Acne, known as “Mukh-dushika” in ancient Ayurvedic literature is a common problem. Women are more affected than men as it occurs mostly at puberty. The main Doshas (humors) involved in this are Vata (air) and Kapha (water) and they vitiate the Rakta (Blood).
Due to Vata (Air): Pimples are dry, rough, and painful, with or without discharge. Due to Pitta (Fire): Pimples are soft, inflamed and contain thin discharge like pus with burning sensation. Due to Kapha (Water): Pimples are hard, containing thick discharge, edematous and painless.
Accordingly, acne is caused due to eating very oily, spicy and sweet foods frequently, insomnia, stress or indigestion and improper metabolism. due to various factors such as bacterial infections, hormonal imbalance, excess oil secretions, junk diet, mental stress, often leaves behind prominent scars on the skin, with redness, dry regions, peeling and flaking etc. However, for Ayurveda, the ancient Indian system of medicine that originated thousands of years ago, not only elucidates the causes of acne, but also presents wonderful herbal remedies to rectify the persistent and embarrassing skin problem of bulging pimples and unsightly scars.
18 Marvellous Ayurvedic Herbs to Remedy Acne
- Haldi (Curcuma Longa) Rhizome: Historically used to improve the skin texture & color and also in various skin disorders. It is a best anti-allergic and improves blood circulation.
- Neem (Azadirachta indica) Leaf: It is a blood purifier due to its bitter taste and used in diseases caused by vitiated Blood. It is beneficial in skin associated with itching and burning sensations.
- Manjistha (Rubia Cordifolia) Root
It is a blood purifier used in skin disorders with inflammatory conditions and disorders due to Rakta (Blood). - Guduchi (Tinospora Cordifolia) Stem
It is a Rasayana (Rejuvenating) and is used in various disorders of Vata & Rakta (Blood) and beneficial in skin disorders, acts as a painkiller and decreases the burning sensation. It purifies the blood and helps in maintaining haemostasis. - Anantmul (Hemidesmus indicus) Root
It is widely used externally as well as internally for the treatment and management of a host of skin problems like psoriasis, eczema, ringworm, thrush, and bacterial-related skin disease. - Haritaki (Terminalia Chebula) Fruit
It decreases the inflammation by its mild laxative action, clears bowel and detoxifies the gut so that pure nutrition is available to the body. - Lodhra (Symplocus Cratagoides) Stem
It reduces wrinkles and gives firmness to the skin. - Bahera (Terminalia Bellerica) Fruit
Bahera fruit possesses antibacterial properties, which can help in fighting acne-causing bacteria on the skin. - Amla (Emblica Officinalis) Fruit
It is utilized for its antioxidant-rich nature, promoting digestion and boosting immunity. - Vijaysar (Pterocarpus Marsupium) stem
It has anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial, and antioxidant qualities that may cleanse the blood. - Pipali (Piper Longum) Fruit
Piperine, a key compound found in Pipali fruit, has been shown to improve blood circulation. Enhanced circulation can promote the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to the skin cells, contributing to a healthier complexion and potentially aiding in the healing of wounds and blemishes. - Aloe (Aloe Vera) sap
It is widely used for its soothing and healing properties, beneficial for skin conditions, wound healing, and promoting digestive health. - Beet (Beta Vulgaris)
It has blood-purifying properties, supporting liver function, enhancing digestion, and promoting cardiovascular health. - Ashwagandha (Withania Somnifera) Root
It reduces inflammation, boost collagen, hydrate the skin, and shield against oxidative stress. - Rose (Rosa Indica) leaves
In addition to vitamins C, E, and K, rose contain calcium, citric acid, iron, niacin, phosphorus, tannin, vitamin A, B1, B2, and P. It is rich in bioflavonoids. Bioflavonoids are important to build and strengthen body tissue, helps to strengthen the vascular system. Rose effectively cleanses toxins and heat from the body. - Fennel Powder (Seeds)
Its antiseptic side keeps germs and bacteria at bay while its anti-inflammatory properties help reduce acne swelling. - Moti Pishti
It is a preparation made from pearl powder, is utilized to promote cooling and calming effects in the body, support digestive health and balance acidity. - Basil (Ocimum Basilium) Leaves
It is utilized for its anti-inflammatory properties, aiding digestion and reducing stress.
The benefits of these herbs have historically been used to improve the skin texture & color and also in various skin disorders like Acne, blemishes, itching and burning sensation of skin, discoloration of skin, Urticaria, Acne vulgaris. They have anti-allergic properties and improve blood circulation. They purify the blood due to their bitter taste and are used in problems caused by vitiated blood. They are known to be beneficial in skin problems associated with itching and burning sensations. They have Rasayana (Rejuvenating) properties and are used in various disorders of Vata (air) & Rakta (blood). They help in maintaining homeostasis, decrease the inflammation and by their mild laxative action, clear bowel and detoxify the intestines so that pure nutrition is available to the body. They soothe the irritated skin and help reduce fat in the blood.
As per Ayurveda
- Acne occurs because sebaceous glands secrete more amount of sebum. Then this causes blockage of hair follicles & causes pimples. It is more common in young ones. Genetics play a major role in this i.e. parents may have skin problems. It may occur due to continuous contact with an oily & dirty environment. It may occur due to being overweight, seasonal changes, restlessness.
Ayurvedic Lifestyle
- Nutritional diet, Morning walk, Yoga, Peaceful mind, Restful sleep.
- Normally, Acne is a young age problem. At this age when the acne starts to erupt one should be very conscious about the diet.
Foods to Favor
- Light diet containing Rice, green gram (lentil) soup, bitter gourd, green leafy vegetables, papaya, pomegranate, Amla, cucumber. Food which can be easily digested, moong dal (yellow beans), parval, less amount of salt, should be used.
Foods to Avoid
- Strictly avoid fried and spicy food.
- Avoid egg, seafood, and excess use of non-vegetarian foods.
- Long exposure to sunlight should be avoided.
- Use of cosmetics should be limited.
- So, with the use of this supplement do not take in excess of sugar, trans-hydrogenated fats, cookies, ice-creams, chips, pastries etc.
Do’s
- Take some purgatives and foods that promote regularity, and a fiber rich diet which conserves your bowel habits. Use with the recommendation of your health care practitioner.
- Live a life with positive thinking and free of daily life stress.
Don’ts
- Do not take up heavy duty work and excess exertion.
- Avoid spicy food.
