Acne and Botanicals

by Mike July 30, 2011

Acne, or acne vulgaris, is a common skin ailment, afflicting as many as 70 million people.

Although acne occurs most often during the teenage years, adults can experience it as well.

Acne generally refers to pimples, white-heads and blackheads, but can appear as deep painful bumps that look and feel like boils. Acne

is not limited to the face, but can also be found on the back, chest, shoulders and neck. In severe cases it may cause permanent scarring.

What Causes Acne

There are a number of conditions that cause acne vulgaris including:

• Overproduction of oil

• Irregular shedding of skin cells

• Buildup of bacteria

• Stress

• Liver toxicity

Acne usually begins around puberty, when there is an increase in the production of hormones. These

hormones regulate the activity of the sebaceous glands, which are located at the base of the hair follicle. The  sebaceous glands produce an oily substance called “sebum”. Under normal conditions,

“sebum” combines with keratinous cells, traveling along the hair follicle to the surface of the skin.

Acne occurs when the flow of sebum is restricted, leading to a build-up of sebum and cell debris, which contribute to the growth of bacteria.

The life cycle of an individual pimple may be 6-8 weeks. Acne therapy is designed to unclog pores and keep them clean.

Topical Treatments For Acne:

There are many topical therapies for addressing acne and related skin conditions. Some of these

treatments are designed to:

1. Reduce Surface Sebum: Facial cleansing using mild surface active agents such as Bio-Saponins™*

2. Reduce Cornification: Exfoliants, digestors

3. Reduce Skin Inflammation: Anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial ingredients

Botanical Treatments For Acne:

Many botanicals have been historically used for helping to promote clean and healthy skin. Some of the most “popular” herbs include:

Arnica Flower (Arnica montana)

Arnica is an emollient and vulnerary. This botanical contains sesquiterpene lactones, the chemical constituents responsible for the herb’s

anti-inflammatory properties. Arnica is helpful for promoting healing and reducing general skin irritations.

Burdock Root (Arctium lappa)

The root of this botanical is commonly used in herbal steams and poultices. It is helpful for treating blemishes and reducing scaly skin.

Chamomile Flower (Chamomilla recutita)

Chamomile is well-recognized for its anti-inflammatory properties. Herbal steams and poultices help reduce puffiness and encourage

cleansing of pores. Use Chamomile to help strengthen and heal tissues, naturally.

Dandelion Root (Taraxacum officinale)

Dandelion is a mild potassium sparing diuretic that helps the detoxification organs such as the liver and kidneys. When these organs are

functioning optimally, Dandelion Root enhances the clarity of the skin.

Echinacea Root (Echinacea angustifolia, Echinacea purpurea)

Echinacea has been recognized for its healing actions. It is also a natural anti-inflammatory. Key chemical constituents responsible for the

herb’s healing actions include glycosides, cichoric acid, chlorogenic acid, isobutylamides, polyacetylenes, phytosterols and sesquiterpene

esters.

Goldenseal Root (Hydrastis Canadensis)

Goldenseal is a Native American medicinal herb introduced to the early settlers by the Cherokee Indians, who used it as a natural “wash” for

the skin. The active chemical constituents, hydrastine and berberine deliver antibacterial support.

Hops Strobiles (Humulus lupulus)

Hops wetted with alcohol and placed onto the skin was found to reduce local inflammation. The main constituents of this herb are polyphenolic

principles, primarily lupulin. Hops also contains tannins and flavonoid glycosides, which help to give the herb its strong anti-inflammatory properties.

Lavender Flower (Lavandula officinalis)

Lavender contains soothing, calming properties. It also acts against infections and helps to clear clogged pores.

Lemon Peel (Citrus limon)

Lemon Peel is high in natural bioflavonoids, which helps enhance healthy skin cell growth. This botanical also has mild astringent properties. It

refreshes the skin and tightens pores.

Marigold Flower (Calendula officinalis)

Marigold, also commonly known as Calendula, has been traditionally used for its natural healing, astringent and anti-inflammatory properties.

It is especially helpful for dry skin.

Milk Thistle Seed (Silybum marianum)

Milk Thistle has been documented in scientific studies to enhance the detoxification abilities of the liver, which can lead to clearer skin.

Myrrh Oleo-Gum-Resin (Commiphora molmol)

Myrrh offers natural antiseptic and astringent activities. Its disinfectant properties make this herb a particularly good “natural wash” for sores

and wounds.

Rosemary Leaf (Rosmarinus officinalis)

Rosemary delivers antioxidant support. In herbal steams and poultices it acts as an anti-inflammatory and astringent. Rosemary also helps

support capillary health.

Slippery Elm Bark (Ulmus rubra)

Slippery Elm Bark enjoyed widespread use by Native Americans. It has a high mucilage content, and is most often used as a demulcent and

emollient. This inner bark is noted for its soothing properties, and is especially helpful for treating inflamed skin.

White Willow Bark (Salix alba)

White Willow Bark is a natural astringent. The herb contains salicylic acid, which acts as an exfoliant.

Witch Hazel (Hamamelis virginiana)

Witch Hazel is used in herbal steams and poultices for addressing inflamed or swollen skin. It is also applied to red veins on the nose and face.

Witch Hazel is a natural astringent and contains cleansing constituents.

More information:

http://theskinsociety.com/Home/Miracle-Lift/ACNE-TREATMENT-SUITE.html