The leaves are changing, the days are shorter, and the weather has a certain chill that seems to cut through your layers. You may also feel a slight tickle in the back of your throat, which can induce panic. There’s nothing quite like a cold threatening to mess with your plans and take you out of commission for a week or so. 

We’ve got you covered with a simple DIY throat spray made with all-natural ingredients. It may help soothe the pain of a sore throat and promote quicker recovery. The best part is that it only takes a few minutes to prepare. It goes great with peppermint tea, but you can use green tea, black tea, or even Throat Coat tea if you prefer those varieties and flavors. Continue reading to learn more about some of the ingredients. 

Szechuan Peppercorns

These peppercorns are commonly used in both Chinese cuisine and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). Szechuan peppercorns contain anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce inflammation or irritation. Some studies found that compounds in these peppercorns exhibit antimicrobial effects, which may help combat viruses and bacteria. Finally, Szechuan peppercorns have a numbing effect, which may help relieve pain and discomfort, especially in the mouth and throat. 

Manuka Honey

Manuka honey exhibits antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, anti-viral, and antioxidant properties. Researchers attribute these health benefits to the active ingredient: methylglyoxal (MGO). This is created in Manuka honey because of dihydroxyacetone (DHA), which is high in Manuka flowers. The antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects offer relief from a sore throat. The honey can help fight against the bacteria that cause pain in the throat. In fact, research confirms that people who use Manuka honey have a decrease in the presence of Streptococcus mutans, which can cause sore throats.

Peppermint Tea

Hot herbal teas are great to consume when you have a sore throat. They promote hydration and offer soothing benefits. Peppermint tea is rich in polyphenols, a group of powerful antioxidants that help reduce inflammation. It also contains menthol, a compound that offers a cooling effect by interacting with calcium channels in the body. Some traditional medicinal practices used peppermint to treat various conditions, including symptoms of sore throat. 

Apple Cider Vinegar

According to studies in human cells, apple cider vinegar proved effective against E. coli and Staphylococcus aureus bacteria. It also acted against methicillin-resistant S. aureus, which is a significant threat to humans. Laboratory studies found that apple cider vinegar exhibits antimicrobial properties against certain bacteria and yeast. Currently, however, there are not enough human trials to back up that statement. Although there is anecdotal evidence for apple cider vinegar reducing sore throat symptoms, scientific studies are necessary to prove its efficacy. 

DIY Throat Spray

Ingredients:

• 2 peppermint tea bags
• 1 teaspoon Szechuan peppercorns
• 2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar
• 2 teaspoons Manuka honey
• 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
• 3 drops peppermint oil
• 3 drops lemon oil
• 5 drops clove oil

Instructions:

• Bring one cup of water to boil in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat. Turn off the heat once the water is boiling and add the tea bags and peppercorns. Allow them to steep for five to 10 minutes. 
• Stir in the remaining ingredients and then pour through a fine mesh strainer and collect the liquid in a bowl or cup. Allow the liquid to cool. 
• Get two four-ounce glass spray bottles and divide the mixture between these two bottles, using a funnel to pour in the liquid. Screw on the tops and store in the refrigerator for up to one month.
• When ready to use, shake well and then spray towards the back of the mouth as often as needed.

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The fall season is all about pumpkin spice lattes, pumpkin muffins, pumpkin loaves, and, naturally, pumpkin pies. Did you ever think that you would take some of that nutrient-dense pumpkin and lather it on your face, though? Well, that’s what Dherbs is for! The DIY face mask in this article contains pumpkin, yogurt, and honey, three ingredients that work to nourish your skin and improve its overall glow.

The great thing about this face mask is that you get to drown your skin in an assortment of enzymes, vitamins, and antioxidants. And that’s just referring to the pumpkin! The honey and yogurt also provide moisturizing and soothing effects. Together, these ingredients will leave your skin feeling hydrated, rejuvenated, and radiating with a natural shine. Learn more about the ingredients below.

