Natural Herbs and Supplements for Acne
January 25, 2009Herbs and botanicals can be found in almost every product we use today, and for go reason. They do in fact serve many purposes. They can be found in cosmetics, soaps, and everything in between. In fact, there are even a bunch of acne treatments that tout natural herbal remedies.
We believe that everything you read on a products packaging or in a magazine should be researched before you spend the money on these “all natural” herbs and supplements. The fact of the matter is that most products are far from all natural. This is why it is so important that you research each and every product before you buy. Many products are just glorified creams and vitamin supplements.
With that being said, there are in fact many natural herbs that can be used to treat acne, as well as many other conditions. So which ones work? Hopefully this article will guide you in the right direction.
Botanicals
Botanicals and herbs are essentially the same thing, and are often used in the place of one another. But by definition an herb is an herb (a particular kind of plant), while botanicals are anything that comes from a plant including flowers, herbs, and roots just to name a few.
Calendula: Also known as the pot marigold, calendula is actually commonly used in home gardens and nurseries across the country. The flowers of this plant can be used to compliment many creams and lotions.
Green Tea: As you probably guessed, this substance is from the green tea leaf. Green tea is said to have many benefits, including acne.
Tea Tree Oil: The tree tea plant finds its home in Australia, where it has been used as topical acne treatments for a long time. Active ingredients found naturally in the oil from this tree has been proven to slow the spread of acne causing bacteria, or P. acnes. Many believe this to be the most effective botanical acne treatment.
Aloe Vera: Aloe vera is one of the most popular botanical treatments, and has been for some time. Aloe vera helps you shed dead skin, and stimulates the growth of new skin. At the same time, it helps smooth the skin to reduce inflammation and irritation.
Herbs
There is an extremely large selection of herbs that can have positive effects on acne. But be careful, herbs can have profound, and sometimes dangerous effects and side effects. We suggest to talk to your dermatologist before trying any herbal treatments at your own discretion.
Over the Counter Herbal Remedies
As we mentioned earlier, many cosmetic products contain an array of botanicals. While the accessibility of these products is great, it also floods the market with a bunch of junk products that get little benefit for the botanicals they contain. The most popular botanical ingredient found in cosmetic products today is green tea.
Vitamins and Mineral Supplements
Many botanical products can attribute their effectiveness to vitamins and minerals, so why not go directly to the source. Supplements follow this exact concept. Supplements are essentially extracted and concentrated vitamins and minerals, as well as any number of other ingredients.
Vitamin A & B: Vitamin B and vitamin A are both found in most creams, gels, and lotions. It is particularly effective for controlling inflammation.
Zinc: Zinc supplements and extracts come in both topical and oral applications. Both methods are quite good at reducing inflammation. It can also prevent future cases of acne by opening up the pores. A side effect of zinc is nausea and my interact negatively with medications you may be taking.
Vitamin C: Vitamin C with bioflavanoids are the only C vitamins that have a direct effect on inflammation.
Vitamin E: Vitamin E plays an interesting role in the treatment of acne. Rather than directly having an effect on acne, this vitamin actually helps the body absorb all the others.
Of course supplements aren’t the only way you can absorb the vitamins and minerals your body needs to naturally fight acne. By ensuring you are getting the nutrients from your food, you are ensuring the long term health of your skin.
Another revolutionary acne treatment, in addition to 
