Herbal Face Serum in Modern Dermatology: A Natural Alternative for Skin Health

Pavithra T., Akash Gowda, Monika Chavan, Nagaveni A. P., Nagushree K. C., Neha P.,

doi:10.5281/zenodo.17181853

Review Paper | Open Access
Volume 03 | Issue 09 | Article Id IJPS/250309225

Herbal Face Serum in Modern Dermatology: A Natural Alternative for Skin Health
Pavithra T.* Akash Gowda Monika Chavan Nagaveni A. P. Nagushree K. C. Neha P.
Department of Pharmacognosy, Bharathi College of Pharmacy, Bharathinagara, Maddur Taluk Mandya District-Karnataka, India -571422.

Abstract

Herbal cosmetics are formulations primarily intended to support and enhance a person's appearance through natural means. Face serum is a lightweight product enriched with multiple active components that address specific skin issues and provide numerous skincare benefits. Many of the face serums available today are composed of both herbal extracts and synthetic substances; however, they may also cause unwanted effects such as irritation or allergic responses. Cutaneous wrinkles and premature skin aging are largely attributed to photo damage induced by chronic exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Face serums represent advanced cosmeceutical formulations characterized by rapid transdermal absorption, enhanced penetration into deeper dermal layers, and a non-greasy finish. Owing to their unique design, serums incorporate a higher concentration of bioactive constituents compared to conventional moisturizers, thereby exerting more pronounced therapeutic and cosmetic effects. These lightweight formulations are specifically developed to address targeted dermatological concerns such as oxidative stress, dehydration, pigmentation, and loss of elasticity. By delivering concentrated phytoconstituents and other actives, serums contribute significantly to skin rejuvenation, collagen stimulation, and restoration of barrier function. Consequently, they are regarded as a sustainable and efficacious approach for maintaining skin integrity and delaying visible signs of aging. Currently, commercially available face serums are formulated with either synthetic actives or herbal-derived phytochemicals, with growing emphasis on herbal alternatives due to their safety, biocompatibility, and reduced adverse effects.

Keywords

Herbs, Skin, Cosmetics and herbal cosmetics, Serum

Introduction

The term herb has been originated from the Latin term herba and an old French term herb; and was used for non-woody plants, including those that come from trees and shrubs. But at the present time, the term herb is used for any part of the plant such as fruit, seed, stem, bark, flower, leaf, stigma, root, or a non-woody plant. Herbs are also used as food, flavonoid, medicine, perfume, etc.

Herbs: These are any crude plant material or product, like leaves, flowers, fruits, seeds, stems, wood, bark, roots, rhizomes, or other plant parts that may be entire, fragmented, or powdered¹. Herbs and spices: Herbs and spices are harvested from different parts of the plant. Herbs are usually obtained from leaves of the plant while spices come from different seeds, root, bark, fruit berries, aril, pods and flowers of the plant Table 1 summarizes the common sources of herbs or spices.

Table.No.1. Sources Of Herbs or Spices²

Parts Of the Plant	Herbs And Spices
Leaves	Basil, oregano, bay leaf, thyme, tarragon, mint, marjoram, sage, curry leaf
Bark	Cinnamon, cassia
Flower/bud, pistil	Clove, saffron
Fruits/berries	Clove, chilli, black pepper, allspice
Bulbs	Onion, garlic, leek
Root	Ginger, turmeric
Aril	Mace
Seed	Ajowan, aniseed, caraway, celery, coriander, dill, fennel, fenugreek, mustard

Herbs are natural products and their chemical composition varies depending on several factors and therefore varying from people to people, from energetic decoctions to the use of herbal extracts following Western methodologies of mainstream medicine. Traditional medicines have a very long history: it is the sum total of the practices based on the theories, beliefs and experiences of different cultures and times, often inexplicable, used in the maintenance of health, as like in the prevention, diagnosis, improvement and treatment of illnesses.³

How To Use Herbs?

In earlier time, herbs were used for both medicinal purpose as well as for beautification. These had been used in both forms, i.e. fresh form & dried form. these can be used by mashing & directly applying to the body with or without using other ingredients. In fact, in earlier times these were used this way only. But nowadays, their extracts, decoctions, infusion, tinctures, steam distillates etc. there are a few manufacturers of herbal in India. Herbs can be used in the form of following.

