Herbs For Rosacea & Inflammation

Rosacea is a common chronic inflammatory skin condition, often affecting the nose, cheeks, forehead and chin. Capillaries that are close to the skin become dilated, causing, swollen, blotchy red areas with small bumps or pimples. The inflammation of rosacea can resemble chronic acne. Blushing, sensitive skin and flushing are common with rosacea. There is no cure for rosacea at this time.

Causes of Rosacea

The American Academy of Dermatology estimates that nearly 14 million Americans suffer from rosacea. Rosacea can be hereditary and affects fair-skinned adult women more than men. The exact cause of rosacea is not known, but factors such as alcohol, spicy foods, stress, vitamin deficiencies, extreme temperatures, bacteria in the intestines or an immune reaction are thought to aggravate the symptoms and severity of flares.

Treatments

Oral antibiotics and topical medications are used to help control the symptoms of rosacea and reduce the body's inflammatory response. The American Academy of Dermatology notes that herbs and plant-based treatments, which can have anti-inflammatory effects, can be beneficial in treating rosacea. Herbs can reduce the swelling and redness associated with a rosacea flare. Seeing a dermatologist on a regular basis, discussing all herbal treatments with a dermatologist and using skin care that is approved for rosacea is recommended.

Topical Herbs

Calendula creams are soothing to the skin, useful for skin rashes and other skin disorders, and reduce skin inflammation. Aloe vera cream stimulates cell regeneration and may be soothing for skin inflammation. Chamomile, a medicinal herb often used in cosmetics, contains several compounds that have anti-inflammatory properties. Traditionally, chamomile was used to treat wounds, skin irritations and eczema. Topical chamomile creams and essential oils are useful in reducing skin inflammation.

Additional Anti-inflammatory Herbs

Chamomile tea can help boost the immune system and reduce inflammation in the body. Turmeric supplements can fight free-radical damage, improve circulation and blood vessel health and can reduce inflammation. Licorice root extract and teas help fight inflammation and bacterial infections.