Pimples and acne are among the most common skin problems we experience. While medications can help, natural home remedies are becoming increasingly popular.
Ayurveda is an ancient natural healing practice that has a different approach to treating pimples and acne. In this article, we will shed more light on this approach and the various Ayurvedic recipes that can help you achieve clear skin without acne.
Pimples or acne caused by a vata imbalance are characterized by dry skin. This is the result of poor digestion and the accumulation of toxins in the body. On the other hand, pimples and acne caused by kapha dosha are characterized by oily skin. These occur due to a kapha imbalance, where your skin produces excess sebum that clogs the pores.
Ayurveda prescribes natural combinations of specialized herbs (for topical application and consumption) that help eliminate toxins from your system and treat pimples and acne.
The 8 Best Ayurvedic Treatments for Pimples and Acne
Basil and Turmeric
Basil helps improve blood sugar levels and reduce stress (which is believed to aggravate acne). The application of basil and turmeric has therapeutic effects on the skin. This Ayurvedic remedy helps minimize pimples and acne.
You will need:
20 basil leaves
2 teaspoons of turmeric
What to do:
1. Grind the basil leaves and turmeric in a food processor.
2. Store the mixture in a jar.
3. Consume half a teaspoon mixed with water, 15-20 minutes before meals.
4. Alternatively, you can apply the mixture to the affected area and rinse it off after it dries.
How often?
3 times a day before breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Neem Leaves and Rose Water
Neem has antibacterial effects and is a powerful Ayurvedic remedy. It can help minimize the bacteria that cause acne. It is also believed to restore the healthy pH balance of the skin. Rose water has an anti-inflammatory effect on the skin.
You will need:
5 neem leaves
2 tablespoons of rose water
What to do:
1. Boil the neem leaves in water for 2-3 minutes. Grind the leaves in a food processor until you obtain a thick paste.
2. Add the rose water to the paste and apply the mixture to your face. Let the mask work until it dries.
3. Rinse with water.
How often?
3-4 times a week.
Lemon and Water
Lemon contains vitamin C. Topical vitamin C is a powerful anti-inflammatory ingredient and is useful in healing inflammatory conditions such as acne. However, avoid using lemon if you have sensitive skin, as it may cause further irritation.
You will need:
1 lemon
Distilled water
Cotton pads
What to do:
1. Squeeze the juice from one lemon into a cup and dilute it with two tablespoons of distilled water.
2. Apply the tonic to your face with cotton pads.
3. Leave it on overnight and rinse the next day.
How often?
Every day before bedtime.
Honey
Honey is widely used in Ayurvedic remedies for treating various skin and health conditions. It has antibacterial properties and is known to inhibit at least 60 different strains of bacteria.
You will need:
1 tablespoon of raw honey (or Manuka honey)
What to do:
1. Dip a cotton pad in honey.
2. Apply it to the affected area.
3. Leave it on for at least 30 minutes.
4. Rinse.
How often?
1-2 times a day.
Coriander and Cinnamon
Coriander has antimicrobial properties that can be effective against S. aureus bacteria. Cinnamon has anti-inflammatory properties and has been found to heal acne lesions.
You will need:
A few coriander leaves
1 tablespoon of cinnamon powder
What to do:
1. Make an infusion of coriander leaves and add cinnamon powder to it.
2. Store the tea in a jar with a lid.
3. Apply to the affected area.
4. Let it work for a few minutes and then rinse.
How often?
2 times a day.
Papaya and Sandalwood
In Ayurveda, red sandalwood is widely used for healing inflammation and wounds.
You will need:
1/2 papaya
1 tablespoon of sandalwood powder (or red sandalwood)
What to do:
1. Put the papaya and add sandalwood powder in a blender. Add a few drops of water to form a smooth paste.
2. Apply the mask to your face and let it work for 15-30 minutes.
3. Rinse and dry with a clean towel.
How often?
2-3 times a week.
Potato and Raisins
Anecdotal evidence suggests that a face mask made with potatoes and raisins can fight the bacteria that cause acne. The mixture can also add a natural glow to the skin.
You will need:
1 medium-sized potato
1 tablespoon of raisins
What to do:
1. Cut the potato into slices. Add them to a food processor along with the raisins and blend until you obtain a smooth mixture.
2. Apply the paste to your face and let it dry.
3. Rinse the mask and dry with a clean towel.
How often?
3-4 times a week.
Gooseberry and Fennel
Gooseberry has anti-inflammatory and wound-healing effects. Fennel contains anethole, a bioactive compound. Both can help treat inflammation associated with acne.
You will need:
3-4 gooseberries
1 tablespoon of fennel seeds
What to do:
1. Cut the gooseberries into small pieces. Blend them together with the fennel seeds in a food processor. Store the mixture in a closed jar.
2. Mix one tablespoon of the mixture in water and drink.
How often?
2 times a day, once in the morning and once in the evening.
Additional Tips to Reduce the Risk of Pimples and Acne
Avoid processed foods.
Increase your intake of fresh vegetables, whole grains, seafood, and lean meat. Ensure you have balanced meals.
Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water and other healthy liquids.
Avoid excessive use of cosmetic products. Try to use non-comedogenic products that do not contain harmful chemicals.
Get 7-8 hours of sleep each night. Your skin needs time to heal itself.
Beauty comes from within, and this is also true for Ayurvedic remedies. Once you restore the imbalances in your body with a healthy diet, an appropriate skincare routine, and a healthy lifestyle, you will start to see results. While mild to moderate pimples and acne may heal with these remedies, more severe cases may require medical intervention.
