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Last updated: Jul 03, 2024

10 best herbal teas for acne

best herbal teas for acne herbs

Herbal teas for acne are a natural and effective way to combat skin breakouts, utilizing the healing properties of plants to soothe and calm the skin.

These teas work by reducing inflammation, balancing hormones, and purifying the bloodstream, which can help to prevent acne from forming or reduce its severity. Examples of beneficial herbal teas include tea tree oil-infused tea, green tea, and chamomile tea, which have been shown to reduce acne symptoms such as redness, swelling, and scarring.

By incorporating these teas into one's daily routine, individuals can enjoy improved skin clarity and a sense of confidence, leading to a more radiant and healthy appearance.

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

Germander teas helps with acne because of its potent antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.

The tea's active compounds, such as germanderin and limonene, work to reduce the production of sebum and kill off Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes), a bacteria that contributes to acne formation. Additionally, germander teas' antiseptic qualities help to soothe and calm the skin, reducing redness and inflammation associated with acne breakouts.

Regular consumption of germander tea may lead to clearer, healthier-looking skin over time.

herbal teas for acne teucrium chamaedrys herbs

The list below shows the primary active constituents in germander teas that aid with acne.

The list below shows the primary parts of germander used to make teas for acne.

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

  1. Harvest fresh or dried teucrium chamaedrys leaves according to local regulations and guidelines for sustainable foraging practices.
  2. Measure one teaspoon of dried germander leaves or two teaspoons of fresh germander leaves per eight ounces of boiling water.
  3. Steep the germander leaves in boiling water for ten to fifteen minutes to allow for optimal extraction of bioactive compounds.
  4. Strain the tea through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a large cup and discard the solids after preparation is complete.
  5. Allow the tea to cool to room temperature before consumption, as it can be taken undiluted or mixed with other herbal teas as desired.

2. Calendula officinalis

Pot marigold teas helps with acne because of its potent anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.

The flavonoids and terpenes present in the herb have been shown to reduce redness, swelling, and inflammation associated with acne, making it an effective natural remedy for soothing and calming the skin. Additionally, the antiseptic qualities help to combat bacterial overgrowth, which is a common underlying cause of acne, reducing the severity and frequency of breakouts.

As a result, pot marigold teas can be a valuable addition to any acne treatment routine.

herbal teas for acne calendula officinalis herbs

The list below shows the primary active constituents in pot marigold teas that aid with acne.

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

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

  1. Gather one teaspoon of dried calendula flowers for every eight ounces of boiling water needed.
  2. Combine the measured dried flowers and boiling water in a teapot or infuser.
  3. Steep the mixture for 10-15 minutes, allowing the herbal properties to release into the liquid.
  4. Strain the tea through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove any loose flower particles and sediment.
  5. Pour the tea into a cup and enjoy immediately, or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before serving.

3. Taraxacum officinale

Dandelion teas helps with acne because of its potent antioxidant properties, which help to reduce inflammation and purify the blood.

The tea's anti-inflammatory compounds also aid in soothing redness and swelling associated with pimples. Additionally, dandelion roots contain inulin, a prebiotic that promotes a healthy gut microbiome, which is linked to clear skin.

By drinking dandelion tea regularly, individuals can help regulate their body's natural detoxification processes, leading to a reduction in acne breakouts and a clearer complexion overall.

herbal teas for acne taraxacum officinale herbs

The list below shows the primary active constituents in dandelion teas that aid with acne.

The list below shows the primary parts of dandelion used to make teas for acne.

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

  1. Harvest fresh or dried dandelion leaves and flowers in amounts of 2 teaspoons for every 8 ounces water.
  2. Combine the ingredients with boiling water in a teapot or infuser and let it steep for 10-15 minutes.
  3. Strain the liquid through a fine-mesh sieve into a cup and discard the solids after 5 minutes of preparation time.
  4. Allow the tea to cool down to room temperature before refrigerating it for later use within 24 hours.
  5. Drink the tea twice daily, warm or at room temperature, as needed for acne relief over a period of two weeks duration.

4. Matricaria chamomilla

Chamomile teas helps with acne because of its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

The tea's flavonoids and terpenoids work together to reduce redness, swelling, and inflammation caused by acne, making it an effective natural remedy for soothing and calming the skin.

Additionally, chamomile's antibacterial agents help combat Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes) bacteria, a common cause of acne, allowing the tea to promote healthy skin and reduce the occurrence of breakouts.

herbal teas for acne matricaria chamomilla herbs

The list below shows the primary active constituents in chamomile teas that aid with acne.

