botanical name for Oregon grape?
Oregon grape – Berberis aquifolium (Berberidaceae) –
Which part of Oregon grape is used?
Root, bark
What are the specific actions of Oregon grape?
Alterative, antiemetic, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, aperient, astringent, bitter, cholagogue, choleretic, hepatic
What are the herbal energetics of Oregon grape?
Cooling, drying
What are the clinical patterns and uses for Oregon grape?
Scaly skin conditions(Psoriasis, eczema, dandruf):
Oregon grape has long been known for its ability to address chronic scaly skin conditions (Hoffmann, 2003), including psoriasis and eczema. Oregon grape’s modern usage parallels its historical use in cases of intractable moist eczema, dandruff, acne, and pruritus. It may work especially well for psoriasis due to its anti-inflammatory nature and ability to slow excessive cellular proliferation (Kane, 2017). Herbalist Michael Moore (1993) suggests combining Oregon grape with buckbean (Menyanthes trifoliata) in cases of dry or scaly skin, eczema, or psoriasis combined with arthritis. When utilizing Oregon grape for systemic skin conditions, both internal and external use is suggested (Kane, 2017). However, Francis Brinker, N.D. (2003) notes that topical use of Oregon grape, specifically, has two advantages—it allows direct contact of the alkaloids with affected tissues and it also addresses compliance issues based on Oregon grape’s bitter taste. In a report compiled from three clinical trials of patients using topically applied 10% Oregon grape cream for psoriasis, the researchers report that Oregon grape is a safe and effective treatment for mild to moderate psoriasis (Gulliver & Donsky, 2005).
Topical anitmicrobial:
Due to its antimicrobial properties, Oregon grape is often also used in topical preparations for abrasions and bacterial and fungal infections of the skin, including nail fungi (Kloos, 2017; Moore, 1993). Energetically, Oregon grape can be considered for any hot, damp condition of the skin, including inflamed skin eruptions, athlete’s foot, ringworm, and jock itch (Kloos, 2017). Oregon grape’s berberine content is proven effective against specific bacteria including E. coli and Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and has an antifungal action against Candida and Aspergillus (Bone & Mills, 2013). For topical use, Oregon grape decoction can be used as a wash or compress or made into a cream.
Bitter alterative for slugish digestion:
Oregon grape is a relatively strong bitter with a stimulating effect on the liver and gallbladder that helps to promote the flow of bile and regulate sluggish digestion. It also has an astringent and tonifying effect on the gut mucosa that can help to promote effective absorption. As an alterative, Oregon grape works on several fronts simultaneously: supporting hepatic function, assisting nutrient assimilation, and promoting elimination of waste through the colon; this constellation of effects may be one of the reasons Oregon grape shines as an herb for chronic skin conditions that are rooted not in the tissues of the skin, but in systemic accumulation of metabolic waste that taxes the body’s eliminative system.
What are the safety considerations for Oregan grape?
Contraindications: Oregon grape root is contraindicated in pregnancy and should be used with caution if breastfeeding (Gardner & McGuffin, 2013).
Allergies: None
Drug/Herb interactions: None
Preparations/Dose: None
What is the botanical name for Red clover?
Red clover – Trifolium pratense (Fabaceae) –
Which part of red clover is used?
Aerial parts
What are the specfic actions of red clover?
Alterative, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antispasmodic, demulcent, estrogenic, expectorant, nutritive, secretory, diuretic, lymphatic
What are the herbal energetics of red clover?
Neutral to cooling and moistening
What are the clinical patterns and uses of red clover?
Chronic conditions
Red clover is an alterative, meaning it improves chronic conditions throughout the body over time by helping the body to assimilate nutrients and remove metabolic waste products. It is often referred to as a blood cleanser due to its affinity for the lymphatic system and liver. It also works well for supporting chronic inflammatory conditions and degenerative diseases, including as a support in cancer, alongside conventional treatment (Hoffmann, 2003).
Removal of accumulated metabolic waste:
As a diuretic, red clover keeps fluids moving through the lymphatic system and supports elimination of wastes via the urinary system. It also stimulates and nourishes the liver to keep blood well-filtered. Due to these mechanisms, red clover is indicated for conditions that result from buildup of metabolic waste in the body, such as cystic lumps, lymphatic swelling, infections, acne, eczema, and psoriasis (Berger, 1998). It is specifically indicated for hard and swollen nodes, glands, cysts, and other lumps or masses (Garran, 2008). Red clover is sometimes recommended as a specific for breast lumps or dense, fibrocystic breast tissue; while its action as a lymph mover certainly helps here, this indication may also derive from the phytoestrogenic activity of red clover isoflavones. Prior to menopause, these and other phytoestrogens act as competitive inhibitors of estrogens, decreasing overall estrogen activity (Cabrera, n.d.).
Skin conditions:
Due to red clover’s gentle alterative nature, it is a premier herb for many skin conditions Red clover is an alterative with an affinity for the skin, but with its own unique niche. Whereas cleavers is cooling and slightly drying, red clover is more neutral in temperature and slightly moistening; according to herbalist Matthew Wood, red clover is particularly indicated for dry, irritated skin conditions (Wood, 2008). Red clover is also used in the Chinese materia medica to clear heat and restore yin; translating these concepts into the language of Western herbalism, red clover is indicated when there are signs of heat (e.g., redness, irritation) with underlying dryness and deficiency (Holmes, 2006). This is where red clover shines as a nutritive alterative, helping to calm signs of heat and inflammation by supporting both assimilative and eliminative function.
