By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 04, 2024
10 Best Herbal Decoctions For Oily Face
Herbal decoctions for oily face are concentrated liquid extracts made from a combination of herbs, typically including tea tree oil, neem, and witch hazel.
These potent brews help to balance the skin's natural pH, reduce sebum production, and calm inflammation, leaving the complexion looking smoother and more refined. For example, a decoction containing chamomile and calendula can soothe redness and irritation, while one with peppermint and lavender can help to tighten pores and reduce acne.
By incorporating herbal decoctions into their skincare routine, individuals with oily skin can enjoy improved texture, reduced oiliness, and a more confident complexion.
The following article describes in detail the most important decoctions for oily face, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Teucrium chamaedrys
- 2. Salvia officinalis
- 3. Hamamelis virginiana
- 4. Melissa officinalis
- 5. Rosmarinus officinalis
- 6. Geranium maculatum
- 7. Artemisia absinthium
- 8. Calendula officinalis
- 9. Echinacea purpurea
- 10. Taraxacum officinale
- What is the best combination of herbal decoctions to use for oily face?
- What ailments similar to oily face are treated with herbal decoctions?
1. Teucrium chamaedrys
Germander decoctions helps with oily face because it possesses natural astringent properties that help to dry up excess oil and reduce sebum production.
The decoction's antibacterial and antifungal properties also combat acne-causing bacteria, reducing inflammation and redness. Additionally, germander contains antioxidants that soothe and calm the skin, leaving it looking smoother and more even-toned.
Regular use of germander decoctions can help to regulate oil production, reduce pores, and leave oily skin feeling clean and refreshed.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Teucrium chamaedrys decoctions that help with oily face.
- Rosmarinicine: This terpene helps reduce sebum production, thereby minimizing the appearance of oily skin.
- Carnosic acid: As an antioxidant and sebum regulator, carnosic acid helps control excessive oil secretion and promotes a healthy balance of skin moisture.
- Rosmarinic acid: A potent polyphenol, rosmarinic acid exhibits anti-inflammatory and astringent properties, which can help tighten pores and reduce the appearance of oily skin.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of germander used to make decoctions for oily face.
- Leaves: They are used due to their astringent properties, which can help reduce oil production and tighten pores.
- Stems: Their astringent properties also contribute to reducing oil secretion and tightening the skin.
- Roots: They are used for their anti-inflammatory properties, which can help soothe and calm the skin, reducing the appearance of oily pores.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic germander for oily face.
- Harvest 20-30 grams of dried teucrium chamaedrys leaves and flowers from a trusted source.
- Crush the dried herbs into a coarse powder using a mortar and pestle for 2 minutes.
- Combine the powdered herbs with 500 milliliters of cold water in a saucepan and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to a simmer and let the decoction steep for 10-15 minutes.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container.
2. Salvia officinalis
Sage decoctions helps with oily face because of its natural antiseptic and astringent properties.
The antioxidants present in sage help to reduce inflammation and soothe the skin, thereby controlling oil production. Additionally, the anti-inflammatory compounds in sage help to tighten pores, reducing their appearance and allowing for a smoother complexion.
Regular use of sage decoctions can lead to a balanced skin tone, reduced acne, and a decrease in shine, making it an effective natural remedy for oily skin.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Salvia officinalis decoctions that help with oily face.
- Rosmarinic acid: A phenolic compound that helps reduce sebum production in the skin, thereby minimizing oiliness and acne.
- Salvianolic acids: A type of hydrolysable tannin with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help regulate skin oil production and prevent pores from clogging.
- Carnosic acid: A terpene that has been shown to inhibit the activity of 5-alpha-reductase, an enzyme involved in sebum production, thereby reducing oiliness and promoting healthier skin.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of sage used to make decoctions for oily face.
- Leaves: Used for making decoctions for oily face due to their astringent properties, which help to tighten pores and reduce oil production.
- Roots: Utilized for their antiseptic and antibacterial properties, which aid in reducing acne and inflammation associated with oily skin.
