By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 03, 2024
10 Best Herbal Tinctures For Dry Skin
Herbal tinctures for dry skin are concentrated plant extracts that have been shown to provide natural relief from dry, itchy, and flaky skin.
They work by hydrating and soothing the skin, reducing inflammation and irritation, and even repairing damaged skin cells. Examples of herbal tinctures that can help with dry skin include aloe vera, chamomile, and green tea.
By using these tinctures topically or taking them orally as a supplement, individuals can experience improved skin elasticity, reduced redness and itching, and an overall improvement in their quality of life.
The following article describes in detail the most important tinctures for dry skin, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Aloe vera
- 2. Calendula officinalis
- 3. Matricaria chamomilla
- 4. Althaea officinalis
- 5. Lavandula angustifolia
- 6. Arctium lappa
- 7. Taraxacum officinale
- 8. Glycyrrhiza glabra
- 9. Stellaria media
- 10. Plantago major
- What is the best combination of herbal tinctures to use for dry skin?
- What ailments similar to dry skin are treated with herbal tinctures?
1. Aloe vera
Aloe tinctures helps with dry skin because it possesses anti-inflammatory and moisturizing properties that soothe and hydrate the skin.
The aloe vera plant contains compounds such as aloin and aloe emodin, which work together to lock in moisture and reduce redness and irritation. Additionally, aloe tincture's natural antioxidant properties help protect the skin from environmental stressors and promote collagen production, leaving dry skin feeling soft, supple, and revitalized.
By incorporating herbal aloe tinctures into your skincare routine, you can experience significant improvements in skin health and appearance.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Aloe vera tinctures that help with dry skin.
- Aloin: Aloin acts as a natural emollient and moisturizer, helping to lock in moisture and soothe dry skin.
- Aloe-emodin: Aloe-emodin possesses anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help to reduce inflammation and protect dry skin from further damage.
- Furanocoumarins: Furanocoumarins, such as isobarbaloin, have been shown to possess anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which help to soothe and protect dry skin from infections and further irritation.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of aloe used to make tinctures for dry skin.
- Leaves: The leaves are the most commonly used part of Aloe vera due to their high content of aloin, a compound that helps soothe and moisturize dry skin.
- Barks: The barks of the Aloe vera plant are used to create a tincture that helps to hydrate and protect dry skin, although it is less commonly used than the leaves.
- Stems: The stems of the Aloe vera plant are sometimes used to create a tincture that helps to soothe and calm dry, irritated skin.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic aloe for dry skin.
- Harvest 100% organic aloe vera leaves with a thickness of 1 inch or more for optimal potency and freshness.
- Dry the harvested aloe vera leaves in a single layer at 105 degrees fahrenheit for 2 hours.
- Chop the dried aloe vera leaves into small pieces and add 80 proof vodka as a solvent at a 1:3 ratio.
- Steep the aloe vera mixture in a cool dark place for 2 to 4 weeks to allow for infusion.
- Strain the tincture through a cheesecloth and store it in dark glass bottles with tight-fitting lids at room temperature.
2. Calendula officinalis
Pot marigold tinctures helps with dry skin because of its remarkable anti-inflammatory and moisturizing properties.
The tannins and flavonoids present in the herb work wonders in soothing and calming irritated skin, reducing redness and inflammation. The antioxidants also help to protect the skin from environmental stressors and damage caused by free radicals.
As a result, pot marigold tinctures can provide long-lasting hydration and relief for dry, itchy, and flaky skin, leaving it soft, supple, and radiant.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Calendula officinalis tinctures that help with dry skin.
- Carotenoids: These pigments help to protect and moisturize the skin, reducing dryness and inflammation associated with skin conditions like eczema and dermatitis.
- Phenolic acids: These compounds have antioxidant properties that help to neutralize free radicals, reduce inflammation, and promote skin hydration, thereby alleviating dry skin symptoms.
- Sesquiterpenes: These compounds possess anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that help to soothe and protect dry, irritated skin, promoting wound healing and skin regeneration.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of pot marigold used to make tinctures for dry skin.
- Flowers: They are used to make tinctures for dry skin because of their high concentration of anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compounds, such as triterpenoids and carotenoids, which help soothe and protect dry skin.
