By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 03, 2024
10 Best Herbal Tinctures For Pimples
Herbal tinctures for pimples are concentrated liquid extracts made from plants, which have been used for centuries to combat acne and other skin issues.
These tinctures help by reducing inflammation, killing bacteria, and regulating hormones that contribute to pimple formation. For example, tea tree oil tincture is known for its antibacterial properties, while chamomile tincture soothes and calms the skin.
By incorporating these herbal tinctures into their skincare routine, individuals can reduce acne breakouts, improve their self-confidence, and enjoy a clearer complexion, ultimately leading to a more radiant and healthy appearance.
The following article describes in detail the most important tinctures for pimples, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Salvia officinalis
- 2. Melissa officinalis
- 3. Calendula officinalis
- 4. Aloe vera
- 5. Taraxacum officinale
- 6. Geranium maculatum
- 7. Echinacea angustifolia
- 8. Hamamelis virginiana
- 9. Vaccinium macrocarpon
- 10. Althaea officinalis
- What is the best combination of herbal tinctures to use for pimples?
- What ailments similar to pimples are treated with herbal tinctures?
1. Salvia officinalis
Sage tinctures helps with pimples because of its potent antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
The tannins in sage work to reduce the swelling and redness associated with acne, while its antioxidant compounds help combat free radicals that can cause oxidative stress and contribute to breakouts.
Additionally, sage's antimicrobial properties inhibit the growth of Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes), a bacteria that can contribute to clogged pores and acne formation, making it an effective natural remedy for clearing up pimples.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Salvia officinalis tinctures that help with pimples.
- Ursolic acid: This triterpenoid acid has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can help reduce inflammation and prevent bacterial growth that can lead to pimples.
- Salvianolic acid: A type of phenolic acid, salvianolic acid has potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help protect the skin from oxidative stress and inflammation that can cause pimples.
- Rosmarinic acid: A polyphenolic compound, rosmarinic acid has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce bacterial growth and inflammation that can lead to pimples, as well as promote wound healing and skin health.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of sage used to make tinctures for pimples.
- Leaves: The leaves contain antimicrobial properties that help reduce bacterial growth and inflammation associated with pimples.
- Flowers: The flowers have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help soothe and calm the skin, reducing the appearance of pimples.
- Stems: The stems contain antiseptic properties that help prevent infection and reduce inflammation in the skin, making them effective in treating pimples.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic sage for pimples.
- Harvest 25-50 grams of fresh salvia officinalis leaves and flowers in the morning after dew has evaporated.
- Chop the harvested plant material into small pieces using a sharp knife or herb cutter.
- Combine the chopped plant material with 50-100ml of high-proof alcohol such as ethanol or methanol in a clean glass container.
- Steep the plant material in the solvent for 2-6 weeks in a cool dark place with occasional shaking.
- Strain the liquid mixture through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean glass bottle and discard the solids.
2. Melissa officinalis
Lemon balm tinctures helps with pimples because of its natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
The tincture's active compounds, such as rosmarinic acid and caffeic acid, work together to reduce the appearance of acne by killing bacteria that cause breakouts and soothing redness and swelling. Additionally, lemon balm's calming effects can help to reduce stress and anxiety, which are common triggers for pimples.
By using herbal lemon balm tinctures topically or internally, individuals can achieve clear and healthy-looking skin with fewer imperfections.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Melissa officinalis tinctures that help with pimples.
- Rosmarinic acid: A phenolic compound with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce inflammation and prevent the formation of acne by protecting the skin from oxidative stress.
- Melissic acid: A phenolic compound that has antimicrobial properties, which can help control bacterial growth on the skin, a common cause of acne.
- Limonene: A terpene that has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce inflammation and prevent the formation of acne by protecting the skin from oxidative stress.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of lemon balm used to make tinctures for pimples.
- Leaves: They are used due to their antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation and prevent infection in pimples.
- Flowers: They are used because of their antimicrobial and antispasmodic properties, which can help soothe and calm the skin, reducing the occurrence of pimples.
