By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 03, 2024
10 Best Herbal Teas For Acne
Herbal teas for acne are a natural remedy that helps to soothe and calm the skin, reducing inflammation and fighting acne-causing bacteria.
Examples of herbal teas that help with acne include peppermint, chamomile, and green tea, which have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Drinking these teas can improve lives by reducing acne breakouts, promoting healthy skin, and boosting confidence.
Regular consumption can also help to reduce stress and promote overall well-being.
The following article describes in detail the most important teas for acne, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Teucrium chamaedrys
- 2. Calendula officinalis
- 3. Taraxacum officinale
- 4. Matricaria chamomilla
- 5. Aloe vera
- 6. Glycyrrhiza glabra
- 7. Sideritis scardica
- 8. Echinacea angustifolia
- 9. Agrimonia eupatoria
- 10. Verbascum thapsus
- What is the best combination of herbal teas to use for acne?
- What ailments similar to acne are treated with herbal teas?
1. Teucrium chamaedrys
Teucrium chamaedrys, also known as germander, teas helps with acne because of its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.
The tea's active compounds, such as teucrin and teucridin, have been shown to reduce inflammation and combat acne-causing bacteria, like Propionibacterium acnes. By regulating the balance of the skin's natural flora and reducing inflammation, germander tea can help to prevent clogged pores, reduce redness, and promote a clear and healthy complexion.
This makes it a popular natural remedy for acne-prone skin.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Teucrium chamaedrys teas that help with acne.
- Rosmarinolic acid: This labdane diterpenoid has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce redness and swelling associated with acne.
- Oleanolic acid: This triterpenoid has antimicrobial properties, which can help control the growth of bacteria that can cause acne, such as Propionibacterium acnes.
- Flavonoids: These compounds have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the skin, leading to fewer acne breakouts.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of germander used to make teas for acne.
- Leaves: They are used to make teas for acne due to their antiseptic and antibacterial properties.
- Buds: They are used to make teas for acne due to their ability to reduce inflammation and promote wound healing.
- Leaves: They are also used to make teas for acne due to their content of phenolic compounds that exhibit antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic germander for acne.
- Gather 1/4 cup of dried teucrium chamaedrys leaves and flowers, clean them thoroughly to remove any debris.
- Measure out 1 teaspoon of the dried herb for every 8 ounces of water, then place them in a teapot.
- Steep the herb in boiling water for 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to infuse fully.
- Strain the tea through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove the solids from the liquid.
- Serve the teucrium chamaedrys tea hot or chilled, sweetened with honey or sugar to taste.
2. Calendula officinalis
Calendula officinalis, also known as pot marigold, teas helps with acne because of its potent anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
The tea's active compounds, such as triterpenoids and carotenoids, work to reduce redness and swelling associated with acne. Additionally, the tea's antiseptic properties help to combat bacterial overgrowth, which can contribute to acne development.
By regulating the skin's natural balance and reducing inflammation, Calendula officinalis tea can promote a clearer complexion and alleviate acne symptoms.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Calendula officinalis teas that help with acne.
- Triterpenoids: Triterpenoids found in Calendula officinalis have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, which help to reduce inflammation and prevent bacterial growth that can cause acne.
- Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids in Calendula officinalis have antioxidant and antimicrobial properties, which help to protect the skin from oxidative stress and prevent bacterial infections that can lead to acne.
- Saponins: Saponins in Calendula officinalis have anti-inflammatory and wound-healing properties, which help to reduce inflammation and promote the healing of acne lesions, thereby preventing further damage and scarring.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of pot marigold used to make teas for acne.
- Flowers: They are rich in anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which help to soothe and calm acne-prone skin.
- Leaves: They have antiseptic and antifungal properties that aid in reducing inflammation and promoting healthy skin.
- Seeds: They are high in antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties that help to reduce redness and inflammation associated with acne.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic pot marigold for acne.
