Herbs for Acne

Herbs for Acne

Most often acne is caused by the sebaceous glands at the base of the hair follicles of the skin secreting too much sebum - an oily substance that is made by the body to keep the skin healthy and lubricated. When an excess of sebum is produced or it gets clogged it can form hard plugs that block the pores and produce pimples.

A localized bacterial infection can develop when these oil plugs rupture beneath the skin's surface.

What causes an overproduction of sebum?

Hormonal imbalances are a common cause.  This occurs often in adolescence especially in males. In females, menstrual periods or pregnancy can also create hormonal disturbances that can lead to breakouts as can contraceptives, medications, in particular steroids. Basically any drug that alters the normal hormonal balance in the body.

Some evidence shows that food allergies to certain foods can cause aggravation resulting in eruptions as well.

Specific Herbs for Acne

ALOE GEL has astringent & antibacterial properties and is applied topically.

It contains amino acids, calcium, folate, iron, magnesium, phosphorous, potassium and zinc; as well as vitamin A, C, and E.

The gel is applied topically. The juice is taken internally.

CAUTIONS: Not for internal use during pregnancy or in those suffering from diarrhea.

CALENDULA promotes healing of skin tissue. You can make a strong infusion of this herb and use as a facial was or steam. It is also available in creams.

This herb is antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and analgesic.. Applied topically it also relieves painful, irritated skin conditions such as sunburn, diaper rash, insect bites and chapped skin. Washing infected skin with an infusion made from this herb will help prevent staph infection.

LAVENDER compresses are used to relieve inflammation.

Lavender is a general tonic,sedative,antispasmodic, diuretic, and digestive aid. It is useful in treating acne, headache, psoriasis, anxiety, insomnia, and yeast infections. Due to it's antihistamine properties, inhaling the vapors is useful in treating.

ROSEWATER is applied topically for pain & inflammation.

TEA TREE OIL is a powerful antiseptic but must be diluted before applying to skin.

This herb has antibacterial, anti fungal and antiseptic properties that make it useful for treating fungi and bacteria.

Tea tree oil has powerful antiviral, antibacterial, antifungal properties.

It is a useful first aid remedy and against skin ailments, infections, cuts & scrapes, burns, and insect bites.

Tea tree oil is also effective against nail fungus, ringworm, athlete's foot, dandruff, and acne.

CAUTIONS: Should not be used internally as it can cause nerve damage.

WALNUT LEAF is a useful astringent skin wash.

WITCH HAZEL has antibacterial & astringent properties.

ECHINACEA tincture taken internally promotes healing, reduces inflammation.

Traditionally this herb has been used to boost the immune system, promote healing and reduce inflammation. It has been useful in treating acne, cancer, chronic fatigue, colds, coughs, ear infections, influenza, parasitic infections and strep throatCAUTIONS: Use Echinacea with caution if you have an allergy to ragweed or plants in the sunflower family.

GOLDENSEAL is an antimicrobial which stops oozing.

Goldenseal Hydrastis canadensis (Peony Family)

Berberine, a chemical contained in goldenseal, is said to have the ability to fight off infection caused by some bacteria, fungi, and yeast, and can act as a mild sedative. Some say that berberine stimulates the heart and is more effective than aspirin for reducing fevers. Another chemical in goldenseal, hydrastinine, is said to reduce blood pressure. This herb has also been used traditionally to stimulate the immune system .

CAUTIONS: May lower blood sugars, so should be used cautiously by those with diabetes. Not for use during pregnancy. This herb should not be taken internally for more than a week.

BURDOCK ROOT and DANDELION contain insulin which improves the skin by removing bacteria.

Helpful for skin and scalp conditions such as acne, psoriasis, eczema, and contact dermatitis. It is also useful for inflammatory conditions like osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and gout.

Dandelion Taraxacum officinale (Composite Family)

The leaves of this plant are a powerful diuretic. The roots are a blood purifier which helps remove toxins from the liver and kidneys.

Because it is high in vitamins and iron, this herb is useful for treating anemia.

Because treating only topically is many times not very effective in combating acne many herbalists recommend treating the causes internally and topically in unison.

Internally, a good combination for cleansing the liver and blood would be a tincture of MILK THISTLE and DANDELION. The traditional dosage is 30 drops in a little water 3 times daily.

Topically, you can combine any number of herbs such as CALENDULA, LAVENDER, TEA TREE OIL, WITCH HAZEL and ROSEWATER, depending on the specific condition of your skin.