· Infusions: these are basically strong teas of herbs and can be prepared either in China clay pots or stainless-steel vessels. aluminium vessels should not be used as these can taint infusions.

· Decoctions: these are prepared by boiling the herb with water.

· Extracts and tinctures: extracts are generally prepared with hydro alcoholic solvents with high percentage of alcohol.

· Flower waters: flower waters are made in the same way as infusions. The same proportions of herbs and water can be used.⁵

Uses Of Herbs

Treatment of asthma, dysentery and useful in catarrh
Used for the treatment of inflammation of both kidney and liver. Drug is very efficacious in dropsy
Syrup of garlic is a valuable medicine for asthma, cough, difficulty in breathing, being of particular virtue in chronic bronchitis
Used as chemotherapeutics in cancer and for treating diabetes
Treatment of gout, rheumatism and in plant breeding work for polyploidization
Used for flatulent nervous dyspepsia, travel sickness, nasal catarrh, nervous diarrhoea, restlessness and specifically for gastro-intestinal disturbance with associated nervous irritability in children.
Traditionally indicated for acute and chronic dyspepsia, gastritis and gastric ulcers, intestinal colic and anorexia
Indicated for flatulent dyspepsia, headache, sciatica, myalgia and inter-coastal neuralgia and its essential oil is used in perfumery
Leaves and oil have been used as an antiseptic, febrifuge and expectorant.⁴

Side Effects

anti-fungal and anti-microbial properties may induce hypersensitivity cross-reactions to ragweed, Chrysanthemums (Compositae family)
Skin Soothing and Healing Agents Examples as follow: Evening primrose oil which has several Side effects like nausea (may decrease if taken with food), skin rashes acne.⁶

Cosmetics

The word cosmetics was derived from the Greek word “kosmtikos” meaning having the power arrange, skill in decorating ‘Cosmeceuticals’ can be referred as topical cosmetic pharmaceutical hybrids intended to enhance beauty through ingredients that provide additional health related functions or benefits. Cosmeceutical products included in this definition are skin moisturizers, fingernail polishes, lipsticks, perfumes, facial and eye makeup preparations, shampoos, permanent waves, hair colours, tooth paste and deodorants, as well as any material intended for use as a component of cosmetic product. It represents a category of products placed between pharmaceuticals and cosmetics that are used for the intensification of both the health and beauty of skin.⁷

Herbal Cosmetics: Herbal cosmetics are defined as products that use cosmetic ingredients to form a base, in which one or more herbal ingredients are incorporated to treat different skin ailments and for beautification purposes (Bijauliya et al., 2017). Herbal cosmetics like creams, perfumes, and lotions enhance beauty and protect the skin without causing harm.⁸

Allopathic Cosmetics

Definition: Allopathy, also known as modern or conventional medicine, refers to treatments based on drugs and surgery supported by scientific research and clinical trials. In the context of cosmetics, allopathy focuses on dermatological products developed through pharmacological principles, clinical testing, and regulated manufacturing processes.

Key Features of Allopathic Cosmetics:

Developed using synthetic or semi-synthetic ingredients
Clinically tested for efficacy and safety
Regulated under cosmetic and pharmaceutical laws
Often contain active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) such as:
Retinoids (e.g., Tretinoin)
Hydroquinone
Corticosteroids
Salicylic acid
Benzoyl peroxide
Alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs)

Types Of Allopathic Cosmetics

Cosmeceuticals – Cosmetic products with medicinal properties (e.g., anti-aging creams, acne treatments).
Dermaceuticals – Dermatologist-prescribed topical drugs for skin conditions with cosmetic benefits.
Medicated cosmetics – Shampoos, creams, and cleansers for dandruff, acne, pigmentation, etc.