Pumpkin Puree

Pumpkin puree offers a significant amount of vitamin A, a necessary nutrient for skin health and repair. One serving of pumpkin can nearly fulfill the recommended daily intake of vitamin A. Pumpkin is also a great source of vitamin C, which is necessary for the synthesis of collagen, which works to keep skin elastic and firm. By increasing collagen production, you can help reduce the appearance of fine lines and maintain a more youthful complexion. Some studies found that pumpkin polysaccharide extract was effective in skin care applications. Other studies found that the beta-carotene in pumpkin acts like a natural sunblock, working to protect the skin from harmful UV rays. Preventing UV damage can help reduce photoaging, which can impose on the skin’s delicate layers.

Yogurt

There are many types of yogurt, but you should not lather strawberry banana yogurt on your face. That stuff is full of sugar and will not do your skin any favors. Also, keep in mind that if you have a cow’s milk allergy, you may want to avoid yogurt, or opt for a plant-based yogurt instead. Yogurt has a creamy texture, which may help lock moisture into the skin. Some in-vitro studies from 2011 backed up those claims when looking at yogurt face masks. Yogurt may also help even out skin tone, which researchers attribute to the naturally occurring probiotics. Similar to pumpkin, yogurt may also help minimize the effects of UV rays. It’s as though yogurt creates a skin barrier that neutralizes free radicals, helping reduce sun damage-induced wrinkles or spots.

Honey

Raw honey may help to exfoliate the skin, reduce bacteria buildup, and accelerate the healing process of small wounds. Researchers note that raw honey contains beneficial components for the skin, especially if you have acne or an inflammatory skin disorder, such as eczema or psoriasis. Working to balance bacterial buildup on the skin, honey may be significantly more effective than other skin care products. You can use raw honey as a spot treatment or include it in a face mask to help reduce inflammation and redness. Some people report that honey helps to get rid of blemishes! If you can, strive to get Manuka honey, as this is unpasteurized and filled with healing properties. 

Pumpkin Yogurt And Honey Face Mask

Ingredients:

• 2 teaspoons organic pumpkin puree
• 1/2 teaspoon raw honey (or Manuka honey)
• 1/4 tablespoon unflavored Greek yogurt

Instructions:

• Add all of the ingredients to a small bowl and whisk to combine. 
• Apply the mask to your face and neck and allow it to sit for 15 minutes. 
• Rinse away with lukewarm water and pat your face dry. Follow with moisturizer.

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The fall season invites delicious seasonal produce items, cooler weather, and the beautiful changing of leaves. It is also a time of year when you are typically exposed to germs, due to lots of activities, traveling, and holiday gatherings. All that is wonderful, but it never hurts to have a little extra immune support to help you get through the season. That’s why we recommend that you keep a couple bottles of propolis throat spray in the house!

What Is Propolis?

Honey is not the only thing that bees make. Bees produce propolis, a compound from the sap on needle-leaved trees or evergreens. According to historians, Greeks used propolis to treat abscesses and Egyptians used it to embalm mummies. Assyrians applied propolis to wounds and tumors to help fight infection and accelerate the healing process. 

The composition of propolis varies depending on the location of the bees and which trees or flowers they have access to. Propolis in Europe, for example, will not have the same chemical makeup as propolis from New Zealand. Continue reading to learn more about the purported benefits of propolis. 

Healing Compounds In Propolis

According to researchers, there are more than 500 compounds in propolis. The majority of those compounds are in the form of polyphenols, which are antioxidants that fight oxidative stress in the body. Propolis also contains flavonoids, which plants produce as a form of protection. Researchers note that they are commonly found in fruits, green tea, vegetables, and red wine. Propolis is also rich in amino acids, vitamins A, C, and E, and some minerals like magnesium and potassium. 

The research suggests that propolis exhibits antiviral, antibacterial, anti-fungal, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties. Propolis contains pinocembrin, a flavonoid that acts like an antifungal. It also exhibits antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activity that may help with the healing of wounds, including burns. A 2019 review found that propolis works to stimulate collagen production in the skin, which could further support wound healing. 