- Leaves: They are used to make tinctures for dry skin because of their ability to provide a gentle, anti-inflammatory action that helps to calm and moisturize dry skin.
- Seeds: They are not typically used, but some sources suggest that the seeds of Calendula officinalis may contain compounds that aid in skin health and moisturization.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic pot marigold for dry skin.
- Harvest approximately 1 pound of calendula flowers when in full bloom for optimal potency retention.
- Dry the flowers in a single layer for 2 to 3 hours in a warm dark place.
- Combine the dried calendula flowers with 80 proof vodka at a 1 to 2 ratio by weight.
- Steep the mixture for 2 to 6 weeks in a cool dark place with occasional shaking.
- Strain the tincture using cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle.
3. Matricaria chamomilla
Chamomile tinctures helps with dry skin because of its exceptional anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
The herbal extract calms irritated skin, reducing redness and itchiness associated with dryness. Additionally, chamomile's moisturizing effects help to lock in hydration, leaving the skin feeling soft, smooth, and supple. Its antioxidant properties also protect the skin from environmental stressors, promoting a healthy glow and addressing concerns such as fine lines and wrinkles.
Regular use of chamomile tinctures can provide long-term relief for dry, itchy, and irritated skin.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Matricaria chamomilla tinctures that help with dry skin.
- Apigenin: This flavonoid helps reduce inflammation and soothe dry skin by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and promoting skin hydration.
- Bisabolol: A sesquiterpene with anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, bisabolol helps repair and protect dry skin by reducing redness and promoting wound healing.
- Α-bisabolol oxide a: A volatile oil component with anti-inflammatory and moisturizing properties, α-bisabolol oxide A helps hydrate and calm dry skin, reducing irritation and promoting skin elasticity.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of chamomile used to make tinctures for dry skin.
- Flowers: The flowers are commonly used due to their high concentration of apigenin and other flavonoids, which have anti-inflammatory and soothing properties that help to calm dry skin.
- Leaves: The leaves are used for their astringent and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce redness and irritation associated with dry skin.
- Roots: The roots of Matricaria chamomilla are used for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help to soothe and protect dry skin from further irritation.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic chamomile for dry skin.
- Harvest fresh matricaria chamomilla flowers in the morning after the dew has evaporated for optimal potency and aroma.
- Dry the fresh flowers in a warm dark place for 7 to 10 days to preserve their medicinal properties.
- Chop the dried flowers into small pieces using a mortar and pestle to increase their surface area for extraction.
- Steep 1 part of dried matricaria chamomilla flowers in 2 parts of 80% ethanol in a clean glass jar for 2 weeks.
- Strain the liquid through a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle and store it in a cool dark place for 2 weeks before use.
4. Althaea officinalis
Marshmallow tinctures helps with dry skin because it contains mucilages, which are thick, protective substances that form a soothing film on the skin.
These mucilages help to lock in moisture and calm irritated skin, reducing inflammation and discomfort.
Additionally, marshmallow tincture's anti-inflammatory properties can help to reduce redness and swelling associated with dry skin, while its antioxidant properties help to protect the skin from environmental stressors and damage caused by free radicals.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Althaea officinalis tinctures that help with dry skin.
- Mucilages: Mucilages help to lock in moisture and soothe dry skin by forming a protective barrier on the skin's surface, preventing water loss and reducing inflammation.
- Polysaccharides: Polysaccharides in Althaea officinalis have been shown to exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help to reduce redness and irritation associated with dry skin.
- Glycoproteins: Glycoproteins in Althaea officinalis can help to repair and restore the skin's natural barrier function, which can be disrupted in dry skin conditions, allowing moisture to be retained and promoting skin health.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of marshmallow used to make tinctures for dry skin.
- Roots: The roots of Althaea officinalis are most commonly used for tinctures due to their high mucilage content, which helps to soothe and moisturize dry skin.
- Leaves: The leaves of Althaea officinalis are also used in tinctures for their anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, which can help to calm dry, irritated skin.
- Buds: The buds of Althaea officinalis are used in tinctures for their high mucilage content and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to protect and moisturize dry skin.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic marshmallow for dry skin.
