The Ultimate A to Z Guide to Herbs for Beauty & Health

Nature has always had our backs — and herbs are one of her most generous gifts. Whether you’re looking for a way to calm inflamed skin, support digestion, ease stress, or simply reconnect with plant-based care, this is the place to start.

This alphabetical guide brings together the most useful herbs for natural beauty and everyday wellbeing. It’s designed to be quick to scan and easy to understand, with just enough detail to help you remember what each herb is known for — and why it works.

Use it as a reference, inspiration, or just a quiet nudge to keep your self-care rooted in nature.

COMPREHENSIVE LIST OF HERBS FOR BEAUTY & HEALTH

Aloe Vera (Aloe barbadensis)

Beauty: Deeply hydrates, calms irritation, and supports skin healing.
Health: Soothes digestion, cools inflammation, and aids detox.
Key Compounds: Polysaccharides (hydration), aloin (soothing), enzymes (repair support).

Alfalfa (Medicago sativa)

Beauty: Rich in nutrients that support skin health and vitality.
Health: Supports hormonal balance, digestion, and energy levels.
Key Compounds: Phytoestrogens, chlorophyll, saponins (detoxifying).

Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera)

Beauty: Helps reduce stress-related skin issues and signs of fatigue.
Health: Supports adrenal health, reduces anxiety, and improves sleep.
Key Compounds: Withanolides (adaptogenic), alkaloids (tonic), sitoindosides (anti-stress).

Angelica (Angelica archangelica)

Beauty: Stimulates circulation and helps tone the skin.
Health: Aids digestion, supports respiratory health, and soothes cramps.
Key Compounds: Coumarins (relaxing), essential oils (warming), flavonoids (antioxidant).

Basil (Ocimum basilicum)

Beauty: Clears blemishes, balances oil, and tones skin.
Health: Eases bloating, calms the nerves, and supports immunity.
Key Compounds: Eugenol (anti-inflammatory), linalool (calming), rosmarinic acid (antioxidant).

Bay Leaf (Laurus nobilis)

Beauty: Used in infusions to help cleanse and tone the skin.
Health: Stimulates digestion, eases congestion, and has antimicrobial properties.
Key Compounds: Cineole (antiseptic), eugenol (anti-inflammatory), tannins (astringent).

Burdock Root (Arctium lappa)

Beauty: Purifies the skin, reduces acne, and improves skin clarity.
Health: Supports liver function, detoxification, and digestion.
Key Compounds: Inulin (prebiotic), arctiin (anti-inflammatory), polyacetylenes (antibacterial).

Borage (Borago officinalis)

Beauty: Nourishes dry or inflamed skin and improves elasticity.
Health: Supports adrenal glands, reduces inflammation, and soothes PMS symptoms.
Key Compounds: Gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), mucilage (soothing), flavonoids (antioxidant).

Calendula (Calendula officinalis)

Beauty: Speeds up skin repair, reduces redness, and comforts sensitivity.
Health: Supports wound healing, soothes mucous membranes, and is mildly antimicrobial.
Key Compounds: Carotenoids (repair), flavonoids (anti-inflammatory), triterpenoids (healing).

Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla / Chamaemelum nobile)

Beauty: Calms sensitive skin, reduces redness, and supports healing.
Health: Promotes sleep, eases anxiety, and soothes digestion.
Key Compounds: Apigenin (calming), bisabolol (healing), chamazulene (soothing).

Ginger (Zingiber officinale)

Beauty: Improves circulation, warms the skin, and helps reduce puffiness.
Health: Aids digestion, eases nausea, and reduces inflammation.
Key Compounds: Gingerol (anti-inflammatory), shogaol (warming), zingerone (digestive support).

Ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba)

Beauty: Enhances blood flow to the skin and helps with skin rejuvenation.
Health: Supports memory, cognitive function, and circulation.
Key Compounds: Flavonoids (antioxidants), terpenoids (vasodilation), ginkgolides (neuroprotective).

Ginseng (Panax ginseng)

Beauty: Boosts skin elasticity and radiance; helps reduce signs of fatigue.
Health: Increases energy, reduces stress, and supports immunity.
Key Compounds: Ginsenosides (adaptogenic), polysaccharides (immune support), peptides (revitalising).