Examples: Acne treatment: Benzoyl peroxide gel, Salicylic acid cleansers

Anti-aging: Retinol creams, peptides, niacinamide
Hyperpigmentation: Hydroquinone, kojic acid creams
Hair care: Minoxidil for hair regrowth⁹

Herbal Cosmetics V/S Allopathic Cosmetics

Parameter	Herbal Cosmetics	Allopathic Cosmetics
Definition	Products derived from plant-based ingredients with therapeutic properties.	Products developed using synthetic, semi-synthetic, or pharmaceutical ingredients.
Ingredients Source	Natural: plants, herbs, flowers, essential oils (e.g., neem, aloe vera, clitoria ternatea).	Synthetic or drug-based: retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, steroids.
Mode of Action	Holistic and gradual; works by improving skin health naturally.	Target-specific and fast-acting; works at the molecular level.
Formulation Base	Usually oil-based, aqueous, or gel formulations with minimal processing.	Scientifically engineered formulations with preservatives, stabilizers.
Safety Profile	Generally considered safe with fewer side effects (though not always clinically tested).	Higher risk of side effects like irritation, peeling, or sensitivity; requires dermatological guidance.
Regulatory Framework	Regulated under AYUSH in India or traditional medicine guidelines.	Regulated under Drugs and Cosmetics Act (e.g., FDA, CDSCO).
Effectiveness	Effective for long-term use; slower in showing visible results.	Quick results; especially effective for acute or targeted skin issues.

Examples	Aloe vera gel, turmeric cream, herbal serums, neem face wash.	Tretinoin gel, benzoyl peroxide, corticosteroid creams, minoxidil.
Shelf Life	Shorter due to lack of preservatives.	Longer due to chemical preservatives.
Cost	Usually cost-effective and affordable.	Can be expensive depending on the formulation.
Target Users	Individuals seeking natural or holistic skincare.	Individuals with specific dermatological conditions or faster results.¹⁰

Serum

Serum is defined as light, easily absorbed oil or water-based liquids that spread on the skin. It gets rapidly absorbed and easily penetrate into the deeper layers of the skin. Also has non-greasy finish and intensive formula which contain high concentration of active substances. It contains skin smoothing ingredients which enhance skin texture and makes skin soft, silky smooth and fair. The formulation has good spreadability and makes the pores appear smaller and increase moisture level. Face serum delivers the active ingredient into the skin and removes the use of hazardous chemicals in giving instant results. Skin serums are formulated to deliver targeted and potent ingredients to address specific skincare concerns. They are designed to penetrate the skin deeply and provide nourishment, hydration, or address issues like wrinkles or pigmentation. Using a serum before moisturizing can enhance the overall effectiveness of your skincare routine. The serum's small molecules facilitate deep skin penetration, enhancing its effectiveness in targeting specific skincare concerns like pigmentation and signs of aging, face serums are potent skincare products designed with higher concentrations of active ingredients, making them effective in addressing specific cosmetic concerns. The absence of unnecessary additives and fillers in serums allows for a more direct and efficient treatment of skin issues. With a thinner consistency, serums facilitate rapid absorption, deeper penetration into the skin, and often have higher concentrations of active ingredients compared to creams. This makes them ideal for nourishing and layering on the skin, providing targeted benefits. ²⁰

Skin: The skin is one of the largest and most important organs in the body and comprises approximately 16% of the human body weight. The skin is continuous with the membranes lining the body orifices and in certain areas contains accessory structures such as glands, hair and nails. It has a number of physiological functions that are essential to maintaining homeostasis, protection and social interaction. The skin protects the body by forming a waterproof layer which protects the deeper structures and prevents dehydration from loss of water. This is due to the due to the keratinized epithelium in the epidermis. The skin is the main interface between the body and the environment. As such, it has numerous sensory receptors which allow the individual to perceive environmental stimuli across a range of modalities. The barrier function of the skin is essential for not only protection but also for maintaining normal volumes of water and electrolytes in the human body. The skin contains 18–20% of the body's total water content. The ability of the skin to retain water is also important in enhancing the protective functions of the skin described above. When the skin loses water, it leads to cracks and chapping, thus breaching the skin's contiguous line of defence and allowing noxious stimuli to enter the skin. Although the skin acts as a barrier between the organism and the environment, water and some water-soluble compounds can also be absorbed through the skin. The skin, however, has a greater capacity to absorb lipophilic rather than hydrophilic substances. In addition to the synthesis of melanin, as described above, ultraviolet light also converts 7-dehydrocholesterol to cholecalciferol (vitamin D3) in the skin. This process is essential to the production and maintenance of bone by osteoblasts.¹⁹

