Pimples: Causes, Medicinal Herbs and Herbal Preparations

A pimple is a small, localized, inflammatory skin lesion typically caused by clogged pores, excess oil, or bacterial infections.

The causes of pimples include hormonal imbalances, stress, poor skin care, and certain foods or substances. If left untreated, pimples can lead to scarring, low self-esteem, and even increased risk of acne-related infections. Fortunately, herbal remedies such as aloe vera, tea tree oil, and chamomile can help to soothe, calm, and clear the skin.

When using medicinal herbs, it's essential to consult a healthcare professional and follow proper preparation and dosage guidelines to avoid any adverse reactions.

This article explains in detail what are the causes of pimples, what medicinal herbs to use to relieve this problem and how to prepare these herbs to get the best results.

What are the main causes of pimples?

The main causes of pimples are complex and multifaceted, primarily involving the overproduction of sebum, a natural oil produced by the sebaceous glands, which clog pores and create an environment conducive to bacterial growth.

The androgen hormone testosterone, present in both males and females, stimulates the sebaceous glands to produce more sebum, leading to clogged pores and inflammation. Additionally, dead skin cells and other debris can also clog pores, allowing bacteria such as Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes) to thrive and cause inflammation. Other factors, including genetics, hormonal fluctuations, stress, and certain medications, can also contribute to the development of pimples.

Furthermore, a poor diet high in processed foods and sugar, as well as inadequate skin care and hygiene, can also exacerbate pimple formation.

• Hormones: Hormonal imbalances, particularly an increase in androgen hormones, can lead to clogged pores and the formation of pimples due to the oil glands in the skin becoming overactive and producing excess sebum.
• Bacteria: Bacteria, particularly Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes), that are naturally present on the skin can multiply and cause inflammation, leading to the formation of pimples when the pores become clogged with dead skin cells and excess oil.
• Stress: Chronic stress can lead to an increase in the production of hormones such as cortisol, which can cause an increase in oil production and lead to clogged pores and the formation of pimples.
• Genetics: Genetic predisposition can play a role in the development of acne, with some people being more prone to developing pimples due to their genetic makeup.
• Diet: A diet high in processed foods, sugar, and dairy products can lead to inflammation and increase the production of hormones that can cause pimples, while a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help to reduce the risk of developing acne.
• Medications: Certain medications, such as corticosteroids, testosterone, and certain antidepressants, can cause pimples as a side effect due to their impact on hormone levels and skin oil production.
• Hygiene: Poor hygiene, such as not washing the face regularly or using harsh skin products, can lead to clogged pores and the formation of pimples due to the buildup of dirt and bacteria on the skin.
• Environmental factors: Exposure to environmental factors such as pollution, humidity, and extreme temperatures can cause pores to become clogged and lead to the formation of pimples due to the skin's natural response to these factors.
• Makeup: Using heavy or comedogenic makeup products can clog pores and lead to the formation of pimples due to the buildup of dirt and bacteria on the skin.
• Hair products: Using hair products that contain harsh chemicals or oils can transfer to the skin and clog pores, leading to the formation of pimples.

What are the primary medicinal plants used for pimples?

The main medicinal herbs used for pimples are Melaleuca alternifolia, Calendula officinalis, Aloe barbadensis, Aloe vera, Silybum marianum, Echinacea purpurea, Zingiber officinale, Glycyrrhiza glabra, Lavandula angustifolia, Saponaria officinalis.

Melaleuca alternifolia, the tea tree, contains compounds that exhibit antibacterial activity against Propionibacterium acnes, a bacterium associated with acne. Calendula officinalis and Aloe barbadensis have anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, reducing redness and promoting wound healing, while Aloe vera's gel has been shown to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Silybum marianum, also known as milk thistle, contains silymarin, which has been found to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the skin.

Additionally, Echinacea purpurea, Zingiber officinale, Glycyrrhiza glabra, Lavandula angustifolia, and Saponaria officinalis have been traditionally used to treat various skin issues, including acne, due to their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and soothing properties.

