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.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Teucrium chamaedrys tinctures that help with acne.

• Rosmarinicine: This diterpenoid alkaloid has antimicrobial properties, which can help reduce the growth of acne-causing bacteria on the skin.
• Rosmarinic acid: A polyphenolic compound, rosmarinic acid has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help soothe and calm acne-prone skin, reducing redness and inflammation.
• Carnosic acid: This diterpenoid has potent antioxidant properties, which can help protect the skin from oxidative stress and inflammation, reducing the severity of acne.

Parts Used

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

• Leaves: Known for their astringent and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce acne and soothe the skin.
• Stems: Contain flavonoids and terpenes that exhibit antibacterial and anti-inflammatory activities, making them useful in acne treatment.
• Barks: Rich in tannins and phenolic acids, which have astringent and anti-inflammatory effects, helping to reduce acne inflammation and promote skin health.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest fresh teucrium chamaedrys leaves in early morning when dew is still present on the leaves for maximum potency.
2. Clean the harvested leaves by gently brushing off dirt and debris from the leaves with a soft brush.
3. Dry the cleaned leaves by spreading them in a single layer on a paper bag or a clean cloth for 1-2 weeks.
4. Steep the dried leaves in a solvent such as 80% ethanol at a 1:5 ratio for 2-3 weeks in a glass jar.
5. Filter the tincture through a coffee filter or a piece of cheesecloth to remove the solids and discard the solids.

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.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Triterpenoid saponins: These compounds have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which help to reduce acne inflammation and prevent bacterial growth that can contribute to acne.
• Flavonoids: These phenolic compounds exhibit antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help to soothe and calm acne-prone skin, reducing redness and inflammation.
• N-alkanoyl-4-hydroxyphenylalanine amide: These compounds have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to reduce the growth of bacteria that can cause acne and alleviate inflammation.

Parts Used

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

• Flowers: They are used due to their anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, which help soothe and calm acne-prone skin.
• Leaves: They are used due to their astringent properties, which help reduce inflammation and prevent bacterial growth associated with acne.
• Stems: They are used due to their antimicrobial properties, which help combat bacteria and other microorganisms that can cause acne.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Gather 1 part of fresh calendula flowers and 1 part of vegetable glycerin in a clean glass jar.
2. Combine the calendula flowers with 2 parts of 80 proof vodka in the glass jar.
3. Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 to 3 weeks shaking the jar daily.
4. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass jar.
5. Store the herbal tincture in the refrigerator and use within 2 years after preparation.

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.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Ursolic acid: This triterpenoid helps with acne by exhibiting anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, reducing redness and preventing the growth of acne-causing bacteria.
• Salvianolic acid: A type of phenolic acid, salvianolic acid has potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help soothe and calm the skin, reducing the severity of acne and its symptoms.
• Caryophyllene: A sesquiterpene with anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, caryophyllene may help reduce inflammation and prevent the growth of bacteria that can cause acne, promoting healthy skin.

Parts Used

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

• Leaves: Astringent and antimicrobial properties in the leaves help reduce acne inflammation and prevent bacterial growth.
• Flowers: The antiseptic and anti-inflammatory compounds in the flowers aid in reducing acne severity and promoting wound healing.
• Stems: The stems contain antimicrobial and antioxidant compounds that help control acne-causing bacteria and soothe skin irritation.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 30-40g of fresh salvia officinalis leaves and flowers at dawn when the dew is still present.
2. Chop the plant material into small pieces to increase surface area and enhance extraction efficiency.
3. Combine the chopped plant material with 50-60% ethanol or vodka in a 1:5 ratio by volume.
4. Steep the mixture in a clean glass container for 2-3 weeks in a cool dark place.
5. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or coffee filter and discard the solids to obtain the tincture.

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.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Anthraquinones: These compounds, particularly aloin and aloe-emodin, help reduce inflammation and fight bacterial growth that can cause acne.
• Polysaccharides: The gel-like polysaccharides present in Aloe vera, such as acemannan, have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help soothe and calm acne-prone skin.
• Glycoproteins: The glycoproteins found in Aloe vera, like aloectin B, exhibit anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that help reduce acne-causing bacteria and inflammation.

