Pulsatilla is a common homeopathic remedy for pimples. MayoClinic.com states pimples--small reddish pustules--result when hair follicles become clogged with oil secretions and dead skin. Homeopathic medicine, based on the theory that "like cures like," attempts to treat symptoms and trigger your body's immune response by giving infinitesimal amounts of a substance that, in larger amounts, would cause the same symptoms in a healthy person. Consult your doctor before using pulsatilla.
History
Pulsatilla, a perennial plant with small purple blossoms that appear in spring, has been employed as an herbal remedy since the days of classical Greece, where it was used to treat watery eyes. Herbs 2000 reports that Native Americans used it to treat nosebleeds and rhuematism. However, the website notes that pulsatilla is both a toxin and a skin irritant; its use in herbal medicine has become rare. It is more safely, and commonly, used in homeopathic preparations.
Homeopathic Preparation
The pulsatilla homeopathic remedy is made from the meadow anemone, botanically known as anemone pratensis, and sometimes called pasque flower. According to beneforce.com, the plant is gathered when it blooms, then chopped and steeped in alcohol to obtain the mother tincture. The mixture is then diluted to such an extent that virtually none of the original substance remains; homeopaths believe the resultant liquid holds a memory, or "essence," of the substance, and retains healing qualities.
Pulsatilla Personality Traits
Homeopaths take personality traits into account when they prescribe remedies. According to beneforce.com, pulsatilla is an appropriate remedy for mild, gentle, affectionate people who are easily moved to both laughter and tears and respond well to sympathy. A craving for sweets and a tendency to feel claustrophobic in small rooms is also a sign that pulsatilla may be the right remedy. Elixirs.com states pulsatilla is especially indicated for women and children. A homeopath is likely to advise pulsatilla for pimples in young females, especially if he believes the outbreaks are linked to the menstrual cycle.
Considerations
Homeopaths also take into account the factors that cause symptoms to worsen or improve, as well as the relative severity of the symptoms. Beneforce.com notes that if pimples are exacerbated by evening air, warm air and rich foods but improved by gentle exercise, pulsatilla may be the correct remedy. Hpathy.com adds that pimples resulting from mild, uncomplicated cases of acne have the best chance of responding to the pulsatilla remedy. According to Elixirs.com, patients with blonde hair, blue eyes and fair complexions are most likely to benefit from pulsatilla.
Safety and Efficacy
According to Blue Shield Complementary and Alternative Health, homeopathic remedies have been regulated in the United States since 1938, and are considered safe. There is little clinical evidence supporting the use of homeopathy for any specific condition. BSCAH adds that although critics of homeopathy attribute any beneficial effects to a "placebo effect," caused by thinking the substance will help, there is some evidence that homeopathic dilutions differ physically from placebos. More study is needed. Homeopathic medicine is not meant to replace medical care. Consult your doctor before using homeopathic remedies.
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