Health for Body Mind and Soul

Acne occurs as a result of the overgrowth and infection of the sebaceous glands in the skin. Sebaceous glands produce sebum (an oil) that protects the skin. Obstruction of the gland’s follicles leads to the accumulation of sebum within the glands and causes them to swell. Failure of the sebum to flow out of the glands results in infection and swelling of the glands which manifests as the typical pustular acne eruption (Pamplona-Roger, 2006). Acne is most commonly seed during adolescence, but can affect millions of people during various stages of their lives.

Common Causes of Acne

• genes
• hormones
• emotional stress
• diet

A diet that consists mainly of animal fats, milk, chocolate, salt, refined products, sweets, and processed foods, and is deficient in fruits, nuts, grains, vegetables, and legumes increases the likelihood of acne in adolescence, tweens or even adults.

Using natural remedies to cure acne can help keep skin clear and avoid the use of harsh chemicals that can damage the skin.

The first aspect of natural acne treatment is proper nutrition.  Proper hydration and proper nutrients can help to clear up acne without the use of medicines or harsh chemicals.  Focus on consuming at least 8 glasses of water daily along with fresh fruits and vegetables.  The water will help to flush out your system.  Fruits and vegetables help in the elimination of waste products from the blood through the kidneys. Some fruits also provide large quantities of vitamin A in the form of beta-carotene and other carotenoids which help the skin to remain healthy.

Whole grains are an important component of the diet for acne sufferers. The fiber in whole grains helps to relieve the symptoms of acne. Soy products contains hormones (phytoestrogens) that help maintain a good hormonal balance which prevents acne. Vitamin E works together with vitamin A to help maintain healthy cells in the skin. Sources of vitamin E include nuts, vegetable oils, avocados, and wheat germ.

Exercise is another important part of reducing acne and maintaining healthy skin.  Exercising helps to lower stress levels, reduces the buildup of toxins, and promotes circulation and elimination.  All of these elements help to keep skin clear.

Herbal  Remedies for Acne

White and Foster (2000), outline several herbal remedies for acne in their book “The Herbal Drugstore.”  These remedies include:

• Tea tree oil (topical application)
• Essential oil of lavender – apply to individual blemishes with a cotton swab
• Burdock – taken as a tea
• Dandelion used like burdock
• Calendula – made into a tea
• Vitex – liquid extract
• Oregeon graperoot and goldenseal – used as antibacterial wash or paste
• Fruit acids – make a mask using blended grapes, strawberries or pineapple husks. Apply to face for 10 – 15 minutes the wash fruit mask off.

Avoid frequent and harsh scrubbing of the face. This aggravates the condition. Wash gently twice daily.

Many individuals who suffer from acne have found great relief from a variety of natural treatments.  If one does not specifically work for you, try another until you find the best combination.