When it comes to skin health, many are tempted to treat the surface of the skin and by doing so actually aggravate the initial condition. The health of the skin reflects the health of the digestive and detoxification system. To improve skin health, treatments should focus on improving digestion, absorption and appropriate clearing of toxins through the liver. As with any alternative treatments, best results are obtained when under the supervision of a holistically trained practitioner, such as a naturopathic physician.
Hydration
Probably the most effective way to promote healthy body detoxification is by maintaining an optimal level of hydration. When someone drinks enough water each day, the body has the chance to hydrate and eliminate waste products in an efficient manner. While there are some conditions that restrict the intake of daily fluids, the general recommendation is that a person drink approximately half her body weight in ounces. For example, someone weighing 120 pounds should drink approximately 60 ounces of water per day. Drinking enough water each day will not only lead to healthier-looking skin, but it will also prevent constipation and maintain optimal cellular function.
Diet
Diet provides the building blocks for the nutrients needed by the body to maintain appropriate metabolism and function. The skin, considered the second most important detoxing organ of the body after the liver, reflects what goes on inside. Foods commonly associated with acne include milk, due to its high hormone content; refined carbohydrates, such as sweets, white breads, crackers and pasta; and juices and foods containing trans-fatty acids and iodine. Because food allergies also play an important role in the production of excess toxins, it is recommended that a person avoids those foods she is sensitive to. Consult a naturopathic physician for appropriate dietary recommendations.
Nutritional Supplements
In his book, "Textbook of Natural Medicine," Joseph Pizzorno Jr., N. D., stresses the important role several nutritional supplements play in the maintenance of healthy skin. One of the most commonly thought of supplement in regards to healthy skin, vitamin A, is also recommended by Pizzorno in his book. Vitamin A retinol reduces sebum production and prevents the hardening of the sebaceous follicles, and thus leads to lower occurrences of acne. Other supplements recommended by Pizzorno include zinc, vitamins E and C, selenium and pantothenic acid. For effective therapeutic dosing of nutritional supplements, consult a holistically trained practitioner.
Botanical Medicines
Any medicinal plants that support and promote liver detoxification are also generally recommended for the clearing of the skin. In her book, "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth," Sharol Tilgner, N. D., recommends herbs that stimulate the normal function of kidneys and liver. Her "Skin Formula" contains burdock, sarsaparilla, Oregon grape, yellow dock, nettle and horsetail. This herbs work synergistically to promote healthy digestion, eliminate waste, reduce inflammation and enhance immunity. Because botanical medicines can interfere with certain medical conditions or medications, it is important to consult a naturopathic physician before taking any herbs.
References
- "Textbook of Natural Medicine"; Joseph E. Pizzorno Jr., N.D. and Michael T. Murray, N.D.; 2006
- "Herbal Medicine from the Heart of the Earth"; Sharol Tilgner, N.D.; 1999
- "Journal of American Academy of Dermatology"; Diet and Acne.; Whitney P. Bowe, MD, Smita S. Joshi, M.D., Alan R. Shalita, M.D.; July 2010
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