Holistic & Herbal Remedies for Acne

Holistic Remedies for Acne

Ayurveda:

Ayurveda is a holistic system of medicine originated in India. Ayurveda focuses primarily on diet and lifestyle. Each person, as we all know, is unique and Ayurveda treatments recognize this by tailoring recommendations to the individual.

The practitioner of Ayurveda observes the individual and applies knowledge he or she has learned through ancient texts that document the 'energetic forces' (called Tridoshas) that influence everything in nature - including, of course, humans. Ayurvedistic remedies tend to be herbal; for example, the one Ayurvedic preparation that has proven best for acne relief, a preparation called “Sunder Vati” is an herbal remedy that consists of Ginger (Zingiber officinale), Holarrhena antidysenterica and Embelia ribes. 

Kampo:

Kampo is a Japanese acne treatment, a version of traditional, ancient Chinese medicine. The treatment called -Keigai-rengyo-to (TJ-50), has proven effective in some cases. TJ-50 consists of seventeen herbs that have combined anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties. Among there herbs are: Skullcap root (Scutellaria lateriflora), Licorice root (Glycyrrhiza glabra), Mint (Mentha arvensis), Angelica root (Angelica archangelica), Peony root (Paeonia lactiflora). 

Herbal Remedies for Acne:

The herbs that help reduce acne inflammation do so by reducing the amount of the P.acnes bacteria produced by the body as a reaction to clogged pores. Tea Tree oil has been favorably compared to benzoyl peroxide in the reduction of P.acnes and is said to have fewer side effects (stinging, itchiness and dry skin).

Some acne sufferers swear by certain herbal supplements as a natural cure for acne, including black currant seed oil and evening primrose oil.  Both herbs are recommended to acne sufferers.  Try taking three 500-milligram capsules each day to control your acne.  It may be helpful to create an herbal diary of sorts, where you can track the herbs you are taking and their efficiency. 

Some herbs are known to have anti-inflammatory properties and, for that reason, they may be helpful in treating acne (acne inc. other skin conditions):

German chamomile (Matricaria recutita) 

Witch hazel (Hamamelis virginiana) 

Licorice root (Glycyrrhiza glabra) 

Flaxseed (Linum usitatissimum) and flaxseed oil 

Tea Tree Oil (my personal favourite, dabbed on at that first tingling feeling)

Homeopathic remedies:

Homeopathic professionals evaluate the individual (their physical, emotional and intellectual makeup) before prescribing a treatment and then tailor the treatment to the individual. While homeopathy has not had the benefit of many scientific studies, professional homeopaths have found that certain homeopathic treatments reduce certain symptoms of acne:

Belladonna works best for people who are experiencing “hot” areas on their face or those who have pus-filled acne blemishes.

Calendula is used to treat pus-filled blemishes or blisters.

Hepar sulphur is useful for pus-filled blemishes that are painful.

Kali bromatum is used for deep acne blemishes, especially those on the forehead.

Silicea is used for deep, pus-filled acne blemishes.

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