Regarding oral health, a 2021 review of studies found that propolis may help treat mouth and throat infections. Researchers believe that propolis’ antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties could play a role in improving overall oral health. More research is still necessary on this topic, though. 

How To Make A Propolis Glycerite

There are really only two ways to make this propolis throat spray. You can buy pre-made propolis glycerite or make your own. A glycerite is similar to an herbal tincture, but it calls for vegetable glycerin instead of alcohol. Glycerites take six weeks to make, though, so you may want to consider the pre-made one if time is an issue. In order to make the propolis extract with glycerite, do the following:

• Place 2/3 cup of propolis powder in a 16-ounce glass jar. 
• In a separate jar, combine 3/4 cup glycerin with 1/4 cup of distilled water and mix well. 
• Pour the glycerin and water mixture over the propolis powder and stir to combine. Screw on the lid and shake once daily for six weeks. 
• After six weeks, strain the liquid through a coffee filter into a clean jar. You may need to do this twice to remove all the powder. 

Homemade Propolis Throat Spray

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon propolis glycerite (see above recipe)
• 2 teaspoons raw honey (or Manuka honey)
• 3/4 teaspoon distilled water

Instructions:

• Combine the propolis glycerite, honey, and water in a small spray bottle and shake well to combine. 
• Add a little more water, 1/8 teaspoon at a time, to get the right consistency. Ideally, you want the mixture to be thick enough to coat the throat, but thin enough to come out of the spray bottle. 
• To use, spray at the first sign of illness. Squirt a few sprays directly into the throat to help keep inflammation down.

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Achieving smooth, hydrated skin does not have to be a lifelong journey. You can accomplish this goal if you give your skin the right ingredients, both inside and out. That means that you eat the right foods that benefit your skin from the inside and apply a series of creams, salves, butters, masks, and more topically to also boost skin health. Selecting the right products is often where people find the most difficulty, though. 

This super green spirulina face mask can help hydrate, soothe, and calm your facial skin. It contains spirulina powder, aloe vera gel, and Manuka honey, all of which deeply nourish the skin. Although spirulina receives a lot of praise for supplying the body with many nutrients, it doesn’t get enough attention for topical use. Spirulina benefits the skin in the following ways:

• Helps the skin retain moisture
• Helps eliminate bad bacteria that may cause acne
• Provides the skin with beneficial antioxidant compounds
• Contains chlorophyll, which is very cleansing
• Helps exfoliate skin

How Does Spirulina Benefit The Skin?

According to a study from 2020, applying a cream containing spirulina to the skin could be a potential acne treatment. The reason for this is because spirulina exhibits powerful antioxidant and antimicrobial activity. Spirulina may even be a better option than local antibiotic therapy, due to fewer side effects and zero antibiotic resistance. 

A separate study from 2020 confirmed that an ointment containing spirulina was effective at improving eczema symptoms when applied topically two times daily, three times per week. Another study found that spirulina helped reduce the presence of psoriasis in mice. The study suggests that spirulina could potentially advance as a natural pharmaceutical for psoriasis treatment. 

How Does Manuka Honey Benefit The Skin?

Manuka honey is a semi-opaque honey made from the nectar of the Manuka plant, which is native to New Zealand. This unique honey is highly praised for its valuable antibacterial and antimicrobial properties. Manuka honey also has higher pH and sugar content than other honey varieties, which may contribute to the impressive antibacterial activity. 

The polyphenols in Manuka honey may help block the effects of damaging external factors, such as sun exposure and environmental pollutants, which helps delay the development of fine lines and wrinkles. Manuka honey also boasts emollient and humectant properties. As a quick refresher, emollients fill the spaces between skin cells to promote softer skin, while humectants draw moisture from the air into the skin to boost hydration. 

How Does Aloe Vera Benefit The Skin?

Aloe vera is one of the most popular herbal remedies for topical skin conditions. The gel-like components of the aloe plant have been known to remedy a variety of ailments, including burns, sunburns, and minor cuts and scrapes. The skin can easily absorb aloe vera gel, making it ideal for oily skin. That said, it may be effective at soothing dry skin because it helps to seal moisture into the skin. Aloe vera gel also helps to boost collagen production and fight bacteria. Lastly, aloe vera gel may help alleviate seborrheic dermatitis, alleviating the itchiness that is common with this condition.