Gotu Kola (Centella asiatica)

Beauty: Stimulates collagen production, improves elasticity, and calms inflammation.
Health: Supports circulation, wound healing, and mental clarity.
Key Compounds: Asiaticoside, madecassoside (skin repair), triterpenoids (healing).

Goldenrod (Solidago virgaurea)

Beauty: Tones and tightens skin; traditionally used in skincare compresses.
Health: Supports urinary tract health and reduces inflammation.
Key Compounds: Saponins (cleansing), flavonoids (antioxidants), tannins (astringent).

Garlic (Allium sativum)

Beauty: Helps clear acne and balance oily skin (used topically in diluted form).
Health: Strengthens immunity, supports heart health, and has antimicrobial effects.
Key Compounds: Allicin (antibacterial), sulphur compounds (detoxifying), selenium (immune support).

Holy Basil (Ocimum sanctum / Tulsi)

Beauty: Protects against oxidative stress and helps calm stressed skin.
Health: Balances hormones, reduces anxiety, and supports respiratory health.
Key Compounds: Eugenol, ursolic acid (anti-inflammatory), ocimumosides (adaptogenic).

Horsetail (Equisetum arvense)

Beauty: Strengthens hair, nails, and skin due to high silica content.
Health: Supports bone health and has mild diuretic properties.
Key Compounds: Silica (remineralising), flavonoids (antioxidants), saponins (cleansing).

Hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna)

Beauty: Supports skin vitality by improving circulation and oxygenation.
Health: Strengthens the heart, lowers blood pressure, and eases anxiety.
Key Compounds: Flavonoids (cardioprotective), oligomeric procyanidins (antioxidants), tannins.

Hops (Humulus lupulus)

Beauty: Soothes irritated skin and helps balance oil.
Health: Calms the nervous system, supports sleep, and eases tension.
Key Compounds: Humulone and lupulone (sedative), xanthohumol (antioxidant), bitter acids.

Iceland Moss (Cetraria islandica)

Beauty: Forms a protective film on skin and soothes dryness and irritation.
Health: Soothes the throat, supports lung health, and helps during colds.
Key Compounds: Lichenin (soothing), usnic acid (antimicrobial), polysaccharides.

Indian Gooseberry (Phyllanthus emblica / Amla)

Beauty: Brightens skin, promotes hair growth, and improves skin texture.
Health: Boosts immunity, supports digestion, and is rich in vitamin C.
Key Compounds: Ascorbic acid (vitamin C), tannins (antioxidants), ellagic acid.

Jasmine (Jasminum officinale)

Beauty: Hydrates and softens skin; helps uplift dull complexions.
Health: Calms nerves, reduces stress, and supports relaxation.
Key Compounds: Benzyl acetate, linalool, and indole (aromatic, calming).

Juniper Berry (Juniperus communis)

Beauty: Clarifies skin, reduces excess oil, and tones pores.
Health: Supports kidney function, acts as a diuretic, and aids detox.
Key Compounds: Alpha-pinene (antiseptic), flavonoids (antioxidants), terpenes.

Marshmallow Root (Althaea officinalis)

Beauty: Soothes irritated or dry skin and forms a gentle protective barrier.
Health: Eases sore throats, supports digestion, and soothes mucous membranes.
Key Compounds: Mucilage (soothing), flavonoids (anti-inflammatory), polysaccharides.

Milk Thistle (Silybum marianum)

Beauty: Detoxifies skin from the inside out and supports skin clarity.
Health: Protects liver cells, supports detox, and aids digestion.
Key Compounds: Silymarin (liver support), flavonolignans, antioxidants.

Mullein (Verbascum thapsus)

Beauty: Soothes inflamed skin and can help with minor irritations.
Health: Supports respiratory health, soothes coughs, and acts as an expectorant.
Key Compounds: Mucilage (soothing), saponins (cleansing), flavonoids.

Mint (Mentha piperita, Mentha spicata)

Beauty: Cools and refreshes skin, helps clear blemishes and tone.
Health: Relieves indigestion, headaches, and congestion.
Key Compounds: Menthol (cooling), rosmarinic acid (anti-inflammatory), flavonoids.

Meadowsweet (Filipendula ulmaria)

Beauty: Tones skin and calms inflammation, especially in sensitive skin.
Health: Eases joint pain, supports digestion, and acts as a natural aspirin source.
Key Compounds: Salicylates (anti-inflammatory), tannins (astringent), flavonoids.

