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Last updated: Jul 03, 2024

10 best herbal tinctures for acne

Herbal tinctures for acne are concentrated liquid extracts made from plants, shrubs, and trees that have been used for centuries to combat skin issues.

These potent remedies help by reducing inflammation, killing bacteria, and regulating hormones that can contribute to acne. For instance, tea tree oil tincture has antibacterial properties that combat P. acnes, while chamomile tincture soothes irritated skin.

By incorporating these natural treatments into their skincare routine, individuals with acne-prone skin may experience significant improvements, leading to increased confidence and a reduced reliance on harsh chemical products.

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

1. Teucrium chamaedrys

Germander tinctures helps with acne because of its potent antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antiseptic properties.

The tannins present in germander help to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, which are often underlying causes of acne. Additionally, the tincture's ability to inhibit the growth of Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes) bacteria, a common skin inhabitant that contributes to acne, makes it an effective natural remedy for acne-prone skin.

By addressing these root causes, germander tinctures can help to reduce acne severity and promote clearer, healthier-looking skin.

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

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

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

  1. Harvest 100 grams of fresh or dried teucrium chamaedrys leaves and flowers in the early morning for maximum potency.
  2. Cleanse the herb by gently washing it with cold water and then drying it with a clean towel to remove any debris.
  3. Combine the cleaned herb with 500 milliliters of high-proof vodka in a clean glass jar, ensuring all plant material is completely submerged.
  4. Allow the mixture to macerate for six weeks, shaking the jar every other day to facilitate extraction, before straining and discarding solids.
  5. Transfer the resulting liquid tincture to dark glass bottles with tight-fitting lids, storing it in a cool dark place for up to two years while monitoring its potency.

2. Calendula officinalis

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

The tincture's active compounds, such as lutein and zeaxanthin, work to reduce redness and swelling associated with acne, while also targeting the underlying bacterial infection that can cause breakouts.

By soothing and calming the skin, pot marigold tinctures help to unclog pores and promote a clearer complexion, making it an effective natural remedy for managing acne-prone skin.

herbal tinctures for acne calendula officinalis herbs

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

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

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

  1. Harvest calendula officinalis flowers in their peak blooming season, ensuring at least 20% flower heads are open for optimal potency.
  2. Clean and dry the harvested flowers, removing any stems or debris, and then chop them into small pieces for efficient extraction.
  3. Combine one part chopped calendula flowers with two parts vodka in a clean glass jar, allowing the mixture to steep for four weeks undisturbed.
  4. Strain the mixture through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass container, discarding the solids and retaining the liquid tincture.
  5. Transfer the tincture to dark glass bottles with tight-fitting lids, storing them in a cool, dry place for up to two years, shaking the bottle daily before use.

3. Salvia officinalis

Sage tinctures helps with acne because of its potent antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antifungal properties.

When applied topically or taken orally, sage's active compounds, such as thujone and camphor, can help to reduce the severity of acne by inhibiting the growth of bacteria that cause breakouts.

Additionally, sage's anti-inflammatory properties may also soothe redness and swelling associated with acne, promoting a clearer complexion and healthier skin.

herbal tinctures for acne salvia officinalis herbs

The list below shows the primary active constituents in sage tinctures that aid with acne.

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

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

  1. Harvest salvia officinalis leaves from your garden or purchase them from a reputable supplier.
  2. Clean and dry the harvested leaves by gently brushing off dirt and excess moisture.
  3. Combine one part dried salvia officinalis leaves with four parts high-proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
  4. Allow the mixture to steep for 6-8 weeks, shaking the jar daily, before straining and discarding solids.
  5. Transfer the tincture to dark glass bottles and store them in a cool, dry place for up to one year.

4. Aloe vera

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

The natural soothing agent also calms the skin, minimizing irritation and discomfort. Additionally, aloe's antimicrobial qualities help to combat bacteria that can cause acne, preventing clogged pores and reducing the appearance of blemishes.

By addressing the root causes of acne, herbal aloe tinctures promote clear, healthy-looking skin and alleviate symptoms of this common skin concern.

herbal tinctures for acne aloe vera herbs

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

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

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

  1. Harvest 100g of fresh aloe vera leaves from organic plants with no signs of pests or diseases.
  2. Wash the aloe vera leaves thoroughly with distilled water and air dry for at least 24 hours.
  3. Chop 50g of dried aloe vera leaves into small pieces and soak them in 500ml of vodka at room temperature for 14 days.
  4. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter to remove the solids and discard the plant material.
  5. Transfer the clear liquid to dark glass bottles and store it in a cool dark place for up to 6 months.