Spirulina Face Mask

Ingredients:

• 1/2 tablespoon Manuka honey
• 1/2 tablespoon aloe vera gel
• 1 teaspoon spirulina powder

Instructions:

• Add all of the ingredients to a small bowl and mix well. 
• Apply to a clean face and leave on for 15-20 minutes. 
• Rinse with warm water and pat your face dry. Follow up with a natural moisturizer.

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When you are sick, there is nothing you want more than to just feel better. If there was a magic pill that automatically made you feel better after coming down with a cold, you would take it. Instead, you do what you can, taking vitamins or over-the-counter medications to boost immunity and get over the cold. You may also experiment with different home remedies, some of which help relieve symptoms while others don’t.

Sometimes, you blow your nose so much and cannot believe that you have more mucus to expel. Blowing can cause headaches and general sinus pain, not to mention puffy eyes or irritation around the nostrils. In order to stop your nose from leaking like a faulty faucet, should you consume chicken soup and heat packs? What is fiction and which home remedies actually help you drain your sinuses? Continue reading to find out.

Nasal Irrigation

Very effective at relieving nasal congestion or irritation, nasal irrigation involves flushing out the nasal passages with a saline solution. You may be aware of the neti pot, which is an inexpensive device that looks like a small teapot. You can make your own saline solution for the neti pot, squeeze bottle, or bulb syringe with the following steps:

• Mix 3 teaspoons of iodine-free salt with 1 teaspoon of baking soda to create the dry mixture.
• Dissolve 1 teaspoon of the dry mixture into 1 cup of distilled, sterilized, or filtered water. 

In order to irrigate your sinuses, you first want to stand over a sink or basin. Pour, spray, or squirt a liberal amount of the solution into your right nostril while tilting your head so that your left ear is parallel to the ground. The saline solution should flow out of the other nostril. Do this to each nostril to help flush away any bacteria or irritants. 

Warm And Cold Compresses

Whether you have a cold or sore muscles, alternating between warm and cold compresses can benefit your situation. Lay back and apply a warm compress across your nose, cheeks, and forehead for three minutes. Remove the compress and replace it with a cold compress for 30 seconds. Repeat this cycle two more times to complete a total of three cycles. You can repeat this process between two to six times per day. 

Manuka Honey

There is a large body of evidence highlighting the health benefits of honey. It exhibits antibacterial properties and can help soothe sore throat. Manuka honey is a special type of honey that has many therapeutic uses. Researchers note that Manuka honey exhibits powerful antibacterial properties that may help get rid of a bacterial infection. Try adding Manuka honey to your next cup of tea if you have sinus congestion or a sore throat. 

Hydrate With Lots Of Water

The reason that you want to drink more water than you otherwise would is to help thin mucus and drain your sinuses. Fluids and humidity can lubricate your sinuses, making it easier to breathe. Hot beverages like herbal tea or hot water with lemon can also aid your hydration efforts. Hot beverages also provide the benefit of steam, which may aid breathing and soothe sore throat. 

Steam

Steam works to relieve congestion by loosening the mucus in your nasal passages. You can add essential oils to a diffuser if you have that available to you. Otherwise, you can pour boiling water into a heat-safe bowl and add a few drops of peppermint, eucalyptus, or tea tree essential oils to the water. Lean over the bowl and drape a towel over your head so that it falls all around you, creating a steam tent. Breathe deeply, in through the nose and out through the mouth, to help clear your sinuses.

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In skin care products, there are two types of ingredients: the high-tech, lab-made molecules, and natural ingredients from plants. Honey falls under the latter category and it’s been used for both medicinal and beauty applications for thousands of years. Ancient Sumerian tablets indicate that humans used honey in cosmetics as early as 2100 BC. It’s fair to say, then, that honey is one of the oldest natural skin care ingredients. 

What Is Manuka Honey?