Structure of the skin

History Of Facial Serums:

Facial serums have a rich history dating back to ancient civilizations. Egyptians used natural oils and plant extracts for skincare, while ancient Greeks and Romans created formulations with ingredients like olive oil. In the 20th century, advancements in cosmetic science led to the development of modern serums, incorporating ingredients like hyaluronic acid and antioxidants for targeted skincare benefits. Today, facial serums remain popular for their concentrated, fast-absorbing formulations addressing various skin concerns. What are Face Serums - Their lightweight nature and concentrated formulation indeed make them effective for addressing skin concerns at a deeper level. Cosmetic Serum - Serums are formulated with a high concentration of active ingredients, making them more potent than regular creams. This allows them to address specific skincare concerns more effectively.

Basics Of Face Serum:

Face serums are formulated to deliver a high concentration of active ingredients without unnecessary additives. Their thinner consistency and absence of heavy oils enhance absorption and penetration, making them effective for nourishing and layering on the skin. The focus on essential ingredients without emulsifiers ensures optimal delivery of active agents, such as vitamins or botanical extracts.²⁰

Benefits Of Face Serum

· Soothes irritated skin

· Absorbs quickly into the skin

· Improves the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles

· Protects the skin from free radicals and future damage

· Has the potential to provide more visible results

· Feels light on the skin¹¹

Types Of Serum

1.Oil Serum

An oil serum is the simplest form of face serum that contains a carrier oil as a base that absorbs, also known as dry skin. Premium oils have been used to bring out the moisturizing properties of the oil serum.

Oil Serum

2. Gel Serum

The gel serum has a firming effect on the applied skin areas. Water based plant extract can be added to the gel serum to enhance the effect of the serum.

Gel Serum

3.Water Based Serum

Gel serum A watery serum that contains some gum and thickness. A water-based serum should be used under creams or lotions to apply the hydrophilic plant extract remaining on the skin. Water based serums have the best ability to penetrate deep into the skin and release the active ingredients into the skin.

Water Based Serum

4. Emulsion Serum

The emulsion serum is a moisturizing serum that strengthens the skin and transports the active ingredients to the skin. In an emulsion, the two immiscible phase’s oil and water are combined. An emulsifier is used to achieve a stable emulsion state. The emulsion serum effectively delivers the active ingredients deep into the skin. The protective function of the skin is strengthened by the moisturizing effect of emulsions.¹²

Emulsion Serum

Ideal Qualities of Face Serum

1.Soothes irritated skin: It is well known that aloe vera possesses antiviral and cell-regenerating capabilities. The advantages of aloe gel are comparable to how applying it to a sunburn feels.

2. Deep hydration: possess a special capacity to raise and decrease skin moisture.

3.Fight Acne and fades blemishes: Bael fruit stops the bacterial overgrowth that is the primary cause of acne and pimples. It contains antioxidant qualities that encourage healthy-looking skin.

4.Remove dark circle and puffiness: Vitamin E and antioxidants in abundance aid with eyelid discolouration, and the cooling impact reduces puffiness. It makes under-eye circles look less prominent. It removes dead skin cells, which encourages the synthesis of collagen.

ADVANTAGES:

Improves skin texture.
Minimizes the skin pores.
Hydrates and nourishes the skin.
Improves skin elasticity

DISADVANTAGES:

The liquid or gel-like texture of a serum can be a poor match for people with chronic skin conditions like eczema or rosacea, which weaken the skin barrier, for these people, serums may penetrate too quickly, causing irritation¹¹

Market Role of Herbal Serum

Herbal serums have become a rapidly growing segment in the skincare and cosmetic market due to increased consumer demand for natural, chemical-free, and sustainable beauty products. Here's a detailed explanation of their market role with supporting references.