- Stems: Employed in decoctions for oily face due to their astringent and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to balance skin tone and reduce excess oil.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic sage for oily face.
- Harvest 20-30 grams of fresh salvia officinalis leaves and flowers from a clean garden area.
- Wash the harvested salvia officinalis leaves and flowers gently with lukewarm water for 5 minutes.
- Chop the washed salvia officinalis leaves and flowers into small pieces using a sharp knife.
- Steep the chopped salvia officinalis in 500 milliliters of boiling water for 10-15 minutes in a glass teapot.
- Strain the salvia officinalis decoction through a cheesecloth into a large glass container immediately after steeping.
3. Hamamelis virginiana
American witch hazel decoctions helps with oily face because of its natural astringent and antiseptic properties.
The decoction's ability to tighten pores and reduce excess oil production makes it an effective remedy for controlling shine and balancing skin tone. Additionally, the presence of tannins in witch hazel helps to dry up acne-causing bacteria, reducing inflammation and promoting clearer skin.
By incorporating American witch hazel decoctions into one's skincare routine, individuals with oily faces can achieve a healthier, more radiant complexion.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Hamamelis virginiana decoctions that help with oily face.
- Hamamelitannin: A type of tannin, it helps to reduce oil production and minimize the appearance of pores, thus controlling oily skin.
- Hamamelolobine: A phenolic compound with astringent properties, it helps to reduce oil secretion, tighten pores, and soothe the skin, making it less prone to oiliness.
- Gallotannins: These compounds have astringent properties, which help to reduce oil production, minimize the appearance of pores, and control sebum levels, resulting in a healthier and more balanced skin.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of american witch hazel used to make decoctions for oily face.
- Roots: Rich in hamamelitannin, a tannin that helps to reduce oil production and inflammation in the skin.
- Leaves: High in antioxidants and astringent properties that help to balance skin pH and reduce oiliness.
- Buds: Contain flavonoids and phenolic compounds that help to reduce inflammation, soothe acne, and regulate oil production in the skin.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic american witch hazel for oily face.
- Harvest 1 to 2 cups of dried hamamelis virginiana leaves and twigs from a trusted supplier or grow your own.
- Combine the harvested hamamelis virginiana with 1 quart of water in a large saucepan.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat then reduce the heat to a simmer for 10 to 15 minutes.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container.
- Store the decoction in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze it for later use.
4. Melissa officinalis
Lemon balm decoctions helps with oily face because of its unique ability to balance and regulate the skin's natural oil production.
The antioxidants and flavonoids present in lemon balm work to reduce inflammation, calm pores, and purify the skin, thereby reducing excessive sebum secretion.
This gentle and soothing approach also helps to normalize the skin's pH level, leading to a more balanced complexion that is less prone to oiliness.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Melissa officinalis decoctions that help with oily face.
- Rosmarinic acid: A phenolic compound that helps regulate sebum production and reduce inflammation in the skin, contributing to a healthier complexion and reduced oiliness.
- Geranial: A terpene that possesses antibacterial properties, which can help control the growth of Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes), a bacterium linked to acne and oily skin.
- Linalool: A terpene with antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help soothe and calm the skin, reducing redness and inflammation associated with oily skin conditions.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of lemon balm used to make decoctions for oily face.
- Leaves: They are used due to their astringent and antiseptic properties, which help to regulate oil production and soothe the skin.
- Buds: They are used because of their ability to reduce inflammation and prevent bacterial growth, which helps to minimize the appearance of acne and oily skin.
- Flowers: They are used for their calming and antiseptic properties, which help to soothe and balance the skin, reducing oil production and preventing breakouts.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic lemon balm for oily face.
- Harvest a sufficient quantity of melissa officinalis leaves and flowers in the early morning for maximum potency.
- Dry the collected melissa officinalis leaves and flowers in a warm and well-ventilated area for 1-2 weeks.
- Combine 1-2 teaspoons of dried melissa officinalis leaves and flowers with 1 cup of boiling water for a decoction.