There are many types of honey, with one of the most prized varieties being Manuka honey. This semi-opaque, creamy honey is made from the nectar of the Manuka plant. Native to New Zealand and Australia, the Manuka bush blooms small whitish pink flowers. Most honey that you purchase is made from a variety of different flower nectars, but Manuka honey is exclusively crafted from Manuka flowers. Because of that distinction, Manuka honey has a rich golden hue and high concentration of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. In fact, various studies confirm that Manuka honey has a higher pH and sugar content than other honeys, and researchers believe that those attributes enhance the antibacterial activity. 

The Antibacterial Properties

In the late 1800s, researchers discovered that honey contains glucose oxidase, an enzyme that converts sugar into a mild, bleach-like antiseptic you probably have at home: hydrogen peroxide. What makes Manuka honey so valuable is that in addition to hydrogen peroxide, it contains methylglyoxal. This compound is an even stronger antibacterial agent than hydrogen peroxide. Some studies suggest that it may fight against strong bacteria like Staphylococcus or E.coli. What does that mean for your skin? The antibacterial activity in Manuka honey may help combat blemishes, infections, and even impetigo. 

Keeps Skin Hydrated And Soft

Honey is probably not the first ingredient you think of in regards to moisturizing the skin. Manuka honey may be very effective at battling dry, cracked skin because it exhibits emollient and humectant properties. Emollients fill the spaces between the cracks to promote softer skin, whereas humectants draw moisture from the air into the skin to boost hydration. Manuka honey is also useful for fighting flaky skin and general irritation, both of which are symptoms of dry or dehydrated skin. 

May Reduce Signs Of Aging

Manuka honey exhibits anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, which work to fight bacteria and promote healing. Additionally, Manuka honey provides optimal moisture, which is vital if you want to reduce signs of aging. Dry and cracked skin is more prone to wrinkles, discoloration, age spots, and fine lines. The antioxidants in Manuka honey also promote healing and may even enhance collagen production, which keeps the skin looking younger. Plus, the bleach-like qualities from the hydrogen peroxide in Manuka honey may help clear up skin discolorations. 

Manuka Honey Body Butter

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup each: coconut butter, coconut oil, and shea butter
• 1 tablespoon Manuka honey

Instructions:

• Put the coconut butter, coconut oil, and shea butter in a saucepan over medium-low heat. Keep on the heat until fully melted. 
• Remove from the heat and pour the mixture into a heat-safe bowl. Allow the mixture to sit until it is opaque. You can accelerate this process by putting the mixture in the fridge for about 30 minutes. 
• Once the mixture is ready, use a hand mixer to whip it up. Add the Manuka honey and continue whipping with the hand mixer until light and fluffy. 
• Transfer the body butter to a glass container and store in the fridge until ready to use.

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There is never a wrong time to pamper yourself, but it seems to have an extra special effect when the weather is warm. Whether you have dry skin, struggling skin, irritated skin, or you just want to improve skin health, a face mask is an excellent way to rejuvenate the skin. Both oatmeal and honey, the two primary ingredients in this face mask, help to leave your skin looking and feeling great.

Why Oatmeal?

Oatmeal is more than a healthy breakfast option that supplies the body with protein, complex carbs, and fiber. It is naturally rich in antioxidant anti-inflammatory compounds, in addition to avenanthramides, all of which help to soothe dry or irritated skin. Because of the anti-inflammatory nature of oatmeal, it does wonders for acne-prone skin. In fact, oatmeal works to absorb excess oil from the skin’s surface, which is one of the reasons why it exists in many facial mask recipes.

It’s very common to see colloidal oatmeal on the ingredient lists of skin care products. Colloidal oats differ slightly from a regular container of rolled oats that you eat. They have a higher lipid content, meaning they offer more antioxidants to help protect the skin’s barrier. The colloidal oats also work to alleviate irritation, soothe sun damage, and control dryness. You can finely grind oats and boil them to extract the colloidal material, which is a gel-like substance that has moisture-trapping molecules. You may notice that your skin looks younger and more supple after applying oats to the skin.