- Harvest 1 part of fresh roots from a field-grown plant of althaea officinalis in autumn.
- Chop the harvested roots into small pieces using a sharp knife to increase surface area.
- Combine the chopped roots with 3 parts of a solvent such as 80 proof vodka in a glass container.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 to 4 weeks to allow extraction.
- Strain the mixture through cheesecloth to separate the liquid tincture from the solids.
5. Lavandula angustifolia
English lavender tinctures helps with dry skin because of its natural anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
The herbal extract soothes and calms irritated skin, reducing redness and discomfort associated with dryness. Additionally, lavender's moisturizing and emollient properties help to hydrate and lock in moisture, leaving skin feeling soft, supple, and nourished.
Regular use can also promote a healthy skin barrier function, protecting against further dryness and environmental stressors.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Lavandula angustifolia tinctures that help with dry skin.
- Linalool: Helps with dry skin by possessing anti-inflammatory properties, which reduce redness and irritation, promoting a healthier skin barrier.
- Linalyl acetate: Contributes to soothing and calming dry skin by exhibiting anti-inflammatory and antiseptic effects, while also promoting skin elasticity and hydration.
- Lavandulol: Exhibits antimicrobial and antifungal properties, which help to prevent infections and promote a balanced skin microbiome, ultimately reducing dryness and irritation.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of english lavender used to make tinctures for dry skin.
- Leaves: Used to make tinctures for dry skin because they contain antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe and calm dry skin.
- Flowers: Used to make tinctures for dry skin because they have antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties that help to reduce inflammation, soothe dryness, and promote skin healing.
- Seeds: Used to make tinctures for dry skin because they contain antiseptic and anti-inflammatory compounds that help to soothe and protect dry skin.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic english lavender for dry skin.
- Harvest 100g of fresh lavandula angustifolia leaves and flowers on a dry sunny day after morning dew has evaporated.
- Clean the plant material by gently removing any dirt or debris with a soft brush for 10 minutes.
- Combine the cleaned plant material with 500ml of 25% ethanol in a clean glass jar for 4 weeks.
- Shake the jar vigorously for 2 minutes twice a day to facilitate extraction and infusion over 4 weeks.
- Strain the liquid through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle to separate solids from liquid.
6. Arctium lappa
Burdock tinctures helps with dry skin because of its rich antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
The herb's saponins and flavonoids help to soothe and calm irritated skin, reducing redness and itching associated with dryness. Burdock root also contains inulin, a prebiotic that promotes healthy gut bacteria, which is linked to a stronger barrier function in the skin. As a result, burdock tincture can help to lock in moisture, leaving skin feeling soft, supple, and more hydrated.
Regular use of burdock tincture can lead to a noticeable improvement in dry skin's overall appearance.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Arctium lappa tinctures that help with dry skin.
- Inulin: Inulin helps with dry skin by providing moisturizing and hydrating properties, which can help to lock in moisture and soothe dry, irritated skin.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids, particularly kaempferol, help with dry skin by exerting anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which can reduce inflammation and protect the skin from oxidative damage.
- Tannins: Tannins help with dry skin by acting as a natural astringent, which can help to tighten and firm the skin, while also reducing inflammation and promoting healing of dry, irritated skin.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of burdock used to make tinctures for dry skin.
- Roots: Rich in inulin, beta-sitosterol, and other compounds that help soothe and moisturize dry skin.
- Seeds: Contain anti-inflammatory properties that aid in reducing inflammation and promoting skin health.
- Leaves: High in antioxidants and flavonoids, which help protect the skin from damage and promote hydration.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic burdock for dry skin.
- Harvest 100g of arctium lappa roots and clean them thoroughly under running water.
- Chop the roots into small pieces to increase their surface area for extraction.
- Combine the chopped roots with 500ml of 40% ethanol in a clean glass jar.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks shaking it occasionally.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into another clean glass bottle.
7. Taraxacum officinale
Dandelion tinctures helps with dry skin because of its exceptional ability to nourish and moisturize the skin.
The herb is rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that work synergistically to hydrate and soothe dry, irritated skin. Dandelion's anti-inflammatory properties also help reduce redness and itchiness, while its antimicrobial actions prevent infection and promote healthy skin cell growth.
