Acne is a condition of the skin caused by inflammation of the hair follicles. It most commonly affects the face, back and chest and is characterised by blackheads, whiteheads, pimples and greasy skin. In severe cases, acne may lead to permanent scarring. Anyone can get acne, but it is common in teenagers and young adults. Hormones associated with puberty may trigger teenage acne, while acne in women may be associated with fluctuations in hormones around the time of their period. Acne is embarrassing and can severely diminish self esteem so it is advisable to try and prevent it and treat it promptly.
Conventional treatment begins with topical application of creams or lotions containing retinoids, benzoyl peroxide or antibiotics. Oral treatments may be given for more severe acne and include antibiotics or isotretinoin (Roaccutane). These treatments can be associated with unwanted side effects.
Herbal medicine can offer a more natural form of treatment. The aim of herbal medicine is to treat both the symptoms and the underlying cause. Particular benefit can be achieved from topical and oral herbal treatment in combination with diet and lifestyle changes.
The approach taken by a Medical Herbalist depends on each patient's symptoms. Herbal medicine can bring the following benefits in the treatment of Acne:
· Reduce sebum production
· Regulate hormone levels
· Improve digestive function
· Prevent infection
· Reduce inflammation and scarring
· Balance blood sugar
· Decrease the effect of stress on the body
Recommended diet and lifestyle changes include:
· Increase fresh fruit and vegetables in the diet, particularly those with high levels of beta-carotene, such as
yellow and orange fruit and vegetables and dark green leafy vegetables.
· Avoid foods high in fat, sugar and refined carbohydrates such as biscuits and cakes.
· Drink plenty of water
· Supplement with zinc, which has wound healing and hormone balancing actions, and chromium to balance
blood sugar.
· Take a probiotic if antibiotics have been used previously for treatment
· Have a regular face cleansing regime
Conventional treatment begins with topical application of creams or lotions containing retinoids, benzoyl peroxide or antibiotics. Oral treatments may be given for more severe acne and include antibiotics or isotretinoin (Roaccutane). These treatments can be associated with unwanted side effects.
Herbal medicine can offer a more natural form of treatment. The aim of herbal medicine is to treat both the symptoms and the underlying cause. Particular benefit can be achieved from topical and oral herbal treatment in combination with diet and lifestyle changes.
The approach taken by a Medical Herbalist depends on each patient's symptoms. Herbal medicine can bring the following benefits in the treatment of Acne:
· Reduce sebum production
· Regulate hormone levels
· Improve digestive function
· Prevent infection
· Reduce inflammation and scarring
· Balance blood sugar
· Decrease the effect of stress on the body
Recommended diet and lifestyle changes include:
· Increase fresh fruit and vegetables in the diet, particularly those with high levels of beta-carotene, such as
yellow and orange fruit and vegetables and dark green leafy vegetables.
· Avoid foods high in fat, sugar and refined carbohydrates such as biscuits and cakes.
· Drink plenty of water
· Supplement with zinc, which has wound healing and hormone balancing actions, and chromium to balance
blood sugar.
· Take a probiotic if antibiotics have been used previously for treatment
· Have a regular face cleansing regime
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