- Stems: They are used due to their astringent properties, which can help reduce oil production and tighten pores, making them less prone to pimples.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic lemon balm for pimples.
- Gather 100g of melissa officinalis flowers and 500ml of vodka in a clean dark glass jar.
- Steep the melissa officinalis flowers in the vodka for 2-6 weeks in a cool dark place.
- Strain the tincture through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean glass container.
- Discard the solids and store the tincture in the fridge to slow down fermentation and spoilage.
- After 2-3 months allow the tincture to mature and then use it as needed to support health.
3. Calendula officinalis
Pot marigold tinctures helps with pimples because of its potent anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
The tannins and flavonoids present in the herb have been shown to reduce redness and swelling associated with acne, while also combating bacterial infections that can cause breakouts. Additionally, the antiseptic qualities of pot marigold help to soothe and calm the skin, reducing irritation and promoting a healthy balance of skin flora.
As a result, this herbal tincture has been traditionally used to effectively alleviate the appearance of pimples and other acne-related issues.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Calendula officinalis tinctures that help with pimples.
- Triterpenoids: These compounds have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, helping to reduce the severity and frequency of pimples by reducing redness and fighting bacterial infections.
- Carotenoids: These pigments possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help to soothe and protect the skin, reducing the appearance of pimples and promoting skin health.
- Phenolic acids: These compounds have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to combat bacterial infections and reduce inflammation associated with pimples, promoting a healthy and clear complexion.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of pot marigold used to make tinctures for pimples.
- Flowers: They are the most commonly used part due to their high concentration of anti-inflammatory and antibacterial compounds, which help soothe and heal pimples.
- Leaves: Leaves of Calendula officinalis contain flavonoids and terpenoids, which contribute to their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, making them effective in treating pimples.
- Stems: Stems of Calendula officinalis may also be used, as they contain some of the same anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial compounds found in the flowers and leaves, which can aid in pimple treatment.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic pot marigold for pimples.
- Harvest the flowers of calendula officinalis when fully open and dry them thoroughly to prevent mold.
- Combine 1 part of the dried flowers with 2 parts of 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
- Store the jar in a cool dark place for 4 to 6 weeks to allow extraction.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter to remove the plant material.
- Transfer the tincture to small dark glass bottles and store it in a cool dark place for up to 2 years.
4. Aloe vera
Aloe tinctures helps with pimples because of its unique combination of anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and soothing properties.
When applied topically or taken internally as a supplement, aloe vera helps to reduce redness, swelling, and inflammation associated with acne-prone skin. Its antimicrobial agents also work to eliminate bacteria that can cause breakouts, while its moisturizing properties calm and hydrate the skin, reducing the appearance of pores and promoting healthy skin regeneration.
As a result, aloe tinctures provide a natural and effective solution for pimple-prone skin.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Aloe vera tinctures that help with pimples.
- Aloe-emodin: Aloe-emodin is a anthraquinone glycoside that helps with pimples by exhibiting anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which reduce redness and prevent bacterial infections that can cause acne.
- Aloe barbadensis polysaccharides: Aloe barbadensis polysaccharides are complex carbohydrates that help with pimples by stimulating the production of hyaluronic acid, which retains moisture and soothes the skin, reducing inflammation and promoting wound healing.
- Lupeol: Lupeol is a triterpene that helps with pimples by exerting anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which reduce the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and protect the skin from oxidative stress, thereby preventing the formation of acne lesions.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of aloe used to make tinctures for pimples.
- Leaves: Aloe vera leaves are the most commonly used part for treating pimples due to their high concentration of aloe-emodin, a compound that has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.
- Roots: Aloe vera roots are also used to treat pimples due to their content of aloin, a compound that has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, as well as its ability to reduce sebum production.
- Seeds: Aloe vera seeds are sometimes used in tinctures for pimples due to their content of fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals that can help to soothe and calm the skin.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic aloe for pimples.
- Harvest aloe vera leaves in the morning after the dew has evaporated and wash them thoroughly with cool water.