The list below shows the primary parts of chamomile used to make teas for acne.

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

  1. Harvest fresh chamomile flowers and rinse them gently under cold running water.
  2. Combine one tablespoon of dried or two tablespoons of fresh chamomile flowers with 8 ounces boiling water.
  3. Steep the mixture for 5-7 minutes to allow the tea to infuse and release its active compounds.
  4. Strain the tea into a cup using a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove the solids.
  5. Drink the tea immediately after preparation or store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.

5. Aloe vera

Aloe teas helps with acne because it possesses anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that work to soothe and calm the skin.

The antioxidants present in aloe vera help reduce inflammation, which can lead to acne, while also fighting off bacteria that can cause breakouts. Additionally, aloe tea has been shown to balance the skin's natural pH levels, reducing the production of sebum and helping to unclog pores.

By drinking this tea regularly, individuals can experience a reduction in acne symptoms and enjoy healthier, clearer-looking skin.

herbal teas for acne aloe vera herbs

The list below shows the primary active constituents in aloe teas that aid with acne.

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

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

  1. Wash your hands thoroughly before handling aloe vera leaves and utensils.
  2. Cut off the top third of an aloe vera leaf and remove the thick skin on both sides.
  3. Scoop out the clear gel inside the leaf with a spoon and measure out 2 tablespoons.
  4. Combine the aloe vera gel with boiling water in a cup, letting it steep for 5 minutes.
  5. Strain the tea into another cup and discard the solids, then drink immediately.

6. Glycyrrhiza glabra

Licorice teas helps with acne because it contains glycyrrhizin, a compound that has anti-inflammatory properties.

When applied topically or consumed as a tea, glycyrrhizin can reduce redness and inflammation associated with acne. Additionally, the antioxidants present in licorice root have been shown to help combat free radicals that contribute to skin damage and premature aging.

By reducing inflammation and promoting antioxidant activity, herbal licorice teas can help to improve overall skin health and reduce the appearance of acne lesions.

herbal teas for acne glycyrrhiza glabra herbs

The list below shows the primary active constituents in licorice teas that aid with acne.

The list below shows the primary parts of licorice used to make teas for acne.

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

  1. Harvest 2-3 tablespoons of dried licorice root and rinse it gently with cold running water.
  2. Combine the licorice root with 8 ounces of boiling water in a medium-sized teapot or infuser.
  3. Steep the mixture for 5-7 minutes to allow the active compounds to infuse into the water.
  4. Strain the tea using a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth and discard the solids.
  5. Consume the cooled tea immediately or store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

7. Sideritis scardica

Ironwort teas helps with acne because of its potent antimicrobial properties, which effectively combat bacteria that can cause inflammation and clogged pores.

The tea's flavonoids and saponins also help to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation, leading to a decrease in acne severity. Additionally, ironwort's antioxidant activity helps to protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals, promoting healthy and clear skin.

By drinking ironwort teas regularly, individuals can enjoy a natural and effective way to combat acne and achieve radiant, glowing skin.

herbal teas for acne sideritis scardica herbs

The list below shows the primary active constituents in ironwort teas that aid with acne.

The list below shows the primary parts of ironwort used to make teas for acne.

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

  1. Harvest fresh sideritis scardica leaves and flowers, ensuring at least 30 grams of plant material for the tea batch.
  2. Rinse the harvested sideritis scardica plant material gently with cold running water to remove dirt and debris.
  3. Combine one teaspoon of dried sideritis scardica leaves and flowers or three teaspoons of fresh plant material with one cup of boiling distilled water in a large teapot.
  4. Steep the mixture for 5-7 minutes, allowing the herbal extract to infuse into the water and release its active compounds.
  5. Strain the tea through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a clean glass container, discarding the solids and storing the tea in the refrigerator for up to three days.

8. Echinacea angustifolia

Kansas coneflower teas helps with acne because its active compounds, including triterpenoids and flavonoids, possess potent anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.

When consumed as a tea, these compounds can help reduce inflammation and alleviate redness associated with acne. Additionally, the antibacterial effects of Kansas coneflower teas can target and eliminate P. acnes bacteria, a common cause of acne, thereby preventing future breakouts and promoting clear skin.

Regular consumption of this tea may also help regulate hormonal imbalances that can contribute to acne development.

herbal teas for acne echinacea angustifolia herbs

The list below shows the primary active constituents in kansas coneflower teas that aid with acne.

The list below shows the primary parts of kansas coneflower used to make teas for acne.

