Acne occurs when the sebaceous glands secrete too much oil. Normally the oil flows from the glands to the skin’s surface, but if the dead skin cells accumulate, they can clog the pores.
The skin reflects our internal health. Acne is sometimes an indicator of toxic conditions. Too much waste product in the kidneys, liver, lungs, intestine or digestive problems can all give cause for breakouts. Allergies, high fat diet, emotional problems, pollution… these are all causes.
Most cases of acne will disappear by themselves at the end of adolescence, but if acne persists or becomes severe, it should be treated more aggressively to prevent scarring. Sudden appearance of acne in adulthood may be a sign of hormonal imbalance or drug toxicity (usually from steroids). Get a medical checkup to rule out these possibilities.
Western drugs, derivatives of Vitamin A, are used to treat acne. Tretinoin (Retin-A) is a topical preparation, while isoretinoin (Accutane) is for internal use. These drugs are safe when used under the supervision of a dermatologist but should not be used casually because they can be irritating and toxic. (Caution: Do not use if pregnant. These drugs may cause birth defects).
Clean the skin regularly with soap and water as well as with the special acne formulas containing benzoyl peroxide. This is an excellent cleansing agent and the active ingredient of many lotions and creams, both over-the-counter and prescription varieties. Benzoyl peroxide may irritate the skin, so it is best to leave it on for only two hours, then wash it off.
Herbs used for general detoxification of the liver and bowels assist in elimination and herbs that increase perspiration through the skin are very helpful in treating acne.
Severe Cystic Acne and Boils
Acne that grows into large groups can form sebaceous cysts, carbuncles or furuncles. Boils can be large and inflamed and can be a sign of a staphylococcus or (staph) infection. Weak immune function, diabetes mellitus, poor nutrition and the use of immunosuppresive drugs are some causes. Boils are often an infection that starts at the hair follicle, inflammation occurs and then spreads.
The bacteria in the pus reacts the same as acne in that it is contagious to the surrounding skin. Staph infection is contagious, can contaminate new skin, causing new boils or enter the bloodstream and spread to other body parts. Without treatment, a boil usually comes to head, opens and drains in 10-25 days.
This is something that should be watched carefully. If nausea, vomiting, fever or infection grows, these are signs that these pus and blood filled boils are not acne, but a bacterial infection. Severe cases require blood test and doctor to prescribe antibiotic, draining incision and bed rest.
Where do Boils Appear?
Boils can occur anywhere on the skin, although they tend to develop on the face, neck, armpits, buttocks or thighs. They also occur most frequently in areas containing hair and/or sweat glands or in areas where chaffing or recurrent friction occurs. In some cases Boils can occur in interconnected clusters which are then called carbuncles, and in severe cases they can develop into abscesses.
While anyone can develop Boils and carbuncles, people who have diabetes, a suppressed immune system, poor hygiene, acne or other skin problems are at a higher risk.
Contributing Causes of Boils
* An ingrown hair
* A splinter or other piece of foreign material that has penetrated the skin
* Blocked sweat glands that become infected
* Chaffing clothes
* Poor hygiene
* A lowered immune system
* Diabetes
* Malnutrition (Vitamin A or E deficiency in particular)
Treating Boils
There are a number of herbal and homeopathic remedies that can be of great benefit for someone suffering with boils. Since immune deficiency is one of the highlighted causes of this skin infection, naturally boosting the immune system is the first course of action for many people!
Herbs such as Echinacea purpurea, Astragalus membranaceous, Inula helenium and Withania somnifera are well documented for their antiviral, antifungal and antibacterial properties and their ability to strengthen and assist the immune system. These herbs not only help to treat current infections, but work well as a preventative measure so that the boils do not re-occur.
In addition, there are also homeopathic and herbal ingredients specific to skin ailments that can help speed recovery and keep the affected area clean and clear from harmful bacteria.
Silicea, a homeopathic tissue salt, is very effective in helping the body to expel all foreign or toxic matter, including pus and is frequently recommended in homeopathic dosage to quickly alleviate boils. In addition, naturopaths often recommend liver and systemic cleansing herbs such as Silybum marianus and Gallium aperine for the treatment of recurring boils.
Additional Remedies for Boils
- Poultices, warm towels on a regular basis will help with pain and drawing it out of skin. Do this 4 times a day for about 20 minutes.
- Clean the wound. This is important to prevent infection and to decrease the chance of permanent discoloration, or scarring. Wash the area with soap and water Your own saliva contains many enzymes, which kill bacteria. Use it to clean the area if soap/water are not available. The object is to dilute the bacteria in the wound.
