Beautiful foliage, a stunning scent AND various skin care benefits? YES PLEASE! Some of your favourite fancy skincare products contain botanical extracts that can be found in common plants around the house, so cut out the middle man and grow some of these babies on your balcony, windowsill or around the house.
- Aloe Vera:
What is it good for?
Whether it’s treating sunburn treatments or dry skin, Aloe’s ‘miracle’ properties have been used on the skin for centuries. To get the best out of your plant, use a knife to gently strip the tough outer layer and apply the fleshy gel directly to your skin. Aloe vera contains many antioxidants such as Vitamin C and E that can hydrate skin and improve firmness. The inner gel can be also be applied to soothe sunburn and cuts, burns and scratches, as well as to reduce hyper-pigmentation and help lessen scarring; a real all-rounder!
How to care for aloe vera:
Aloe Vera is a succulent, so the biggest risk to your plant is overwatering! To keep yours flourishing, plant your Aloe Vera in a combination of well-draining soil and use Slow Release Support Pellets. Additionally, keep it by the sunniest window in your house and only water monthly.
If it pups (produces new plants from the base), you can gently dig these out and give them their own pot, or if it's easier, take out of the container to split it up.
- Thyme:
What is it good for?
Used in combination with rosemary, cover about half a cup of fresh leaves and stems with boiling water and let it sit for a few hours. The tea is great as a rinse for dry, itchy scalps and the oil contains antibacterial and antifungal compounds; it can also act as an effective topical treatment for acne. Just make sure to check with your dermatologist before applying these treatments!
How to care for thyme:
Care for your thyme by making sure to plant it in well-drained soil and a small container. Position thyme in full to part sun to ensure it thrives. Once established, thyme will be forgiving (if you forget to water it!), but try not to let it go too long with dry soil.
- Lavender:
What is it good for?
Lavender rids your home of unwanted smells (i.e. pet smell or lingering food smells). However, ancient Egyptians widely used Lavender for its relaxation benefits. To get the same results, place a few sprigs next to your bed, in the shower or bath, or in your home office to increase feelings of relaxation and calm which will, in turn, be the best medicine for your skin. After all, sleep is known for solving many skin woes.
How to care for lavender:
Lavender is grown in hot Mediterranean climates, so our horticulturist recommends growing your lavender in well-drained soil, and positioning it in the brightest spot of your home. To avoid overwatering, repot your lilac beauty into terracotta, which draws excess moisture away from the roots. Fertilise with We the Wild’s Grow Concentrate every 4 weeks to ensure your lavender has the best possible chances of survival!
- Snake Plants:
What is it good for?
Also known as Sansevieria or Mother-in-laws Tongue, the snake plant is very unique. It produces oxygen at night, and can be used to remove nasties like benzene, formaldehyde and trichloroethylene from the air; all of which will greatly benefit your skin! Grow it in your bedroom to increase oxygen levels during the night and ensure your skin is reaping all of the benefits.
How to care for snake plants:
We the Wild recommends keeping snake plants in bright indirect sunlight (although they can also tolerate low light). Make sure the soil your plant is potted in has completely dried out before rewatering, and add an organic fertiliser like We the Wild’s Grow Concentrate every second time you water.
Taking care of your plants and your skin health clearly comes hand in hand!