• Melaleuca alternifolia: Melaleuca alternifolia, also known as tea tree oil, helps with pimples due to its antimicrobial properties that reduce the population of Propionibacterium acnes bacteria, which is a primary cause of acne.
• Calendula officinalis: Calendula officinalis, or pot marigold, helps with pimples as its anti-inflammatory properties reduce redness and swelling, and its antimicrobial properties help to prevent infection.
• Aloe barbadensis: Aloe barbadensis, commonly known as aloe vera, helps with pimples by reducing inflammation and promoting wound healing, which can aid in the treatment of acne lesions.
• Aloe vera: Aloe vera helps with pimples due to its anti-inflammatory properties that reduce redness and swelling, and its ability to promote wound healing.
• Silybum marianum: Silybum marianum, or milk thistle, helps with pimples as its antioxidant properties reduce oxidative stress, which can contribute to the development of acne.
• Echinacea purpurea: Echinacea purpurea, or purple coneflower, helps with pimples by boosting the immune system and reducing inflammation, which can aid in the treatment of acne.
• Zingiber officinale: Zingiber officinale, or ginger, helps with pimples due to its anti-inflammatory properties that reduce redness and swelling, and its ability to improve digestion, which can contribute to clearer skin.
• Glycyrrhiza glabra: Glycyrrhiza glabra, or licorice root, helps with pimples as its anti-inflammatory properties reduce redness and swelling, and its ability to soothe and calm irritated skin.
• Lavandula angustifolia: Lavandula angustifolia, or lavender, helps with pimples due to its calming and soothing properties that reduce stress and promote relaxation, which can aid in reducing acne symptoms.
• Saponaria officinalis: Saponaria officinalis, or soapwort, helps with pimples as its antimicrobial properties help to prevent infection and promote wound healing, which can aid in the treatment of acne lesions.

What are the main herbal preparations used for pimples?

The main herbal preparations used for pimples are Decoction, Tincture, Salve, Cream, Gel, Poultice, Capsule, Ointment, Tea, Oil.

Decoction of herbs like Neem, Turmeric, and Aloe Vera is used to treat pimples due to its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, which reduce acne severity. Tincture of herbs like Tea Tree, Lavender, and Chamomile is applied topically to kill bacteria and reduce inflammation. Salve, Cream, Gel, and Ointment of herbs like Aloe Vera, Tea Tree, and Calendula are applied topically to soothe and reduce acne symptoms, while Poultice of herbs like Echinacea and Goldenseal is applied to draw out pus and promote healing.

Capsule and Oil of herbs like Omega-3 rich Flaxseed and Evening Primrose are taken internally to reduce inflammation and promote skin health, while Tea of herbs like Green Tea and Hibiscus is consumed to reduce stress and promote overall skin health.

• Decoction: A decoction of the herb Calendula officinalis helps with pimples by reducing inflammation and promoting wound healing, while a decoction of the herb Achillea millefolium may help to reduce the appearance of pimples by its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
• Tincture: A tincture of the herb Melissa officinalis, when applied topically, may help to reduce the severity and duration of pimples by its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, while a tincture of the herb Hypericum perforatum may help to reduce the appearance of pimples by its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties.
• Salve: A salve made from the herb Plantago major may help to reduce the appearance of pimples by its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, while a salve made from the herb Echinacea purpurea may help to boost the immune system and reduce the severity of pimples.
• Cream: A cream made from the herb Aloe barbadensis may help to soothe and calm the skin, reducing the inflammation and redness associated with pimples, while a cream made from the herb Ginkgo biloba may help to reduce the appearance of pimples by its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
• Gel: A gel made from the herb Eucalyptus globulus may help to reduce the inflammation and redness associated with pimples, while a gel made from the herb Chamomilla recutita may help to soothe and calm the skin, reducing the appearance of pimples.
• Poultice: A poultice made from the herb Plantago major may help to reduce the appearance of pimples by its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, while a poultice made from the herb Calendula officinalis may help to promote wound healing and reduce inflammation.
• Capsule: A capsule containing the herb St. John's Wort (Hypericum perforatum) may help to reduce the appearance of pimples by its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, while a capsule containing the herb Echinacea purpurea may help to boost the immune system and reduce the severity of pimples.
• Ointment: An ointment made from the herb Aloe barbadensis may help to soothe and calm the skin, reducing the inflammation and redness associated with pimples, while an ointment made from the herb Ginkgo biloba may help to reduce the appearance of pimples by its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
• Tea: Drinking tea made from the herb Peppermint (Mentha piperita) may help to reduce stress and anxiety, which can contribute to the development of pimples, while drinking tea made from the herb Chamomilla recutita may help to soothe and calm the skin, reducing the inflammation associated with pimples.
• Oil: A carrier oil infused with the herb Lavandula angustifolia may help to reduce stress and anxiety, which can contribute to the development of pimples, while a carrier oil infused with the herb Calendula officinalis may help to reduce inflammation and promote wound healing.