Herbal remedies can be a valuable addition to your acne treatment plan, working alongside conventional methods to support clearer skin. While not a definitive “cure,” these herbs assist your body’s natural processes, aiding in fat and carbohydrate metabolism and promoting lymphatic system function.
Alterative herbs, traditionally known for “cleansing” the body, gently support overall health. While their action isn’t always easily explained by Western medicine, they have a history of use in addressing skin issues like acne. These herbs work internally, complementing topical treatments by addressing underlying imbalances.
For best results, incorporate alterative herbs into a long-term regimen. Their effects are gradual, improving your body’s overall health and helping manage chronic inflammatory conditions, including acne. Some effective alterative herbs include burdock, cleavers, red clover, figwort, poke root, echinacea, and blue flag. A recommended blend combines blue flag, burdock, yellow dock, and echinacea. Steep these herbs in hot water to create a tea, and drink a cup three times daily. Add a touch of honey to enhance the flavor.
Another beneficial combination consists of burdock, dandelion, and sarsaparilla (not the soda!). Prepare this blend as a tea using dried herbs, following the same method. These herbs can also be used individually.
In addition to internal remedies, several topical treatments can help with acne. Tea tree oil can be applied directly to blemishes. If you have sensitive skin, dilute it first. Fresh cabbage juice is another option for direct application, often proving gentler for sensitive skin.
Create an anti-inflammatory skin wash by steeping calendula and chamomile in hot water, then cooling the tea in the refrigerator. Regularly spray or dab this solution onto affected areas. Another effective skin wash can be made with yarrow, elder flowers, and lavender.
Colloidal minerals like potassium phosphate and magnesium phosphate can also support skin health. Zinc is an excellent supplement for preventing scars, boosting the immune system, and promoting healthy hormone function.
Vitamin C promotes the healing of acne lesions and provides antioxidant support to the immune system.