Parts Used

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

• Leaves: Their gel is rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that help soothe and calm acne-prone skin.
• Leaves (outer skin): The outer skin of the leaves contains compounds like aloin and aloe-emodin, which have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce acne.
• Leaves (inner gel): The inner gel of the leaves is high in vitamins A, C, and E, as well as beta-carotene, which help to reduce inflammation and promote skin healing.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest fresh aloe vera leaves with intact skin and trim the edges to remove any rough spots.
2. Dry the aloe vera leaves in a warm dry place for 7-10 days or until they become flexible.
3. Grind the dried aloe vera leaves into a fine powder using a coffee grinder or blender.
4. Mix 1 part of the aloe vera powder with 2 parts of high-proof vodka or 80-proof rum in a clean glass jar.
5. Store the aloe vera tincture in a cool dark place for 2-6 weeks, shaking the jar occasionally.

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.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Taraxacum officinale tinctures that help with acne.

• Taraxasterol: This triterpenoid saponin has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, which help to reduce acne-causing inflammation and bacterial growth on the skin.
• Luteolin: This flavonoid phenolic compound exhibits antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial activities, which can help to reduce oxidative stress, inflammation, and bacterial overgrowth that contribute to acne.
• Taraxeryl acetate: This triterpenoid saponin has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can help to reduce acne-causing inflammation and bacterial growth on the skin, promoting a healthy balance of the skin's microbiome.

Parts Used

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

• Leaves: Leaves of Taraxacum officinale are used due to their anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, which help to soothe and heal acne-prone skin.
• Flowers: Flowers of the plant are used for their anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce inflammation and fight off acne-causing bacteria.
• Roots: Roots of Taraxacum officinale are used for their antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to combat acne-causing bacteria and reduce inflammation in the skin.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest taraxacum officinale roots and leaves in the morning after the dew has evaporated for a fresh yield.
2. Chop 100g of the freshly harvested plant material into small pieces to increase the surface area.
3. Combine the chopped plant material with 500ml of 80% ethanol in a glass jar to create the extraction solution.
4. Steep the mixture for 2-4 weeks in a cool dark place to allow the active compounds to infuse into the ethanol.
5. Strain the mixture through a coffee filter into a separate glass container to remove the plant material.

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.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Matricaria chamomilla tinctures that help with acne.

• Apigenin: This flavonoid has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help reduce redness and inflammation associated with acne.
• Bisabolol: This sesquiterpene lactone has anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties, which help control acne-causing bacteria, reduce inflammation, and protect the skin from oxidative stress.
• Matricine: This sesquiterpene lactone has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help reduce inflammation and prevent oxidative damage to the skin, both of which can contribute to the development of acne.

Parts Used

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

• Flowers: They are rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that help soothe and calm acne-prone skin.
• Leaves: They contain apigenin and other flavonoids that have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, making them effective in reducing acne.
• Roots: They contain sesquiterpene lactones, which have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that can help reduce inflammation and prevent acne.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Gather 1 part of dried matricaria chamomilla flowers and 2 parts of a solvent such as 80 proof vodka.
2. Combine the dried flowers and solvent in a clean glass jar with a tight-fitting lid.
3. Allow the mixture to steep in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks shaking the jar daily.
4. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass container discarding the solids.
5. Store the tincture in a dark glass bottle with a dropper lid and label it clearly.

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.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Geranium maculatum tinctures that help with acne.

• Flavonoids: These plant compounds help with acne by exhibiting anti-inflammatory properties, reducing redness and swelling associated with acne.
• Phenolic acids: These compounds have antimicrobial properties, which can help control acne-causing bacteria such as Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes) and reduce the risk of infection.
• Tannins: Tannins in Geranium maculatum have astringent properties, which can help reduce sebum production and tighten pores, making them less prone to clogging and acne.

Parts Used

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

• Roots: The roots of Geranium maculatum contain compounds that have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, helping to reduce acne inflammation and prevent bacterial growth.
• Leaves: The leaves of Geranium maculatum contain antioxidants and flavonoids that help to soothe and calm the skin, reducing redness and inflammation associated with acne.
• Flowers: The flowers of Geranium maculatum contain fragrances and flavonoids that have anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, helping to reduce acne lesions and prevent infection.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 1 cup of fresh geranium maculatum roots and leaves on a sunny day in late spring.
2. Dry the harvested plant material in a warm place with good air circulation for 1 week.
3. Use a clean glass jar to combine the dried plant material with 2 cups of vodka as a solvent.
4. Steep the mixture for 2 weeks in a cool dark place with occasional shaking of the jar.
5. Strain the liquid mixture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle.