Co-occurence of chronic skin and lung conditions(eczema and asthma):
Red clover can also be applied to the same pattern when it manifests in the respiratory system. Though it’s easily forgotten, the respiratory system is also a route of elimination for metabolic waste, and alteratives can have a supportive function here. Red clover acts as a relaxing expectorant; while it can be useful in soothing an acute cough, it is ideal when there is chronically poor respiratory function with signs of heat and inflammation, particularly when heat and dryness are also present in the skin (Holmes, 2006). One classic example of this pattern is the common co-occurrence of atopic eczema and asthma, presenting with signs of heat and dryness in both the skin (red, itching, burning, and/or cracking eczema patches) and lungs (tightness in chest with wheezing or a dry or rasping cough).
What are the safety considerations of red clover?
Contraindications: There is a theoretical contraindication for red clover when also using hormone replacement therapy (HRT) drugs, since they may compete for the same receptors, though there are no reported interactions.
Allergies: None
Drug/Herb interactions: Red clover is often listed as contraindicated with blood-thinning medications because it contains coumarins.
Preparation/Dosage: the dicoumarol in clover blossoms only takes on an anticoagulant effect when the herb is fermented—which is why it’s important to dry clover blossom carefully; as long as clover is not moldy or fermented, it does not have a blood-thinning effect.
Concerns: Likewise, there is some concern that red clover may be unsafe for those with a history or high risk of estrogen receptor (ER) positive cancer; while it has not been demonstrably proven to be safe, there is also no evidence that red clover increases incidence of ER-positive breast or uterine cancer (Gardner & McGuffin, 2013).
Which herbs are anti-inflamatory with an infinity for the skin?
tulsi (Ocimum tenuiflorum) aerial parts,
aloe (Aloe vera) leaf, licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra) root,
St. John’s wort (Hypericum perforatum) aerial parts, plantain (Plantago spp.) leaf,
comfrey (Symphytum officinale) leaf and root,
lavender (Lavandula spp.) bud,
violet (Viola spp.) leaf and flower,
chickweed (Stellaria media) aerial parts,
meadowsweet (Filipendula ulmaria) aerial parts, marshmallow (Althaea officinalis) root.
Which herbs are anti-inflamatory with an infinity for the skin?
tulsi (Ocimum tenuiflorum) aerial parts,
aloe (Aloe vera) leaf, licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra) root,
St. John’s wort (Hypericum perforatum) aerial parts, plantain (Plantago spp.) leaf,
comfrey (Symphytum officinale) leaf and root,
lavender (Lavandula spp.) bud,
violet (Viola spp.) leaf and flower,
chickweed (Stellaria media) aerial parts,
meadowsweet (Filipendula ulmaria) aerial parts, marshmallow (Althaea officinalis) root.
Calendula – Calendula officinalis (Asteraceae) – Flower
Chamomile – Matricaria chamomilla (Asteraceae) – Flower
What is the botanical name for Calendula?
Calendula – Calendula officinalis (Asteraceae)
Which part of Calendula is used?
Flower
What are the specific actions of Calendula?
Anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antispasmodic, cholagogue, hemostatic, lymphatic, vulnerary
What are the herbal energetics of Calendula?
Warming
What are the clinical patterns and uses of Calendula?
To heal wounds and damaged skin:
Calendula is a powerful wound and tissue vulnerary, used both externally and internally. It has long been used to soothe cuts, burns, bites, sprains, bruises, rashes, sunburns, and abrasions due to its antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, hemostatic, and vulnerary actions. Calendula contains salicylates so works as an analgesic to help ease the pain associated with wounds and skin irritations (Foster, 1993). Calendula also soothes itching and may even soothe the pain of nettle stings!
For wounds that are slow to heal:
Even persistent wounds and old scars are helped by calendula’s supportive role in tissue regeneration. Germany’s Commission E (the German equivalent of the United States Food and Drug Administration) approved internal and topical use of calendula for inflammation of the oral and pharyngeal mucosa and external use for poorly healing wounds (American Botanical Council, 2000a).
radiation induced skin toxicity:
A review of several clinical studies on the use of calendula for skin toxicity and irritation (e.g., redness, itchiness, burning, ulceration, necrosis) as a side effect of radiation therapy concluded that calendula was useful as a preventative agent to reduce the occurrence of skin toxicity (Stubbe & Valero, 2013).
diaper rash:
A clinical study on the use of calendula for treatment of diaper rash showed an improvement in severity of rash and attributed calendula’s therapeutic benefit to its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties (Panahi et al., 2012).
For acne or other eruptive skin conditions or infected wounds:
Calendula is a standout herb for skin support in both traditional use and in modern clinical research. Applied topically, it is helpful in situations from minor scratches to serious wounds, and even bacterial skin infections. Calendula supports the body’s own immune response to allergens or antigens, encouraging macrophagic activity that gobbles up bacteria and other invaders, making it specifically helpful for hot, red, pus-filled tissue (Foster, 1993). Acne is one example of a hot, eruptive skin imbalance that can be supported with topical use of calendula, as are conditions such as dermatitis, bruising, boils, and rashes (Bisset, 1994). Applied externally, calendula serves as an antiseptic agent.
For allergic skin reactions:
In vitro studies show that calendula extract protects skin cells against oxidative stress and cell death and damage by scavenging free radicals (Alnuqaydan et al., 2015). It also appears that calendula extracts downregulate inflammation by activating transcription factors and protein production by skin cells and slowing prostaglandin production (Nicolaus et al., 2017). This may be one reason that calendula is helpful in many reactive, swollen skin conditions such as allergies, atopic dermatitis, and insect bites.
For digestive and liver support.:
Calendula can also be used internally, and its slightly bitter taste hints at its use for the digestive system. Calendula is considered a cholagogue, supporting the gallbladder and liver and consequently the digestive system and skin.
for healing gut mucosa:
And, just as it helps to resolve infection, irritation, and inflammation in the skin, calendula works to heal and soothe the gut mucosa,
To move lymph:
and may also be useful as a systemic antimicrobial and immune support (Hoffmann, 2003), as it stimulates lymphatic function.