- Chop the aloe vera leaves into small pieces and combine them with 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
- Place the jar in a cool dark place and steep for 2-6 weeks shaking the jar every day.
- Strain the liquid through cheesecloth into another clean glass jar and discard the solids.
- Transfer the herbal tincture to glass dropper bottles and store them in a cool dark place for up to 2 years.
5. Taraxacum officinale
Dandelion tinctures helps with pimples because it is rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties that help to reduce redness and swelling.
The tannins present in dandelion roots also have a natural astringent effect, which can help to dry out acne-causing bacteria and reduce sebum production, thus preventing clogged pores. Additionally, dandelion's ability to stimulate digestion and promote detoxification can help to eliminate toxins from the body that may contribute to acne.
This makes dandelion tinctures a natural and effective remedy for combating pimples.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Taraxacum officinale tinctures that help with pimples.
- Taraxasterol: It helps to reduce inflammation and prevent acne formation by inhibiting the expression of pro-inflammatory enzymes and cytokines.
- Polysaccharides: They have antimicrobial properties that help to reduce the growth of bacteria, such as Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes), which is commonly associated with acne.
- Fatty acids: They help to regulate the skin's oil production, prevent clogged pores, and reduce inflammation, thereby preventing the formation of pimples.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of dandelion used to make tinctures for pimples.
- Leaves: Leaves: The leaves of Taraxacum officinale are used to make tinctures for pimples due to their antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Flowers: Flowers: The flowers of Taraxacum officinale are used to make tinctures for pimples due to their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
- Roots: Roots: The roots of Taraxacum officinale are used to make tinctures for pimples due to their anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic dandelion for pimples.
- Harvest taraxacum officinale roots and leaves in the spring or fall when the plant is not in flower.
- Clean the harvested plant material thoroughly to remove dirt and debris with distilled water.
- Combine 1 part taraxacum officinale plant material with 2 parts 80% ethanol in a glass jar.
- Steep the mixture in the dark for 2-6 weeks shaking the jar daily to ensure extraction.
- Strain the liquid mixture through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean glass container.
6. Geranium maculatum
Wild geranium tinctures helps with pimples because it is a natural anti-inflammatory and antibacterial agent that targets the root cause of acne.
The tincture's potent compounds, such as rosmarinic acid and flavonoids, work to reduce redness and swelling by calming irritated skin, while also combating bacteria that can clog pores and lead to breakouts.
Additionally, wild geranium's antiseptic properties help to purify the skin and promote a healthy balance of skin flora, resulting in clearer, more radiant skin.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Geranium maculatum tinctures that help with pimples.
- Tannins: Tannins in Geranium maculatum tinctures may help with pimples by reducing inflammation and preventing the spread of infection, thereby promoting a faster recovery of the affected skin.
- Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids in Geranium maculatum tinctures may help with pimples by exhibiting antimicrobial properties, which can help combat the bacterial infections that often lead to acne and pimples.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids in Geranium maculatum tinctures may help with pimples by possessing antioxidant properties that can reduce oxidative stress, inflammation, and free radical damage, all of which can contribute to the development of pimples and acne.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of wild geranium used to make tinctures for pimples.
- Roots: They are used to make tinctures due to their anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties that help soothe and reduce acne.
- Leaves: They are used to make tinctures due to their astringent and antibacterial properties that help reduce inflammation and prevent infection in pimples.
- Flowers: They are used to make tinctures due to their antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce redness and promote healing in acne-prone skin.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic wild geranium for pimples.
- Gather 1 cup of fresh geranium maculatum roots and stems harvested in the spring.
- Chop the plant material into small pieces to increase surface area for solvent penetration.
- Combine the chopped plant material with 2 cups of 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
- Store the jar in a cool dark place for 2-6 weeks shaking it every day to facilitate extraction.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into another clean glass bottle discarding the solids.
7. Echinacea angustifolia
Kansas coneflower tinctures helps with pimples because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties, which reduce redness and swelling associated with acne.