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.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Melissa officinalis tinctures that help with acne.

• Rosmarinic acid: A phenolic compound that acts as an antioxidant, reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the skin, which can contribute to acne development.
• Limonene: A terpene with antimicrobial properties that helps to reduce the growth of Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes), a type of bacteria that can cause acne.
• Volatile oils: Terpenes with anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties that help to reduce inflammation and prevent infections in the skin, which can lead to acne.

Parts Used

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

• Leaves: They contain antioxidants and flavonoids, which can help reduce inflammation and prevent bacterial growth associated with acne.
• Flowers: They have antimicrobial properties, which can help control bacterial and fungal infections that can lead to acne.
• Leaves: They also contain anti-inflammatory compounds, which can help soothe and calm the skin, reducing redness and irritation associated with acne.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 1 part of melissa leaves and flowers in the morning after the dew has evaporated for better quality.
2. Chop 1 part of the fresh plant material into small pieces to increase surface area for extraction.
3. Combine the chopped plant material with 2 parts of 80 proof vodka in a clean glass container.
4. Steep the mixture for 2-6 weeks in a cool dark place with occasional shaking for optimal extraction.
5. Strain and filter the tincture through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle.

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.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Hypericum perforatum tinctures that help with acne.

• Flavonoids: These plant-derived compounds help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress associated with acne, promoting a healthier skin environment.
• Naphthodianthrones: This class of compounds has shown antimicrobial properties that can help combat acne-causing bacteria, such as Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes).
• Phenolic acids: These compounds exhibit antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects that can help soothe and calm acne-prone skin, reducing redness and inflammation.

Parts Used

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

• Leaves: Rich in flavonoids, particularly quercetin, which has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce acne inflammation.
• Flowers: Contain hyperforin, a naphthodianthrones compound with antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects that can help combat acne-causing bacteria and reduce redness.
• Stems: Contain hypericin, a naphthodianthrones compound with antioxidant properties that can help protect the skin from damage and promote healing, reducing acne severity.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 20-30 percent dry weight of st john's wort flowers and leaves on a sunny day in summer.
2. Clean the herb thoroughly with a soft brush to remove dirt and debris from the surface.
3. Combine 100 grams of the cleaned herb with 500 milliliters of vodka in a clean glass jar.
4. Store the jar in a cool dark place for four to six weeks, shaking it daily.
5. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass jar.

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.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Citrus limon tinctures that help with acne.

• Naringenin: This flavanone has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation and prevent bacterial growth associated with acne.
• Limonene: A terpene with antimicrobial properties, limonene can help combat the bacterial overgrowth that contributes to acne, particularly P. acnes.
• Hesperidin: A flavanone with strong antioxidant properties, hesperidin may help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, contributing to the improvement of acne-prone skin.

Parts Used

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

• Leaves: They are often used because of their flavonoid content, which has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that can aid in reducing acne inflammation and preventing further breakouts.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 1-2 pounds of organic citrus limon peels in late summer or early fall when they are most fragrant.
2. Dry the peels in a single layer on paper bags or a drying rack for 1-2 weeks.
3. Combine 1:5 to 1:10 ratio of dried peels to 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
4. Store the mixture in a cool dark place for 2-6 weeks, shaking the jar every day.
5. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or coffee filter and discard the solids to create the final tincture.

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

The best combination of herbal tinctures that help with acne is a blend of tea tree oil, calendula, and neem.

Tea tree oil has antiseptic and antibacterial properties, reducing inflammation and fighting acne-causing bacteria. Calendula soothes and calms the skin, reducing redness and promoting wound healing.

Neem tincture, rich in antioxidants, helps to balance the skin's natural pH and prevent future breakouts. When taken together, these tinctures can effectively heal and prevent acne, promoting clear and healthy skin.

Consult a healthcare professional before using herbal remedies.

What ailments similar to acne are treated with herbal tinctures?

Ailments similar to acne/tinctures.html">acne/tinctures.html">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.