Nettle (Urtica dioica)

Beauty: Strengthens hair, promotes clear skin, and supports circulation.
Health: Rich in minerals, reduces inflammation, and supports detox.
Key Compounds: Chlorophyll, silica, iron, flavonoids (anti-inflammatory).

Nutmeg (Myristica fragrans)

Beauty: Softens skin, adds glow, and is sometimes used in scrubs and masks.
Health: Aids digestion, eases bloating, and supports relaxation (in small amounts).
Key Compounds: Myristicin (stimulating), eugenol, sabinene (digestive support).

Oregano (Origanum vulgare)

Beauty: Antibacterial and purifying for skin when diluted and used carefully.
Health: Strong antimicrobial, supports immunity, and aids digestion.
Key Compounds: Carvacrol (antibacterial), thymol, rosmarinic acid.

Olive Leaf (Olea europaea)

Beauty: Protects skin cells and helps maintain elasticity.
Health: Supports immune defence, cardiovascular health, and fights infections.
Key Compounds: Oleuropein (antiviral), hydroxytyrosol (antioxidant), flavonoids.

Parsley (Petroselinum crispum)

Beauty: Brightens skin, reduces puffiness, and helps tone.
Health: Rich in vitamin C and iron, supports kidney function and detox.
Key Compounds: Apigenin (anti-inflammatory), myristicin, chlorophyll.

Passionflower (Passiflora incarnata)

Beauty: Helps soothe stress-related skin issues and calm the complexion.
Health: Supports sleep, reduces anxiety, and eases muscle tension.
Key Compounds: Flavonoids (calming), harman alkaloids, vitexin (anxiolytic).

Plantain (Plantago major)

Beauty: Speeds healing of cuts, stings, and skin flare-ups.
Health: Soothes mucous membranes, supports digestion, and has anti-allergy effects.
Key Compounds: Allantoin (skin repair), aucubin (anti-inflammatory), mucilage.

Peppermint (Mentha piperita)

Beauty: Tightens pores, refreshes the skin, and reduces oiliness.
Health: Calms indigestion, relieves headaches, and improves alertness.
Key Compounds: Menthol (cooling), menthone, rosmarinic acid.

Pau d’Arco (Tabebuia impetiginosa)

Beauty: Traditionally used for skin infections and fungal conditions.
Health: Supports immune system, fights candida, and eases inflammation.
Key Compounds: Lapachol (antifungal), beta-lapachone, flavonoids.

Quassia (Quassia amara)

Beauty: Sometimes used in hair rinses for lice or scalp cleansing.
Health: A bitter digestive tonic that stimulates appetite and liver function.
Key Compounds: Quassinoids (bitter tonics), saponins, alkaloids.

Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis)

Beauty: Stimulates hair growth, tones skin, and improves circulation.
Health: Enhances memory, supports digestion, and acts as an antioxidant.
Key Compounds: Rosmarinic acid, camphor (stimulating), cineole.

Red Clover (Trifolium pratense)

Beauty: Softens and soothes dry or irritated skin.
Health: Supports hormonal balance and detox through the lymphatic system.
Key Compounds: Isoflavones (phytoestrogens), coumarins, flavonoids.

Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum)

Beauty: Reduces skin sensitivity and stress-related skin flare-ups.
Health: Strengthens immunity, supports sleep, and calms the nervous system.
Key Compounds: Triterpenes (adaptogenic), polysaccharides, ganoderic acids.

Rhodiola (Rhodiola rosea)

Beauty: Protects skin from stress-induced damage and helps restore radiance.
Health: Enhances energy, mood, and mental clarity during fatigue or stress.
Key Compounds: Rosavin, salidroside (adaptogenic), flavonoids.

Sage (Salvia officinalis)

Beauty: Tones oily skin, soothes blemishes, and has mild astringent effects.
Health: Supports memory, digestion, and hormonal balance.
Key Compounds: Thujone, rosmarinic acid (antioxidant), camphor.

Schisandra (Schisandra chinensis)

Beauty: Protects skin from stress and enhances glow and elasticity.
Health: Supports liver, stamina, and resilience to stress.
Key Compounds: Schisandrins (adaptogenic), lignans, antioxidants.

Slippery Elm (Ulmus rubra)

Beauty: Soothes irritated or inflamed skin when used topically.
Health: Eases sore throats, calms the gut, and supports digestive healing.
Key Compounds: Mucilage (soothing), tannins, phytosterols.