Additionally, dandelion tincture can improve skin elasticity and firmness, leaving the skin looking smoother and more radiant overall.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Taraxacum officinale tinctures that help with dry skin.
- Taraxasterol: It is a triterpenoid saponin that helps to lock moisture in the skin, reducing dryness and irritation.
- Phenolic acids: These compounds exhibit antioxidant properties, helping to soothe and protect the skin from oxidative stress and environmental damage, which can contribute to dry skin.
- Inulin: It is a prebiotic that helps to maintain the skin's natural barrier function by promoting the growth of beneficial gut bacteria, which in turn supports skin health and hydration.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of dandelion used to make tinctures for dry skin.
- Leaves: They are rich in antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties, making them beneficial for soothing dry skin.
- Roots: They contain inulin, a prebiotic that helps to nourish and moisturize the skin, reducing dryness and inflammation.
- Flowers: They have anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, which can help to calm and soothe dry skin, reducing irritation and promoting healing.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic dandelion for dry skin.
- Harvest 2 ounces of fresh taraxacum officinale leaves and flowers at peak potency for maximum bioavailability.
- Chop the plant material into small pieces to increase surface area for efficient extraction.
- Combine the chopped taraxacum officinale with 80% ethanol in a 1:5 ratio by weight for a strong tincture.
- Steep the mixture in a clean glass jar for 2-6 weeks with occasional shaking to facilitate extraction.
- Strain the liquid tincture through cheesecloth or a coffee filter to remove plant material and achieve a clear solution.
8. Glycyrrhiza glabra
Licorice tinctures helps with dry skin because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties.
The glycyrrhizin present in licorice root has been shown to soothe and calm irritated skin, reducing redness and itching associated with dry skin conditions. Additionally, the tannins and flavonoids found in licorice help to lock in moisture, providing long-lasting hydration and protection to the skin.
This natural remedy can be especially beneficial for individuals who experience eczema, psoriasis, or rosacea, promoting a smoother and more radiant complexion.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Glycyrrhiza glabra tinctures that help with dry skin.
- Licorice saponins: These saponins help with dry skin by reducing inflammation and promoting skin hydration, thus soothing and calming dry, irritated skin.
- Glycyrrhizin: This triterpenoid saponin has anti-inflammatory properties that help to reduce redness and dryness of the skin, while also promoting collagen synthesis to improve skin elasticity.
- Flavonoids: These flavonoids exhibit antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to protect the skin from damage, reduce inflammation, and promote skin hydration to alleviate dry skin symptoms.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of licorice used to make tinctures for dry skin.
- Roots: Glycyrrhiza glabra roots are commonly used to make tinctures for dry skin because they contain glycyrrhizin, a compound with anti-inflammatory and moisturizing properties.
- Leaves: Glycyrrhiza glabra leaves are used to make tinctures for dry skin because they have been traditionally used to soothe and calm irritated skin.
- Barks: Glycyrrhiza glabra barks are used to make tinctures for dry skin because they contain flavonoids and phenolic acids that may help to reduce inflammation and promote skin health.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic licorice for dry skin.
- Harvest 100-150 grams of dried roots of glycyrrhiza glabra from a reputable supplier for tincture preparation.
- Combine the dried roots with 500 milliliters of high-proof ethanol such as 95% grain alcohol in a clean glass container.
- Store the mixture in a cool dark place for 2-4 weeks to allow for extraction and infusion.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth into a clean glass container to remove the roots and residue.
- Label and store the tincture in a cool dark place for up to 2 years with a dosage of 20-30 drops per serving.
9. Stellaria media
Chickweed tinctures helps with dry skin because of its remarkable anti-inflammatory and moisturizing properties.
The herb contains compounds that soothe and calm irritated skin, reducing redness and inflammation caused by dryness. Its natural emollients and humectants help to lock in moisture, leaving the skin feeling soft, supple, and hydrated. Additionally, chickweed's antimicrobial properties prevent bacterial overgrowth, which can exacerbate dry skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis.
As a result, using herbal chickweed tinctures can provide long-lasting relief for dry, itchy, and irritated skin.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Stellaria media tinctures that help with dry skin.