The tincture's antibacterial compounds also target P. acnes bacteria, the primary cause of pimples, preventing them from multiplying and spreading. Additionally, Kansas coneflower has been shown to have antioxidant properties, which help neutralize free radicals that can contribute to skin damage and hyperpigmentation, leaving skin looking clearer and more even-toned.
By addressing multiple factors contributing to acne, Kansas coneflower tincture provides a holistic approach to pimple treatment.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Echinacea angustifolia tinctures that help with pimples.
- Alkylamides: These compounds have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce redness and swelling associated with pimples.
- Iridoid glycosides: Iridoid glycosides have antimicrobial properties, which can help combat bacterial infections that can cause pimples.
- Caffeic acid derivatives: Caffeic acid derivatives have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation and promote wound healing, potentially helping to reduce pimple severity.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of kansas coneflower used to make tinctures for pimples.
- Roots: The roots of Echinacea angustifolia are commonly used because they contain a high concentration of echinacoside, a compound believed to have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.
- Buds: The buds of Echinacea angustifolia are used due to their high content of alkaloids, which may help reduce inflammation and combat bacterial infections that cause pimples.
- Leaves: The leaves of Echinacea angustifolia are also used for their antimicrobial properties, which can help combat acne-causing bacteria and reduce inflammation associated with pimples.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic kansas coneflower for pimples.
- Harvest fresh or dried roots of echinacea angustifolia in late summer or early fall when roots are fully developed.
- Clean and dry the roots to remove any dirt or debris using paper bags or a drying rack for 2 days.
- Chop the dried roots into small pieces using a sharp knife or a root cutter to increase surface area.
- Combine the chopped roots with 80 percent vodka or ethanol as a solvent in a 1:5 ratio by weight in a clean glass jar.
- Steep the mixture for 2 to 6 weeks in a cool dark place with occasional shaking to extract the medicinal compounds.
8. Hamamelis virginiana
American witch hazel tinctures helps with pimples because of its natural anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.
The tannins present in witch hazel have been shown to reduce inflammation and redness associated with acne, while also combating P. acnes bacteria that contribute to pimple formation. Additionally, the astringent qualities of witch hazel help to dry out pimples, reducing their appearance and preventing new ones from forming.
As a result, using herbal American witch hazel tinctures can be an effective way to alleviate acne symptoms and promote clear skin.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Hamamelis virginiana tinctures that help with pimples.
- Tannins: These astringent compounds help to reduce inflammation and prevent bacterial growth, which can contribute to the development and severity of pimples.
- Flavonoids: These antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds help to reduce redness, swelling, and inflammation associated with pimples, while also exhibiting antimicrobial properties to prevent infection.
- Hamamelitannin: A unique and potent astringent compound found in Hamamelis virginiana, hamamelitannin helps to reduce inflammation, prevent bacterial growth, and promote wound healing, all of which can contribute to the treatment and prevention of pimples.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of american witch hazel used to make tinctures for pimples.
- Leaves: The leaves of Hamamelis virginiana are commonly used to make tinctures due to their astringent and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce acne and prevent further breakouts.
- Barks: The barks of Hamamelis virginiana are used to make tinctures because they contain tannins and other compounds that help to dry out pimples, reduce inflammation, and prevent bacterial growth.
- Roots: The roots of Hamamelis virginiana are used to make tinctures due to their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which help to soothe and calm acne-prone skin, reducing the occurrence of pimples.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic american witch hazel for pimples.
- Harvest 1 part of the hamamelis virginiana leaves and twigs in the morning after the dew has dried.
- Chop the harvested plant material into small pieces to increase the surface area for extraction.
- Combine the chopped plant material with 2 parts of 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks shaking the jar every day.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean glass bottle discarding the solids.
9. Vaccinium macrocarpon
Highbush cranberry tinctures helps with pimples because of its natural antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties.
The herb's flavonoids and polyphenols work to reduce redness and swelling associated with acne, while also helping to combat the underlying bacterial infection that causes pimples. Additionally, highbush cranberry contains antioxidants that help to neutralize free radicals, which can damage skin cells and contribute to the formation of blemishes.
