Hormonal acne is a common skin condition that affects both men and women, it can cause painful and unsightly breakouts around the chin, nose, and/or forehead. This type of acne is triggered by fluctuations in hormone levels that can be caused by many different factors such as stress, diet changes, or excessive toxin exposure.
Fortunately, there are several natural remedies available to help treat this type of acne. Adaptogens are herbs that help to balance our hormones naturally, reducing inflammation and regulating oil production – leading to fewer breakouts.
In this article, we will discuss the different types of adaptogens that can help with hormonal acne as well as how they should be used for the best results.
What are Adaptogens?
Adaptogens are substances believed to help the body resist stress and improve overall health. As a result, adaptogens have become popular in many different treatments, including hormonal acne. Adaptogens work by modulating cortisol levels within the body and helping to reduce stress-induced inflammation.
Adaptogens are herbs, mushrooms, and plants that have been used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine, Ayurveda, and Native American healing practices. These natural remedies are believed to increase energy levels, improve moods, support digestive health, and protect against oxidative damage caused by free radicals.
Adaptogenic herbs help the body endure physical or psychological stressors while restoring balance to our various bodily systems. Some examples of adaptogenic herbs include ashwagandha (also known as Indian ginseng), Rhodiola Rosea root Extract, Holy Basil extract (Tulsi), maca root powder, reishi mushroom powder, licorice Root Extract, Chaga mushroom extract, Astragalus Root Extract.
Each of these herbs has its own unique benefits; however, when combined together, they synergistically address imbalances within the endocrine system related to hormones such as cortisol and testosterone. As a result of their broad spectrum effects on the body’s vitality and hormones, adaptogenic herbs can be beneficial for people who suffer from acne due to hormonal imbalances.
Benefits of Adaptogens for Hormonal Acne
Adaptogens are special herbs and roots known for their powerful ability to help the body cope with stress. While adaptogens are generally safe for everyone, there are dozens of specific adaptogenic herbs that can provide an array of health benefits.
In particular, research shows that certain adaptogens may be linked to improved skin health and management of hormonal acne when used alongside a healthy lifestyle.
Although more studies need to be done on the effectiveness of adaptogens for acne, many anecdotal reports from people show that these herbs may offer promising results when used correctly and regularly. Let’s take an in-depth look at how these natural remedies work and how you can use them for improving skin health and treating severe hormonal acne breakouts.
The main benefit of using adaptogens is their ability to substantially reduce stress levels by aiding the body’s natural balance. Stress can be a major contributor to inflammation, making it difficult for skin cells to cope with harsh conditions like hormonal fluctuations caused by menstrual cycles or entering the perimenopause phase.
By reducing inflammation through controlled supplement intake of adaptogen herbs, your skin will not only benefit from the appropriate cellular response but will also feel less reactive when exposed to extreme temperatures or climate change. For those with severe hormonal acne conditions, this could mean more control over their breakouts – leading to fewer flare-ups throughout the year!
Types of Adaptogens
Adaptogens are herbs and mushrooms that are known to help your body adapt to physical and mental stress. In terms of hormonal acne, adaptogens can help regulate hormones and reduce inflammation, both of which contribute to skin breakouts.
There are a variety of types of adaptogens, each with its own unique properties. In this article, we will take a look at the different types of adaptogens and how they can help with hormonal acne.
Ashwagandha
One of the most potent adaptogens found in nature is the root extract of Ashwagandha, also known as Withania somnifera. It belongs to the family Solanaceae which includes tomatoes, peppers, and potatoes.
This herb has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for thousands of years to energize and improve balance within one’s body. Ancient medicinal sources have documented it is used to reduce inflammation and stress, improve sleep, boost libido, and provide antioxidant protection from free radicals analysis.
