Ten commonly available medicinal plants in Malaysia used for cosmetic formulations – a review

Malaysia is rich in natural and herbal resources which have the potential to be used as traditional medicine as well as cosmetics. These plant sources are used by the folklore to help in enriching their beauty. Leaves, fruits, flowers and roots of medicinal plants in Malaysia are used in cosmetic formulations to get different biological effects. Health issues with particular reference to skin issues, such as acne, dry skin, dull skin and alopecia can be alleviated by using these plants. Since time immemorial, herbal products have been used in maintaining and enhancing physical appearance of humans. Herbal cosmetics have growing demand in the world market and is an invaluable gift of nature. This review is about ten commonly available medicinal plants in Malaysia used in the cosmetic formulations which includes Aloe vera, Curcuma longa, Cocos nucifera, Cucumis sativus, Melaleuca alternifolia, Punica granatum, Garcinia mangostana, Carica papaya, Lawsonia inermis and Hibiscus rosasinensis. These are the ten plants that are commonly used traditionally in treating many skin conditions and hair problems. Different parts of the plant may produce different beneficial effects to the consumers. Using the herbal and natural ingredients in cosmetics alleviates the side effects almost to nil. This is predominantly lower than the side effects caused by synthetic cosmetics.