Often the best herbal remedies for acne are overlooked.
You may be doing everything you can to take care of your blemished skin – great regimen, great cleansing, avoiding pore clogging ingredients and triggers, eating well – yet you’re still experiencing breakouts. Could your skin be telling you something about your internal environment? After all, your outer appearance is an expression of your internal well being.
Support your system from the inside out. Start drinking… herbal teas that is. They help process toxins that may otherwise be eliminated through the skin. We all encounter several toxins in our everyday lives and our bodies try to eliminate them as best they can. The kidneys and liver process most of these substances so it’s wise to help them along by providing ultimate nourishment. People with eczema and psoriasis will see improvement as well.
Below are our favorite kidney and liver loving herbs. We have also included a few relaxing herbs since breakouts can exasperate during times of stress. All of these herbs are perfectly safe to drink even during pregnancy. You’ll find ready-made teas containing these herbs in many grocery stores. Our favorite brands are Traditional Medicinals or Yogi Tea.
1) Burdock
This is the first go to herb for all types of skin conditions. It’s one of the best herbal remedies for acne. The root is used to nourish and cleanse the liver for several conditions. The Japanese frequently cook with it which they call gobo root. If you can find it at your local co-op, incorporate into soups and stews as you would carrots or other root vegetables.
2) Dandelion
Another one of the best herbal remedies for acne is dandelion. Dandelion roots have an affinity for the liver while the leaves tend to have more of an affinity for the kidneys. Even the flowers have healing benefits. In addition to finding them commercially, you can also collect them readily in your own yard! Just be sure they haven’t been sprayed. Put the roots in stews or the leaves in salads. Roasted dandelion tea is a great substitute for coffee.
3) Nettles
We absolutely love nettles, as most herbalists do, for their exceptional healing and nourishing qualities. Both kidneys and liver respond beautifully. They are also exceptionally high in vitamins and nutrients.
4) Chamomile
Chamomile is an old favorite for its relaxing qualities. – perfect for drinking just before bed. Your nervous system and skin will thank you. And it tastes good too!
5) Lavender
This aromatic herb is superior for easing tension and stress. Lavender is also one of our favorite herbs to use topically for blemished skin since it is naturally antibacterial and anti-inflammatory.
Also remember to drink plenty of water since it’s highly cleansing, increases skin hydration and metabolizes differently than tea.
Feel free to leave any comments or questions below. If you would like to learn more about herbal medicine, check out the Home Herb School at www.homeherbschool.com