What are the safety considerations of Calendula?
Contraindications: None
Allergies: Those with sensitivity to other plants in the Asteraceae (daisy) family may be sensitive to calendula.
Drug/herb interactions: None
Preparation/Dose: None
Concerns: None
What is the botanical name for Chamomile?
Chamomile – Matricaria chamomilla (Asteraceae)
Which part of Chamomile is used?
Flower
What are the specific actions of Chamomile?
Anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antispasmodic, carminative, nervine
What are the herbal energetics of Chamomile?
Cooling and drying
What are the clinical patterns and uses of Chamomile?
For inflammatory skin conditions, especially “weeping” conditions:
While today it is often thought of as an herb that primarily supports digestion, chamomile is also a superior herbal ally for inflammatory conditions, including various skin disorders both acute and chronic.
For inflammatory skin conditions ranging from acne to poison ivy rash to sunburn, chamomile can be taken internally and applied topically. A 2011 study found that a chamomile solution used as a compress for skin lesions was as effective as hydrocortisone in calming inflammation (Charousaei et al., 2011). Other clinical trials have demonstrated chamomile’s usefulness in eczema and weeping wounds and as a mouthwash for gingivitis (Aertgeerts et al., 1985; Glowania et al., 1987; Pourabbas et al., 2005). A strong infusion of chamomile tea can be used as a face wash for acne and a chamomile bath can be used for inflammatory conditions that are more widespread. Chamomile flowers can also be made into a poultice for smaller areas of skin inflammation.
To support the digestive system
One of chamomile’s gifts is its versatility. It is a useful herb for colicky babies, as well as elders with deficient digestion; those of delicate constitution to more fiery types are all served by its actions on the digestive system.
To ease indigestion caused by nervous tension:
Chamomile’s traditional use as a nervine relaxant, mild bitter, and digestive tonic make it ideal for soothing many kinds of GI imbalances, particularly when stress is wreaking havoc on digestive function. The Eclectics described chamomile as having affinities for both the nervous system and the GI tract, subduing irritation in both systems, and aiding in cases where nervous irritation was itself the cause of gastric upset (Felter & Lloyd, 1983).
To combat infection
Its antimicrobial quality (due in part to constituents such as α-bisabolol and cyclic ethers (Mills & Bone, 2000)) makes it helpful for combating infection both topically and internally.
For pain associated with spasms and cramping of the digestive tract,
Chamomile’s constituents inhibit or modulate the production of inflammatory prostaglandins, leukotrienes, and pro-inflammatory cytokines (Mills & Bone, 2000), which may help to explain its traditional use in addressing gastrointestinal and uterine cramping and muscle spasm, insomnia and anxiety, ulcers and wounds, and rheumatic pain.
What are the safety considerations of Chamomile?
Contraindications: None
Allergies: Those with allergic sensitivity to Asteraceae (daisy) family plants may experience sensitivity to chamomile.
Herb/Drug Interaction: None
Preparation/Dosage: None
Concerns: None
Which herbs are considered good antimicrobials for the skin?
calendula (Calendula officinalis) flower,
chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla) flower, meadowsweet (Filipendula ulmaria) aerial parts,
thyme (Thymus vulgaris) aerial parts,
sage (Salvia officinalis) aerial parts,
St. John’s wort (Hypericum perforatum) aerial parts, barberry and Oregon grape (Berberis spp.) root and bark.
Lavender – Lavandula spp. (Lamiaceae) – Flower bud
Yarrow – Achillea millefolium (Asteraceae) – Aerial parts
What is the botanical name for Lavender?
Lavender – Lavandula spp. (Lamiaceae)
Which part of Lavender is used?
Flower bud
What are the specific actions of lavender?
Analgesic, antibacterial, antidepressant, antispasmodic, carminative, circulatory stimulant, diaphoretic, nervine
What are the herbal energetics of lavender?
Cooling and drying
What are the clinical patterns and uses of lavander?
Though lavender is commonly added to topical herbal preparations for its scent alone, lavender offers many actions that benefit the skin. Due to its antibacterial and analgesic properties, lavender is useful for disinfecting cuts, wounds, and sores while it soothes pain and aids healing. Its circulatory stimulating effect also helps to encourage healthy blood flow to the site of a wound and thus encourages resolution (Foster, 1993; McIntyre, 1996).
Lavender also soothes the itch and pain of insect bites. When used to soothe burns, lavender reduces the severity and scarring of the burn and speeds healing (7Song, 2013; Berger, 1998). For this purpose, a strong, chilled lavender tea can be mixed into a thick aloe gel and applied after the burn has cooled. This could also be applied to sunburned skin, since antioxidants in lavender also reduce skin damage from sunburn while it cools and soothes pain.
What are the safety considerations of lavender?
Lavender is generally regarded as safe.
What is the botanical name for Yarrow?
Yarrow – Achillea millefolium (Asteraceae)
Which part of Yarrow is used?
Aerial parts
What are the herbal actions of Yarrow?
Anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antispasmodic, astringent, choleretic, diaphoretic, diuretic, styptic, vulnerary
What are the herbal energetics of Yarrow?
Cooling and drying
What are the specific uses for Yarrow?
Yarrow is well-known for its vulnerary properties. It was commonly used by soldiers in combat from the time of the ancient Greeks through the early 20th century, which some of its common names reflect: soldiers’ woundwort, staunch weed, nosebleed, woundwort, and carpenter’s weed (Berger, 1998; McIntyre, 1996).