Modern scientific research has also identified a wide range of health benefits related to the use of Ashwagandha root extract, such as: helping regulate hormones; reducing cortisol levels; reducing stress and anxiety; improving cognitive function; improving thyroid functioning; regulating blood sugar levels; reducing inflammation; promoting restful sleep; enhancing athletic performance and recovery capability; increasing libido. However, additional clinical trials are needed to confirm these benefits.
When it comes to hormonal acne specifically – Ashwagandha can help normalize hormones by improving pancreatic health and metabolism along with stressing hormone imbalances such as low testosterone in men or irregular cycles in women Thus by restoring cortisol balance you can reduce skin inflammation, breakouts, redness, dryness, etc while making sure that your body is not overproducing oil which is another big factor causing hormonal acne.
Rhodiola Rosea
Rhodiola Rosea is an adaptogenic herb that is widely used to help fight physical, mental, and emotional stress. It’s a potent antioxidant that can help to reduce inflammation, improve immune system functioning, and balance hormones. Rhodiola Rosea has been shown to enhance energy levels, increase endurance and stamina, and even improve cognitive functioning.
In terms of hormonal acne management, this adaptogen can help to restore balance in the body’s delicate biochemistry, reducing flares of acne-causing hormones such as cortisol. Rhodiola Rosea also helps support liver function and detoxification which also plays a role in clearing up hormonal acne.
The recommended dosage of Rhodiola Rosea for optimal therapeutic benefit is typically between 400-600mg taken three times daily for several weeks or months (depending on individual needs). This adaptogen is usually sold in either 200mg capsules or liquid extracts at a ratio of 1:3 (1 part herb by volume to 3 parts ethanol).
Holy Basil
Holy Basil, also known as Tulsi in India, is an adaptogenic herb traditionally used in Ayurveda and Siddha medicine. It belongs to the Lamiaceae family and has been used for centuries as an important medicinal herb to treat many illnesses. Holy Basil has calming effects that help to relieve stress, reduce anxiety and depression, and promote relaxation.
This powerful herb has a long history of medical use with documented evidence of its ability to support the body’s natural healing processes. Research suggests that it may possess anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, antibacterial, and antiviral properties.
Furthermore, Holy Basil is thought to act as a powerful antioxidant that can scavenge free radicals in the body while also aiding detoxification processes by boosting glutathione levels.
Holy Basil is rich in vitamins A, C, and K and has many advantages including minerals like calcium and magnesium. Additionally, it provides several nutrients such as flavonoids and antioxidants that assist in providing structural heart health support by maintaining healthy cholesterol levels.
Holy basil also acts as a natural adaptogen by supporting homeostasis within the body which helps improve energy levels along with mental clarity. Therefore it is considered effective for promoting total body balance when dealing with a fatigued state due to stress or other lifestyle challenges such as insomnia or poor digestion.
Maca
Maca is a powerful adaptogenic herb that can help balance the hormones in both women and men. It is relatively gentle and well-tolerated but should be used with caution if you are taking other medications or supplements.
Maca is a root vegetable that is native to the Peruvian Andes, and it has traditionally been used to improve libido, fertility, skin health, hair health, cognitive function, fatigue, hormonal imbalances, and muscle performance.
In terms of how maca works in the body, it increases stamina, energy levels, and endurance by optimizing cortisol levels. The liver also benefits from maca because this herb has many antioxidants that can help reduce oxidative stress in the body. By reducing inflammation in the body’s organs and tissues, maca helps to increase blood flow and boost immunity as well.
When it comes to skin health specifically, maca can help reduce certain types of acne including hormonal acne caused by imbalanced hormones such as estrogen or testosterone.
It promotes healthy hormone levels while providing vitamins A, B2 (riboflavin), B6 (pyridoxine), C (ascorbic acid) E, calcium, iron, zinc, iodine, magnesium, phosphorous, selenium, and fatty acids too. This makes it an amazing supplement that promotes top-notch skin health without any adverse side effects due to its natural nature.
