Essential Oils Can Play a Role In Treating Acne

Have you tried using essential oils to treat your acne? Me? I have. We know that these oils are part of the medical therapy for many years. The medical field recognizes its components and power of healing although it has been replaced with prescription medications. Several studies have been explored to discover the use of essential oils (tea tree oil) on skin condition, particularly acne. I think those over the counter, with preservatives and other synthetic compound, are effective but have some side effects which might not be safe for long-term use. Based on studies, the effect is just minimal and no toxicity is reported. Still, beware.

Essential oils are derived from plants. They are made up of a number of different compounds; many of them are aromatic oils and have well-documented medicinal properties. These oils are extracted from different parts of the plant through steam distillation or, in some cases, extracted with alcohol. Essential oils are commonly found in perfumes, many cosmetics, cleaning products and food flavorings.  

Acne is probably the most common skin condition. Approximately 50 million Americans are affected by acne every year. Almost everyone remembering back to the teen years can recall experiencing the acne scourge. Essential oils may provide some needed relief.  

One 2012 study, published in the medical journal Alternative Medicine Review, demonstrated in a double-blind placebo-controlled manner that the essential oil copaiba (South American tree) was significantly better than a placebo in reducing acne. Another 2012 medical study demonstrated that essential oils from orange and sweet basil were also very effective in the treatment of acne (45 percent to 78 percent resolution). 

In this study, they demonstrated that one mechanism of action for these two essential oils was the inhibition of bacterial growth. Tea tree oil has been used in a number of studies specifically for acne. It seems to have significant antibacterial activity especially for the acne-causing bacteria Propionibacterium acnes. 

Throughout history, the application of essential oils was done by those who had expertise in their use. Today is no different. The indiscriminate use of essential oil for the treatment of acne by those who are unqualified can result in skin damage as well as allergic reactions. In addition, some essential oils are potentially carcinogenic. A certificate of certification in the use of essential oils is highly recommended.

Source: http://www.dailyherald.com/article/20130415/entlife/704159983/?interstitial=1

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