- Disinfection is necessary, pour 3 percent hydrogen peroxide into the wound, let it foam up, repeat, and pat dry with a clean piece of gauze or cotton.
- Yunnan Paiyao is an excellent Chinese herbal powder, which helps to stop bleeding, close the wound and decreases scarring. This patent formula alone helps the flesh regenerate and prevents blood stasis and infections, which could lead to scarring. It can be used externally and taken internally as well! Excellent treatment for boils and staph infection.
- Consider burdock root which is a natural blood cleanser, red clover to cleanse the blood, along with Chlorophyll and garlic, a natural antibiotic. Take additional Vitamins A, C, E, which are powerful anti-inflammatory and Co enzyme Q10, a fantastic antioxidant.
- Keeping onions may save you many trips to your local drugstore. Place a thick slab of onion over the boil and bandage it with a cloth. You should leave the onion in place on the boil until it comes to a head and drains. Change the onion every three to four hours. This works by drawing blood to the infected area and causing it come to a head.
- Another good home remedy is to place a warm washcloth that was soaked in saltwater over the place of the boil. This should be done at least five times a day for 15 to 20 minutes at a time. The warm compress will also bring the blood to the area of the boil and cause it to come to a head and drain faster.
- Bread can also be used as a compress and this has been a folk cure for many years. Put a slice of bread in warm milk then place it on the boil. It is most effective when the bread is replace with a warm slice and left on for 15 minutes four times every day until it begins to drain. Tea bags will work this way as well. Again, place a warm tea bag on the boil for 15 minutes at least 4-5 times daily.
- Warm vegetables are great to use for compresses on a boil. Heat the outer leaves of the cabbage, sliced tomatoes, onions, mashed garlic and place them on the boil several times a day for about 15 minutes. Change the warmed fruit when it starts to cool to be the most effective.
Get your dried, organic herbs, organic essential oils, bulk spices, loose leaf organic teas and aromatherapy supplies at the place where we shop – StarWest Botanicals!
Essential Oils for Acne
While essential oils are widely known for their benefits on mental, emotional and physical health, they can also be used to help fight off painful acne. The benefits of essential oils can help eliminate acne and keep your skin beautiful and healthy.
Your skin is sensitive to environmental changes, stress, and oily buildup that can lead to blemishes. Some essential oils have the ability to fight off acne breakouts. Some people take medication to get rid of acne without knowing their side effects. Using essential oils is a way to naturally remove acne and keep your skin clear.
Essential oils are non greasy, so they will not cause a buildup and clog your pores. In fact, using essential oils is a very good way to spot treat existing acne without using harsh treatments.
You may already use essential oils without your knowledge. Some manufacturers of fine creams and moisturizers already use essential oils in small amounts in their products. The fragrance can be detected in some creams that you buy over the counter.
The oils bring oxygen and nutrients to the skin, helping it fight off any blemishes. Below is a list of some of the most popular essential oils that will help with your acne treatments.
Get your dried, organic herbs, organic essential oils, bulk spices, loose leaf organic teas and aromatherapy supplies at the place where we shop – StarWest Botanicals!
Clary Sage
Clary Sage is extracted from plants that greatly imitate the body’s own hormones. The use of Clary Sage is often implemented where acne stems from hormonal imbalances.
The essential oil can act as a precursor allowing the body to balance hormones.
Eucalyptus
Eucalyptus is a popular plant extract that helps your body fight off blackheads. It has a cleansing effect that removes dirt and oils and leaves only clear skin.
Lavender
Lavender is considered an all-purpose oil since its uses include acne treatment as well as mental fatigue rejuvenation. Lavender is good for the skin, and it can calm your mind and soothe your muscles from the stress and anxiety from the day.
Lemon
The citrus effects of lemon can help refresh your mind and restore your skins natural balance. Lemon oil is known to quickly clear up current acne and remove blemishes.
After applying lemon, one should be careful not to have over-exposure to the sun since it can cause skin discoloration.
Myrrh
Myrrh is a popular, ancient essential oil that was used as a balm to treat sores and scars. It can be used to treat rashes and acne breakouts for recurring. Myrrh has a variety of uses including elimination of warts or acne-causing bacteria.
Patchouli
Patchouli is a good essential oil to fight off many skin conditions. It will help you fight off acne, but it is also a good way to treat rashes and scarring.
It can be used as a moisturizer as well and its fragrance will give a calming effect.
