Pharmacognosy

Medicinal Plants Used in Cosmetic and Aromatherapy

 Cosmetics are commercially available products that are used to improve the appearance of the skin (Mary and Loup, 2001). The skin is the largest organ; as our primary external barrier, it is on the forefront of the battle with external causes of damaging free radicals. Ultraviolet light and environmental pollutants are known initiators of free radicals. Free radicals are highly reactive molecules with an unpaired electron that result in damage to surrounding molecules and tissues. The most significant damage by free radicals is caused to bio-membranes and DNA 

It is thought that additional, topical use of vitamins (A, B, C, E, and k) and antioxidants in cosmetics can better protect and possibly correct the damage by neutralizing these free radicals. In addition, some vitamins may be beneficial to the skin because of other actions such as effects of suppression of pigmentation and bruising, stimulation of collagen production, refinement of keratinization, or anti-inflammatory effects