5. Taraxacum officinale

Dandelion tinctures helps with acne because it possesses anti-inflammatory properties that reduce redness and swelling, while its antibacterial agents combat the underlying causes of acne.

The tannins present in dandelion also help to dry out excess oil and tighten pores, reducing the appearance of blackheads and whiteheads. Additionally, dandelion's antifungal capabilities prevent fungal overgrowth, a common contributor to acne.

By addressing multiple aspects of acne, dandelion tinctures offer a natural and holistic solution for clearing up blemishes and promoting healthy skin.

herbal tinctures for acne taraxacum officinale herbs

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

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

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

  1. Harvest fresh dandelion flowers and leaves in the morning after dew has evaporated ensuring potency.
  2. Cleanly rinse the collected plant material removing any dirt or debris under running cool water.
  3. Combine 50 grams of chopped fresh dandelion flowers and leaves with 500 milliliters of high proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
  4. Store the mixture at room temperature for four to six weeks shaking the jar daily allowing extraction process.
  5. Strain the liquid through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass bottle discarding solids disposing.

6. Matricaria chamomilla

Chamomile tinctures helps with acne because of its potent anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.

The apigenin present in chamomile has been shown to reduce inflammation and redness associated with acne, while also inhibiting the growth of Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes) bacteria that contribute to breakouts. Additionally, chamomile's soothing effects calm irritated skin and reduce stress, which is a common acne trigger.

By targeting multiple factors contributing to acne, chamomile tinctures offer a natural and effective way to promote clear and healthy-looking skin.

herbal tinctures for acne matricaria chamomilla herbs

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

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

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

  1. Harvest fresh or dried matricaria chamomilla flowers in quantities suitable for your desired batch size and preparation time.
  2. Rinse the flowers gently with distilled water to remove any dirt or debris then pat them dry with a clean cloth.
  3. Combine one part of the chamomile flowers with two parts of 95% ethanol or vodka in a glass jar or container and steep for eight weeks shaking daily.
  4. Strain the mixture through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another glass jar or container discarding the solids then store it in a cool dark place.
  5. Allow the tincture to mature for at least six months or up to one year before using it as an acne treatment taking 10-20 drops twice daily.

7. Geranium maculatum

Wild geranium tinctures helps with acne because of its unique ability to balance hormones, reduce inflammation, and promote healthy skin.

The plant's bioactive compounds work to regulate sebum production, unclog pores, and soothe irritated skin. Additionally, wild geranium has antibacterial properties that help combat the bacteria that can cause acne.

By using a herbal tincture, individuals can naturally address the root causes of acne and achieve clearer, healthier-looking skin.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in wild geranium tinctures that aid with acne.

The list below shows the primary parts of wild geranium used to make tinctures for acne.

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

  1. Harvest fresh or dried geranium maculatum roots and stems in late summer or early fall.
  2. Chop the herb material into small pieces and combine it with 40% vodka by weight in a clean glass jar.
  3. Steep the mixture for 4-6 weeks, shaking the jar daily, allowing the tincture to mature and extract.
  4. Strain the tincture through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into another clean glass bottle discarding solids.
  5. Store the tincture in a cool dark place for up to 2 years using it as directed on acne-prone skin at 10-20 drops diluted in water.

8. Melissa officinalis

Lemon balm tinctures helps with acne because of its potent antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.

The active compounds in lemon balm, such as rosmarinic acid and citral, work to reduce inflammation and combat bacteria that cause acne, promoting a clearer and healthier complexion.

Additionally, lemon balm's ability to soothe and calm the skin can help alleviate redness and irritation associated with acne, making it an effective natural remedy for achieving radiant and balanced skin.

herbal tinctures for acne melissa officinalis herbs

The list below shows the primary active constituents in lemon balm tinctures that aid with acne.

The list below shows the primary parts of lemon balm used to make tinctures for acne.

