Natural Remedies Explored - Acne

The bane of many a teenager and unfortunately a few adults as well. Hormone changes in adolescence mean come what may, some teenagers will suffer.

There are a plethora of skin care products out there, but keeping it simple and natural would seem to be the best bet. Witch Hazel does the trick for any spots I get from time to time. Using witch hazel as a cleanser and also using a witch hazel spot remover is my strong recommendation. But a word of warning witch hazel can if used frequently dry the skin so find a product that also contains a moisturiser. Tea Tree oil is also recommended for treating spots and it it is well known for its anti-bacterial properties. You can also try applying lemon juice to the affected areas, but you will need to dilute.

Skin care products containing parabens have been attracting a lot of controversy because of a link with oestrogen and breast cancer. At the moment there is no conclusive scientific evidence to confirm a link but you may wish to avoid products containing them. Similarly you may wish to avoid products containing petro-chemicals or chemicals. Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) or Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate is widely used in soap and skin care products, although it is known it blocks the skin pores and, like parabens, has been linked with cancer.

My philosophy on all things health related is to play safe. The body is very chemically finely tuned and it does not take much to affect its balance. Science is far from understanding the effect chemicals can have on the body so why take unnecessary risks. Shop around and buy natural products but be aware that such is the nature of the commercial world, that the word natural is highly abused. Most products will contain some natural ingredients. Be selective and avoid the ones that also contain parabens, chemicals and petro-chemicals.

Many doctors will prescribe antibiotics for severe cases of acne but given the over use of these and the effect they have on the bacterial flora of the intestines I would not recommend their use. However, if you are very traumatised by your condition and psychologically cannot cope, then I would suggest you follow your doctor's advice. Once the course of antibiotics is over be sure to repopulate your intestinal flora by taking a good probiotic product.

Paying attention to diet is also highly recommended. Lots of fresh veg and fruit, eat unrefined carbohydrates (wholemeal bread and pasta, brown rice, oats etc.) and drastically cut down on fatty, sugary foods and alcohol. A general detox could also be beneficial. Drink plenty of water with added lemon juice plus the following herbs: -

• Milk thistle - helps the liver in its detoxing function


• Raspberries - the juice is believed to cleanse the digestive system. Additionally it might be helpful in relieving rheumatism, indigestion and diarrhoea.


• Watercress - apparently speeds up the bodies detox processes.


• Cayenne pepper - an internal disinfectant, with added bonus that it speeds up metabolism, so is great for burning fat.


• Black Cohosh - it is claimed neutralizes toxins in the blood.


• Burdock root - a blood purifier.


• Red Clover - another blood purifier. Also is a tonic for the nerves.


• Slippery Elm - absorbs toxins and helps with excess stomach acid.


• Dandelion - helps the livers detoxifying processes.

That's all for now, but there are other useful herbs out there. If you know of any let me know.

I have a keen interest in using natural remedies and have had years of experience in using herbs and homeopathy.

My site The Apothecary was set up to discuss natural remedies and related subjects.  Please feel free to use the forum.