Many skin ailments, such as redness, irritation and inflammation can be helped by herbal remedies. Many herbal treatments have made their way into over-the-counter and prescription medications from having clinical trials show their merit. Before starting any herbal remedy, whether topical or oral, check with a doctor to find out how it may affect the condition being treated first.
Uva Ursi
Leaves of the bearberry, botanically named uva ursi, have been a traditional remedy for cystitits. Clinical trials are being conducted to test the bearberry for use in hyperpigmentation, or skin conditions that discolor the skin. According to Wellness.com, more clinical trials are needed to access the effectiveness of uva ursi for skin discoloration. Side effects include diarrhea, stomach upset, nausea, insomnia, seizures and convulsions.
Tea Tree Oil
Traditionally an antiseptic, tea tree oil functions to prevent and help infections. Many clinical trial studies focus on its antimicrobial and antifungal properties, finding its effectiveness for things like acne, vaginal infections, and toenail fungus. According to Wellness.com, There is promising beginning reports for its use in acne, athlete’s foot, and allergic skin reactions. More clinical testing is needed in these areas to determine tea tree oil’s full use. Side effects include diarrhea, drowsiness, nausea, lethargy, stomach pain and allergic reactions like skin redness and inflammation.
Thyme
An herbal remedy with thousands of years of use, thyme traditionally has been used for antioxidant and antimicrobial functions. A derivative of thyme, thymol, is in many mouthwashes for its antiseptic properties. According to Wellness.com, clinical testing for thyme has been for use in dental plaque, hair loss, coughs, and for inflammatory skin disorders. More testing is needed to determine its topical effect on skin conditions, but preliminary results are mixed. Side effects include dizziness, headache, nausea, vomiting, heartburn, muscle weakness and gastrointestinal irritation.
Aloe
Aloe is in many over-the-counter skin remedies include after-sun formulas for sunburn relief. Topically it is used for burns, infections and wound care. According to Medline Plus, a service of the National Institutes of Health, clinical trials have shown promise using aloe for psoriasis and seborrheic dermatitis in skin remedies. Side effects of aloe include redness, slower healing and burning. Taken by mouth, aloe side effects are cramping, diarrhea, constipation, lowered blood sugar and muscle weakness.
Clinical trials are always in various stages of completion. Checking with Clinicaltrials.gov is a way to see what is being studied and when. Arming oneself with knowledge is the best way to further personal health care.