Why Honey?

This sweet and sticky byproduct of bees is very valuable when it comes to cosmetic uses. Raw honey exhibits antibacterial, exfoliation, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties. It is a common ingredient to apply to eczema- or psoriasis-prone skin. People who deal with acne can also benefit from applying honey to the skin, especially Manuka honey. According to several studies, Manuka honey exhibits anti-acne activity and was comparable, more effective even, to other popular acne products.

Honey works to accelerate the healing processes of various skin cells. If you have an eczema outbreak or deal with blemishes, unpasteurized honey works to speed up healing and reduce inflammation. Even now, some doctors in clinical settings use honey to help accelerate wound healing. Raw honey also happens to be a natural exfoliator, so applying it to your face may help remove dull, dry skin to reveal healthy new cells. This contributes to a brighter, smoother complexion.

Honey Oatmeal Face Mask

Ingredients:

• 1/3 cup rolled oats
• 1 tablespoon raw honey
• 1 tablespoon virgin coconut oil
• 1.5 tablespoons filtered water

Instructions:

• Use a coffee or spice grinder to grind the oats into a fine oatmeal powder.
• In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the ground oatmeal, raw honey, and coconut oil. Add the water a little bit at a time until it forms a paste. It shouldn’t be too thick or thin.

To Use:

• Wash your face so that you have a nice clean base, on which you can apply the mask. Pat your face dry before continuing.
• Using your fingers or a fan brush, apply the honey oatmeal face mask generously on your face. Make sure that you avoid your eyes, nostrils, and mouth.
• Leave the mask on for 5-10 minutes. It may dry on your face, but this is perfectly fine.
• Rinse the mask off with cool water and pat dry with a soft towel. Apply your favorite moisturizer and appreciate your lovely, smooth facial skin.

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The skin is a complicated organ composed of many layers that keep the body protected from external environmental stressors or microorganisms. It’s an organ that works day and night, with the uppermost layer of the skin, the skin barrier, protecting you from DNA-damaging elements. As a result of our polluted environment, people use extra powerful skin care products and harsh spa treatments that may weaken skin barrier function. What does that mean for your skin?

What Is The Skin Barrier?

The skin barrier is part of the skin’s top layer, known as the stratum corneum. It contains corneocytes and a lipid interface that glues them together. Together, the lipid interface and corneocytes are like the brick and mortar structure of the skin. The lipid interface comprises free fatty acids, cholesterols, and ceramics. In an optimal state, the skin barrier sheds the top layer to naturally exfoliate itself and keep the skin’s moisture intact. Problems occur when the skin barrier is not functioning optimally. 

Why Should You Keep The Skin Barrier Strong?

If the skin barrier is overly permeable, it has a leaky quality, similar to a leaky gut. That means that pathogens, bacteria, and other microorganisms can pass through the skin barrier and cause internal problems, including hives, allergic reactions, or eczema. Supporting the skin barrier is not just to keep your skin looking as healthy as possible. According to a 2019 study, there is a link between skin dysfunction and various health conditions caused by inflammation. The study found that using barrier repair moisturizers helped to reduce pro-inflammatory cytokines in the blood. That highlighted the skin’s protective role in overall health. If you want to encourage a healthier skin barrier, use the following supportive ingredients. 

Shea Butter

Derived from the fruit of the shea tree, shea butter is a natural fat that provides the skin with deep hydration and protection. The natural fatty acids and vitamins in shea butter offer emollient properties that help to lock moisture into the skin. These nutrients also aim to promote collagen production and decrease the breakdown of existing collagen. 

Humectants

Any ingredient that pulls in and holds water is considered a humectant. Glycerin, hyaluronic acid, and beeswax are all humectants, but they cannot heal the skin barrier on their own. Humectants do keep the skin moisturized while you repair the skin barrier function. According to dermatologists, humectants hydrate the epidermis while sealing in and retaining water with an outer layer of lipids. Apply humectants topically before an occlusive cream or oil to repair a compromised skin barrier. 