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

  1. Harvest fresh melissa officinalis leaves in the morning after dew has evaporated using scissors or pinch off individual leaves.
  2. Rinse the harvested leaves gently with cool water to remove dirt and debris then pat dry with paper towels.
  3. Combine 200g of dried melissa officinalis leaves with 500ml of high-proof vodka in a clean glass jar leaving no air pockets.
  4. Store the mixture in a dark cabinet at room temperature for four weeks shaking the jar daily to extract active compounds.
  5. Strain the liquid through a coffee filter or cheesecloth into another clean glass bottle discarding solids and store the tincture in a cool dark place.

9. Hypericum perforatum

St John's Wort tinctures helps with acne because of its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.

The herb has been traditionally used to treat skin issues, including pimples and acne, by reducing redness and swelling associated with these conditions. The tincture also contains flavonoids, which have antioxidant effects that help soothe the skin and reduce inflammation. Additionally, St John's Wort has antibacterial properties that can help combat Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes) bacteria, a common cause of acne.

By addressing these underlying causes, St John's Wort tinctures can provide natural relief from acne symptoms.

herbal tinctures for acne hypericum perforatum herbs

The list below shows the primary active constituents in st john's wort tinctures that aid with acne.

The list below shows the primary parts of st john's wort used to make tinctures for acne.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic st john's wort for acne.

  1. Harvest fresh st john's wort flowers hypericum perforatum from fields or gardens at peak flowering season.
  2. Chop 1 cup of fresh flowers into small pieces and combine with 50 proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
  3. Steep the mixture for 4-6 weeks in a cool dark place to allow for optimal extraction of active compounds.
  4. Strain the liquid through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass bottle discarding solids.
  5. Store the tincture in a cool dark place and use within 2 years or shelf life indicated on label.

10. Citrus limon

Lemon tinctures helps with acne because of its natural antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties.

The citric acid in lemon has been shown to reduce sebum production, unclog pores, and kill bacteria that cause breakouts. The tannins present in the herbal extract also help to reduce inflammation and redness associated with acne. Additionally, the astringent properties of lemon can help to dry out excess oil and reduce the appearance of acne scars.

As a result, incorporating herbal lemon tinctures into one's skincare routine can lead to clearer, healthier-looking skin.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in lemon tinctures that aid with acne.

The list below shows the primary parts of lemon used to make tinctures for acne.

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

  1. Harvest fresh lemons and peel them carefully to obtain about 250 grams of citrus peels.
  2. Dry the citrus peels in a dehydrator at 60°c for 12 hours or until brittle.
  3. Combine dried citrus peels with 70% vodka in a glass jar, using a ratio of 1:5 by weight.
  4. Store the jar in a cool dark place for 2 weeks, shaking daily to ensure all ingredients mix well.
  5. Strain the mixture through cheesecloth and discard solids, transferring the resulting liquid tincture to dark glass bottles.

11. Mentha x piperita

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

The menthol present in peppermint also has antiseptic and antibacterial qualities that help combat P. acnes bacteria, a common cause of acne. Additionally, peppermint's cooling effect can ease the discomfort and itching often experienced during the healing process.

By addressing these underlying issues, herbal peppermint tinctures can provide natural relief from acne symptoms and promote clearer, healthier skin.

herbal tinctures for acne mentha x piperita herbs

The list below shows the primary active constituents in peppermint tinctures that aid with acne.

The list below shows the primary parts of peppermint used to make tinctures for acne.

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

  1. Harvest fresh peppermint leaves from your garden or purchase organic dried peppermint leaves in bulk.
  2. Chop the dried peppermint leaves into small pieces and combine them with vodka or rum in a clean glass jar.
  3. Allow the mixture to steep for 2 weeks in a cool dark place shaking the jar daily for optimal extraction.
  4. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into another clean glass bottle discarding the solids and retaining the tincture liquid.
  5. Store the peppermint tincture in an amber glass bottle away from direct sunlight at room temperature for up to 2 years for use as needed.

12. Artemisia absinthium

Wormwood tinctures helps with acne because its natural anti-inflammatory properties reduce redness and swelling, while its antimicrobial agents combat bacterial overgrowth that can clog pores.

The tincture's ability to stimulate digestion and eliminate toxins also helps to unclog the skin from within, reducing the likelihood of breakouts.

Additionally, wormwood's antiseptic qualities help to soothe and calm irritated skin, promoting a clear and radiant complexion.

herbal tinctures for acne artemisia absinthium herbs

The list below shows the primary active constituents in wormwood tinctures that aid with acne.

The list below shows the primary parts of wormwood used to make tinctures for acne.

