Acne is the most common of skin complaints and can take on various forms such as blackheads, whiteheads, pustules and cysts. It occurs mostly on the face, and to a lesser extent, on the back, chest and shoulders. Acne is a skin inflammation that is most common at puberty - about 80% teenagers are affected by it. Most grow out of this skin problem by the time they reach their twenties and never to see it again. Others go through their teenage years without a single zit only to encounter skin eruptions late in adulthood. Yet still, some unfortunate ones suffer through teen acne and to face breakouts again as adults. While teen acne affects male and female in equal numbers, adult acne seems more common in women. Experts believe that this may be attributed to hormonal imbalances of the menstrual cycle. In cases such as these, there is little point in spending too much on facials and neglecting the root of the problem. If your acne seems hormone-related or is among your premenstrual symptoms, herbal medicine can be of great help. Many people have the mistaken impression that acne is mainly caused by oily, dirty skin and become overzealous in scrubbing and washing. Whilst skin hygiene is important, frequent washing may actually aggravate the condition. It would be better to treat your skin gently and cleanse only morning and evening with a mild cleanser.
CLEANING INSIDE & OUT
NUTRITIONAL HELP Some acne victims claim they have tried everything to clear their problem yet live on a nutritionally poor diet. A well balanced diet is very important for healthy, glowing skin. Even though there is controversial evidence relating diet to acne, proponents of natural medicine believe that excessive consumption of fried food, dairy products, chocolate, sugar and iodine (salty foods) can exacerbate acne. You would be better off with more wholesome food like fresh fruits and vegetables that are rich in vitamin C and beta-carotene. Don’t forget to drink plenty of water, approximately 2 liters a day, to help flush toxins from your system. You can further detoxify by following a vegetable juice detox programme.
HERBAL HELP Acne usually responds very well to herbal treatment. From a naturopathic perspective, acne is aggravated by some form of liver, bowel or kidney congestion. Thus, herbs that assist the detoxification process through the liver and intestines are beneficial.
Calendula – This herb is a traditional remedy for many types of skin complaints. The flowers of this plant provide medicinal properties that relieve acne symptoms. Other traditional skin remedies include herbs like Burdock, Red Clover and Sarsaparilla.
Vitex – Vitex berries are especially helpful if the acne is due to hormonal imbalance. Women who suffer from blemish skin around the time of their period should consider this herb as it helps not only with acne, but the entire spectrum of premenstrual syndrome.
Dandelion – The root of this herb stimulates digestion and supports the liver, the major organ that helps rid the body of toxins and excess hormones. Dandelion leaves are also beneficial as they are chock-full with nutrients, many of which assist in maintaining healthy skin.
HOME MADE HERBAL WASH
A gentle and effective wash to reduce redness, swelling
and pain associated with acne. It is also anti-bacterial. This
herbal wash is best applied after your regular cleansing
1 teaspoon dried Chamomile flowers
1 tablespoon cooking Oat
1 drop Tea Tree oil
2 drops Lavender oil
2 drops Bach Flower Crab Apple Remedy (optional)
2 cups water
Pour two cups of boiling water into a pot containing the
Chamomile flowers and Oat. Infuse for 10 minutes. Strain,
let cool and add the oils to the solution. Add the Bach Flower
if available. Use a clean cloth or cotton ball to gently wash face.
Patricia Loh is an educator and writer on natural therapies. She is a qualified clinical herbalist and operates a herbal centre in Subang Jaya. Comments and inquiries: herbz@tm.net.my or 03-5631 7751.
The Sun, insertion date: 15 July 2003