No first aid kit is complete without yarrow for its antimicrobial, styptic, anti-inflammatory, astringent, and vulnerary actions. Yarrow’s unique blend of properties makes it ideal for warding off infection, stopping blood flow, and reducing swelling and pain in wounds. Herbalist Robin Rose Bennett (2014) uses yarrow for “old or new bruises, swellings from poisonous bites and stings, and fresh wounds” (p. 480). Yarrow’s effectiveness for wounds is related to its ability to regulate the flow of blood to and from the skin’s surface through a variety of mechanisms (Wood, 2007).
To stop bleeding and disinfect a wound, apply a poultice of fresh yarrow leaves, a pinch of dried yarrow leaf powder, or a squirt of yarrow extract to a wound, ideally after cleansing. Yarrow can also be added to topical formulas for bacterial, fungal, viral, and inflammatory skin conditions. For such conditions, it can be prepared as a wash, compress, infused oil, salve, or cream.
What are the safety considerations for Yarrow?
Yarrow is contraindicated during pregnancy due to its high volatile oil content. Yarrow may cause hypersensitivity in those with an allergy to plants in the Asteraceae (daisy) family.
What are antipruritics?
An antipruritic is a substance that eases itching. Antipruritic herbs can be helpful for contact dermatitis or any other itchy skin condition.
Which herbs are considered to be good antipruritics?
calendula (Calendula officinalis) flower,
oat (Avena sativa) straw and seed,
licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra) root,
chickweed (Stellaria media) aerial parts
What is the botanical name for Chickweed?
Chickweed – Stellaria media (Caprifoliaceae)
Which parts of Chickweed is used?
Aerial parts
What are the herbal actions of chickweed?
Alterative, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antipruritic, astringent, demulcent, diuretic, emollient, expectorant, galactagogue, lymphatic, nutritive, vulnerary
What are the herbal energetics of chickweed?
Cooling and moistening
What are the specific uses for chickweed?
Chickweed has a theme to its supportive properties: lubrication. It is a very juicy herb, and it lubricates dry and irritated parts of the body both in the joints and topically on the skin. It helps to moisten, cool, and soothe irritation and inflammation throughout the body. Due to its lubricating qualities, people who eat chickweed regularly often report a reduction in arthritis and rheumatic pain (Hoffmann, 2003).
Due to its moistening properties, chickweed is also a popular herb for dry, itchy skin while its cooling nature soothes heat and inflammation on the skin. A salve, succus, or poultice made with chickweed are commonly used topical preparations among herbalists for burns, rashes, contact dermatitis, and wounds (Wood, 2008). For those suffering from chronic skin irritations, such as eczema and psoriasis, chickweed can also be helpful taken internally as a food or tea. It is also effective in bringing a pimple to a head or extracting a splinter.
Sharol Tilgner, N.D. (2009) mentions chickweed’s use topically and internally to help reduce the size and irritation of hemorrhoids. A suppository made of chickweed-infused oil and cocoa butter has been effective for many people, especially when combined with yarrow (Achillea millefolium) aerial parts.
What are the safety considerations for chickweed?
Chickweed is generally regarded as safe.
What are astringents?
Astringents tighten up the skin and help to stop the formation and flow of discharge. Astringents also constrict pores, tonifying the skin.
Which herbs are considered good astringents for the skin?
wild geranium (Geranium maculatum) root,
goldenrod (Solidago spp.) aerial parts,
meadowsweet (Filipendula ulmaria) aerial parts, agrimony (Agrimonia eupatoria) aerial parts,
raspberry (Rubus idaeus) leaf,
rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) aerial parts,
sage (Salvia officinalis) aerial parts,
yarrow (Achillea millefolium) aerial parts.
Lady’s mantle – Alchemilla vulgaris (Rosaceae) – Aerial parts
What is the botanical name for lady’s mantle?
Lady’s mantle – Alchemilla vulgaris (Rosaceae)
Which part of lady’s mantle is used?
Aerial parts
What are the herbal actions of lady’s mantle?
Alterative, astringent, emmenagogue, vulnerary, styptic
What are the herbal energetics of lady’s mantle?
Drying
What are the specific uses for lady’s mantle?
Lady’s mantle was a well-known wound herb throughout the Middle Ages. In fact, it was even considered equivalent to the most lauded vulnerary of the time, lesser sanicle. Because of this association, lady’s mantle would be dubbed greater sanicle, or Sanicula majoris and would become part of the official pharmacopoeia in the 16th century (Wood, 1997).
Lady’s mantle can be used both internally and externally for various skin conditions. As an alterative, it can be used internally for chronic skin conditions, such as eczema and psoriasis. Topically, lady’s mantle’s astringent nature benefits any weepy skin condition. Herbalist Matthew Wood (1997) notes that lady’s mantle is useful for wounds, ulcers, fistulas, and sores, since its drying capabilities “mop up” dampness in wounds. He cites a case where a woman had two perforated eardrums as a result of head trauma. This was believed a permanent affliction, but after taking a tincture of lady’s mantle internally and applying it topically, her eardrums resealed themselves.
Lady’s mantle is commonly associated with its use as a uterine tonic in cases of endometriosis, fibroids, and incompetence of the cervix. Its uterine astringent properties have long been used for its tissue-toning capability (Robertsdottir, 2016).
What are the safety considerations for ladies mantle?
GRAS
What are emollients?
Emollients soften and soothe irritated or inflamed skin, moisturize, and help to replenish the skin’s natural oils. Emollient herbs are usually rich in mucilage and can be particularly helpful for psoriasis, eczema, and aging skin. Emollient herbs are best used as poultices, compresses, or infusion-based creams.
When emollients are used internally, what are they called?
demulcents
Which herbs are considered to be good emollients for the skin?
marshmallow (Althaea officinalis) root,
comfrey (Symphytum officinale) root and leaf,
chickweed (Stellaria media) aerial parts.