Ginseng
Ginseng (Panax ginseng) is one of the most popular adaptogens used to reduce symptoms of hormonal acne. Studies suggest that this plant may help improve skin tone, reduce inflammation, and promote healthy behavior in regard to hormones. It has long been known as an energizing herb, particularly for its ability to lower cortisol levels and improve the immune defense.
Ginseng’s active components have a stimulating effect on the gonads, which helps regulate hormone production throughout the body. It can also increase blood circulation and metabolism, helping the body make better use of nutrients and detoxify more efficiently.
Ginseng is believed to be particularly effective when taken over time, but it’s important to note that too much can cause unwanted side effects such as insomnia or abdominal discomfort.
How to Use Adaptogens for Hormonal Acne
Adaptogens are natural plant extracts that have been used for centuries to help with stress and chronic conditions like hormonal acne. These powerful substances are able to regulate the body’s stress response as well as support healthy hormone balance.
In this article, you will learn how to use adaptogens to target hormonal acne, what to look for in adaptogens and which ones are more effective in treating acne.
Topical Applications
Adaptogens are beneficial for skin health in many other ways as opposed to just using them orally. Taking them topically through creams, lotions, and oils gives your body a fast track to where it needs to go.
Topical applications are also beneficial as they can be used directly on the affected areas of your skin that are battling against hormonal acne breakouts. Here are some of the ways you can use adaptogens topically:
• Beetroot: Beetroot extract reduces inflammation and provides antioxidant benefits making it a great choice for topical application. Beetroot has been found to be beneficial in controlling and relieving acne. Applying beetroot directly on the affected area helps relieve redness and swelling while preventing further breakouts.
• Ginseng: This adaptogen is one of the most popular choices for those dealing with hormonal acne since it helps regulate hormones in the body, which can be beneficial for treating breakouts. Ginseng extract enters through the epidermis layers, making it an ideal choice for treating acne from within. Applying ginseng topically can help even out pigmentation caused by previous breakouts as well as reduce scarring and redness on existing lesions.
• Ashwagandha: Ashwagandha has powerful anti-acne properties, thanks to its ability to reduce inflammation in skin cells without drying them out like other topical agents would do (1). It also keeps oil secretion at bay while promoting cell regeneration, so any lingering redness gets cleared up quickly and efficiently when ashwagandha is applied topically (2). For best results, apply ashwagandha oil on clean skin every day before bedtime or whenever needed throughout the day.
Internal Consumption
The most common way to use adaptogens for hormonal acne is by consuming them internally. Many adaptogenic herbs, mushrooms, and compounds can be taken in the form of pills or powders added to drinks.
Typical methods of internal consumption are as follows:
Pills: Adaptogens in pill or capsule form can be beneficial if you prefer not to drink teas and tinctures, or add powders to food and drinks. Taking the pill with a glass of water can help the body better absorb the full range of benefits.
Powders: An increasing number of powdered adaptogens are now available for adding to everything from smoothies and juices to acai bowls and ice cream. Keep in mind that some have a more intense flavor than others, so experiment until you find one that works best for you.
Teas/Tinctures: There’s nothing quite like a hot cup of herbal tea for calming the stress response and relaxing your body before bedtime! Adaptogen-infused teas are an easy way to enjoy these benefits without the hassle or extra effort. Similarly, tinctures, made from concentrated plant extract dissolved in alcohol (or vinegar) allow you to experience the same effects by taking just a few drops every day with water or combining it into your favorite drinks.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the use of adaptogenic herbs provides a natural safe approach to addressing hormonal acne. By supporting the body’s endocrine system and providing an increase in overall well-being these herbs can help to manage excess sebum production and reduce blemishes naturally. Be sure to consult with a healthcare provider before incorporating any new herb or supplement into your daily routine.
Additionally, discuss how you are currently managing your hormonal acne and what type of lifestyle choices you are making with him or her as well. Remember, it’s important to find a healing plan that works for you, that can be tailored to honor your individual needs, and bridge the gap between western and eastern treatments of skin health.
