Actinic keratosis is a skin condition characterized by the presence of the rough scaly lesions on the face, hands and forearms and is caused by exposure to ultraviolet radiation. Iif untreated, actinic keratosis may progress to skin cancer, although this is rare. Actinic keratosis is usually treated with topical medicines that are applied directly to the skin in order to help relieve itching and redness. Some herbs might also help to alleviate actinic keratosis symptoms, although scientific research to establish their effect is lacking. Talk to your physician before you use herbs to treat this condition.
Green Tea
Green tea is a warm, astringent beverage consumed in many parts of the world. It contains a variety of bioactive compounds including polyphenols, which may have therapeutic effects. As a result, green tea is sometimes used to prevent or treat a host of ailments including stomach disorders, Parkinson's disease and Crohn's disease. It is also used to help prevent skin cancer caused by exposure to ultraviolet radiation -- some people apply green tea bags directly to the skin to help soothe sunburn and treat skin damage.
Milk Thistle
Milk thistle, also known as holy thistle or silymarin, is a type of daisy. Its seeds are used to make herbal remedies for a variety of conditions including liver disease and diabetes. The American Cancer Society notes that it might also provide protection against skin cancer caused by ultraviolet radiation. It may work by protecting cells from damage by small molecules known as free radicals. However, studies examining the effects of this herb on actinic keratosis, specifically, are lacking. Ask your physician whether or not it could be helpful treatment for you.
Administration
Green tea may be consumed as a beverage, and its active ingredients are also available in tablets or capsules available from health food stores. You can also place green tea bags on areas of affected skin. Milk thistle is commonly supplied in capsules and tablets, as a powder or liquid extract. Guidance regarding a suitable dosage to help treat actinic keratosis is lacking, although your physician might be able to advise you.
Safety Considerations
Milk thistle is generally considered safe, but it might cause a hypersensitivity reaction in some people and may also cause stomach upset. Drinking up to five cups of green tea daily is also likely safe, but consuming more than this may cause side effects including irritability, headache, diarrhea and tremor. Applying green tea bags directly to affected areas of skin, in theory, might cause irritation. If this happens, clean the skin thoroughly and see your doctor.
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