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

  1. Harvest echinacea angustifolia roots and dry them properly for future use.
  2. Measure one teaspoon of dried echinacea root for every eight ounces of boiling water.
  3. Steep the echinacea root in boiling water for 5-7 minutes to allow for maximum extraction.
  4. Strain the tea into a cup and discard the solids after the preparation time is complete.
  5. Allow the tea to cool slightly before consumption or refrigerate for later use.

9. Agrimonia eupatoria

Agrimony teas helps with acne because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties, which reduce redness and swelling associated with breakouts.

The tea's antimicrobial compounds also help combat Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes) bacteria, a common cause of acne. Additionally, agrimony's antioxidant richness protects the skin from environmental stressors that can trigger or exacerbate acne.

By soothing and purifying the skin, agrimony teas promote healthy skin and reduce the appearance of acne, leaving users with clearer, more radiant complexions.

herbal teas for acne agrimonia eupatoria herbs

The list below shows the primary active constituents in agrimony teas that aid with acne.

The list below shows the primary parts of agrimony used to make teas for acne.

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

  1. Harvest fresh agrimony leaves and stems, rinse them thoroughly under running water.
  2. Combine one teaspoon of dried or two teaspoons of fresh agrimony with one cup of boiling water.
  3. Steep the mixture for seven to ten minutes, allowing the herbal goodness to infuse.
  4. Strain the tea using a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a clean glass container.
  5. Allow the tea to cool, then store it in the refrigerator for up to three days consumption.

10. Verbascum thapsus

Mullein teas helps with acne because of its natural anti-inflammatory properties, which reduce redness and swelling associated with breakouts.

The tea's antioxidants also help to combat free radicals that can damage skin cells and lead to clogged pores. Additionally, mullein contains saponins, which have been shown to inhibit the growth of bacteria that can cause acne, such as Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes).

By drinking mullein tea regularly, individuals may experience a reduction in acne severity and a clearer, healthier complexion.

herbal teas for acne verbascum thapsus herbs

The list below shows the primary active constituents in mullein teas that aid with acne.

The list below shows the primary parts of mullein used to make teas for acne.

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

  1. Harvest fresh mullein leaves and flowers or purchase dried organic herb in bulk for a minimum of 100 grams.
  2. Rinse the harvested mullein material with cold filtered water to remove any dirt or debris then chop it finely into small pieces.
  3. Combine one teaspoon of chopped mullein herb with one cup of boiling water in a heat-resistant glass teapot or ceramic infuser.
  4. Steep the mixture for 15-20 minutes allowing the herbal compounds to infuse and release their therapeutic properties slowly.
  5. Strain the tea through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a large mug discarding any solids and enjoy warm within the next hour for optimal benefits.

11. Harpagophytum procumbens

Devil's claw teas helps with acne because it contains harpagoside, a compound that has anti-inflammatory properties.

This property can help reduce redness and swelling associated with acne lesions, making it an effective natural remedy for soothing the skin. Additionally, devil's claw tea is rich in antioxidants, which can help combat free radicals that can cause oxidative stress, a known contributor to acne development.

By drinking devil's claw tea regularly, individuals may be able to reduce their acne symptoms and achieve clearer, healthier-looking skin.

herbal teas for acne harpagophytum procumbens herbs

The list below shows the primary active constituents in devil's claw teas that aid with acne.

The list below shows the primary parts of devil's claw used to make teas for acne.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic devil's claw for acne.

  1. Measure one teaspoon of dried harpagophytum procumbens root powder into a clean tea infuser or strainer.
  2. Boil fresh water in a teapot and pour it over the herb, allowing it to steep for 10-15 minutes.
  3. Strain the liquid through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a large cup, discarding any solids remaining behind.
  4. Add one tablespoon of raw honey to the tea and stir until dissolved, sweetening the brew to taste.
  5. Allow the tea to cool slightly before drinking, sipping slowly throughout the day as needed.

12. Taraxacum kok saghyz

Wild potato teas helps with acne because of its unique combination of antioxidants, anti-inflammatory compounds, and antimicrobial properties.

The tea's active ingredients work together to reduce inflammation and kill bacteria that can cause breakouts. Additionally, the antioxidants help to neutralize free radicals that can damage skin cells and lead to acne.

By drinking wild potato tea regularly, individuals can promote healthy skin and reduce the appearance of acne.

herbal teas for acne taraxacum kok saghyz herbs

The list below shows the primary active constituents in wild potato teas that aid with acne.

