Acne Herbal Remedies

Acne is a skin condition that mostly affects teenagers. However, this bothersome skin disorder can also affect people in the age group of 20 to 40 years. Though it is not a serious disorder, it is a cause of cosmetic concern due to the possibility of scarring.

In severe cases, it could even cause low self-esteem in affected persons. Although it cannot be cured, following a proper skin care regimen and preventive measures might prove beneficial. Following certain home remedies might also help to some extent. However, in severe cases, it is advisable to consult a dermatologist.

Many herbalists vouch for the therapeutic properties of mint leaves. Menthol that is present in the leaves acts as a natural analgesic and anti-inflammatory product. The method of application of this herb is simple. You just need to crush the leaves thoroughly with a mortar and pestle and gently apply the juice on the affected area. Continue massaging the area for about 5 - 10 minutes, followed by rinsing with cold water.

You must remember that the fresh stalks can irritate the skin. So, handle it with care. Soaking them in hot water will make them suitable for handling. However, its leaves are anti-inflammatory in nature. It is believed that nettle can inhibit the production of DHT, thereby reducing the incidence of pimples especially in men.

There's also the option of taking pills that contain dry or frozen nettle. Make sure that you drink plenty of water while you are taking the pills. You can also have nettle tea. To make the tea, you need to let fresh nettle leaves sit in boiling water for about 5 minutes. Add honey or lemon to improve the taste and help yourself with this nettle tea.

Aloe vera forms a vital ingredient of most skin care products. The plant is anti-inflammatory by nature and its antibiotic property cleanses the skin and kills harmful bacteria. The gel of the plant can provide relief from acne sores, due to its cooling and soothing effect. Squeeze the gel after cutting the aloe leaves. You can directly apply the gel to the skin. Make sure that the gel doesn't come in contact with the eyes and the areas around them.

Calendula is also effective in reducing acne outbreaks. It is antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic by nature. Soak a handful of dried calendula flowers in one cup of boiling water and let it cool. Keep it in a clean jar and refrigerate for about a week to make the calendula toner for acne-affected skin.

Neem is listed among the most potent herbs for detoxification and blood purification in the Ayurveda. Due to its antibacterial properties, it is known for its effectiveness in treating several skin problems. Steep the leaves of neem tree in hot water overnight. Drink this herbal infusion the next morning. Turn this into a regular habit. Over a period of time, you will find your skin looking healthier.

Lemon juice has astringent and mild antibacterial properties. Rose water also has antibacterial properties and somewhat subsides the acidic quality of the lemon juice. Equal amounts of lemon juice and rose water can be mixed together. Wipe your face by a cotton soaked in this mixture and rinse after 15 - 30 minutes.

Milk thistle is well-known for improving the liver function, thereby assisting the detoxification process and reducing the occurrence of acne. Milk thistle can be used as a topical solution or taken in the form of capsules. It helps in diminishing the appearance of acne, due to its anti-inflammatory properties.

You can also apply basil-based oil on the affected skin. Here's another way to use this herb. Get some dried basil leaves and let them steep in a cup of boiling water. Once cooled, dab the affected skin with a cotton ball soaked in the mixture.

Apart from the aforementioned natural acne remedies, you can also reduce acne outbreaks by including fresh fruits and vegetables in the diet. Avoid beverages such as tea, coffee, etc., and cut down on the intake of spicy, oily foods, and food items which contain simple carbohydrates.

Make sure that you also increase your daily water intake. It must be noted that home remedies may not work in the same way for everyone. If the aforementioned herbal remedies don't help, consult a dermatologist.