10 Best Herbal Creams For Acne

Herbal creams for acne are natural topical treatments that combine plant extracts with moisturizing properties to combat acne and promote healthier skin.

These creams typically include ingredients such as aloe vera, tea tree oil, and chamomile, which have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.

Examples include creams containing aloe vera and tea tree oil, which can help reduce acne severity and prevent future breakouts, improving skin confidence and overall well-being.

The following article describes in detail the most important creams for acne, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.

1. Melaleuca alternifolia

Melaleuca alternifolia, also known as tea tree, creams helps with acne because it contains antimicrobial properties that effectively target and eliminate the bacteria that cause acne.

The oil extracted from the leaves of the Melaleuca plant has been shown to reduce inflammation and prevent the spread of acne-causing bacteria, such as Propionibacterium acnes. This natural remedy promotes a healthy balance of skin flora, reducing acne severity and promoting clear, smooth skin.

Regular use of tea tree oil creams can lead to long-term acne management and prevention.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Melaleuca alternifolia creams that help with acne.

• Cineole: This terpene has antibacterial properties that help reduce the growth of bacteria that cause acne, such as Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes).
• Catechins: These phenolic compounds have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce inflammation and prevent oxidative stress in acne-prone skin, leading to reduced acne severity.
• Linalool: This terpene has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce the growth of bacteria and inflammation in acne-prone skin, thereby preventing acne breakouts.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of tea tree used to make creams for acne.

• Leaves: The leaves are the most commonly used part due to their high content of tea tree oil, which has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that help combat acne.
• Flowers: The flowers are also used for their tea tree oil, which has similar properties to the leaves and helps to reduce acne and inflammation.
• Buds: The buds contain a higher concentration of tea tree oil than the leaves, making them a popular choice for acne creams due to their potent antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic tea tree for acne.

1. Harvest 20-30 grams of melaleuca alternifolia leaves at dawn when the dew is still present on the leaves.
2. Steam distill the harvested leaves for 2-3 hours to extract the essential oil from the plant material.
3. Mix 10 grams of the distilled essential oil with 100 grams of a carrier oil such as sweet almond oil.
4. Add 2 grams of beeswax and 5 grams of shea butter to the mixture and heat it gently for 5 minutes.
5. Pour the mixture into a clean container and allow it to cool and solidify for 30 minutes before use.

2. Calendula officinalis

Calendula officinalis, also known as pot marigold, creams helps with acne because of its potent anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.

The plant's active compounds, such as triterpenoids and carotenoids, work to reduce redness and swelling associated with acne. Calendula cream's soothing and moisturizing effects also help to calm irritated skin, promoting a healthy balance of the skin's natural flora.

By reducing inflammation and bacterial growth, Calendula creams create an ideal environment for acne-prone skin to heal and recover.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Calendula officinalis creams that help with acne.

• Triterpenoids: These compounds exhibit anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can help reduce acne severity by controlling bacterial growth and inflammation.
• Flavonoids: As powerful antioxidants, flavonoids can help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation associated with acne, promoting a healthier skin environment.
• N-alkanoyl-4-hydroxyphenylalanine amide: This compound has potent anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects, which can help combat acne-causing bacteria and reduce redness and inflammation.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of pot marigold used to make creams for acne.

• Flowers: They contain anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which help reduce acne and soothe the skin.
• Leaves: They possess antiseptic and antibacterial properties, which help to combat acne-causing bacteria and reduce inflammation.
• Stems: They contain flavonoids and triterpenoids, which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, helping to reduce acne and promote skin health.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic pot marigold for acne.

1. Harvest 30g of dried calendula officinalis flowers and sift them to remove any debris.
2. Infuse 20g of the dried flowers in 100ml of carrier oil such as sweet almond oil for 2 hours.
3. Strain the infused oil through cheesecloth and discard the solids.
4. Mix the infused oil with 10g of beeswax and 10g of shea butter in a double boiler.
5. Stir the mixture until it reaches a temperature of 180f and then pour it into a jar.