- Harvest the calendula officinalis flowers at their peak bloom, typically in summer months when they are most vibrant.
- Rinse the calendula flowers thoroughly with cold running water to remove dirt and debris.
- Combine 1 tablespoon of dried calendula flowers with 1 cup of boiling water in a heat-resistant cup.
- Steep the mixture for 5 to 7 minutes to allow the herbal properties to infuse into the water.
- Strain the tea into a separate container using a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove the solids.
3. Taraxacum officinale
Taraxacum officinale, also known as dandelion, teas helps with acne because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties.
The roots and leaves of the dandelion plant are rich in antioxidants, which help to soothe and calm irritated skin, reducing redness and inflammation associated with acne. Additionally, dandelion teas have been shown to have antimicrobial properties, which help to combat bacterial overgrowth that can contribute to the development of acne.
These properties make dandelion teas a natural and effective remedy for acne-prone skin.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Taraxacum officinale teas that help with acne.
- Inulin: Helps with acne by reducing inflammation and soothing skin irritation due to its prebiotic properties, which promote a healthy gut-skin axis.
- Luteolin: Helps with acne by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and cytokines, which contribute to acne development and exacerbation.
- Kaempferol: Helps with acne by exhibiting antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which reduce oxidative stress and inflammation that can cause acne lesions.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of dandelion used to make teas for acne.
- Leaves: They are used due to their high content of antioxidants and saponins, which have anti-inflammatory properties to help soothe acne.
- Flowers: They are used because of their antiseptic and antibacterial properties, which help to reduce acne-causing bacteria and inflammation.
- Roots: They are used due to their ability to stimulate the immune system and reduce inflammation, making them effective in treating acne.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic dandelion for acne.
- Choose fresh taraxacum officinale leaves and flowers and clean them thoroughly with cold water to remove dirt.
- Steep one teaspoon of taraxacum officinale leaves and flowers in one cup of boiling water for five minutes.
- Strain the liquid through a fine-mesh sieve into a cup to remove taraxacum officinale solids.
- Add honey or other natural sweeteners to taste if desired to balance taraxacum officinale flavor.
- Serve the taraxacum officinale tea hot or chilled immediately after preparation to maximize benefits.
4. Matricaria chamomilla
Matricaria chamomilla, also known as chamomile, teas helps with acne because of its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
The apigenin and bisabolol present in chamomile have been shown to reduce redness and swelling associated with acne. Additionally, chamomile tea's antioxidant properties help to protect the skin from environmental stressors and promote healthy skin cell regeneration. This can lead to reduced acne severity and faster healing times, resulting in clearer, more balanced skin.
It also helps to calm the skin, reducing the appearance of acne and promoting a smoother complexion.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Matricaria chamomilla teas that help with acne.
- Apigenin: Apigenin is a flavonoid that has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce inflammation and prevent the growth of bacteria that cause acne.
- Luteolin: Luteolin is a flavonoid that has potent anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can help reduce inflammation and prevent the spread of acne-causing bacteria.
- Bisabolol: Bisabolol is a sesquiterpene that has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help soothe and calm the skin, reducing redness and inflammation associated with acne.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of chamomile used to make teas for acne.
- Flowers: Rich in anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, which help soothe and calm acne-prone skin.
- Leaves: Contain antioxidants and flavonoids that can help reduce inflammation and prevent further breakouts.
- (optional) seeds: Although less commonly mentioned, some sources suggest that the seeds may have anti-inflammatory properties that can aid in acne treatment.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic chamomile for acne.
- Choose 1 tablespoon of dried matricaria chamomilla flowers or 2 to 3 teaspoons of fresh flowers for every 8 ounces of water.
- Heat water to a temperature of 212 degrees fahrenheit in a teapot or kettle for 5 minutes.
- Steep the matricaria chamomilla flowers in the hot water for 5 to 7 minutes.
- Strain the tea mixture through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a cup for 2 minutes.
- Serve the tea hot or cold and consume within 24 hours for best flavor and potency.