What is the botanical name for comfrey?
Comfrey – Symphytum officinale (Boraginaceae)
Which part of comfrey is used?
Leaf, root
What are the herbal actions of comfrey?
Analgesic, anti-inflammatory, astringent, demulcent, emollient, expectorant, mucogenic, vulnerary
What are the herbal energetics of comfrey?
Cooling and moistening, with a secondary drying effect
What are specific uses for comfrey?
Comfrey offers exceptional support for wound and skin repair when used topically. This is due in part to the constituent allantoin, which stimulates cell proliferation and helps repair connective tissue and collagen, often leaving tissue injuries scarless (Holmes, 1989b). The tannins in comfrey, on the other hand, cause astriction in the skin, which helps close minor epithelial wounds (Holmes, 1989b). When used topically, the anti-inflammatory and emollient/demulcent action of comfrey can help soothe pain, redness, swelling, bruising, and other signs of inflammation of the skin and musculoskeletal system (Holmes, 1989b).
When applied topically, comfrey leaf has been shown to lessen wound healing time and encourage proper scar formation (Hoffmann, 2003). In one randomized, double-blind clinical study, a topical application of comfrey was found to reduce wound size significantly faster than the control group after only 2 to 3 days of use (Barna et al., 2007).
Both comfrey leaf and root can be used topically as a compress, poultice, oil, or salve (Hoffmann, 2003). However, if a wound is deep, comfrey may cause tissue to form over the wound before the wound is fully healed and may trap pathogens or other irritants within the wound. For this reason, extra care and consideration should be applied before using comfrey on wounds. The wound should be shallow and clean before comfrey is considered.
While both the leaf and root of comfrey carry emollient, astringent, and vulnerary properties, the root tends to carry higher amounts of mucilage, making it perhaps even more emollient than the leaf and more indicated for dry conditions.
What are the safety considerations for comfrey?
Due to the pyrrolizidine alkaloid (PA) content in comfrey, it is suggested for topical use only (Gardner & McGuffin, 2013). PAs in comfrey are considered a potentially genotoxic carcinogen in humans, although the actual risk of genetic damage is low. To minimize potential risk, extended or long-term internal use of comfrey is not advised. Absorption of PAs is significantly less when comfrey is applied externally (Hoffmann, 2003).
Topical applications: daily applied dosage should not exceed 100 mcg of PAs using either the root or leaf (Hoffmann, 2003).
Which constituent in comfrey is throught responsible for its rapid would healing effects?
allantoin
What are Vulneraries?
Herbs that aid in the wound healing process in a general way are called vulneraries. Vulnerary herbs can be used for wounds, sores, or scars.
Which herbs are considered to be good vulneraries?
Calendula (Calendula officinalis) flower,
comfrey (Symphytum officinale) root and leaf,
chickweed (Stellaria media) aerial parts,
lavender (Lavandula spp.) bud, tulsi (Ocimum tenuiflorum) aerial parts,
aloe (Aloe vera) leaf,
yarrow (Achillea millefolium) aerial parts
Plantain – Plantago spp. (Plantaginaceae) – Leaf
St. John’s wort – Hypericum perforatum (Hypericaceae) – Aerial parts
What is the botanical name for plantain?
Plantain – Plantago spp. (Plantaginaceae)
Which part of plantain is used?
Leaf
What are the herbal actions of plantain?
Antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, astringent, demulcent, vulnerary
What are the herbal energetics of plantain?
Cooling
What are the specific uses of plantain?
First aid for cuts, scrapes, stings, bites, burns, itching:
Plantain is a must-have for any herbal first aid kit for its
use in bites, stings, cuts, and scrapes, as well as to help to draw out slivers, splinters, and stingers. As one herbalist notes, “[Plantain’s] medicine is like a lance that penetrates and opens the wound to draw out the poison” (Scott, 2010, p. 248). Plantain may also be used to soothe and cool the pain, itching, or burning symptoms of poison ivy, nettle stings, and sunburn. In-the-field preparation of a “spit poultice” for direct topical application for any of the above indications is an easy option, when available.
As a drawing ointment:
Herbalist Matthew Wood (2008) even cites its historical use in snakebite and other severe wounds in which strong drawing action was necessary.
Tired and aching feet:
Plantain leaves can also be placed in a sock for hotspots, blisters, or even plantar fasciitis or made into a wash, compress, infused oil, salve, or cream for a variety of skin conditions.
To tone relaxed tissue state:
Plantain’s anti-inflammatory and astringent properties are applicable to soothe chronic skin conditions while toning skin tissues in the case of eczema, rosacea, shingles, varicose veins, and hemorrhoids (Bruton-Seal, 2009).
For inflamed and allergic skin conditions:
Current clinical evidence backs up plantain’s traditional use as a skin wash for itchy rashes. Its ursolic acid, oleanolic acid, and α-linolenic acid content shows inhibitory effects on COX-2 catalyzed prostaglandin, which downregulates inflammation and its symptoms (Ringbom et al., 1998). Luteolin, one flavonoid present in plantain, also suppresses leukocyte migration and inhibits mast cell activity and histamine production, giving it powerfully effective anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic effects (Finn & Walsh, 2013).
As a disinfectant for wounds.
Plantain also exhibits antibacterial properties that contribute both to its use for wounds and for acne. Its antibacterial properties, however, are destroyed by heat (American Botanical Council, 2000b).
