Acne occurs when the sebaceous glands secrete too much oil. Normally the oil flows from the glands to the skin’s surface, but if the dead skin cells accumulate, they can clog the pores.
The skin reflects our internal health. Acne is sometimes an indicator of toxic conditions. Too much waste product in the kidneys, liver, lungs, intestine or digestive problems can all give cause for breakouts. Allergies, high fat diet, emotional problems, pollution… these are all causes.
Most cases of acne will disappear by themselves at the end of adolescence, but if acne persists or becomes severe, it should be treated more aggressively to
prevent scarring
. Sudden appearance of acne in adulthood may be a sign of hormonal imbalance or drug toxicity (usually from steroids). Get a medical checkup to rule out these possibilities.
Western drugs, derivatives of Vitamin A, are used to treat acne. Tretinoin (Retin-A) is a topical preparation, while isoretinoin (Accutane) is for internal use. These drugs are safe when used under the supervision of a dermatologist but should not be used casually because they can be irritating and toxic. (Caution: Do not use if pregnant. These drugs may cause birth defects).
Clean the skin regularly with soap and water as well as with the special acne formulas containing benzoyl peroxide. This is an excellent cleansing agent and the active ingredient of many lotions and creams, both over-the-counter and prescription varieties. Benzoyl peroxide may irritate the skin, so it is best to leave it on for only two hours, then wash it off.
Herbs used for general
detoxification
of the liver and bowels assist in elimination and herbs that increase perspiration through the skin are very helpful in treating acne.
Severe Cystic Acne and Boils
Acne that grows into large groups can form sebaceous cysts, carbuncles or furuncles. Boils can be large and inflamed and can be a sign of a staphylococcus or (staph) infection. Weak immune function, diabetes mellitus, poor nutrition and the use of immunosuppresive drugs are some causes. Boils are often an infection that starts at the hair follicle, inflammation occurs and then spreads.
The bacteria in the pus reacts the same as acne in that it is contagious to the surrounding skin. Staph infection is contagious, can contaminate new skin, causing new boils or enter the bloodstream and spread to other body parts. Without treatment, a boil usually comes to head, opens and drains in 10-25 days.
This is something that should be watched carefully. If nausea, vomiting, fever or infection grows, these are signs that these pus and blood filled boils are not acne, but a bacterial infection. Severe cases require blood test and doctor to prescribe antibiotic, draining incision and bed rest.
Where do Boils Appear?
Boils can occur anywhere on the skin, although they tend to develop on the face, neck, armpits, buttocks or thighs. They also occur most frequently in areas containing hair and/or sweat glands or in areas where chaffing or recurrent friction occurs. In some cases Boils can occur in interconnected clusters which are then called carbuncles, and in severe cases they can develop into abscesses.
While anyone can develop Boils and carbuncles, people who have diabetes, a suppressed immune system, poor hygiene, acne or other skin problems are at a higher risk.
Contributing Causes of Boils
* An ingrown hair
* A splinter or other piece of foreign material that has penetrated the skin
* Blocked sweat glands that become infected
* Chaffing clothes
* Poor hygiene
* A lowered immune system
* Diabetes
* Malnutrition (Vitamin A or E deficiency in particular)
Treating Boils
There are a number of herbal and homeopathic remedies that can be of great benefit for someone suffering with boils. Since immune deficiency is one of the highlighted causes of this skin infection, naturally boosting the immune system is the first course of action for many people!
Herbs such as Echinacea purpurea,
Astragalus
membranaceous, Inula helenium and Withania somnifera are well documented for their antiviral, antifungal and antibacterial properties and their ability to strengthen and assist the immune system. These herbs not only help to treat current infections, but work well as a preventative measure so that the boils do not re-occur.
In addition, there are also homeopathic and herbal ingredients specific to skin ailments that can help speed recovery and keep the affected area clean and clear from harmful bacteria.
Silicea, a homeopathic tissue salt, is very effective in helping the body to expel all foreign or toxic matter, including pus and is frequently recommended in homeopathic dosage to quickly alleviate boils. In addition, naturopaths often recommend liver and systemic cleansing herbs such as Silybum marianus and Gallium aperine for the treatment of recurring boils.
