Natural Herbal Remedies for Acne

What Alternative Medicine Can Offer Acne Sufferers

Characterized by overly-productive oil glands, acne is an inflammatory condition of the skin. Acne may not be considered a serious health issue, at least for most people, but that doesn't mean you can't address it with the best that herbal medicine has to offer.

Does What You Eat Affect Acne?

Currently, there is little scientific evidence that any food or food group affects acne either positively or negatively. This directly contradicts the experiences of millions of acne sufferers who believe that foods like milk, fat and chocolate directly contribute to breakouts. The reason for the discrepancy isn't fully understood but some researchers have suggested that undiagnosed food allergies may be at least partly to blame.

Another interesting theory linking food and acne involves a medical condition known as inflammation. First popularized by Dr. Nicholas Perricone, the inflammation theory of acne states that foods with a high glycemic load--foods that cause rapid, dramatic increases in blood sugar--may also play a role in breakouts.

If you find that your acne is tied to your diet, talk to your doctor. He or she may recommend that you avoid certain foods or refer you to a registered dietician who can help you design a dietary plan that is appropriate for you.

Are Herbal Remedies for Acne Effective?

Though no herbal remedy seems particularly effective against severe acne, people suffering from mild to moderate acne may respond well to topical applications of tea tree or evening primrose oils and the oral use of the Ayurevedic product guggul.

Tea Tree Oil Gel

A 2007 Iranian study found that 5% tea tree oil, applied as a gel, was more than 5 times more effective than the study's placebo. Side effects were comparable to placebo and well tolerated. This study looked at only mild to moderate acne but led to researchers pronouncing tea tree oil, "an effective treatment" for acne.

Aloe Vera Gel