To sooth and tonify mucosal tissue of the gut(IBS,ulcerative colitis):
Plantain leaf is cooling, nourishing, astringent, and vulnerary for gastrointestinal mucous membranes, helping to soothe inflammation and tonify mucosal tissue. Plantain leaf is not the only part of the plant that is useful for the GI tract, however. The seed and husk (the papery covering of the seed) of Plantago ovata and other Plantago species are more commonly known as psyllium and are commonly used as a supplemental dietary fiber, facilitating healthy peristalsis and bowel movements. This may be the most common use of plantain, although many people don’t realize it comes from the same genus of plants! In a clinical trial, researchers compared psyllium seeds to a pharmaceutical drug (mesalamine) commonly used for ulcerative colitis and found that Plantago ovata seeds may be as effective as mesalamine in maintaining remission of ulcerative colitis (Fernández-Bañares et al., 1999). In a large clinical trial, Bijkerk et al. (2009) demonstrated that psyllium seeds (10 g/day for 3 months) significantly reduced the severity of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) symptoms.
Nutrition:
Additional constituents in plantain include flavonoids, alkaloids, terpenoids, phenolic acid derivatives, iridoid glycosides, fatty acids, and polysaccharides (Adom et al., 2017). A nutritious wild edible, plantain leaf is high in calcium and vitamins A, C, and K (like other leafy greens!). Young leaves can be included raw in salads, and mature leaves can be deveined and cooked in stews and soups (North Carolina State Extension, n.d.; Nyerges, 2016).
What are the safety considerations of plantain?
Contraindications: Plantain seed should be avoided by individuals with bowel obstruction,
Allergies: None
Drug/Herb interactions: None
Preparation/Dosage: Plantain seed should be taken with at least 240 mL (8 fl oz) of liquid. Plantain seed should be taken at least 2 hours apart from other drugs (Gardner & McGuffin, 2013).
Concerns: None
What is the botanical name for St. John’s wort?
St. John’s wort – Hypericum perforatum (Hypericaceae)
Which part of St. John’s wort is used?
Aerial parts
What are the herbal actions of St. John’s wort?
Analgesic, antidepressant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antispasmodic, anxiolytic, astringent, emmenagogue, nervous trophorestorative, nervine relaxant, vulnerary
What are the herbal energetics of St. John’s wort?
Cooling to warming and drying
What are the specific uses for St. John’s wort?
While modern clinical evidence has lead to the widespread use of St. John’s wort as an antidepressant herb, it was traditionally employed as a powerful healer for wounds, bruises, burns, sprains, and muscle pain. Used as an infused oil, salve, or poultice, it helps ease pain, swelling, and inflammation associated with many injuries that affect the skin and muscles and its antiseptic properties help allay infection in wounds and burns (Chevallier, 1996; Rose, 2014). St. John’s wort also helps soothe the pain associated with damaged nerves and neuralgia and is helpful for painful sciatica, shingles, and rheumatism. It can even help restore nerve sensation in nerves damaged by traumatic injury or other causes (Bennett, 2014). In fact, St. John’s wort is commonly known as “arnica for the nerves” due to its strong ability to repair nerves.
Germany’s Commission E approved external preparations of St. John’s wort for use in “acute and contused injuries, myalgia and first-degree burns” (American Botanical Council, 1999, para. 5). One clinical study of St. John’s wort as treatment for wound healing and scarring associated with Caesarean surgeries found that women treated with St. John’s wort ointment experienced “significant differences in wound healing on the 10th day…and scar formation on the 40th day postpartum” as compared to women in the placebo and control groups, as well as significantly lower pain and itching (Samadi et al., 2010, p. 113).
Hypericin and pseudohypericin, two of the active constituents in St. John’s wort, are antiviral, making it an effective adjunct during viral infections such as herpes (cold) sores, influenza, HIV, and AIDS (McIntyre, 1996; Tierra, 2003; Tillotson, 2001).
What are the safety considerations for St. John’s wort?
St. John’s wort should not be used in pregnancy due to its emmenagogue properties. It is also not recommended during lactation or prior to surgery (it may interact with some anesthetic drugs) (Brinker, 2010). St. John’s wort may increase skin photosensitivity. Extended use should be avoided—there is a link between St. John’s wort use and cataract development (Holmes, 1989a). It also interacts with a number of drugs, particularly blood thinners and antidepressants, by inducing CYP450 drug-metabolizing enzymes and P-glycoprotein, a drug-transporter protein, and should generally be avoided while taking any pharmaceutical drug (Brinker, 2010; Gardner & McGuffin, 2013).
According to cosmetic labeling laws, how much of a substance needs to be natural in order for the natural to be used on the label.
“natural” and “organic” labels can be meaningless when it comes to safety. The word “natural” can be used on a label if only 10% of a substance is natural (Hoffmann, 2003)
What are the main causes of skind damage and wrinkling?
Skin damage and wrinkling are caused by oxidative stress and free-radical damage from sun exposure, inflammation, and ischemia (lack of adequate blood flow).
What are good vegan substitutes for beeswax when making salves and balms?
carnauba wax, a vegetable wax made from the Brazilian palm tree (Copernicia cerifera), and candelilla wax, a vegetable wax made from the Mexican candelilla shrub (Euphorbia cerifera),
What are commonly used preservatives for skincare products
Leucidal - antimicrobial
Natapres - antimicrobial
vitamin E - antioxidant
Rosemarin -antioxidant
What is Galen’s cold cream?
cold cream (an emulsification of rosewater, almond or olive oil, and beeswax) intended for cooling, soothing and healing the skin. It was innitially formulated for Gladiators, It was the first commercially produced cream and was the precursor for modern creams today.
What is the botanical name for Henna?
Henna – Lawsonia inermis (Lythraceae)
Which part of Henna is used?
Leaf
What are the specific actions of Henna?
Antibacterial, antifungal, antiparasitic, antipyretic, astringent, vulnerary
What are the herbal energetics of Henna?
Cooling and drying
What are the clinnical patterns and uses of Henna?