1.Rising Consumer Demand for Natural Products

Herbal serums cater to the increasing consumer preference for organic and herbal-based cosmetics. People are shifting away from synthetic formulations due to concerns about long-term skin damage, allergies, and environmental impact.¹³

2. Expanding Global Market

The global herbal cosmetics market was valued at over USD 30 billion in 2023 and is expected to continue growing at a CAGR of over 5% through 2030. Herbal serums represent a significant share of this, particularly in anti-aging, hydration, and brightening segments.¹⁴

3. Eco-Friendly and Sustainable Branding:

Herbal serums play a role in eco-conscious marketing, as they often use biodegradable ingredients, recyclable packaging, and cruelty-free testing. This aligns with global sustainability goals and builds strong brand identity.¹⁵

4. Innovation and Customization

Brands are formulating herbal serums with custom blends of botanicals, targeting specific skin concerns (e.g., Clitoria ternatea for antioxidants, turmeric for brightening, or aloe vera for soothing). This allows personalized skincare and innovation-driven marketing.¹⁶

5. Role in E-Commerce and Influencer Marketing

Herbal serums are heavily promoted through social media influencers, natural beauty blogs, and e-commerce platforms (like Nykaa, Amazon, etc.). This digital presence helps brands reach niche markets and health-conscious buyers.¹⁷

Marketed Products Herbal Serum and Allopathic Serum

Herbal Serum V/S Allopathy Serum

Aspect	Herbal Serum	Allopathy Serum
Origin	Derived from natural plant extracts, often based on Ayurvedic or traditional medicine	Synthesized using chemical compounds, based on modern pharmacology
Mechanism	Works holistically to restore balance and support the body’s natural healing	Targets specific symptoms or pathogens with rapid action
Ingredients	Herbs, essential oils, minerals, and botanical extracts	Active pharmaceutical ingredients, preservatives, and stabilizers
Side Effects	Generally fewer due to natural composition; risk of allergic reactions or contamination	May cause side effects ranging from mild to severe depending on the drug
Efficacy	Effective for chronic conditions and skin health over time; slower onset	Fast-acting and effective for acute conditions and emergencies
Scientific Backing	Limited clinical trials; efficacy often based on traditional use	Backed by rigorous scientific research and clinical trials
Customization	Often tailored to individual dosha or skin type	Standardized formulations for mass use
Cost	Usually more affordable and accessible	Can be expensive due to R&D and manufacturing costs
Regulation	Less standardized; varies by region and practitioner	Strictly regulated by medical boards and agencies
Use Cases	Skin rejuvenation, acne, pigmentation, anti-aging	Treatment of infections, inflammation, and specific dermatological conditions.¹⁸

Some Common Herbs Used in The Preparation of Face Serum

1.Papaya

Biological Source: Papine is dried & purified latex of the green fruits & leaves of carica papaya.

Family: Caricaceae

Chemical constitution: Saponins, tannins, flavonoids,glycosides

Uses: Remove dead skin cells, Gives skin lightening effect

2.Sandle Wood

Biological source: Obtained by distillation from heart-wood of santalum alum.

Family: Santalaceae.

Uses: Anti-aging and anti-tanning effects are found in sandalwood. In addition, it has numerous benefits for skin, including toning, emollient, antibacterial, cooling, and therapeutic properties.

3. Saffron

Biological source: Dried stigma and upper parts of styles of crocus sativus

Family: Iridaceae

Uses: It is rich in carotenoid glycosides, mainly has terpenoids,It provide shiny skin tone.

4. Neem Leaves Powder

Biological source: It consist of leaves and other arial parts of Azadirachtea indica.

Family: Meliaceae

Chemical constituent: The most various important constituent is nimbolininimbin, nimbidin, nimbidol, sodium nimbinate, gedunin etc.

Uses: Neem is anti-inflammatory, Antibacterial, antifungal, antiseptic, Antiinflammatory

5. Turmeric

Biological source: Turmeric is the dried rhizome of Curcoma .

Family: Zingberaceae

Uses: The herbal remedy contains turmeric because of its blood-purifying properties and its antibacterial effect, which aids in wound healing. It improves skin conditions brought on by blood impurities.It is an excellent anti-allergic and anti-inflammatory drug.²¹

6. Pomegranate

Biological source: The pomegranate (Punica granatum) is a fruit-bearing deciduous shrub

Family: Lythraceae

Chemical constituents: Punicalagin, Punicalin, Gallic acid, Ellagic acid, Punicalagin A Punicalagin B, Ellagic acid, Gallic acid, ellagitannins

Uses: Pomegranate peel powder can be used as a natural exfoliant to remove dead skin cells. It helps hydrating and nourishing to the skin. It also improves skin elasticity, enhance skin stone. Its shows Antioxidant Properties, Protects against sun damage.