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

  1. Gather dried artemisia absinthium leaves and vodka for the tincture preparation.
  2. Combine one part of dried herb with two parts of vodka in a clean glass jar.
  3. Seal the jar tightly and store it in a cool dark place for four weeks.
  4. After four weeks strain the liquid through a cheesecloth into another container.
  5. Transfer the tincture to a dropper bottle and label it with the ingredients and date.

13. Urtica dioica

Stinging nettle tinctures helps with acne because of its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

The tincture's ability to reduce inflammation can help soothe red and irritated skin, while its antioxidant properties can help combat free radicals that can cause oxidative stress and contribute to acne development. Additionally, stinging nettle has been shown to have a natural antibacterial effect, which can help reduce the growth of bacteria that can clog pores and cause breakouts.

By using herbal stinging nettle tincture, individuals may experience a reduction in acne severity and frequency.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in stinging nettle tinctures that aid with acne.

The list below shows the primary parts of stinging nettle used to make tinctures for acne.

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

  1. Harvest fresh nettle leaves at dawn or just before dusk to ensure optimal potency.
  2. Rinse the harvested nettle leaves thoroughly with cold running water to remove impurities.
  3. Combine one part dried nettle leaves with three parts vodka in a clean glass jar, filling to the brim.
  4. Allow the mixture to macerate for six weeks, shaking the jar daily to extract the medicinal properties.
  5. Strain the liquid through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass bottle, discarding the solids.

14. Althaea officinalis

Marshmallow tinctures helps with acne because of its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.

The saponins present in marshmallows have been shown to reduce redness and swelling associated with acne, while also helping to calm and reduce inflammation.

Additionally, the tincture's natural astringent properties can help to shrink pores and tighten skin, making it an effective treatment for acne-prone areas of the face.

herbal tinctures for acne althaea officinalis herbs

The list below shows the primary active constituents in marshmallow tinctures that aid with acne.

The list below shows the primary parts of marshmallow used to make tinctures for acne.

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

  1. Harvest fresh or dried althaea officinalis leaves and flowers according to the botanical specifications.
  2. Wash the plant material with filtered water to remove dirt and impurities gently for 10 minutes.
  3. Chop the cleaned plant material into smaller pieces to ensure proper saturation of menstruum slowly for 30 minutes.
  4. Combine one part chopped althaea officinalis with three parts high-proof ethanol in a clean glass jar tightly sealable immediately.
  5. Store the tincture in a cool dark place for at least 6 weeks shaking the jar daily for optimal extraction.

15. Taraxacum kok saghyz

Wild potato tinctures helps with acne because they contain potent anti-inflammatory compounds that reduce redness and swelling associated with breakouts.

The tincture's antimicrobial properties also help to combat P. acnes bacteria, a common culprit behind acne, thereby preventing future occurrences of inflammation.

Additionally, the tincture's antioxidants neutralize free radicals that can cause skin damage, promoting healthy skin cell growth and regeneration, resulting in clearer and more balanced skin.

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

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

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

  1. Harvest fresh or dried taraxacum kok saghyz roots and cut them into small pieces to prepare for extraction.
  2. Combine the root pieces with 80-proof vodka in a clean glass jar and seal it tightly for a maceration period of two weeks.
  3. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into another container, discarding the solids and retaining the liquid tincture.
  4. Store the tincture in dark glass bottles with tight-fitting lids in a cool, dry place for at least four months to allow for aging and maturation.
  5. Once matured, use the tincture as directed by diluting it with water or other carrier liquids according to a ratio of 1:3 to 1:5 for acne treatment applications.

16. Cinchona officinalis

Jesuit's bark tinctures helps with acne because it contains berberine, a compound that has natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.

Berberine works to reduce the severity of acne by killing bacteria that cause breakouts and reducing inflammation in the skin. Additionally, Jesuit's bark tincture may also help to balance hormones, which can contribute to hormonal acne.

By incorporating this herbal remedy into your skincare routine, you can experience a reduction in acne symptoms and enjoy clear, healthy-looking skin.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in jesuit's bark tinctures that aid with acne.

The list below shows the primary parts of jesuit's bark used to make tinctures for acne.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic jesuit's bark for acne.

