Many people have been using herbal medicine and essential oils for thousands of years for health promotion and treatment of conditions, including dermatological conditions. More and more people are turning to these integrative approaches because it is an affordable option for their health. Regarding dermatological use, herbs and essential oils have been commonly used for various skin conditions. For example, up to 90 different essential oils are identified as being recommended for dermatological use. This article will explore what essential oils and herbal medicine are, how they are used as an integrative approach in dermatology, and the various skin conditions they have been commonly used to treat.
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What are Essential Oils?
Essential oils are concentrated plant extracts. These oils are obtained through a process of mechanical pressing or distillation and are made to retain the smell and flavor. They are usually made from different parts of the plant, including the plant, flowers, leaves, and fruit, to capture the compounds of the plants. These compounds can vary from each plant species and plant to plant. Essential oils can be used for therapeutic effects, which is called aromatherapy. Each essential oil has unique compounds which can affect the body differently. Therefore it is crucial to use them properly for safety and effectiveness. It is important to note that synthetic oils are not considered real essential oils.
What is Herbal Medicine?
Herbal medicine uses plants or products made from plants to improve our health or treat diseases. Herbal medicine can also be referred to as botanical medicine or phytomedicine. Herbal medicines can come in various forms, such as dried, chopped, powdered, capsules, or liquids. This medicine can be administered orally as a tincture, tea, or supplementation. They can also be applied as a lotion, gel, or cream on the skin. The use of herbal medicine has existed for thousands of years, and many people in America still use it today. It is mainly used for chronic conditions and overall health instead of life-threatening acute conditions.
Herbal medicine may also be considered when conventional treatments aren't working to treat the condition. Many people use this form of medicine as the primary form of medicine or as adjunctive care with conventional medicine. A common misperception is that herbal medicine is generally very safe and non-toxic. However, this isn't always the case, as they can have interactions with other medications or supplements, and some products may not contain what they are supposed to. Therefore, it is recommended to ensure the quality of the herbal medicine by consulting with a qualified integrative or functional medicine practitioner. It's important also to note that from a functional medicine perspective, herbal medicine should not be used only to alleviate symptoms but to address underlying imbalances that may be contributing to or causing the condition while promoting the body's innate healing response.
How are Essential Oils Used in Dermatology?
Essential oils are often used to treat many different dermatological conditions. They are most often used as an antimicrobial for addressing infections on the skin. For instance, essential oils have effectively treated acne caused by the pathogens Propionibacterium acnes and S. epidermidis. Keep in mind that acne can have multiple causes. Essential oils like wrinkles, scars, and oily skin are also used for beauty. Many of these oils are effective for numerous conditions as a microdilution. Microdilution is considered the gold standard in dilution processes for testing essential oils. Here are some common uses of essential oils in dermatology. It is important to use caution in inflammatory skin conditions such as eczema, as they can trigger further irritation. The essential oils' applications are unavailable per the evidence for some conditions mentioned below. For the oils without applications, along with incorporating any essential oils into your health protocol, discussing your options with a qualified functional medicine practitioner specializing in aromatherapy is recommended.
Essential Oils For Inflammatory Skin Conditions
One of the top essential oils for inflammatory skin conditions is:
Lavender Oil
Lavender oil has been frequently used to treat eczema and psoriasis due to its antibacterial, antifungal, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties. This essential oil is known for various benefits and has been shown to improve other skin conditions such as acne, warts, fungal infections, and scarring. It is commonly applied directly without dilution, and the oil will get absorbed quickly, improving skin condition.
Essential Oils For Acne
The following oils are evidenced to help treat acne:
Eucalyptus Oil
Eucalyptus has antibacterial, antifungal, analgesic, and even anticancer properties. These properties are linked to its reported anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. Eucalyptus oil has also been effective in reducing sebum production associated with the formation of acne. Another benefit is its ability to reduce acne scars and even skin tone. An application recommendation is an oil-in-water cream containing 2% eucalyptus oil for acne.
Myrtle Oil
Myrtle oil has shown promising antimicrobial and antioxidant properties. This oil has been found to inhibit the growth of various bacteria, including those associated with acne. The oil also exhibits anti-inflammatory effects and can reduce redness and inflammation on the skin. Applied topically, it has effectively removed sebum and dead skin cells.