7. Honey

Biological source: Honey is sugary substance deposited in the honeycomb by the bee Apis mellifera

Family: Apidae

chemical constituent: Glucose, fructose, sucrose, dextrin, formic acid, succinic Acid, gums.

Uses: It is used demulcent, antiseptic, antioxidant, vehicle for ayurvedic formulation, antiInflammatory, topically to treat burns, sweetening agent and promote wound healing.

8. Rose Water

Biological source: Rose water is obtained from sepals and petals of Rosa damscena through steam distillation.

Family: Rosaceae.

Chemical constituent: The volatiles mainly consist of 2- phenylehanol, linalool, Citronellol, nerol, geraniol.

Uses: It smoothens skin irritation, reduce skin redness, heals cuts and scars, treat burns.²²

9. Jasmine Powder

Botanical name: Jasminum

Family: Oleaceae

Uses: Jasmine is inhaled to improve mood, reduce stress, and reduce food cravings. Its mild fragrances make and natural anti deodorant. It’s help strength the roots of the hairs. Effective cure for scraps, wound and cuts.²³

10.Amla

Biological Source: This is consists of dried, as well as fresh fruits pericarp of the plant Emblica officinalis

Family : Euphorbiaceae.

Uses : Reducing fine lines and wrinkles. Reducing inflammation and redness.

11.Cucumber

Biological Source: The cucumber(Cucumis sativus) is widely- cultivated creeping vine plant.

Family: Cucurbitaceae.

Uses : Hydration, Brightening,Cooling.²⁴

12. Fenugreek

Biological name: trigonella foenum-graceum

Family: fabaceae

Uses: anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, reduce acne, blemishes

13.Lemon

Biological name : citrus lemon

Family: rutaceae

Uses: antibacterial, antioxidant, brighten skin, reduces dark spots.²⁵

14.Nutmeg

Biological source: Obtained from kernel of dried ripe seeds of Myristica fragrans.

Family: Myristicaceae.

Chemical constitutents: Borneol, Clemicine, Myristicin, Geraniol, Camphene & Dipentene

USES:- Carminative, Stimulant, Aromatic, Stomachic, Induce abortion & Narcotic action.

USES: analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, and antibacterial properties are well- known. It helps to reduce fine lines, wrinkles, and other signs of ageing. It also helps to reduce and hide acne scars.

15.Orange Peel

Synonyms: Citrus sinesis (sweet orange) Citrus aurantium (bitter orange)

Family: Rutaceae

Active constituents: Limonene (90%), Citral (4%), Vitamin C, Pectin, Hesperidine, Aurantimarin Aurantimaric acid, Octanal (39%), Decanal (42%), Monoterpene (91%) and contains no less than 2.5% Volatile oil.

USES: Protects skin from free radical damage. Heals dry, flaky, and itchy skin. Hydrates dehydrated skin. Brings back moisture. Prevents oxidative stress in skin cells, for youthful, glowing skin.

16.Rose Petal

Botanical name: Rosa rubiginosa

Family: Rosaceae

Chemical Constituents: carboxylic acid, myrcene, vitamin C, kaempferol, and quarcetin.

USES: Rose petals powder is rich with the antibacterial properties, all with the positive effects of vitamins K, C and B. It also has good number of antioxidants.²⁶

17. Green Tea

Biological sources: Green tea, derived from the plant Camellia sinensis.

Family: Theaceae

Chemical constituents: Its main constituents include phenols, alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, and steroids. Approximately one third of green tea comprises polyphenols, notably catechins like epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), epigallocatechin (EGC), epicatechin-3-gallate, and epicatechin (EC). Other polyphenols present are flavonoids and their glycosidic derivatives, along with carotenoids, quinic acid, chlorogenic acids, and tri galloyl glucose.

Uses : It shields against skin cancer by repairing DNA damage caused by UV rays, as demonstrated by a 2010 study. It combats premature ageing. It reduces redness and irritation.²⁷

18. Chicory

Biological source: Cichorium intybus is the biological source of chicory

Family: Asteraceae

Uses: help to calm and protect the skin. hydrate and brighten the skin. Add some chicory extract to your face pack for a cooling and health-promoting boost. ²⁸

19. Manjistha

Synonym: Yojanavalli, Tamravalli, Vastraranjini, Rakta.