  1. Harvest high-quality cinchona officinalis leaves at dawn when dew is still present for maximum potency.
  2. Rinse the harvested leaves thoroughly with distilled water and air-dry them in a warm, dark place for 24 hours.
  3. Combine dried cinchona officinalis leaves with vodka in a ratio of 1:5, ensuring a minimum of 20% proof concentration.
  4. Steep the mixture at room temperature for 14 days, shaking the container daily to facilitate extraction and infusion.
  5. Strain and filter the tincture through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into dark glass bottles, storing it in a cool, dark place for future use.

17. Centaurium erythraea

Willow herb tinctures helps with acne because of its unique ability to reduce inflammation and combat bacterial overgrowth.

The herbal extract's salicylic acid content helps to unclog pores, while its antimicrobial properties prevent future breakouts. Additionally, willow herb's anti-inflammatory effects soothe redness and itching associated with acne-prone skin, reducing the appearance of pimples and promoting a clearer complexion.

By addressing both internal and external factors, willow herb tinctures offer a holistic approach to tackling acne from within.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in willow herb tinctures that aid with acne.

The list below shows the primary parts of willow herb used to make tinctures for acne.

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

  1. Harvest fresh centaurium erythraea roots and clean them thoroughly removing any dirt or debris.
  2. Chop the cleaned roots into small pieces to increase surface area for solvent interaction.
  3. Combine one part chopped root material with 2 parts high-proof vodka in a sterilized glass jar.
  4. Seal the jar tightly and store it in a cool dark place allowing the mixture to steep for 6 weeks.
  5. Strain the liquid through cheesecloth into another sterilized glass bottle discarding the solids and label.

18. Gaultheria procumbens

Wintergreen tinctures helps with acne because it possesses antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antifungal properties that combat the root causes of breakouts.

The menthol content in wintergreen helps to reduce sebum production, unclog pores, and soothe irritated skin. Additionally, its antioxidant compounds work to neutralize free radicals and promote healthy collagen production, resulting in a reduction in acne severity and inflammation.

By incorporating herbal wintergreen tinctures into one's skincare routine, individuals can experience a significant improvement in their complexion.

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

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

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

  1. Harvest fresh gaultheria procumbens leaves and stems in the morning for optimal potency.
  2. Weigh out 100 grams of plant material and chop it into small pieces for efficient extraction.
  3. Combine chopped plant material with 500 milliliters of 95% ethanol vodka in a clean glass jar.
  4. Allow the mixture to steep for 2 weeks at room temperature, shaking daily, then strain the liquid.
  5. Filter the resulting tincture through cheesecloth into a dark glass bottle, store in a cool place.

19. Pimenta dioica

Allspice tinctures helps with acne because of its potent antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties.

The tincture's active compounds, such as allyl isothiocyanate, have been shown to inhibit the growth of Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes), a bacteria that causes acne. Additionally, allspice's anti-inflammatory effects help reduce redness and swelling associated with pimples, while its antioxidant properties combat free radicals that can damage skin cells.

This natural combination helps to soothe and clear the skin, reducing acne's appearance and promoting healthier-looking complexion.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in allspice tinctures that aid with acne.

The list below shows the primary parts of allspice used to make tinctures for acne.

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

  1. Harvest fresh pimenta dioica leaves and stems in the morning when essential oils are most concentrated.
  2. Rinse the plant material thoroughly with distilled water to remove dirt and debris gently.
  3. Chop the rinsed plant material into small pieces to increase surface area and facilitate extraction carefully.
  4. Combine chopped plant material with 70% ethanol or vodka in a clean glass jar at a ratio of 1:5 for 2 weeks steeping time.
  5. Strain the mixture through cheesecloth or a coffee filter to remove solids and store the resulting tincture in dark glass bottles.

How to best treat acne with herbal tinctures?

The best way to treat acne with herbal tinctures is to combine a few potent botanicals.

Calendula tincture reduces inflammation and promotes healing, while tea tree oil tincture targets bacterial overgrowth. Burdock root tincture helps to detoxify the skin and reduce sebum production. Mix equal parts of each tincture with a carrier oil like coconut or jojoba oil and apply topically 2-3 times daily.

This holistic approach can help clear acne and prevent future breakouts.

What ailments similar to acne are treated with herbal tinctures?

Ailments similar to acne that are treated with herbal tinctures are eczema, rosacea, and psoriasis.

Herbal tinctures containing anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, such as tea tree oil, echinacea, and calendula, can help soothe and calm irritated skin.

They may also be used to treat other skin issues like boils, abscesses, and folliculitis.