- Steep the mixture for 5-7 minutes to allow the active compounds to infuse into the water.
- Strain the decoction and discard the solids before serving the herbal melissa officinalis tea hot or chilled.
5. Rosmarinus officinalis
Rosemary decoctions helps with oily face because of its natural astringent and antiseptic properties.
The active compounds in rosemary, such as camphor and bornyl acetate, help to balance the skin's natural pH, reducing the production of sebum and tightening pores. As a result, rosemary decoctions can effectively control oiliness, minimizing the appearance of shine and pores, while also helping to purify the skin and prevent breakouts.
This makes it an excellent addition to any skincare routine for those struggling with oily skin.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Rosmarinus officinalis decoctions that help with oily face.
- Carnosic acid: A phenolic diterpene that helps reduce the production of sebum, an oily substance produced by the skin, thereby controlling oily face.
- Rosmarinic acid: A polyphenolic compound that acts as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent, reducing inflammation and preventing clogged pores, which can contribute to oily skin.
- Bornyl acetate: A monoterpene that has astringent properties, helping to reduce the size of pores and tighten the skin, thereby controlling oil production and minimizing oily appearance.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of rosemary used to make decoctions for oily face.
- Leaves: They are used to make decoctions for oily face due to their astringent and antiseptic properties, which help to reduce oil production and purify the skin.
- Stems: They are used to make decoctions for oily face due to their ability to absorb excess oil and reduce inflammation, promoting a balanced skin tone.
- Flowers: They are used to make decoctions for oily face due to their antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to soothe and calm the skin, reducing the appearance of pores and oiliness.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic rosemary for oily face.
- Harvest 25-30 grams of fresh rosmarinus officinalis leaves and flowers at the peak of their fragrance and color.
- Dry the harvested rosmarinus officinalis in a warm place for 7-10 days to reduce moisture content.
- Grind 10-15 grams of dried rosmarinus officinalis leaves and flowers into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle.
- Steep 1-2 teaspoons of the powder in 1 cup of boiling water for 5-10 minutes to release the active compounds.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth and discard the solids to obtain a clear herbal liquid.
6. Geranium maculatum
Wild geranium decoctions helps with oily face because of its natural astringent and antibacterial properties, which help to balance the skin's pH level and reduce sebum production.
The decoction also contains antioxidants that soothe and calm the skin, reducing inflammation and redness associated with acne-prone skin. Additionally, wild geranium has been shown to tighten pores and reduce their appearance, giving the skin a smoother, more even texture.
By using wild geranium decoctions as a toner or mask, individuals can achieve a healthy, balanced complexion.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Geranium maculatum decoctions that help with oily face.
- Rosmarinic acid: Helps reduce sebum production and inflammation, thereby controlling oily skin.
- Quercetin: Acts as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory, which helps to balance skin pH, reduce oil production, and prevent skin irritation.
- Geraniin: Exhibits astringent and antiseptic properties, helping to tighten pores and reduce excess oil on the skin.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of wild geranium used to make decoctions for oily face.
- Leaves: They are used due to their astringent and antiseptic properties, which help to reduce oil secretion and prevent bacterial growth on the skin.
- Roots: They are used for their antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to soothe and calm the skin, reducing redness and inflammation associated with oily skin.
- Flowers: They are used for their gentle astringent and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to tone and balance the skin, reducing oil production and preventing breakouts.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic wild geranium for oily face.
- Harvest 25-30 fresh leaves and flowers of geranium maculatum at the peak of blooming season in spring.
- Clean the harvested plant material thoroughly with cold running water to remove dirt and debris.
- Chop the cleaned plant material into small pieces using a sharp knife or herb chopper.
- Steep 1 teaspoon of the chopped plant material in 1 cup of boiling water for 5-10 minutes.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a clean container to remove solids.
7. Artemisia absinthium
Wormwood decoctions helps with oily face because its potent antioxidant properties help to reduce inflammation and excess sebum production.