The list below shows the primary parts of wild potato used to make teas for acne.

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

  1. Measure one teaspoon of dried taraxacum kok saghyz leaves for every 8 ounces of boiling water.
  2. Combine the measured leaves and water in a teapot or infuser, letting it steep for 10-15 minutes.
  3. Strain the tea into a cup using a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth, discarding the solids.
  4. Add one tablespoon of honey to the tea, stirring until dissolved, and let it cool to room temperature.
  5. Store the tea in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or drink immediately.

13. Cirsium arvense

Canada thistle teas helps with acne because its anti-inflammatory properties can reduce redness and swelling associated with breakouts.

The tea's antioxidant compounds, such as flavonoids and phenolic acids, also help to combat free radicals that can contribute to skin damage and acne. Additionally, the tea may help to regulate hormonal imbalances, which are often linked to acne-prone skin.

By promoting overall skin health and reducing inflammation, Canada thistle teas may provide a natural solution for managing acne and achieving clearer, healthier-looking skin.

herbal teas for acne cirsium arvense herbs

The list below shows the primary active constituents in canada thistle teas that aid with acne.

The list below shows the primary parts of canada thistle used to make teas for acne.

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

  1. Gather 2 tablespoons of dried cirsium arvense flowers and 4 cups of boiling water.
  2. Steep the dried flowers in hot water for 10-15 minutes, allowing them to infuse their medicinal properties.
  3. Strain the tea through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a large pitcher, discarding solids.
  4. Allow the tea to cool to room temperature and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
  5. Pour 1-2 cups of cooled tea into a glass filled with ice and enjoy as a refreshing drink two times daily.

14. Euphrasia officinalis

Eyebright teas helps with acne because it contains antioxidants, anti-inflammatory compounds, and antibacterial properties that work synergistically to soothe and calm the skin.

The tea's ability to reduce inflammation can help to reduce redness and swelling associated with acne, while its antibacterial properties target and eliminate P. acnes bacteria that cause breakouts.

Additionally, eyebright's antiseptic properties help to prevent further infection and promote healthy healing of acne lesions, leading to clearer, more balanced skin.

herbal teas for acne euphrasia officinalis herbs

The list below shows the primary active constituents in eyebright teas that aid with acne.

The list below shows the primary parts of eyebright used to make teas for acne.

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

  1. Measure out one teaspoon of dried euphrasia officinalis leaves or 2 teaspoons of fresh leaves for every eight ounces of boiling water.
  2. Pour the measured euphrasia officinalis leaves into a large teapot or heat-resistant cup.
  3. Bring filtered or spring water to a boil and then pour it over the euphrasia officinalis leaves, allowing them to steep for 5-7 minutes.
  4. Strain the tea mixture through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a clean teapot or mug, discarding the solids.
  5. Allow the tea to cool to room temperature before applying it topically as a toner or compress, using a cotton ball or gauze pad.

15. Plantago major

Plantain teas helps with acne because of its natural anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, which work together to reduce redness and swelling associated with acne.

The tea's antioxidants also help to combat free radicals that can contribute to clogged pores and skin damage, promoting clear and healthy-looking skin.

Additionally, plantain tea has been shown to balance the body's pH levels, which can help to regulate oil production and prevent future breakouts.

herbal teas for acne plantago major herbs

The list below shows the primary active constituents in plantain teas that aid with acne.

The list below shows the primary parts of plantain used to make teas for acne.

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

  1. Harvest high-quality fresh or dried plantago major leaves in quantities sufficient for tea preparation.
  2. Rinse the harvested plantago major leaves thoroughly with filtered water to remove any impurities.
  3. Combine one teaspoon of dried plantago major leaves or two teaspoons of fresh leaves with 8 ounces of boiling water.
  4. Steep the mixture for 10-15 minutes, allowing the herbal properties to infuse into the water.
  5. Strain the tea solution through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve to remove any remaining plant material and enjoy as a calming beverage.

16. Gaultheria procumbens

Wintergreen teas helps with acne because it has potent antibacterial properties that help to reduce inflammation and combat bacteria that can cause breakouts.

The tea's natural oils, including menthol and methyl salicylate, also work to soothe and calm the skin, reducing redness and swelling associated with acne. Additionally, wintergreen teas' anti-inflammatory compounds may help to decrease sebum production, leading to a reduction in clogged pores and fewer acne lesions overall.

This holistic approach can lead to clearer, healthier-looking skin.

herbal teas for acne gaultheria procumbens herbs

The list below shows the primary active constituents in wintergreen teas that aid with acne.

