Herbs for Acne

Supplementation with herbs that are blood cleansers or blood purifiers is recommended. These herbs strengthen the action of the liver and the kidneys, helping with detoxification and excretion.

• Dandelion root tincture (Taraxacum officinale) is recommended.
• Others include burdock root (Arctium lappa), also known as gobo, and can be purchased fresh at health food grocers or in Asian markets. It can be used either raw or cooked in salads, stir-fries, or other vegetable dishes.
• Burdock root tincture can also be used.
• Red clover (Trifolium pratense) makes a pleasant tea that can be consumed throughout the day.
• Milk thistle seed (Silybum marianum) can either be taken in tincture form or the seeds can be ground up and eaten in combination with hot cereal, granola, or other foods.
• Other herbs useful in the treatment of acne include: Echinacea spp. and goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis).
• Goldenseal is particularly helpful in clearing up underlying conditions of intestinal toxicity.
• Herbal remedies used in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) for acne include cnidium seed, (Cnidium monnieri), and honeysuckle flower (Lonicera japonica).
• Supplementation nutrients, such as essential fatty acids (EFAs), vitamin B complex, zinc, vitamin A or beta-carotene, and chromium are also recommended.