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Page 59
Birch
(Betula alba)
The leaf buds, leaves, inner bark and sap of birch are valued for their analgesic, antiseptic, astringent and stimulant properties. Birch is incorporated into salves, washes, poultices, cleansers and toners for acne, bruises, eczema, psoriasis and wounds. It is an excellent bath herb for rashes and other skin eruptions. It is also used in facial steams in the treatment of acne and is considered softening to the skin. Birch is included in shampoos, conditioners and hair rinses to promote hair growth and to treat dandruff. It is included in toothpastes and in toothache gel remedies for pain. Birch essential oil smells just like wintergreen oil for which it is often substituted.
Burdock
(Arctium lappa)
Burdock root is antifungal, anti-inflammatory, demulcent and is often added to facial steams, cleansers, lotions, toners, salves and is used as a bath herb, especially for the treatment of oily and acne-prone skin. Burdock is also added to shampoos, conditioners and hair rinses and is especially beneficial for dandruff. Burdock is used both internally and externally for skin conditions such as acne, eczema and psoriasis.
Calendula
(Calendula officinalis)
The beautiful yellow flowers of calendula are used for their antifungal, antiseptic, astringent and vulnerary properties. Calendula, when used both internally and externally, helps to increase peripheral circulation. A common ingredient in cosmetics, it is used in facial steams, cleansers, lotions, moisturizers, soaps and salves. An old saying is "Where calendula is applied, no pus will form." Calendula soothes burns and sunburn. It is gentle enough to use in products such as eye creams as well as in baby care products and can even help cradle cap and diaper rash. As a bath herb, calendula is used for dry skin. Calendula is used in shampoos, conditioners and hair rinses, especially

 
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