3. Aloe vera

Aloe vera, also known as aloe, creams helps with acne because of its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.

The aloe vera plant contains compounds like aloin and aloe-emodin that have been shown to reduce redness and inflammation associated with acne. It also has soothing and moisturizing effects, which can help to calm and hydrate the skin, reducing the appearance of acne and promoting a healthy skin balance.

Additionally, aloe vera's natural antiseptic properties can help to combat bacterial overgrowth, further reducing acne symptoms.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Aloe vera creams that help with acne.

• Bradykininase: It helps with acne by inhibiting the production of bradykinin, a peptide that causes inflammation and increases skin sensitivity.
• Vitamins a and e: They help with acne by reducing inflammation, oxidative stress, and skin cell damage, while promoting skin cell regeneration and collagen production.
• Polysaccharides: They help with acne by reducing inflammation, promoting skin cell regeneration, and soothing irritated skin, while also exhibiting antimicrobial properties to prevent bacterial overgrowth.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of aloe used to make creams for acne.

• Leaves: The gel extracted from the leaves is rich in anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, which help soothe and heal acne-prone skin.
• Leaves: The juice from the leaves contains vitamins and minerals like vitamin E and zinc, which help to reduce inflammation and promote skin healing.
• Leaves: The gel from the leaves has anti-aging properties, which can help to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles associated with acne scars.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic aloe for acne.

1. Weigh 100 grams of pure aloe vera gel in a stainless steel bowl and set it aside for 10 minutes.
2. Combine 50 grams of coconut oil and 30 grams of beeswax in a double boiler and melt them slowly over low heat for 15 minutes.
3. Gradually add 20 grams of shea butter to the melted coconut oil and beeswax mixture and stir well.
4. Combine the aloe vera gel with 10 grams of vitamin e oil and 5 grams of jojoba oil in a separate bowl.
5. Slowly pour the aloe vera mixture into the melted coconut oil and beeswax mixture and whip until smooth and creamy.

4. Azadirachta indica

Azadirachta indica, also known as neem, creams helps with acne because of its potent antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.

The cream's active compounds, such as nimbin and nimandial, work to reduce the growth of acne-causing bacteria, including P. acnes. Additionally, neem creams have a soothing effect on the skin, reducing redness and inflammation associated with acne.

This natural remedy also helps to unclog pores and prevent future breakouts, making it an effective and natural solution for managing acne.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Azadirachta indica creams that help with acne.

• Azadirachtin: A triterpenoid compound that helps with acne by exhibiting strong anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, reducing the growth of acne-causing bacteria and inflammation.
• Quercetin: A flavonoid phenolic compound that helps with acne by acting as a potent antioxidant, reducing oxidative stress and inflammation, and inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes that contribute to acne development.
• Salannin: A neem-derived phenolic compound that helps with acne by displaying antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activities, reducing bacterial load and inflammation associated with acne, and promoting wound healing.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of neem used to make creams for acne.

• Seeds: Used to make creams for acne due to their high content of neem oil, which has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Leaves: Used to make creams for acne due to their ability to reduce inflammation and combat bacterial infections.
• Seeds: Used to make creams for acne due to their neem oil, which has antiseptic properties that help to prevent the spread of acne-causing bacteria.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic neem for acne.

1. Weigh 500 grams of azadirachta indica leaves and dry them in a low-temperature oven at 50 degrees celsius for 2 hours.
2. Grind the dried azadirachta indica leaves into a fine powder using a coffee grinder for 2 minutes.
3. Mix 100 grams of the azadirachta indica powder with 50 grams of cocoa butter and 20 grams of beeswax in a double boiler.
4. Heat the mixture in the double boiler at 60 degrees celsius for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth and pour it into a glass jar, allowing it to cool and solidify for 2 hours.

5. Zingiber officinale

Zingiber officinale, also known as ginger, creams helps with acne because of its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.