The list below shows the primary parts of wintergreen used to make teas for acne.

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

  1. Harvest 2 tablespoons of fresh gaultheria procumbens leaves and stems or dried herb equivalent.
  2. Boil 4 cups of filtered water in a pot and then remove from heat source immediately.
  3. Add the harvested gaultheria procumbens herb to the boiling water, allowing it steep for 10-15 minutes.
  4. Strain the tea using a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a clean glass container, discarding solids completely.
  5. Allow the tea to cool to room temperature before refrigerating it and consuming within 24 hours.

17. Vaccinium vitis idaea

Cranberry teas helps with acne because its antioxidants and antibacterial properties help to reduce inflammation and combat bacteria that cause breakouts.

The tea's antimicrobial compounds also prevent pores from becoming clogged, reducing the appearance of blackheads and whiteheads. Additionally, cranberry tea's astringent properties help to tighten the skin, reducing the appearance of large pores and minimizing the visibility of acne scars.

Drinking this tea regularly may help to clear up the skin and promote a healthy complexion.

herbal teas for acne vaccinium vitis idaea herbs

The list below shows the primary active constituents in cranberry teas that aid with acne.

The list below shows the primary parts of cranberry used to make teas for acne.

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

  1. Harvest 2 teaspoons of dried vaccinium vitis idaea leaves from a reputable source.
  2. Boil 1 cup of pure water in a saucepan for 3-5 minutes to create a hot infusion base.
  3. Combine the dried leaves with the boiling water and let it steep for 10-15 minutes.
  4. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a tea infuser or heat-resistant cup.
  5. Allow the tea to cool down to room temperature before refrigerating it for up to 24 hours.

18. Bupleurum falcatum

Chinese thoroughwort teas helps with acne because it contains powerful antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that help to reduce inflammation and purify the skin.

The tea's active ingredients, such as flavonoids and phenolic acids, work to inhibit the growth of bacteria that can cause acne, while also soothing redness and irritation. Additionally, the tea's detoxifying properties help to cleanse the body of toxins, which can contribute to acne development.

By drinking Chinese thoroughwort teas regularly, individuals may experience a reduction in acne severity and improvement in skin clarity and tone.

herbal teas for acne bupleurum falcatum herbs

The list below shows the primary active constituents in chinese thoroughwort teas that aid with acne.

The list below shows the primary parts of chinese thoroughwort used to make teas for acne.

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

  1. Harvest fresh bupleurum falcatum roots and clean them thoroughly with cold water.
  2. Dry the cleaned roots in a warm oven at 150°f for 24 hours or air dry.
  3. Measure out one teaspoon of dried bupleurum falcatum roots per cup of boiling water and steep for 10 minutes.
  4. Strain the tea leaves and discard the solids before serving and store leftover tea in an airtight container.
  5. Drink 2-3 cups of the prepared tea daily to help alleviate acne symptoms within a week.

19. Symphytum officinale

Comfrey teas helps with acne because of its antibacterial properties, which help to combat the underlying causes of acne.

The tea's high concentration of allantoin and rosmarinic acid work together to soothe and calm the skin, reducing inflammation and redness associated with acne. Additionally, comfrey's natural antiseptic qualities help to prevent bacterial growth and infection, promoting a healthy balance in the skin's ecosystem and ultimately clearing up acne-prone areas.

Regular consumption of comfrey tea can lead to clearer, more radiant-looking skin.

herbal teas for acne symphytum officinale herbs

The list below shows the primary active constituents in comfrey teas that aid with acne.

The list below shows the primary parts of comfrey used to make teas for acne.

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

  1. Measure one teaspoon of dried symphytum officinale leaves into a heat-resistant cup.
  2. Heat filtered water to a temperature of 212 degrees fahrenheit in a kettle.
  3. Pour the heated water over the symphytum officinale leaves and let it steep for five minutes.
  4. Strain the tea into a clean cup using a piece of cheesecloth or a tea infuser.
  5. Allow the tea to cool down to room temperature before drinking within 30 minutes.

How to best treat acne with herbal teas?

The best way to treat acne with herbal teas is to consume a daily dose of green tea, which contains antioxidants that help reduce inflammation and prevent clogged pores.

Chamomile tea has anti-inflammatory properties that soothe irritated skin, while peppermint tea helps to open up pores and remove excess oil and dirt.

Regular consumption of these teas can significantly improve acne-prone skin.

What ailments similar to acne are treated with herbal teas?

Ailments similar to 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.