Aloe Vera

Aloe vera is rich in exfoliating enzymes, anti-inflammatory properties, antioxidants, and vitamins A and C. Because of these health properties, aloe is great for the skin, no matter if you suffer from acne, burns, or dry skin. Aloe works to cleanse the skin, but also hydrate it in the process. The hydrating properties of aloe vera make it an excellent choice for anyone who suffers from dry, sensitive, or dehydrated skin. 

Colloidal Oatmeal

Colloidal oatmeal, oat extract, and oat oil all work to form a protective seal on the skin. For people who have sensitive skin, colloidal oatmeal is a very helpful ingredient. According to research, oat extract’s anti-inflammatory properties work to soothe inflamed skin. Colloidal oatmeal exhibits several clinical properties, which stem from the chemical polymorphism. The high concentration of polymorphism is responsible for colloidal oatmeal’s ability to protect the skin and help it retain moisture. Additionally, colloidal oatmeal may boost creamed levels in the skin, which works to keep skin cells together. 

Manuka Honey

Renowned for its ability to repair, Manuka honey is very effective at healing wounds, burns, and other topical damage. Several studies concluded that Manuka honey inhibits the growth of harmful bacteria, which explains the ability to accelerate wound healing. Due to the impressive antioxidant profile, Manuka honey exhibits powerful anti-inflammatory compounds that fight against dermatitis, acne, and eczema. These skin conditions, and more, tend to stem from a damaged skin barrier.

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There are certain DIY enthusiasts that lunge at the opportunity to make all sorts of beauty and cleaning products. From shampoos and detergents to toothpastes and facial masks, the DIY world can be quite extensive. There are people who only want to tiptoe in the DIY waters, though, making one or two simple recipes. If you fall into that group, the one-ingredient masks in this article are for you.

Whether you have dry, oily, or great skin, there are one-ingredient face masks that benefit all skin types. They are quite gentle, making them great for anyone who has sensitive skin. One of the greatest parts is that there is minimal prep time. No double boilers, melting wax, infusing oils, or purchasing rare butters. In fact, it’s safe to assume that you probably have a few of these ingredients in your house already. 

The world of DIY can be very simple. It doesn’t mean that you have to search far and wide for rare herbs or head into the forest for forbidden sap. The following one-ingredient beauty masks epitomize simplicity, and the best part is that they all benefit the skin.

Manuka Honey

Raw, organic unfiltered honey is beneficial for the skin as it is a natural humectant. That means that it attracts moisture to the skin and helps to keep it there. The best honey to use topically on the skin is Manuka honey, which comes from the Manuka tree. Native to New Zealand and eastern Australia, the Manuka tree produces small flowers and the honey that bees make from it can do wonders for the skin. When you apply Manuka honey to the skin, it draws water molecules into the stratum corneum, the top layer of the skin. If you notice that dry flakes start to accumulate on the skin, lather a thin layer of Manuka honey on your face and leave it on for 10-20 minutes before rinsing with warm water.

Yogurt

Before you open a random yogurt container, it’s best to choose plain, full-fat Greek yogurt for best results. This type of yogurt is rich in alpha-hydroxy acids, including lactic acid, which helps to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Lactic acid is also a chemical exfoliant that gently removes dead skin cells and contributes to a brighter complexion. Full-fat Greek yogurt also contains B-complex vitamins, including B5, which helps to nourish the skin. Yogurt is also rich in probiotics that help enhance the skin’s microbiome. 

Aloe Vera

Aloe vera is a soothing ingredient that you can easily apply to the skin. Mainstream beauty companies love aloe and you can commonly find it in many skin care products. Most people resort to aloe after experiencing a bad sunburn, but you can easily whip up a face mask with aloe. If you desire, you can incorporate other ingredients from your kitchen to enhance the benefits, but that is completely optional. Purchase 100% pure aloe juice at the store or use a fresh aloe plant if you have access to one. Aloe vera exhibits lots of antibacterial properties and helps accelerate wound healing, which is great for anyone dealing with acne. Apply aloe juice or gel to your skin and rinse with warm water after 10 minutes. 

