Alternative Treatments Can Clear Acne
Herbal treatments for the treatment of acne may not cause some of the adverse side effects that many over-the-counter medications do. A number of herbal treatments are anti-inflammatory, which is a real plus in the treatment of acne.
Some of the most effective anti-inflammatory herbs are calendula, flaxseed and flaxseed oil, German chamomile, liquorice root and witch hazel.
Tea tree oil may be as effective as benzoyl peroxide. Unlike benzoyl peroxide, tea tree oil does not cause itching. Tea tree oil helps to eliminate bacteria that causes acne.
"While studies are still going on to determine exactly how effective acupuncture is in treating acne, there are reports from many patients who testify to receiving great relief by using this method. The main types of acupuncture that are used in relation to this condition are auricular acupuncture that involves the ears and electro-acupuncture that involves the use of mild electric current."
http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/5544232/alternative_treatments_...
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I just made a custom acne toner for a customer the other day like this. I used Lemon Balm hydrosol mixed with tea tree oil, lavender, and rosemary. Beyond what you mention that tea tree does, lavender helps reduce redness of acne and rosemary also has anti-bacterial properties. Lemon balm hydrosol takes away oil and debris without drying like commercial alcohol based toners.
July 8, 2010 - 6:56amThis Comment
In my experience, all of these treatments are completely and totally unscientific, and they rarely do anything helpful. If you want to get rid of acne, go to bed early and at the same time every night, get outside during the day (especially around noon), and drastically cut back on sugar (even fruit), especially in the evenings. No creams or prescriptions are necessary. Check out www.acneresearch.org for the full routine. It's a non-profit, so don't think I'm sending you on some 8 step treatment scam.
July 9, 2010 - 10:32amWhether or not science shows, I can tell you from my own person experience with tea tree that its wonderful. I get acne breakouts on my chest from working out and hair products, etc. It can get big and bad and very embarrasing. I apply tea tree oil neat to my chest during breakouts and see a significant decrease within 24 hours. I've had other clients experience the same results. So, I have no study to prove it other than those who I've reccommended it to thank me greatly because it works :) I couldn't live without tea tree oil! Besides, I hear you on your suggestions but honestly, getting ot bed the same time every night just is not a practical solution for so many folks these days with kids, working, etc. It may help but its just not practical.
July 9, 2010 - 10:40am