Herbal Remedies for Stretch Marks

• Many different herbs can be used to treat and prevent stretch marks during pregnancy. Holy basil can be used to prevent bleeding of tissue, stretch marks and scarring that can occur during pregnancy. Gotu kola is an important ingredient in several treatments of stretch marks and can be effective when used alone as well. Sandalwood is known to have a cooling effect on the skin and protects it from stretching during pregnancy. Open capsules of vitamin E can be applied to the stretch mark daily; vitamin E can help prevent and completely remove stretch marks when used over an extended period of time. Grapefruit seed extract helps with the production of collagen and elasticity in the skin. Aloe vera juices and horsetail herb juices aid in rebuilding skin over scar tissue. Aloe vera and horsetail herbs also increase the elasticity of skin over time. Herbal juices can be directly applied to the scar and massaged daily to reduce visible signs of stretch marks. A single teaspoon of juice from rose hip plants added to tea on a daily basis can keep the skin elastic and strong.
  
  

Prevention of Stretch Marks

• Vitamins C and E can help prevent stretch marks and maintain the skin's elasticity. Cocoa butter is highly recommended for preventing pregnancy stretch marks. Apply the butter every night or after getting out of the shower. Oil rich in Vitamin E such as pure vitamin E oil can be used every night for 20 minutes, massaging and rubbing it onto the belly to prevent stretch marks from appearing. Olive oil is also great for massaging onto the belly to prevent stretch marks. Excess saturated fats should be avoided while pregnant, because they cause stretching of the skin. Eating seeds and nuts rich in minerals is good for toning up the skin during pregnancy. The more supple the skin is, the less likely it is to stretch and leave stretch marks, so drinking six to eight glasses of water a day is highly recommended. Regular massages, twice a day, can increase circulation in the belly as well as help prevent stretch marks.