Herbal Approach to Acne
Acne is simply the result of the body’s excess oil that is due to large amounts of hormones the body produces, a period which peaks during the stage of adolescence. However, adolescents do not see the presence of acne as a natural phase everybody has to undergo. As Dr. Harold Farber, director of the Center of Dermatology, Laser Surgery, and Cosmetics, implies in his blog, acne has serious emotional effects on teenagers.
Of course, external medications and new acne procedures such as laser treatments and dermabrasions are now the norm when it comes to treating acne. Though these options are relatively safe as long as the dermatologist recommends it, there are still some inexpensive alternative approaches when it comes to treating and controlling acne.
Acne has no cure and the treatments for such a condition are designed to control the breakouts. It is the same with the herbal alternatives suggested below. All of these herbal approaches are taken internally as tea or a concocted drink because of their detoxifying capabilities:
- Burdock contains substances that have antimicrobial and diuretic qualities. Burdock can detoxify skin disorders, including acne.
- Dandelion root increases the production of bile and encourages the cleansing and purification of the liver. It also promotes proper digestion, and hastens the elimination of wastes.
- Licorice root has antimicrobial characteristics and substances that act as anti-inflammatory agents that may be helpful in inflammatory skin disorders such as acne.
- Tea tree oil is used topically and has been proven to be effective against acne.
Although there are some people who have testified to the effectiveness of herbal medicines, a visit to the dermatologist still is the best way to ensure the best anti-acne regimen.
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