The bitter compounds in wormwood, such as artemisinin and sesquiterpenes, have a natural astringent effect that tightens pores and balances the skin's pH, reducing oiliness and controlling shine.
Additionally, wormwood's antimicrobial properties help to combat acne-causing bacteria, leaving the skin looking clearer and more balanced.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Artemisia absinthium decoctions that help with oily face.
- Thujone: It helps reduce oil production by inhibiting the enzyme 5-alpha-reductase, which converts testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone responsible for oil gland stimulation.
- Absinthin: It has astringent and antiseptic properties, which help to balance skin pH and reduce the appearance of pores, thereby minimizing oil secretion and reducing acne.
- Volatile oils: These compounds help to reduce inflammation and kill bacteria that can clog pores and contribute to oily skin, promoting a balanced skin environment and reduced oil production.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of wormwood used to make decoctions for oily face.
- Leaves: High in antioxidants and tannins, which help to reduce oil production and soothe the skin.
- Stems: Rich in essential oils, particularly thujone, which has astringent properties that help to balance the skin's natural moisture.
- Barks: Containing compounds like tannins and flavonoids, which can help to regulate oil production and tighten pores.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic wormwood for oily face.
- Harvest fresh or dried leaves and flowers of artemisia absinthium in the early morning for best potency.
- Crush 1-2 teaspoons of the harvested herb into small pieces using a mortar and pestle for optimal release.
- Combine the crushed herb with 8 ounces of boiling water in a heat-resistant glass cup or teapot.
- Steep the mixture for 10-15 minutes to allow the active compounds to infuse into the water.
- Strain the decoction through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a cup and discard the solids.
8. Calendula officinalis
Pot marigold decoctions helps with oily face because of its natural astringent and anti-inflammatory properties.
The decoction helps to reduce excess oil production by shrinking pores, controlling sebum secretion, and cleansing the skin deeply. Additionally, its antioxidant compounds help to neutralize free radicals that can cause inflammation and clog pores, leading to a clearer and more balanced complexion.
This natural remedy can provide long-lasting results without drying out the skin, making it an effective and gentle solution for oily face concerns.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Calendula officinalis decoctions that help with oily face.
- Triterpenoids: Help reduce inflammation and prevent clogged pores, which can contribute to oily skin by limiting the growth of bacteria that cause acne.
- Flavonoids: Possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe and balance the skin, reducing the production of sebum and preventing oil buildup.
- Sesquiterpene lactones: Have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects that help combat acne-causing bacteria and reduce redness, thereby minimizing oil production and promoting a healthy skin balance.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of pot marigold used to make decoctions for oily face.
- Flowers: They are used due to their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which help to soothe and balance oily skin.
- Leaves: They are used for their astringent and antiseptic properties, which can help to reduce oil production and prevent acne.
- Stems: They are used due to their ability to help regulate the skin's natural pH balance and reduce inflammation, making them suitable for oily skin.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic pot marigold for oily face.
- Harvest 20-30 calendula flowers and clean them thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris.
- Dry the flowers in a warm place for 2-3 weeks or until completely dry.
- Steep 1 teaspoon of dried calendula flowers in 1 cup of boiling water for 5-7 minutes.
- Strain the liquid using a cheesecloth or a fine mesh to remove the solids.
- Store the decoction in a glass bottle in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
9. Echinacea purpurea
Purple coneflower decoctions helps with oily face because of its natural anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.
The decoction's ability to calm redness and irritation reduces the appearance of pores, making the skin look smoother and less prone to excess oil production. Additionally, its astringent qualities help to tighten pores, minimizing the release of sebum, while also regulating the skin's natural moisture balance.
This results in a more even-toned and balanced complexion, reducing the appearance of oily skin.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Echinacea purpurea decoctions that help with oily face.
- Isoflavones: Isoflavones, particularly in Echinacea purpurea, have been shown to possess anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation and prevent clogged pores that contribute to oily skin.
- Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids in Echinacea purpurea have antioxidant properties, which can help reduce oxidative stress and prevent the formation of free radicals that can cause inflammation and oil production in the skin.
- Caffeic acid: Caffeic acid, a polyphenolic compound found in Echinacea purpurea, has been shown to possess antibacterial properties, which can help control bacterial growth on the skin, reducing the risk of acne and oily skin conditions.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of purple coneflower used to make decoctions for oily face.
- Roots: They are the primary source of echinacosides, which have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that help to reduce oil production and soothe the skin.
- Leaves: They contain flavonoids and phenolic acids that can help to regulate oil production, reduce inflammation, and calm the skin.
- Flowers: They are rich in anthocyanins, which have antioxidant properties that can help to protect the skin from damage, reduce inflammation, and promote a healthy balance of skin oils.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic purple coneflower for oily face.
- Harvest 1-2 pounds of fresh or dried echinacea purpurea roots and flowers for a decoction.
- Chop the harvested echinacea into small pieces to increase surface area for infusion.
- Combine 1-2 teaspoons of chopped echinacea with 1 quart of boiling water for a decoction.
- Simmer the echinacea mixture at 212 degrees fahrenheit for 10-15 minutes to extract active compounds.
- Strain the decoction using cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve to remove the echinacea solids.
10. Taraxacum officinale
Dandelion decoctions helps with oily face because it possesses natural astringent properties that help to dry out excess oil, reducing shine and minimizing pores.
The diuretic properties of dandelion also help to flush out toxins and impurities from the skin, which can clog pores and cause acne. Additionally, dandelion's anti-inflammatory properties soothe and calm irritated skin, reducing redness and inflammation associated with oily skin.
By using dandelion decoctions as a face toner, you can achieve a clearer, more balanced complexion.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Taraxacum officinale decoctions that help with oily face.
- Inulin: Inulin, a type of fructan, helps regulate blood sugar levels and promotes digestion, which can indirectly reduce oil production in the skin by maintaining a healthy gut microbiome.
- Taraxasterol: Taraxasterol, a triterpenoid saponin, has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that can help soothe and balance the skin, reducing oil production and preventing acne breakouts.
- Chicoric acid: Chicoric acid, a phenolic acid, has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the skin, leading to a reduction in oil production and a clearer complexion.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of dandelion used to make decoctions for oily face.
- Leaves: They are used due to their astringent and antiseptic properties, which help to reduce oil production and control acne.
- Roots: They are used because of their ability to balance the skin's natural pH and reduce inflammation, making them effective in treating oily skin.
- Flowers: They are used due to their antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to soothe and calm the skin, reducing the appearance of pores and oiliness.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic dandelion for oily face.
- Gather 1 ounce of fresh taraxacum officinale leaves and flowers or 1/2 ounce of dried material.
- Chop the gathered taraxacum officinale material into small pieces to release its medicinal properties and oils.
- Combine the chopped material with 1 quart of boiling water and let it steep for 5 to 10 minutes.
- Strain the taraxacum officinale decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container.
- Store the herbal decoction in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before consumption.
What is the best combination of herbal decoctions to use for oily face?
The best combination of herbal decoctions that help with oily face is a blend of neem, tulsi, and aloe vera decoctions.
Neem helps to control sebum production and reduce acne, while tulsi has anti-inflammatory properties that soothe and calm the skin. Aloe vera, rich in antioxidants, hydrates and cools the skin, balancing its natural pH. This trio of decoctions can be consumed as a tea or applied topically as a paste to help regulate oil production and achieve a balanced, healthy complexion.
Regular use can lead to a noticeable reduction in oiliness.
What ailments similar to oily face are treated with herbal decoctions?
Ailments similar to oily face that are treated with herbal decoctions are acne, blackheads, and hyper-pigmentation.
Herbal decoctions like those made from neem, turmeric, and tea tree leaves have antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties that help to reduce inflammation, prevent breakouts, and even out skin tone.
These decoctions can also be used to treat other skin issues such as eczema, psoriasis, and rosacea.