Colloidal Oats

We do owe you an apology because this beauty mask contains two ingredients. You have to add purified water to the colloidal oats in order to form a paste that you can apply to the skin. Please forgive us! Due to the high antioxidant content, colloidal oats exhibit significant anti-inflammatory properties. Colloidal oats contain avenanthramides, which are a group of phenolic alkaloids that are particularly beneficial for reducing itchiness and inflamed skin. If you experience irritated skin, mix enough water with colloidal oats to form a paste and apply it to the skin. Leave on for 10 minutes and then rinse with warm water. 

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Honey is more than a sweetener for herbal tea. It’s an incredibly popular home remedy for improving the overall health of your skin. From reducing acne to improving the symptoms of eczema, honey is a superstar in the world of alternative remedies. It exhibits powerful antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and moisturizing properties, making it excellent for topical application.

It’s estimated that there are about 300 different types of honey, due to the variety of flowers from which honeybees gain nectar. The type of honey and the processing of it will dictate how beneficial it is for the body. When it comes to topical application, most natural remedies use organic raw honey or Manuka honey, which seems to be the most beneficial.

What Is Manuka Honey?

Manuka honey is made by bees that pollinate the Manuka flower, which is native to New Zealand. The reason Manuka honey is expensive is because the flower only blooms for two to six weeks out of the year, so it’s not abundant and neither is its production. What makes Manuka honey different from other types of local honey is the Manuka flower itself. It exhibits non-peroxide activity and active compounds that set it apart from regular honey. When you purchase Manuka honey, make sure to look for a UMFTM mark on the label. Standing for Unique Manuka Factor, this trademark indicates that the honey came from licensed beekeepers, producers, and exporters of genuine New Zealand Manuka honey.

Can Manuka Honey Treat Eczema?

Certified dermatologists explain that, while there is no cure, Manuka honey has the potential to help reduce eczema symptoms and severity. The antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activity helps to minimize swelling, redness, and other skin issues when they arise, for example, during a flare-up. According to 2018 research, the non-peroxide and antimicrobial activity in Manuka honey have calming effects on inflamed skin. Additionally, the concentration of methylglyoxal, its active ingredient, releases hydrogen peroxide. This may aid with wound repair, which would accelerate the healing of eczema patches.

A separate 2018 review found that Manuka honey exhibits properties that help promote tissue healing. It works to stimulate macrophages, which aid the removal of dead cells and encourage the production of new, healthy cells. A smaller 2017 study determined if Manuka honey was able to heal atopic dermatitis lesions. Participants in the study found that the lesions improved after regular application. The honey also helped to reduce inflammation in those individuals.

How Does It Work?

First of all, should a person want to use Manuka honey to help remedy eczema, it’s best to use medical-grade honey. This ensures that the honey is free of contaminants. Medical-grade Manuka honey stimulates an inflammatory response that establishes a protective barrier between the skin and the environment. Experts believe that Manuka honey has increased antimicrobial activity against numerous microorganisms. The natural chemicals in Manuka honey, which aren’t present in other honey varieties, can help fight bacteria.

• Dihydroxyacetone: is only found in the nectar of the Manuka flower and it becomes methylglyoxal during the honey-making process.
• Methylglyoxal: is a natural chemical that has powerful antimicrobial activity.
• Other Active Components: include a series of compounds and properties that also exhibit antimicrobial properties. Some of the most notable include hydrogen peroxide, hyper-osmolality effect, bee-defensin-1, and the naturally acidic pH level.

How To Use Manuka Honey For Eczema

Wash hands thoroughly and then pat dry. Apply a thin layer of Manuka honey to the affected area in the evening. Cover the area using gauze or a bandage and leave the dressing on overnight. Gently remove the dressing and clean the area in the morning. It’s important to note that Manuka is not a cure for eczema and you should not apply it if you are sensitive to honey or have an allergy. Results may vary from person to person or depending on the severity of the condition. Manuka honey is also pricey, so it can be an expensive natural remedy for people. It’s best to buy medical-grade Manuka honey for safety reasons, though.

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