Thyme Oil
Thyme oil is another natural remedy for acne due to its antiseptic, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory effects. It effectively fights against pathogenic bacteria associated with acne and can be used as an alternative to conventional antibacterial agents. Thyme oil is typically applied topically and has been found to inhibit bacterial growth and reduce inflammation, making it a promising treatment option for acne.
Essential Oils For Athlete's Foot
Essential oils can also be used to benefit Athlete's foot:
Marigold
This essential oil can help treat athlete's foot and other fungal infections as a microdilution. Marigold was also effective against inflammation, burns, and cuts. Evidence-based applications are not mentioned in the studies.
Essential Oils For Beauty
Healthcare practitioners recommend the following essential oils for beauty:
Yarrow
Yarrow is a multi-purpose oil and is considered an antimicrobial shown to be effective as a microdilution against candida and other pathogens. It is also helpful as a healing agent in treating rashes, scars, and oily conditions. Evidence-based applications are not mentioned in the studies for Yarrow.
Rosewood
The essential oil Rosewood has been shown to have multiple benefits, including beauty. This oil can help with damaged skin, scarring, regeneration, and wrinkles, along with greasy and oily conditions. Rosewood has also improved acne, dermatitis, psoriasis, and inflammation. The studies were based on the microdilution of this oil, and the applications are not mentioned.
Coriander
Coriander essential oil has been shown to have potent anti-aging properties, making it a valuable ingredient in skincare products. It effectively inhibits enzymes associated with wrinkles and promotes collagen synthesis. Coriander oil creams and lipid nanoparticles loaded with coriander oil have been shown to reduce skin aging caused by UV exposure, decreasing oxidative stress and inflammation while increasing collagen levels. These findings suggest that coriander oil can help improve the signs of aging when applied topically.
Essential Oils For Warts
Essential oils can be utilized for the treatment of warts:
Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil (TTO) is a generally safe natural substance that can be used for multiple skin conditions, including eczema, psoriasis, acne, and warts. It has antimicrobial properties, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic, which can make it effective for these inflammatory skin conditions. You can find TTO in its pure oil form or as an ingredient in various antiseptic and antibacterial products like soaps, creams, toothpaste, mouthwashes, balms, and acne serums. Using TTO externally on the body is generally safe. However, some may be sensitive or allergic to it. TTO is absorbed into the skin within 30 minutes after application.
Essential Oils For Cold Sores
The following essential oils can be effective at treating cold sores:
Lemon Balm
Lemon balm may be effective against cold sores and other conditions like allergies, eczema, fungal infections, inflammation, insect stings, ulcers, and wounds. The studies were based on the microdilution of lemon balm, and the applications were not mentioned.
Peppermint Oil
Peppermint oil can help alleviate cold sores due to its antiviral properties. This oil may be effective as a microdilution against HSV 1, the virus that can lead to cold sores. Peppermint oil can also help reduce pain and itching. It can also promote healing of the affected area. The exact application was not mentioned in the studies.
How are Herbs Used in Dermatology?
The skin is a vital organ that protects our body from the outside world and helps maintain health. When the skin becomes inflamed, it can negatively affect its function and appearance. Herbs can be beneficial for treating skin conditions, including inflammatory ones. They often have benefits for multiple skin conditions. Here are some commonly used herbs in functional medicine and their applications.
Herbs For Eczema
Below are the essential oils that healthcare practitioners recommend for reducing eczema:
German Chamomile
The flower of German Chamomile is a beneficial herb for various skin conditions such as inflammation, bacterial infections, rashes, eczema, wounds, frostbite, and insect bites. It can be used in baths, compresses, rinses, and poultices. Studies show that ointments and creams containing this extract are more effective in treating eczema than hydrocortisone creams at alleviating symptoms like itching, redness, and flaking.
Marshmallow
Marshmallow is a plant native to Europe and contains mucilage polysaccharides with anti-inflammatory properties. Marshmallow root extract stimulates immune cells and reduces UV-induced irritation. It is used externally as an ointment containing the root extract (20%) for conditions like furunculosis, eczema, and dermatitis.
