
As discussed in a pervious post, Acne can be caused by a variety of factors. Today we will talk about some Naturopathic interventions for the treatment of acne.
Herbal Medicine
Hormone Modulation
Serenoa repens: reduces androgen levels
Vitex agnus-castus: The benefits of vitex stem from its actions upon the pituitary gland—specifically on the production of a hormone called luteinizing hormone (LH). This indirectly increases progesterone production. Vitex also keeps prolactin secretion in check which modulates estrogen and reduces androgen levels.
Paeonia + Glycyrrhiza: Helps to reduce testosterone and estrogen levels.
Adaptogen Herbs
Rhodiola rosea, panax ginseng, withania somnifera, glycyrrhiza glabra
Androgen Metabolism and Clearance
Arctium lappa, Galium aparine, Smilax ornata, Iris versicolor, Echinacea spp, Trifolium pratens
Reduce Inflammation and Oxidative Stress
Quercetin, Bromelain, Curcuma longa, Rosmarinus officianlis, Camellia sinensis,
Circulatory Stimulant
Zingiber
Cinnamon
Bitters
Gentiana lutea, Taraxacum officinale
Intestinal Healing
Ulmus rubra, Calendula officinalis, Glycyrrhiza glabra, Althaea officinalis
Topical Treatment
Melaleuca alternifolia (tea tree)
Thymus vulgaris
Berberis vulgaris
Calendula officinalis
Camellia sinensis
Specific Nutrients
Vitamin A (5000 IU/day), C (500mg BID), E (400-800 IU/day), Zinc (25-60 mg/day), Selenium (200 micrograms/day), B3 (12mg/day with a multi B) , Fish oil (3g/day equivalent to 360mg DHA and 540mg of EPA) N-acetylcysteine (can help improve detoxification as well) Oenotherabiennis (evening primrose) 6000mg/day for first 3 weeks, go down to 3000mg/day for maintenance, Vitamin D (3000-5000 IU/day)
Probiotics
Certain Lactobacillus, bifidobacterium spp.
Dietary and lifestyle interventions will focus on supporting digestion, detoxification, hormone and neurotransmitter production/clearance and of course the nervous system and mental health.
Book in for a Naturopathic consultation if you want to go more into depth about triggers and personal treatment plans for acne. Always speak to a practitioner before trying herbal medicine.
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