5. Aloe vera
Aloe vera, also known as aloe, teas helps with acne because of its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
The gel extracted from aloe vera contains compounds like aloin and aloe-emodin, which have been shown to reduce inflammation and combat bacteria that can cause breakouts. Additionally, aloe vera tea has been found to balance the skin's natural pH and promote the healing process, reducing redness and promoting clear skin.
This natural remedy can be a valuable addition to any acne treatment routine.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Aloe vera teas that help with acne.
- Phenolic acids: These compounds have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation and prevent bacterial growth that leads to acne.
- Aloin and aloe-emodin: These anthraquinones have antimicrobial properties, which can inhibit the growth of bacteria such as Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes), a primary cause of acne.
- Apolypodol: This compound has anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, which can help reduce redness and inflammation associated with acne, as well as prevent the spread of bacteria.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of aloe used to make teas for acne.
- Leaves: Used for making teas due to their high content of aloe-emodin, a compound with anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce acne.
- Stems: Used for making teas due to their high content of aloe-aceroside, a compound with anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that can help soothe acne-prone skin.
- Flowers: Used for making teas due to their high content of aloin, a compound with antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce acne-causing bacteria and inflammation.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic aloe for acne.
- Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before handling aloe vera plants.
- Harvest a 10-inch piece of aloe vera leaf from a mature plant and cut off the yellowing edges.
- Peel off the outer skin of the aloe vera leaf and chop the gel into small cubes.
- Mix 1 cup of the chopped aloe vera gel with 4 cups of boiling water in a saucepan and let it steep for 5 minutes.
- Strain the tea through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a cup and serve warm or chilled.
6. Glycyrrhiza glabra
Glycyrrhiza glabra, also known as licorice, teas helps with acne because of its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.
The flavonoids and saponins present in licorice root have been shown to reduce inflammation and kill bacteria that cause acne. Additionally, licorice root has been found to have antioxidant properties, which help to protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals.
By reducing inflammation and killing bacteria, licorice root teas can help to clear up acne and promote healthy, glowing skin.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Glycyrrhiza glabra teas that help with acne.
- Licorice isoflavones: These compounds help with acne by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, which can contribute to the development and progression of acne.
- Glycyrrhizin: Glycyrrhizin has anti-inflammatory properties that help to reduce redness and swelling associated with acne, making it a beneficial component in acne treatment.
- Glycosides: Liquiritin has been shown to possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that help to soothe and calm the skin, reducing the appearance of acne and preventing further inflammation.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of licorice used to make teas for acne.
- Roots: The roots of Glycyrrhiza glabra are commonly used to make teas for acne due to their high glycyrrhizin content, which has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that help soothe and calm acne-prone skin.
- Leaves: The leaves of Glycyrrhiza glabra are also used to make teas for acne because they contain flavonoids and phenolic acids that exhibit antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities, which can help reduce inflammation and promote healing of acne lesions.
- Flowers: The flowers of Glycyrrhiza glabra are used to make teas for acne due to their ability to reduce inflammation and fight off bacterial infections that can cause acne, thanks to their content of flavonoids and other bioactive compounds.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic licorice for acne.
- Harvest 30 grams of dried glycyrrhiza glabra roots with a minimum of 6% glycyrrhizin content by weight.
- Boil 1 liter of water for 5 minutes to prepare a hot water infusion.
- Steep 5 grams of the dried glycyrrhiza glabra roots in the boiling water for 5-7 minutes.
- Strain the mixture through a fine mesh to remove the roots and discard them.
- Store the tea in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and serve chilled or at room temperature.
7. Sideritis scardica
Sideritis scardica, also known as ironwort, teas helps with acne because of its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
The tea's active compounds, such as flavonoids and phenolic acids, reduce inflammation and fight off bacteria that cause breakouts. Its antioxidant properties also help to soothe and calm the skin, reducing redness and irritation.