Tea Tree
Tea tree oil is made by steam distilling the leaves of the tea tree (Melaleuca alternifolia), which is native to Australia. Using a substance that contains oil to treat a problem that is usually caused by excess oil may seem like a contradiction, but according to the University of Maryland Medical Center, tea tree oil treats acne just as effectively as benzoyl peroxide and causes fewer side effects.
Blemish Fighter Essential Oil Blend
- 5 drops Lavender
- 5 drops Tea Tree
- 5 drops Lemon
Get your dried, organic herbs, organic essential oils, bulk spices, loose leaf organic teas and aromatherapy supplies at the place where we shop – StarWest Botanicals!
Blend together and store in an amber or cobalt bottle. Use the end of a cotton swab to apply tiny amounts to blemishes.
Herbal Remedies for Acne
- Basil has been shown to kill bacteria on the skin surface. Apply this tincture directly to the skin surface on a compress. This works to kill the bacteria that forms blackhead and whiteheads. It is also possible to steep two to three teaspoons of dried basil in a cup of boiling water. Allow the herb to steep 5-10 minutes or more in order to extract the healing oils from the plant. Then soak a washcloth or compress in the tea and apply to the areas where acne is most present.
- Burdock is a tonic herb and has been used in the treatment of skin conditions. Burdock is an herb that boosts immunity and purifies the blood. It’s a traditional liver tonic and a mild, natural diuretic. Burdock’s laxative and diuretic properties help remove toxins from the system. The Chinese utilize it against tumors, inflammation, fungal and bacterial infections. It is often recommended for dry, scaly skin. You can take burdock in capsule form (follow the directions) or make a acne fighting tea. Burdock root tincture may be taken in 2–4 ml amounts per day. Dried root preparations in a capsule or tablet can be used at 1–2 grams three times per day.
- Calendula is a good herbal treatment for the skin, commonly known as Marigold. (It is not a true marigold.) Calendula is a popular ornamental plant. Try washing your skin with tea made from the flowers or taking the tincture orally.
- Dandelion is a leading remedy for detoxing the liver. It stimulates the flow of bile, a fluid that aids fat digestion, which is why it’s used for liver and gallbladder disorders. Dandelion has scientifically documented potent diuretic properties. It relieves constipation and eases bloating and swelling. Dandelion should be used for 4 to 6 weeks at a time. For it’s liver benefits dandelion is helpful for acne.
- Garlic can be taken internally 2-3 times a day as well as massaging your acne with raw garlic several times a day.
- Oregon Grape Root (Berberis aquifolium) has antibiotic properties and helps stimulate the immune system.
- Red Clover is an herb suggested for chronic conditions affecting the skin. It is a diuretic, but it’s unknown exactly how it works for skin conditions. Use nonfermented red clover which is safe. Red clover contains a substance called genistein, which has anticancer properties.
- Yellow Dock is another herb that purifies the blood. It has compounds called anthraquinone glycosides that stimulate bile production, aiding digestion and cleansing the liver. Some herbalists believe that chronic skin problems like acne improve with long-term use of yellow dock. Don’t take yellow dock if you have kidney stones.
Home Remedies for Blackheads
- Heat honey slightly and apply to face, tap face gently with your fingers. Wash honey off with warm water then rinse with cool water. A bit of wheat germ may be added to the honey before applying.
- To loosen and cleanse blackheads, make a paste of oatmeal, honey and an egg white. Apply to the skin, massage for 10 minutes then rinse with tepid water.
- For blackheads, make a paste of oatmeal and water.
- For blackheads, make a paste of almond meal and water.
- Blotchy skin: Make a mixture of 1 part apple cider vinegar and 8 parts water. Store in a decorative bottle in the bathroom. Rinse face 1-2 times a day with the solution.
- For blackheads, rub with a slice of tomato.
Helping Acne Naturally
This remedy helps fight off bacteria that causes pimples and blackheads. By addressing skin health at a cellular level via underlying tissue and sebaceous glands of the skin, MediAc improves problem skin without troublesome side effects, promoting skin health and renewal. It also improves the appearance of bumps and flaky, irritated skin temporarily.
This remedy is taken internally, and stimulates the natural healing forces of the body from within to address and prevent acne and blackheads as a natural acne remedy.
Presented in small dissolvable tablets, MediAc is easy to ingest and hassle-free with no artificial colors or preservatives, and no side effects. Formulated by our team of experts in natural medicine, MediAc is pharmaceutically manufactured to the highest standards.
Learn more about MediAc now.
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