Chinese herbal remedies for acne may include several herbal ingredients combined in an oral supplement. Chinese herbal skin care, like other forms of Chinese traditional medicine, uses an understanding of the body that differs from Western medicine. In Chinese traditional medicine, acne is considered a symptom of too much heat or too much dampness in the body, which may be caused by food consumption, hormones, the environment or other factors. Naturopathic medicine promotes a holistic approach to health with minimal use of surgeries and drugs. Please make sure to consult your physician before attempting naturopathic remedies at home.
Job’s Tears Seeds
One common ingredient in herbal acne remedies is Job’s Tears, the common name for a grain native to tropical areas of Asia and introduced to China several hundred years ago. The high-protein grain can be boiled and eaten or ground into baking flour, and is also used in Asian cereals, soups and beverages.
Poria Mushroom
Poria mushroom filaments are used in a variety of Chinese herbal remedies to treat symptoms from anxiety to diarrhea. Poria mushrooms are thought to function in herbal acne remedies by releasing chemicals that improve kidney function and reduce inflammation in the body.
Peony Root
Peony root is another ingredient common in herbal acne remedies and other supplements. In Chinese traditional medicine, peony root and root bark is thought to cleanse the blood of toxins and alleviate the negative effects of hormone imbalances. Peony root is often combined with licorice root in Chinese herbal skin care to increase the effects of the supplement.
Chinese Licorice Root
Licorice root is used in Chinese herbal remedies and as a dietary supplement to treat a range of conditions, from viral infections to ulcers, in addition to acne. Although licorice root is not harmful, the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine website advises that women who are pregnant or breastfeeding and people who have high blood pressure or low levels of potassium avoid large amounts of licorice in food or supplements.
Mung Bean
Mung beans are another high-protein food product that are native to south Asia. Mung beans are related to other legumes, and are rich in fiber as well as vitamins and minerals like thiamin, iron and potassium. Mung beans are use in Chinese herbal skin care because they are thought to detoxify the body and remove heavy metals from the blood, which helps clear up acne and may resolve other health issues as well.
Peach Kernel
The peach kernel is found inside the pit of the peach fruit commonly found throughout China and used in Chinese traditional medicine. The peach kernel oil is a light oil that nourishes dehydrated skin without making the skin greasy, and helps reduce acne that is flaky or inflamed. Peach kernel oil may be taken orally or used in creams and lotions. Taking peach kernel and peach leaf supplements is not recommended for pregnant women.