By promoting a healthy balance of gut bacteria, Sideritis scardica tea can also help to prevent future acne outbreaks, leading to clearer and smoother skin.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Sideritis scardica teas that help with acne.
- Rosmarinic acid: A polyphenolic compound that has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress associated with acne.
- Caffeic acid: A phenolic compound with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation and prevent the growth of acne-causing bacteria.
- Bornyl acetate: A terpene with anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can help reduce inflammation and prevent the growth of acne-causing bacteria, as well as soothe and calm the skin.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of ironwort used to make teas for acne.
- Leaves: Used in teas for acne due to their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help reduce inflammation and prevent damage to skin cells.
- Flowers: Used in teas for acne due to their antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, which help combat acne-causing bacteria and reduce redness and inflammation.
- Buds: Used in teas for acne due to their high antioxidant content, which helps protect the skin from environmental stressors and promote healing.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ironwort for acne.
- Harvest sideritis scardica flowers and leaves when in full bloom and at their peak potency.
- Dry the harvested sideritis scardica flowers and leaves in a warm and dry place for 1 week.
- Measure 1 teaspoon of dried sideritis scardica flowers and leaves for every 1 cup of boiling water.
- Steep the dried sideritis scardica mixture in boiling water for 5-10 minutes to release the active compounds.
- Strain the tea and let it cool to room temperature before serving.
8. Echinacea angustifolia
Echinacea angustifolia, also known as Kansas coneflower, teas helps with acne because it has anti-inflammatory properties that reduce redness and swelling associated with acne.
The tea's antimicrobial properties also help to combat bacterial overgrowth, which can contribute to breakouts. Additionally, Echinacea's antioxidant properties help to protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals, promoting overall skin health and reducing the appearance of acne.
This makes Echinacea angustifolia tea a popular natural remedy for acne-prone skin.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Echinacea angustifolia teas that help with acne.
- Iridoid glycosides: Iridoid glycosides in Echinacea angustifolia, such as echinacoside and iso-echinacoside, possess anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce redness and inflammation associated with acne.
- Alkaloids: Alkaloids present in Echinacea angustifolia, including echinatin and echinacoside, exhibit antimicrobial and antiseptic properties that help combat acne-causing bacteria and reduce the severity of acne.
- Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids, including caffeic acid and ferulic acid, in Echinacea angustifolia possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that help protect the skin from oxidative stress and inflammation, contributing to the prevention and treatment of acne.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of kansas coneflower used to make teas for acne.
- Roots: They are high in inulin, a prebiotic fiber that supports gut health, which may help alleviate acne symptoms.
- Leaves: They contain flavonoids and phenolic acids, which have anti-inflammatory properties to reduce redness and inflammation associated with acne.
- Roots: They also contain alkylamides, which have immunomodulatory effects, helping to regulate the immune system and reduce acne inflammation.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic kansas coneflower for acne.
- Harvest echinacea angustifolia roots in late summer or early fall when the plant is flowering to ensure maximum potency.
- Clean the harvested roots thoroughly with water to remove dirt and debris from the surface.
- Dry the clean roots in a warm dark place at 30-40 degrees celsius for 2-3 weeks to prevent mold.
- Chop the dried roots into small pieces and use 1 teaspoon per 8 oz of boiling water for tea preparation.
- Steep the chopped roots in boiling water for 5-10 minutes to allow the herbal properties to infuse into the tea.
9. Agrimonia eupatoria
Agrimonia eupatoria, also known as agrimony, teas helps with acne because of its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
The tea contains flavonoids and phenolic acids, which help to reduce inflammation and prevent bacterial growth that can lead to acne. Additionally, agrimony's antiseptic properties help to soothe and calm the skin, reducing redness and promoting a healthy balance of skin flora.
This makes it an effective natural remedy for acne-prone skin, helping to clear up breakouts and prevent future occurrences.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Agrimonia eupatoria teas that help with acne.