As a dye for skin, hair and cloth:
Henna leaf is combined with water to make a distinctive, lasting dye that ranges in color from bright red-orange to deep brown; the final shade of the dye when applied to skin, hair or cloth can vary depending on the dye preparation, site of application, and the amount of the molecule, lawsone, that’s present in the leaf (Cartwright-Jones, n.d.). Although leaf powder is most typically seen in commerce in North America, the seed, bark, and root of Lawsonia inermis are also used in African and Indian traditional medicine (Yadav, 2013).
To cool the skin
Henna leaf is traditionally used both internally and externally to cool inflammation,
For imbalances that affect the blood:
to address imbalances and diseases including measles, polio, and malaria, and for illness affecting the blood (Zumratdal & Ozaslan, 2012).
To heal the skin:
Many pharmacologic and animal studies have explored various uses of henna, particularly its antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and wound-healing properties. In one trial, adding henna to a pharmaceutical gel preparation used to dress burn wounds led to enhanced skin healing through increased fibroblast attachment and proliferation, collagen secretion, and antibacterial action (Hadisi et al., 2018). In another study, henna paste showed significant antifungal activity against six different pathogenic fungi, including ringworm (Gozubuyuk et al., 2014).
Hand foot syndrome(chemotherapy):
While there’s an abundance of ethnobotanical information about the many uses of henna, no clinical trials have been published, although one fascinating case report suggests that topical application of henna was helpful in alleviating hand-foot syndrome, a painful side effect of chemotherapy (Yucel & Guzin, 2008).
Fungal infections:
Henna is most commonly used in Western herbalism as a topical antifungal. Herbalist jim mcdonald reports that he has used it successfully to address fungal infections including ringworm, athlete’s foot, and onychomycosis (toenail fungus). According to mcdonald, “The thing that makes henna so useful in such cases is that the same constituent that is responsible for the dark red dye (lawsone) also possesses antifungal & antimicrobial properties…This means that during the time that the stain is visible, there is a 24/7 action of the lawsone on the skin infection” (mcdonald, n.d., para. 4).
What are the safety considerations for henna?
Contraindicaitons: Use of henna is contraindicated for individuals with glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency (also known as favism), an inherited disorder (Gardner & McGuffin, 2013).
Allergies: None
Drug/Herb interactions: None
Preparation/Dose: Although topical use of pure henna is generally quite safe, it’s very important to watch out for the use of “black henna”—which are products that contain other ingredients and are often adulterated with paraphenylenediamine (PPD), a chemical that makes it appear darker and take effect more quickly. PPD can cause severe contact dermatitis, and in sensitive individuals can trigger a life-threatening allergic reaction (Treister-Goltzman et al., 2016).
Recommended for topical use only.
Skin Energetics: HOT
appearance: Redness/ Red blotches, Flushing,
Sensitivity
Feels: itchy, irritated, hot or burning
prone to: Welts, hives, rashes, or bumps
Easily: sunburns, overheat
Skin Energetics: Cold
Appearance: Pale face and nail beds, Dark and blue lips
and circles under eyes
Feels: Cold, rough skin,
Prone to: Cold extremities, poor circulation, slow healing
wounds
Easily: Bruises, gets cold
Skin Energetics: Dry
Appearance: Dry and Flaky, lack luster
Feels: tight, ithcy
Prone to: brittle nails, dandruf, lines, wrinkles, saggy
skin
Easily: Hair Frizzes
Skin Energetics: Damp
Appearance: Shiny by midday, vissible pores, hair is
thick and shiny
Feels: clammy, oily
Prone: acne/blackheads, fungal infections, weepy skin
conditions, liquid filled blisters, bumps and
lesions
Easily: Sweats
How is the health of the liver and digestive system reflected in the skin?
If the liver and digestive system are not doing that job efficiently, we can build up pro-inflammatory compounds that contribute to a host of skin problems, ranging from acne and very dry skin to eczema and psoriasis.
What are the 6 signs that you may need some extra liver support?
seasonal food and environmental allergies
PMS, difficult periods and other menstral irregularities
difficulties digesting fats and slow digestion
regular use of tobacco, alcohol, drugs, medication
prone to irritabillity, stress, frustration
very sensitive to synthetic fragrances/chemicals
What are the 6 signs that you may need extra digestive support?
commonly experiencing heartburn, indigestion and stomach upset
bowel movements less than once a day or more than 4 times a day
undigested food in stool
trouble digesting certain kinds of foods
food sensitivities and intollerances
rarely feels hungry
What are the three main layers of the skin?
Epidermis
Dermis
Hypodermis
What are the layers of the epidermis?
stratum corneum, stratum lucidum (this is the additional layer that’s found only on the palms and soles), stratum granulosum, stratum spinosum, stratum basale.
How thick is the epidermis?
0.1 mm
What is inbetween the stratum basal and the dermis?
basement membrane
Is the dermis vascular or avascular?
avascular
Which cells make up the majority of the epidermis with the exception of the basal layer?
keratinocytes
What cells comprises the basal layer of the epidermis and what is their function?
basal cells that produce keratinocytes
What are desmosomes?
As keratinocytes move into the upper layers of the epidermis, they become anchored to each other through interlocking extracellular structures called desmosomes. Normally, as the cells of the stratum corneum age, these desmosomes break apart and we shed our skin as small particles (dust); however, desmosomes may remain intact in damaged skin, which is why sunburned or blistered skin can peel off in sheets (Biga et al., 2018).
Explain the process of terminal differientiation of keratinocytes in the epidermis?
as the basal cells divide, producing new keratinocytes, older cells are pushed up toward the surface of the skin. Only the deepest cells receive oxygen and nutrients from the blood vessels in the dermis, so as they move upward, cells begin to die off and harden. By the time they reach the outermost layer (the stratum corneum), the cells are dead, dried out, and eventually just slough off. It takes about a month to shed and replace all of the cells of the stratum corneum (Biga et al., 2018).