The active compounds in ginger, such as gingerol and shogaol, have been shown to reduce inflammation and kill bacteria that can cause acne. Additionally, ginger has antioxidant properties that help protect the skin from damage and promote healing.

By reducing inflammation and fighting bacteria, ginger creams can help to clear up acne and prevent future breakouts, leaving the skin looking clearer and more balanced.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Zingiber officinale creams that help with acne.

• Gingerols: These compounds, particularly [6]-gingerol, have anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce redness and inflammation associated with acne.
• Shogaols: Similar to gingerols, shogaols possess anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, making them effective in combating acne-causing bacteria and reducing acne severity.
• Curcuminoids: Although not directly derived from ginger, curcuminoids (such as curcumin) often co-extract with gingerols and shogaols in creams. They have potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation that can contribute to acne.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of ginger used to make creams for acne.

• Rhyzomes: Rich in anti-inflammatory compounds like gingerol and shogaol, which help reduce redness and inflammation associated with acne.
• Roots: Contain antioxidants and antibacterial properties that aid in soothing and calming the skin, reducing the occurrence of acne.
• Buds: High in flavonoids and phenolic acids, which exhibit anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that can help combat acne-causing bacteria and reduce inflammation.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ginger for acne.

1. Harvest 10-15 zingiber officinale roots with a sharp knife and clean them thoroughly with water.
2. Chop the zingiber officinale roots into small pieces and mix with 250ml of cold-pressed coconut oil in a double boiler.
3. Heat the mixture over low heat for 2-3 hours or until the oil turns golden brown and has a strong aroma.
4. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth into a clean glass container and discard the solids.
5. Allow the zingiber officinale cream to cool and thicken at room temperature for 2-3 hours before use.

6. Lavandula angustifolia

Lavandula angustifolia, also known as English lavender, creams helps with acne because of its potent antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.

The essential oils present in the lavender plant, such as linalool and linalyl acetate, work to reduce inflammation and combat bacteria that can cause acne. Additionally, lavender's soothing and calming effects can help to reduce stress and promote a healthy balance of the skin's natural oils, leading to clearer and more even-toned skin.

This makes lavender a popular natural remedy for acne-prone skin.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Lavandula angustifolia creams that help with acne.

• Linalool: Linalool is a terpene that helps to reduce inflammation and prevent bacterial growth, making it effective in treating acne caused by bacterial infections.
• Lavandulifolioside: Lavandulifolioside is a phenolic compound that has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce the severity of acne by protecting the skin from oxidative stress and inflammation.
• Linalyl acetate: Linalyl acetate is a terpene that has antimicrobial properties, which help to prevent the growth of bacteria that can cause acne, and also has anti-inflammatory effects that reduce redness and swelling associated with acne.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of english lavender used to make creams for acne.

• Flowers: The flowers are used because they contain high levels of linalool and linalyl acetate, which have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that help soothe and calm acne-prone skin.
• Leaves: The leaves are used because they possess antiseptic and antifungal properties, which help combat acne-causing bacteria and reduce inflammation.
• Essential oil extracted from flowers: Some of the key compounds in Lavender essential oil (extracted from flowers) like Linalool, Linalyl acetate, have anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and antifungal properties which may help reduce acne.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic english lavender for acne.

1. Harvest 100g of dried lavandula angustifolia flowers that are free from contaminants and pesticides.
2. Infuse the dried flowers in 500ml of carrier oil such as sweet almond oil at room temperature for 2 hours.
3. Strain the infused oil through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean container.
4. Mix 100g of beeswax and 100g of shea butter with the infused oil in a double boiler at 60°c for 10 minutes.
5. Pour the mixture into a clean container and let it cool and solidify at room temperature for 30 minutes.

7. Camellia sinensis

Camellia sinensis, also known as tea, creams helps with acne because of its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

The cream's ability to soothe and calm irritated skin reduces redness and swelling associated with acne. The antibacterial properties of Camellia sinensis also help to combat bacterial overgrowth, a common cause of acne. Additionally, the cream's hydrating properties help to balance the skin's pH, reducing the likelihood of clogged pores and breakouts.