- Phenolic acids: These help reduce inflammation and prevent bacterial growth, which can contribute to acne.
- Tannins: They have astringent properties that help reduce sebum production and prevent clogged pores, common causes of acne.
- Flavonoids: This flavonoid has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce acne inflammation and protect the skin from damage.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of agrimony used to make teas for acne.
- Leaves: Leaves of Agrimonia eupatoria are used to make teas due to their anti-inflammatory properties, which help soothe and calm acne-prone skin.
- Flowers: Flowers of Agrimonia eupatoria are used to make teas due to their antiseptic and antibacterial properties, which help combat acne-causing bacteria.
- Barks: Barks of Agrimonia eupatoria are used to make teas due to their astringent properties, which help reduce inflammation and prevent bacterial growth in acne-prone skin.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic agrimony for acne.
- Gather agrimonia eupatoria leaves and flowers from a trusted source in amounts of 1-2 teaspoons per 8 ounces water.
- Rinse the gathered agrimonia eupatoria thoroughly with fresh water to remove any debris.
- Heat 8 ounces of filtered water in a saucepan to a temperature of 212 degrees fahrenheit.
- Steep the agrimonia eupatoria leaves and flowers in the heated water for 5-7 minutes.
- Strain the tea using a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove the solids.
10. Verbascum thapsus
Verbascum thapsus, also known as mullein, teas helps with acne because of its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.
The tea contains saponins and flavonoids that combat acne-causing bacteria, reducing inflammation and preventing future breakouts. Additionally, the tea's antioxidant properties help to soothe and calm the skin, reducing redness and promoting a more even skin tone. By incorporating mullein tea into your skincare routine, you may experience a reduction in acne severity and improved overall skin health.
Its natural properties make it an attractive alternative to harsh acne treatments.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Verbascum thapsus teas that help with acne.
- Iridoid glycosides: Iridoid glycosides have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce redness and inflammation associated with acne.
- Saponins: Saponins have been shown to possess antibacterial and antifungal properties, which can help combat the bacteria that cause acne.
- Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids, particularly rosmarinic acid, have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation that can contribute to acne.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of mullein used to make teas for acne.
- Leaves: They are used for their anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce acne inflammation.
- Flowers: They contain antiseptic and antibacterial properties that help combat acne-causing bacteria.
- Buds: They are used for their astringent properties that help reduce acne and prevent further breakouts.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic mullein for acne.
- Harvest 20-30 fresh verbascum thapsus flowers in the early morning to preserve their potency and aroma.
- Dry the verbascum thapsus flowers in a warm and dry place for 7-10 days to reduce moisture content.
- Chop 2-3 teaspoons of dried verbascum thapsus flowers into small pieces to increase surface area for infusion.
- Steep 1 teaspoon of chopped verbascum thapsus flowers in 1 cup of boiling water for 5-7 minutes to release active compounds.
- Strain the verbascum thapsus tea and discard the solids to enjoy the herbal tea as a calming beverage.
What is the best combination of herbal teas to use for acne?
The best combination of herbal teas that help with acne is a blend of chamomile, calendula, and green tea.
Chamomile soothes and calms the skin, reducing inflammation and promoting relaxation. Calendula's antibacterial properties combat acne-causing bacteria, while green tea's antioxidants help to reduce inflammation and promote skin clarity. By drinking a combination of these teas, you can help to balance your skin's natural pH and reduce the appearance of acne, leading to a clearer and more radiant complexion.
This natural approach can also reduce the need for harsh skincare products.
What ailments similar to acne are treated with herbal teas?
Ailments similar to acne/teas.html">acne/teas.html">acne that are treated with herbal teas are eczema, rosacea, and dermatitis.
Herbal teas such as chamomile, calendula, and peppermint have anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe itchy skin and reduce inflammation.
Green tea has antioxidant properties that can help prevent damage caused by free radicals, while burdock root tea is believed to purify the blood and unclog pores, reducing symptoms of acne-like conditions.