Biological source: Consists of the dried root of Rubia cordifolia L.

Family: Rubiaceae

Chemical constituents: it mainly contains Rubiofolic acid, Rubicoumaric acid (two pentacyclic triterpenes), Ruberythric acid.

Uses: It inhibits the acne-causing bacteria, Excellent for skin brightening and treating skin disorders,It improves skin tone and brightens the complexion.

20. Shatavari

Synonym: Vari, Abhiru, Atirasa, Narayani, Shatmuli.

Biological source: It consists of dried tuberous roots of Asparagus racemosus.

Family: Liliaceae.

Chemical constituents: The roots contain four steroidal saponins like Shatavarin I - IV, isoflavonoids, asparagamine A (a polycyclic alkaloid), racemofuran, 9, 10-dihydrophenanthrene derivative racemosol.

Uses: Saponins in shatavari root helped reduce the free-radical skin damage that leads to wrinkles and helps in controlling wrinkles, it is best for anti- aging, and it also helps to reduce Pigmentation, Shatavari helped prevent collagen breakdown. Collagen helps maintain your skin’s elasticity.²

21.Henna

Synonym: Henna

Biological source: Lawsoniainermi s

Chemical constituents: Lawsone, flavonoids, acid gallic

Uses: Colouring agent, anti-fungal

Side effect: Redness, itching, blister of the skin

22.Coffee

Synonym: Coffee powder

Biological source: Coffee arabica

Chemical constituents: Caffeine,tannin, Protein

Uses: Promote hair growth and halt hair loss

Side effect: Scalp burn, weakness and breakage of hair.³⁰

23. Carrot

Botanical name: Daucus carrot

Family: Apiacae

Uses: Vit.C, Antioxidant, Skin whitening, skin healing.³¹

24.Tulsi

Synonym: Holy basil

Botanical name: ocimum tenuiflorum

Chemical constituents: eugenol, terpens, germacrene

Uses: Immunity & Respiratory Support, Stress Relief & Mental Clarity Skin, Hair & Detox Benefits, Digestive & Metabolic Health, Versatile Usage.³²

CONCLUSION:

Herbal face serums represent a significant advancement in natural skincare, blending traditional botanical knowledge with modern dermatological insights. These serums, formulated using herbal extracts, essential oils, and plant-based nutrients, offer a holistic approach to skin health by addressing common concerns such as dryness, acne, inflammation, pigmentation, and premature aging without relying on synthetic additives or harsh chemicals. The key advantage of herbal serums lies in their ability to deliver high concentrations of active compounds directly to the skin. Ingredients such as aloe vera, green tea, turmeric, rosehip oil, neem, and chamomile not only nourish and hydrate but also possess therapeutic properties like antioxidant protection, antimicrobial action, and anti-inflammatory effects. This makes them particularly beneficial for individuals with sensitive skin or those seeking a more natural and gentle skincare routine. Moreover, herbal face serums align with the growing consumer shift toward clean, sustainable, and cruelty-free beauty products. As awareness increases around the long-term effects of chemical-based cosmetics and their environmental impact, herbal formulations offer a responsible and effective alternative. Many of these serums are produced using eco-friendly practices, recyclable packaging, and ethically sourced ingredients, enhancing their appeal among environmentally conscious users. From a scientific standpoint, numerous studies support the efficacy of plant-derived compounds in improving skin texture, reducing oxidative stress, and stimulating collagen production. When formulated correctly and used consistently, herbal face serums can lead to visible improvements in skin tone, elasticity, and overall appearance. In summary, herbal face serums combine the power of nature with modern skincare technology to deliver safe, effective, and sustainable solutions for healthy skin. They not only cater to cosmetic needs but also reflect a broader commitment to wellness, environmental responsibility, and natural living. As the demand for herbal skincare continues to rise, these serums are well-positioned to become an essential component of daily beauty routines across diverse demographics.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT: -

I am sincerely thanking you to my dear friends, teachers, and family members for their invaluable supports during the work.

Conflict of interest:- No conflict of interest.

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