Skullcap (Scutellaria lateriflora)

Beauty: Calms skin irritation linked to nervous tension.
Health: Supports the nervous system, eases anxiety, and aids sleep.
Key Compounds: Baicalin, flavones, iridoids (nerve-calming).

St. John’s Wort (Hypericum perforatum)

Beauty: Supports wound healing and soothes minor burns and scars.
Health: Eases mild to moderate depression and nerve pain.
Key Compounds: Hypericin (antiviral), hyperforin (mood support), flavonoids.

Thyme (Thymus vulgaris)

Beauty: Clears blemishes and helps control oily skin.
Health: Antimicrobial, supports lung health, and fights colds.
Key Compounds: Thymol (antiseptic), carvacrol, flavonoids.

Turmeric (Curcuma longa)

Beauty: Brightens skin, fades dark spots, and calms inflammation.
Health: Powerful anti-inflammatory, supports joints, and boosts immunity.
Key Compounds: Curcumin (anti-inflammatory), turmerones, polyphenols.

Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum)

Beauty: Protects skin from environmental stress and soothes breakouts.
Health: Balances blood sugar, eases anxiety, and supports respiratory health.
Key Compounds: Eugenol, ursolic acid, ocimumosides (adaptogenic).

Tea Tree (Melaleuca alternifolia)

Beauty: Fights acne, reduces inflammation, and clears skin infections.
Health: Antifungal and antibacterial, useful for colds and oral health.
Key Compounds: Terpinen-4-ol (antimicrobial), cineole, alpha-terpineol.

Uva Ursi (Arctostaphylos uva-ursi)

Beauty: Sometimes used in skin brightening blends due to arbutin content.
Health: Supports urinary tract health and reduces infections.
Key Compounds: Arbutin (brightening), tannins (astringent), flavonoids.

Valerian (Valeriana officinalis)

Beauty: Helps calm skin affected by stress or poor sleep.
Health: Strong sedative herb that supports sleep and reduces anxiety.
Key Compounds: Valerenic acid (sedative), sesquiterpenes, alkaloids.

Violet (Viola odorata)

Beauty: Gently clears blemishes and soothes red or inflamed skin.
Health: Supports lymphatic drainage and eases coughs.
Key Compounds: Mucilage (soothing), salicylic acid (anti-inflammatory), anthocyanins.

Witch Hazel (Hamamelis virginiana)

Beauty: Tones skin, reduces puffiness, and tightens pores.
Health: Used topically for haemorrhoids, bruises, and varicose veins.
Key Compounds: Tannins (astringent), flavonoids, catechins.

White Willow Bark (Salix alba)

Beauty: Reduces acne, redness, and signs of irritation.
Health: Natural source of salicylates, supports joint and pain relief.
Key Compounds: Salicin (anti-inflammatory), tannins, polyphenols.

Wood Betony (Stachys officinalis)

Beauty: Calms sensitive skin and supports skin balance.
Health: Traditionally used for tension headaches, anxiety, and digestion.
Key Compounds: Tannins (astringent), betonicine (nerve tonic), flavonoids.

Yarrow (Achillea millefolium)

Beauty: Speeds healing, reduces redness, and tones the skin.
Health: Supports wound healing, reduces heavy bleeding, and aids digestion.
Key Compounds: Azulene (soothing), flavonoids, tannins.

Yellow Dock (Rumex crispus)

Beauty: Promotes clearer skin through detox support.
Health: Supports liver and bowel health and improves iron absorption.
Key Compounds: Anthraquinones (mild laxative), iron, tannins.

Zedoary (Curcuma zedoaria)

Beauty: Traditionally used in skin-lightening pastes and anti-inflammatory masks.
Health: Aids digestion, reduces gas, and is used in Ayurvedic detox protocols.
Key Compounds: Curcuminoids, essential oils, starches.

Final Thoughts

This A–Z guide is here to help you stay connected to the beauty and wisdom of herbs, whether you’re reaching for a calming tea, blending a skincare oil, or just curious about what grows around you.

Each herb offers something special, and while they may seem simple, their effects can be profound when used with care and consistency.

Let this be your quick-reference companion, something you can return to when you need inspiration, clarity, or a gentle reminder of how much support nature really offers!

Patri xx