Herbs that help to heal acne

Acne vulgaris is a common skin condition that has many causes, it could be due to poor diet, hormone imbalances or an improper function of the bodies cleansing and elimination systems. Acne is an inflammation of the sebaceous glands, that cover our skin, and presents itself as pustules, papules and cysts. These are formed when follicles become blocked with sebum (the oil our skin naturally produces to keep itself lubricated and protected from environmental pollutants and bacteria) this causes a plug to form in the gland and bacteria can build up here and form acne. It's a horrid condition that can affect sufferers self-esteem and confidence, but however desperate you are to get rid of your acne, please don't reach for commercial products that strip the skin and in the long run cause more harm than good. Thankfully there are many herbal treatments and natural solutions to healing acne, that are effective and actually treat the root cause of your acne rather than just masking the symptoms.

Here are some herbs that are commonly used in the treatment of acne

Burdock (Arctium lappa)

One of the most valuable herbs when it comes to healing skin conditions. It's really helpful for those suffering from dry skin. This herb works on many body systems such as the lymphatic, digestive and circulatory, it works to cleanse and stimulate these systems, which is helpful for acne sufferers as an imbalance in these systems can cause a multitude of implications, one being acne.

Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale)

Dandelion is a hepatotonic herb and works to eliminate congestion in the liver and gallbladder, this means that the body will be better equipt to remove toxins from the body. When the liver is impaired it cannot properly process toxins, this can be extremely detrimental for your overall health, it also means that the toxins need somewhere to go and unfortunately the skin is the second best option, so by supporting the function of the liver, the body won't have to resort to expelling toxins through the skin. As well as helping the liver dandelion is also a bitter tonic, so it aids digestion and promotes a complete breakdown of food meaning we will absorb more nutrients from the food we eat, so if we are eating healthy, whole foods we will be gaining all the vitamins and minerals we need to keep our skin healthy. More about dandelion

Red clover (Trifolium pratense)

Red clover is a very safe herbal remedy for skin conditions, it can be used on children and elderly. It has an overall cleansing action on the body as it works with the lymphatic system to help rid the body of toxins, waste and other unwanted materials which can cause acne. It's a powerful blood purifier and an anti-inflammatory, so it will cleanse the blood that will help to heal pimples rather than offloading more toxins into the skin. Red clover is also packed with nutrients such as vitamin B, C, E, iron, calcium, choline and magnesium which are all essential ingredients for healthy, happy skin.

Cleavers (Galium aparine)

Cleavers are one of the most effective lymphatic tonics due to their alterative and diuretic actions, they cleanse the body and promote the elimination of unwanted matter through the urinary system. Cleavers have a mild dilatory action on the blood vessels which is helpful for those suffering from acne as it will improve circulation so the transport of beneficial nutrients to the skin and the toxin elimination away from the skin will both increase. Cleavers are also seen as a cooling herb so is highly effective for those suffering from hot, irritated acne.

Marigold (Calendula officinalis)

Marigold is nearly always used when there is inflammation of the skin, as it has a very soothing effect. It has a high vitamin A content which is an essential component of healthy skin as it stimulated fibroblasts (the cells responsible for developing tissue that keeps skin firm and healthy) and helps to slow sebum production allowing pores time to clear. Calendula oil can be used topically to help diminish the appearance of acne scars and can be used on current acne as it has antiseptic and antimicrobial properties.