Explain the cornification of keratinocytes
As a keratinocyte moves into the stratum corneum, its lipid (fatty) cellular membrane develops into a resistant cell wall that’s much less susceptible to water loss in a process called cornification. As these cells cornify, the lipids in the cell membrane are squeezed out into the intercellular space and the cells flatten, harden, and die. These specialized, hardened keratinocytes are called corneocytes. Together, corneocytes and the intercellular lipids form a “brick and mortar” structure, with the corneocytes acting as bricks and the lipids acting as mortar to hold them together (Wickett & Visscher, 2006).
What are ceramides?
Ceramides are a particular type of lipid molecule that, along with cholesterol and free fatty acids, make up the bulk of the lipid portion of the stratum corneum. Synthesized ceramides, which are designed to act in the same way as the ceramides that are naturally produced within the keratinocytes of the epidermis, are now included as ingredients in some skin lotions and topical treatments. Natural ceramides are derived from the fatty acids that we consume in our diet, so the types of fat we eat can have a big impact on the composition of ceramides, the lipid matrix of the stratum corneum, and ultimately on the effective barrier function of the skin.
What is NMF found the the stratum corneum?
In addition to the lipid matrix found between the corneocytes, a compound called natural moisturizing factor (NMF), produced within the cells of the stratum corneum, is a key component in healthy barrier function. NMF is produced within the corneocytes and helps keep the skin moisturized by attracting water from the surrounding environment and from the lower layers of the skin (Weber et al., 2012). NMF and the lipid components of the stratum corneum help keep the skin supple and hydrated and are important factors in maintaining barrier integrity and preventing water loss through the skin.
What does the lippid matrix, in the stratum corneum, consist out of?
Lippids, ceramides, NMF
Which cells are found in the stratum basale?
Basal cells - produces keratinocytes
Merkel cells -sensory receptor
Melanocytes -produces melanin (skin pigments)
Which cells are found in the stratum granulosum?
keratinocytes -produces and stores keratine,
synthesizes vitamin d
Melanocytes -produces melanin (skin pigments)
Which cells are found in the stratum spinosum?
Langerhans cells - immune function/acts as macrophage
keratinocytes -produces and stores keratine,
synthesizes vitamin d
Which cells are found in the stratum lucidum?
keratinocytes -produces and stores keratine,
synthesizes vitamin d
Which cells are found in the stratum corneum?
cxorneocytes -creates a barrier of protection
How much thicker is the dermis compared to the epidermis?
40 times thicker
What is the connective tissue of the dermis composed of?
Much of the dermis is composed of a matrix of collagen and elastin fibers, which are the structural proteins that give skin its mobility, elasticity, and tensile strength. Collagen also binds water, helping to keep skin hydrated.
What is the papillary layer of the epidermis?
In the outer layer of the dermis, called the papillary layer, collagen and elastin are organized in a loose mesh, and a network of capillaries (tiny blood vessels just one cell wide) provide oxygen and nutrients to the cells in the deepest level of the epidermis.
What is the reticular layer of the epidermis?
In the deepest layer of the dermis, called the reticular layer, collagen and elastin fibers are much more densely packed together, and larger blood vessels are more numerous. The primary cells found in the dermis are fibroblasts, which secrete collagen and elastin, and immune response cells, including mast cells and macrophage cells. (Mast cells are involved in the inflammatory response to allergens, but they have many other immune functions as well; macrophages are white blood cells that ingest and destroy dead cells, cellular debris, and foreign particles, such as bacteria.)
Which structures are contained within the epidermis?
hair follicles - holds and nourishes the root of hair
sebaceous glands -produces sebum, which lubricates
the hair and skin
sweat glands,
blood vessels,
lymphatic vessels,
nerves.
the hair follicles, sebaceous glands, and sweat glands—are situated deep in the dermis, but extend through the epidermis and open to the surface of the skin.
What is the main function of the hypodermis?
The main function of the hypodermis is fat storage and structural integrity, connecting the skin to the fascia that surrounds the muscles.
What is the hypodermis mainly comprised of?
This layer contains mostly adipocytes, or fat storage cells, and collagen fibers
In order for constituents applied topically to the skin to enter systemic circulation, which structure do they need to penetrate?
Consituents needs to make it accross the epidermis and to the cappillary bed of the dermis
What are the 3 main ways that herbal constituents (and other things) can get across the epidermal barrier?
Intracellular - they can cross directly into the cells
(intracellular transport),
Intercelluar - they can cross in between cells
(intercellular transport),
transappendageal - they can sneakily bypass the
epidermis all together, entering
through the openings of hair follicles
or sweat glands that route directly
into the dermis (transappendageal
transport or shunt route).
Why is it easier for fat soluble substances, like oil, to penetrate the skin as opposed to water soluble substance?
The hardened outer membranes of the corneocytes are highly water resistant (hydrophobic) and are interspersed with water-resistant lipids. That means the epidermis as a whole is lipophilic, or fat-loving, and fat-soluble substances will have a much higher rate of absorption than those that are water soluble.
What are 3 things we can do to make it easier for water based preparations to pass through the skin?
Increasing contact area and duration of exposure: are simple starting points—more skin contact for a longer period of time means there’s more opportunity for substances to move into the skin.
Occlusion: or covering the area of skin that’s exposed to the substance, can increase absorption by preventing evaporation and increasing temperature.
Location: Application sites that have a high concentration of hair follicles and sebaceous or sweat glands (like the scalp and face) will increase the opportunity for absorption through the shunt or bypass route, while sites with thinner epidermal layers (like the wrist and neck) provide less of a barrier for intercellular absorption.
