Herbal Treatments for Acne

The commonest skin disease in the United States is acne, affecting over 17 million people. Acne usually appears on the face and other oily areas of the skin like the neck, back and chest. According to MayoClinic.com website, when hair follicles get plugged with sebum and dead skin cells, they blocks the hair follicle. The end result may be a blackhead, whitehead, pimple, blemish or a zit. Risk factors that may promote the development of acne are: age, hormonal changes, heredity as well as stress and environmental issues. Herbal remedies are an alternative approach to treating acne. Herbs should be used under the supervision and advice of a certified herbalist or a physician.

Neem Oil

Neem oil, also called Azadirachta indica, is derived from the evergreen neem tree native to India and Myanmar. Neem oil has antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral properties. According to Health911.com, neem oil has been used to treat acne and other skin diseases like psoriasis, cold sores and ring worm. To treat acne with neem oil, Health911.com recommends, making a mixture of one tablespoon of neem oil diluted with half cup of carrier oil such as, almond oil. Apply the mixture with a cotton ball or Q-tip to the skin area to be treated.

Aloe Vera

Aloe vera is a succulent plant native to Northern Africa and India. The cultivation of the aloe vera plant has spread to many parts of the world, including, the United States, Australia and throughout the Caribbean Islands. Aloe vera is used for a variety of medical conditions including the treatment of acne and acne scars. Aloe vera juice or gel may be applied to the directly to the area to be treated. Aloe vera is soothing and healing to the skin.

Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil is also called melaluca oil. Melaluca trees are native to Australia. Tea tee oil has a distinct aroma, similar to camphor. It has antiseptic, antifungal and antimicrobial properties. According to Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, MSKCC, clinical studies suggest that tea tree oil may be used to treat acne and other conditions like, tinea pedis also called athletes foot, warts, dandruff and cold sores. Tea tree oil should only be used topically. Serious adverse effects from the oral consumption of tea tree oil have been reported, according to MSKCC.

http://medical-dictionary.thefreedictionary.com/acne

http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/acne/DS00169

Mayo Clinic: Acne

http://www.health911.com/remedies/rem_acne.htm

Health 911: Acne

http://www.mskcc.org/mskcc/html/69396.cfm

Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center: Tea Tree Oil