Skin Care: Herbal Home Treatments For Acne And Rosacea

Palliative care is the orthodox treatment for acne and rosacea. Most treatments do not address the root causes and rarely cure these skin disorders for good. Many over-the-counter skincare products contain toxic ingredients that only aggravate acne and rosacea further. However, topical herbal treatments give you a natural and nontoxic skincare alternative. You can also take certain herbal supplements to help to treat the root causes of these skin disorders. Always consult your health care practitioner before using topical herbal treatments or herbal supplements to treat acne or rosaca.

Burdock Root

According to the University of Maryland, burdock root may help treat both acne and rosacea when taken internally or applied topically. The herb has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and antibacterial properties. It may help purify the blood and detoxify the body. Burdock root also helps cleanse your liver, according to Phyllis Balch in "Prescription for Nutritional Healing." A healthy liver breaks down and clears excess toxins and hormones from your body, thereby preventing them from being forced out through your skin. Burdock also contains inulin, a plant substance thought to improve the quality of the skin by eliminating bacteria. Take burdock root as directed on the product information.

Green Tea

Green tea may be beneficial as a drink and also when applied externally, thanks to its abundant antioxidants and well-documented anti-inflammatory properties, according to the "Journal of Drugs in Dermatology." Green tea helps clear up skin disorders by strengthening the skin's protective barrier and reducing the irritating effects of pollutants. According to the journal, green tea may be especially beneficial for rosacea sufferers because it seems to have photoprotective properties that help reduce skin's reactivity to ultraviolet light. Many rosacea sufferers are sensitive to the sun, and green tea can help prevent sun-induced flare-ups.

Garlic

Eating garlic has numerous health benefits, and Balch says it can help destroy bacteria and enhance your immunity. Balch recommends taking two capsules, three times daily with meals, for the treatment of acne and rosacea.

Lavender

Lavender essential oil can ease acne and rosacea symptoms when applied topically. It can help treat acne through its antibiotic and antiseptic properties, says Balch. The "Journal of Drugs and Dermatology" says lavender has anti-inflammatory properties that make it useful as a topical aid for rosacea as well.

Tea Tree Oil

Topical tea tree oil may benefit acne and rosacea sufferers, thanks to its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. You can use a tea tree oil soap to wash your face, or apply a 5 percent concentration of liquid tea tree oil directly to infected areas, says Balch. The "Journal of Drugs in Dermatology" warns that tea tree oil should be used with caution, as it can cause sensitivity and has a variety of side effects, including dermatitis.