This natural remedy can be a gentle and effective solution for acne-prone skin.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Camellia sinensis creams that help with acne.

• Catechins: Catechins, a type of phenolic compound, help with acne by exerting anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, which reduce the severity of acne lesions.
• Theaflavins: Theaflavins, a type of polyphenol, help with acne by inhibiting the production of sebum, a key factor in acne development, and also possessing antioxidant properties to reduce oxidative stress.
• Epigallocatechin gallate: EGCG, a type of catechin, helps with acne by reducing inflammation, modulating the immune system, and possessing antimicrobial properties to prevent the growth of acne-causing bacteria.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of tea used to make creams for acne.

• Leaves: Used due to their high content of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, which help soothe and calm acne-prone skin.
• Flowers: Utilized for their astringent properties, which can help reduce inflammation and prevent further breakouts.
• Buds: Employed for their antimicrobial properties, which can help combat acne-causing bacteria and promote a healthy skin balance.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic tea for acne.

1. Infuse 2 teaspoons of camellia sinensis leaves in 2 cups of boiling water for 5-7 minutes to release their properties.
2. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or fine mesh into a clean container to remove solids.
3. Combine 1 cup of the camellia sinensis infusion with 1/2 cup of beeswax and 1/4 cup of coconut oil in a double boiler.
4. Heat the mixture over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the beeswax has melted and emulsified with the oil.
5. Allow the mixture to cool and thicken for about 30 minutes before transferring it to a storage container.

8. Curcuma longa

Curcuma longa, also known as turmeric, creams helps with acne because of its potent anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.

The active compound, curcumin, has been shown to reduce inflammation and prevent the growth of bacteria that cause acne. It also has antioxidant properties that help to neutralize free radicals, which can damage the skin and contribute to acne. Additionally, curcuma longa creams can help to regulate the skin's natural balance, reducing the occurrence of breakouts and promoting a clear, healthy complexion.

This natural remedy has been used for centuries to treat various skin conditions.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Curcuma longa creams that help with acne.

• Curcumin: Curcumin, a polyphenolic compound, has potent anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce acne inflammation and prevent further breakouts.
• Demethoxycurcumin: DMC, another curcuminoid, has been shown to inhibit the growth of Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes), a bacteria associated with acne, thereby preventing the spread of acne.
• Turmerone: Turmerone, a sesquiterpene, has been found to have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, which can help reduce acne severity and prevent infection.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of turmeric used to make creams for acne.

• Rhyzomes: They are used due to their high concentration of curcumin, a compound with anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that helps in soothing and treating acne.
• Roots: They are used for their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which help in reducing redness and preventing bacterial growth that can lead to acne.
• Leaves: They are used for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which help in soothing and calming the skin, reducing acne symptoms and promoting healthy skin.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic turmeric for acne.

1. Gather 500g of curcuma longa rhizomes and 200ml of coconut oil for the base ingredients.
2. Grate 50g of the curcuma longa rhizomes and mix with 100g of beeswax for a smooth consistency.
3. Combine 250ml of coconut oil and 100g of shea butter in a double boiler to melt the mixture.
4. Add 10ml of vitamin e oil and 50g of the grated curcuma longa rhizomes to the melted mixture for preservation and potency.
5. Allow the mixture to cool and solidify completely before transferring it to a clean container for storage.

9. Santalum album

Santalum album, also known as sandalwood, creams helps with acne because of its unique composition and therapeutic properties.

The cream's anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties help to soothe and calm the skin, reducing redness and inflammation associated with acne. Additionally, the antioxidants present in sandalwood cream help to protect the skin from environmental stressors and promote collagen production, leading to a smoother and more even-toned complexion.

This results in a reduction in acne breakouts and an overall improvement in skin health.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Santalum album creams that help with acne.