- Aleurone: Aleurone, a type of phenolic compound, is present in Stellaria media and may help with dry skin by providing antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that soothe and protect the skin.
- Stellarin: Stellarin is a triterpene found in the plant, which may help with dry skin by modulating the skin's barrier function and reducing inflammation to improve skin hydration and elasticity.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids, such as kaempferol and quercetin, present in Stellaria media, may help with dry skin by exerting antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help to protect the skin from damage and promote skin health.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of chickweed used to make tinctures for dry skin.
- Leaves: The leaves of Stellaria media contain compounds that help soothe and moisturize dry skin due to their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
- Roots: Stellaria media roots are rich in saponins, which can help lock in moisture and provide a protective barrier for dry skin.
- Flowers: The flowers of Stellaria media contain flavonoids and phenolic acids that have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, helping to reduce dryness and irritation in the skin.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic chickweed for dry skin.
- Harvest stellaria media flowers and leaves in the morning after the dew has evaporated weighing 50 grams.
- Chop the plant material into smaller pieces using scissors or a herb cutter to increase surface area.
- Mix the chopped plant material with 80 percent vodka or 80 proof alcohol in a clean glass jar.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 to 4 weeks shaking the jar every day.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean glass bottle discarding the solids.
10. Plantago major
Plantain tinctures helps with dry skin because of its exceptional moisturizing properties.
The plantain plant contains a high concentration of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that work together to lock in moisture, soothe irritation, and reduce inflammation. When applied topically or taken internally as a tincture, plantain helps to hydrate the skin from the inside out, leaving it soft, supple, and radiant.
Additionally, its anti-inflammatory properties help to calm dry, itchy skin, providing long-lasting relief for dry skin sufferers.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Plantago major tinctures that help with dry skin.
- Aleurone: A type of complex carbohydrate, aleurone acts as a humectant, helping to retain moisture in the skin and alleviate dryness.
- Saponins: These triterpenoid glycosides have emollient properties, reducing inflammation and soothing dry, irritated skin by forming a protective barrier on the skin's surface.
- Flavonoids: As powerful antioxidants, flavonoids like quercetin help protect the skin from oxidative stress and inflammation, promoting healthy skin hydration and reducing the appearance of dryness.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of plantain used to make tinctures for dry skin.
- Leaves: They are used due to their high mucilage content, which helps to soothe and moisturize dry skin.
- Roots: They are used due to their anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce redness and irritation associated with dry skin.
- Stems: They are used due to their high antioxidant content, which helps to protect the skin from damage and promote healing.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic plantain for dry skin.
- Harvest fresh plantago major leaves in late summer or early fall when they are at their peak potency.
- Clean and dry the harvested leaves in a warm place with good air circulation for 1-2 weeks.
- Chop the dried leaves into small pieces using a sharp knife or herb cutter to increase surface area.
- Combine the chopped leaves with 80 proof vodka in a 1:5 ratio by weight for a 20% solution.
- Steep the mixture in a dark glass container for 2-3 weeks, shaking it daily to facilitate extraction.
What is the best combination of herbal tinctures to use for dry skin?
The best combination of herbal tinctures that help with dry skin is a blend of calendula, aloe vera, and chamomile.
Calendula tincture promotes skin regeneration and reduces inflammation, while aloe vera soothes and hydrates dry skin. Chamomile tincture calms irritated skin and reduces redness. Combine these tinctures in a ratio of 2 parts calendula to 1 part aloe vera to 1 part chamomile, and apply topically or mix with a carrier oil for a nourishing moisturizer.
Regular use can lead to softer, healthier-looking skin.
What ailments similar to dry skin are treated with herbal tinctures?
Ailments similar to dry skin that are treated with herbal tinctures are various forms of irritation, inflammation, and itchiness.
For example, eczema, psoriasis, and dermatitis can be alleviated with herbal tinctures like calendula, chamomile, and St. John's Wort. Herbal remedies can also help soothe itching caused by bug bites, allergic reactions, or minor cuts and scrapes.
Additionally, herbal tinctures may aid in relieving skin conditions like acne, rosacea, and sunburned skin.