Additional Remedies for Boils
Get your dried, organic herbs, organic essential oils, bulk spices, loose leaf organic teas and aromatherapy supplies at the place where we shop –
StarWest Botanicals
!
Essential Oils for Acne
While essential oils are widely known for their benefits on mental, emotional and physical health, they can also be used to
help fight off painful acne
. The benefits of essential oils can help eliminate acne and keep your skin beautiful and healthy.
Your skin is sensitive to environmental changes, stress, and oily buildup that can lead to blemishes. Some essential oils have the ability to
fight off acne breakouts
. Some people take medication to get rid of acne without knowing their side effects. Using essential oils is a way to naturally remove acne and keep your skin clear.
Essential oils are non greasy, so they will not cause a buildup and clog your pores. In fact, using essential oils is a very good way to spot treat existing acne without using harsh treatments.
You may already use essential oils without your knowledge. Some manufacturers of fine creams and moisturizers already use essential oils in small amounts in their products. The fragrance can be detected in some creams that you buy over the counter.
The oils bring oxygen and nutrients to the skin, helping it fight off any blemishes. Below is a list of some of the most popular essential oils that will help with your acne treatments.
Get your dried, organic herbs, organic essential oils, bulk spices, loose leaf organic teas and aromatherapy supplies at the place where we shop –
StarWest Botanicals
!
Clary Sage
Clary Sage is extracted from plants that greatly imitate the body’s own hormones. The use of Clary Sage is often implemented where acne stems from hormonal imbalances.
The essential oil can act as a precursor allowing the body to balance hormones.
Eucalyptus
Eucalyptus is a popular plant extract that helps your body fight off
blackheads
. It has a cleansing effect that removes dirt and oils and leaves only clear skin.
Lavender
Lavender is considered an all-purpose oil since its uses include acne treatment as well as
mental fatigue rejuvenation
. Lavender is good for the skin, and it can calm your mind and soothe your muscles from the stress and anxiety from the day.
Lemon
The citrus effects of lemon can
help refresh your mind
and restore your skins natural balance. Lemon oil is known to quickly clear up current acne and remove blemishes.
After applying lemon, one should be careful not to have over-exposure to the sun since it can cause skin discoloration.
Myrrh
Myrrh is a popular, ancient essential oil that was used as a balm to
treat sores and scars
. It can be used to treat rashes and acne breakouts for recurring. Myrrh has a variety of uses including
elimination of warts
or acne-causing bacteria.
Patchouli
Patchouli is a good essential oil to fight off many skin conditions. It will help you fight off acne, but it is also a good way to treat rashes and scarring.
It can be used as a moisturizer as well and its fragrance will give a calming effect.
Tea Tree
Tea tree oil is made by steam distilling the leaves of the tea tree (Melaleuca alternifolia), which is native to Australia. Using a substance that contains oil to treat a problem that is usually caused by excess oil may seem like a contradiction, but according to the University of Maryland Medical Center, tea tree oil treats acne just as effectively as benzoyl peroxide and causes fewer side effects.
Blemish Fighter Essential Oil Blend
Get your dried, organic herbs, organic essential oils, bulk spices, loose leaf organic teas and aromatherapy supplies at the place where we shop –
StarWest Botanicals
!
Blend together and store in an amber or cobalt bottle. Use the end of a cotton swab to apply tiny amounts to blemishes.
Herbal Remedies for Acne
Home Remedies for Blackheads
Helping Acne Naturally
MediAc
is a safe, non-addictive, FDA-registered natural acne remedy containing homeopathic ingredients selected to temporarily treat symptoms of acne vulgaris including blackheads on the face and body. Healthy skin is one of the best defenses against the formation of embarrassing pimples, pustules, and boils.
This remedy helps fight off bacteria that causes pimples and blackheads. By addressing skin health at a cellular level via underlying tissue and sebaceous glands of the skin,
MediAc
improves problem skin without troublesome side effects, promoting skin health and renewal. It also improves the appearance of bumps and flaky, irritated skin temporarily.
This remedy is taken internally, and stimulates the natural healing forces of the body from within to address and prevent acne and blackheads as a natural acne remedy.
Presented in small dissolvable tablets,
MediAc
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