• Santalol: A terpene that has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, helping to reduce the growth of acne-causing bacteria and soothe inflamed skin.
• Santalenic acid: A phenolic compound with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation associated with acne.
• Linalool: A terpene that has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce the growth of acne-causing bacteria and soothe inflamed skin.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of sandalwood used to make creams for acne.

• Rhyzomes: Rhyzomes: Underground stems that store nutrients, are used to make creams for acne due to their high concentration of santalol, which has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Leaves: Leaves: These are used in creams for acne due to their ability to soothe and calm the skin, reducing inflammation and promoting healing.
• Buds: Buds: Buds are used in creams for acne due to their high concentration of essential oils, which have antibacterial and antifungal properties that help to combat acne-causing bacteria.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic sandalwood for acne.

1. Gather 50g of dried santalum album powder and 25g of candelilla wax for the cream base mixture preparation.
2. Combine the santalum album powder with 10ml of sweet almond oil in a double boiler and heat until dissolved.
3. Add 20g of beeswax to the mixture and stir until fully incorporated and melted.
4. Remove the double boiler from heat and stir in 5ml of vitamin e oil and 2ml of lavender essential oil.
5. Pour the mixture into a tin container and allow to cool and solidify for 30 minutes.

10. Salvia officinalis

Salvia officinalis, also known as sage, creams helps with acne because of its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.

The herb's extracts have been found to reduce inflammation and prevent the growth of acne-causing bacteria, such as P. acnes. Additionally, sage creams contain antioxidants that help protect the skin from environmental stressors and promote the healing of acne lesions.

By reducing inflammation and preventing bacterial growth, sage creams can help to clear up acne and promote a healthier, more balanced complexion.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Salvia officinalis creams that help with acne.

• Rosmarinic acid: A phenolic compound that helps reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, which are key factors in the development and progression of acne.
• Carnosic acid: A phenolic diterpene that exhibits anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help soothe and calm acne-prone skin.
• Ursolic acid: A triterpenoid that has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can help reduce bacterial growth and inflammation associated with acne.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of sage used to make creams for acne.

• Leaves: Used for their antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties to help soothe and calm acne-prone skin.
• Stems: Utilized for their antioxidant properties, which can help reduce inflammation and prevent further damage to the skin.
• Flowers: Employed for their antiseptic and antibacterial properties to combat acne-causing bacteria and promote a healthy skin environment.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic sage for acne.

1. Harvest fresh salvia officinalis leaves in the morning after the dew has dried completely to preserve potency.
2. Chop 1/4 cup of fresh salvia officinalis leaves into small pieces using a sharp knife or herb cutter.
3. Combine the chopped herb with 2 tablespoons of carrier oil such as jojoba or sweet almond oil in a double boiler.
4. Steep the mixture for 2-3 hours or overnight at a low temperature of 100-150°f to allow infusion.
5. Strain the infused oil through a cheesecloth or fine mesh into a clean glass container to discard solids.

What is the best combination of herbal creams to use for acne?

The best combination of herbal creams that help with acne is a blend of Aloe Vera, Tea Tree Oil, and Chamomile.

Aloe Vera soothes and calms the skin, while Tea Tree Oil reduces inflammation and fights bacteria that cause acne. Chamomile, rich in antioxidants, gently exfoliates and reduces redness.

Apply a thin layer of Aloe Vera as a base, followed by a few drops of Tea Tree Oil, and finish with a layer of Chamomile-infused cream for a well-balanced treatment that promotes healthy skin and reduces acne breakouts.

What ailments similar to acne are treated with herbal creams?

Ailments similar to acne/creams.html">acne/creams.html">acne that are treated with herbal creams are eczema, rosacea, and seborrheic dermatitis.

Herbal creams containing ingredients like aloe vera, tea tree oil, and chamomile have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that help soothe and calm the skin. They can also reduce redness and inflammation, promoting healthier-looking skin.

Additionally, herbal creams may be used to treat other conditions such as psoriasis, keratosis pilaris, and folliculitis.