Oily skin occurs as the result of overactive sebaceous, or oil-producing, glands. This condition can cause the skin to look shiny or greasy. It can also result in the outbreak of acne, as oil becomes trapped in the pores, promoting the growth of bacteria and causing skin inflammation. There are a variety of herbs that natural health practitioners believe can aid in balancing oily skin. Consult with a dermatologist or physician before using herbs to treat the skin.
Tea Tree Oil
You can get tea tree oil as an oil, a soap or a facial cream. It has powerful antiseptic and antibiotic properties that are effective at balancing oily skin, preventing the growth of bacteria and acne break-outs and resulting in overall smoother, more balanced skin. "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," by James F. Bach, M.D., and Phyllis A. Balch, C.N.C., recommends applying tea tree oil to skin, especially areas affected with acne, three times a day.
If full-strength tea tree oil seems too strong, mix 1 tbsp. of tea tree oil with 1/4 cup of warm water and apply with a cotton ball.
Soaps and facial creams featuring tea tree oil are available at most health food stores. Use them to cleanse and treat oily skin and acne as directed on the manufacturer's label.
Red Clover
According to Skin Type Solutions, red clover has powerful anti-inflammatory properties and can treat a variety of skin conditions, such as acne, psoriasis and eczema. Red clover is grown all over the world and is also used in the treatment of cancer, gout and asthma.
"Prescription for Nutritional Healing" suggests using red clover combined with lavender and strawberry leaves in a facial steam to clear the pours, prevent acne and treat oily skin. Steam 2 to 4 tbsp. of each herb in 2 qts. of water, and hold your face in the steam for 15 minutes. You can hold a towel over your head to create a steam tent.
Lemon Oil
According to "The Aromatherapy Bible," by Gill Farrer-Halls, lemon oil is helpful in the treatment of oily skin and acne. Lemon is also used in detoxification and lymphatic drainage massage.
"Aromatherapy for Vibrant Health and Beauty," by Roberta Wilson, recommends using a facial treatment containing lemon oil to treat oily skin. Mix 2 drops of lemon oil, 3 drops of ylang ylang oil, 2 drops of rosewood oil, 1 drop of clary sage oil and 1 drop of geranium oil with 1 oz. of jojoba oil. Put the mixture in a clean container, and shake to mix. Apply the treatment to clean skin twice daily for best results.
References
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; James F. Balch and Phyllis A. Balch, C.N.C.; 1997
- "Aromatherapy for Vibrant Health and Beauty"; Roberta Wilson; 1995
- "The Aromatherapy Bible"; Gill Farrer-Halls; 2005
- Skin Type Solutions: Red Clover
Member Comments