By reducing inflammation and promoting healthy skin cell growth, herbal highbush cranberry tinctures may provide a natural and effective solution for acne-prone skin.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Vaccinium macrocarpon tinctures that help with pimples.
- Proanthocyanidins: These flavonoids help reduce inflammation and prevent bacterial adhesion to skin cells, which can contribute to pimple formation.
- Anthocyanins: These powerful antioxidants combat oxidative stress and inflammation, which can lead to acne and pimple formation.
- Quinic acid: This organic compound may help reduce the production of sebum, an oily substance that can clog pores and contribute to acne.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of highbush cranberry used to make tinctures for pimples.
- Leaves: Known for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help soothe and calm the skin.
- Fruits: Rich in antioxidants and flavonoids, which may help to reduce inflammation and promote healthy skin.
- Barks: May contain compounds that have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help to reduce acne and promote skin health.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic highbush cranberry for pimples.
- Harvest vaccinium macrocarpon berries in late summer when they are ripe and fully colored.
- Clean the berries by rinsing them with water and remove any stems or debris.
- Combine 1 part vaccinium macrocarpon berries with 2 parts vodka in a clean glass jar.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2-6 weeks shaking the jar occasionally.
- Strain the mixture through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle.
10. Althaea officinalis
Marshmallow tinctures helps with pimples because of its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.
The saponins present in marshmallow root have been shown to soothe and calm irritated skin, reducing redness and swelling associated with acne. Additionally, the tincture's antimicrobial activity helps to eliminate P. acnes bacteria, a common cause of pimples.
As the tincture absorbs into the skin, it provides a gentle yet effective treatment for breakouts, promoting healthy skin and a clear complexion.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Althaea officinalis tinctures that help with pimples.
- Mucilages: These complex carbohydrates help soothe and calm the skin, reducing inflammation and redness associated with pimples.
- Flavonoids: Acting as antioxidants, flavonoids in Althaea officinalis help protect the skin from oxidative stress, which can contribute to pimple formation and severity.
- Polyphenolic acids: These compounds have anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce the severity of pimples by minimizing inflammation and promoting the healing process.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of marshmallow used to make tinctures for pimples.
- Roots: Althaea officinalis roots are commonly used to make tinctures for pimples due to their anti-inflammatory properties.
- Leaves: Althaea officinalis leaves are used to make tinctures for pimples because of their soothing and calming effects on the skin.
- Barks: Althaea officinalis barks are used to make tinctures for pimples due to their astringent properties that help reduce inflammation and promote skin healing.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic marshmallow for pimples.
- Harvest 1 part of clean dried roots of the plant and chop them into small pieces for efficient extraction.
- Combine the chopped roots with 2 parts of high-proof vodka in a clean glass jar for a ratio of 1:2.
- Store the mixture in a cool dark place for 2-6 weeks to allow for maximum solvent extraction.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into another clean glass container to remove solids.
- Discard the solids and transfer the tincture to dark glass bottles with dropper lids for long-term storage.
What is the best combination of herbal tinctures to use for pimples?
The best combination of herbal tinctures that help with pimples is a blend of Calendula, Tea Tree, and Echinacea.
Calendula tincture soothes and calms the skin, reducing inflammation and promoting healing. Tea Tree tincture has antimicrobial properties that combat acne-causing bacteria.
Echinacea tincture boosts the immune system and fights off infections. Combining these three tinctures can help to reduce pimple severity, prevent scarring, and promote healthy skin.
Use 5-10 drops of each tincture in a carrier oil or water three times a day.
What ailments similar to pimples are treated with herbal tinctures?
Ailments similar to pimples/tinctures.html">pimples/tinctures.html">pimples that are treated with herbal tinctures are acne, rosacea, eczema, and psoriasis.
These conditions cause inflammation, redness, and breakouts on the skin, which can be soothed and reduced with herbal remedies. Tinctures made from herbs like tea tree oil, lavender, chamomile, and calendula have antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and soothing properties that help to calm and clear the skin.
These tinctures can be used topically or taken internally to promote overall skin health and reduce symptoms of these common skin issues.