Evening Primrose Oil
Evening Primrose Oil, taken internally, treats and alleviates symptoms of atopic eczema. Clinical studies have shown that it improves inflammation, dryness, exfoliation, and itching compared to a placebo. The oil increases dihomo-gamma-linolenic acid (DGLA) levels in the skin, which is vital for maintaining a healthy skin barrier. Furthermore, supplementation with this oil at 2-4 grams has shown improvements in eczema severity, including a reduction in itching and scaling.
Herbs For Wounds
Herbs can be used to help heal wounds. In particular, Echinacea has been utilized for this purpose.
Echinacea purpurea
Echinacea is a native plant in the United States, known for its large purple flower heads. It contains beneficial compounds like caffeic acid derivatives. Echinacea extracts have shown anti-inflammatory effects by reducing prostaglandin synthesis. It can be used topically as expressed juice or dried expressed juice for minor wounds and skin inflammation. However, hypersensitive and allergic reactions are possible, so prolonged use and use in young children should be avoided.
Herbs For Warts
These herbs are particularly useful for treating warts:
Green Tea
Green tea is often known for its antioxidant properties. Opt for caffeine-free products or prepare teas using the herb's leaves. Green tea extract ointment has been found to be effective in treating genital and anal warts.
Reishi Mushroom
Reishi mushroom is known for its antiviral properties and immune-boosting benefits, which can be helpful in the treatment of warts. This can be taken as a supplement in a capsule or as a tincture. Reishi mushrooms can lower blood pressure and inhibit blood clotting, so consult your doctor if you take any heart medications.
Olive Leaf
Olive leaf is known for its antiviral properties and immune-boosting effects, making it effective for warts. Tea made from the leaf of this herb is an option, along with taking this in supplement form. It's important to note that olive leaf may have potential blood pressure-lowering and blood sugar-reducing effects.
Herbs For Beauty
These herbs are specifically helpful for enhancing beauty:
Coffea Arabica
Extract from coffee fruits contains powerful antioxidants like Chlorogenic acid, proanthocyanidins, Quinic acid, and Ferulic acid. These compounds help improve the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, pigmentation, and overall skin condition.
Burdock
Burdock, or Arctium lappa, exhibits anti-inflammatory effects by inhibiting IL-6 and TNF-α, protecting against chronic tissue inflammation. It also stimulates connective tissue metabolism, promoting collagen and hyaluronan synthesis for skin regeneration. The topical application of A. lappa fruit extract reduces wrinkles and addresses subclinical aging processes.
Licorice
Licorice extract, containing glabridin, glabrene, isoliquiritigenin, isoliquiritin, and licochalcone A, is a safe and effective pigment-lightening agent. It inhibits tyrosinase activity, reducing melanin production. Liquiritin, another active ingredient, helps lighten the skin by dispersing melanin. Topical application of licorice extract can promote a more even skin tone and reduce hyperpigmentation.
Hops
Extracts from the hops plant have benefits in preventing skin aging and treating issues like loose skin, stretch marks, and sagging. Hops extracts can help improve the overall appearance and firmness of the skin.
Top Functional Medicine Labs That Can Help Individualize Treatment for Skin Disorders
Functional medicine practitioners order the following labs to help detect underlying causes of skin disorders:
Comprehensive Stool Tests
By conducting a comprehensive stool test, you can gain valuable information about the balance of gut bacteria, inflammatory markers, and the presence of leaky gut using zonulin as a key biomarker. Research consistently demonstrates that enhancing gut barrier function can positively impact skin barrier function.
Hormone Panel
Testing for hormones for skin conditions such as acne is important. Acne often results from hormone imbalances, particularly an excess of androgen hormones. Conditions like PCOS, characterized by elevated androgens, frequently lead to acne. Hormonal fluctuations during puberty, pregnancy, postpartum, and menopause can also trigger acne. Additionally, increased insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) levels contribute to acne by promoting sebaceous gland growth and excess sebum production.
Food Sensitivity Panel
Certain skin conditions, such as acne, may be influenced by specific food reactions. Dairy products and sugar, for instance, are linked to acne due to their potential to raise IGF-1 levels. Moreover, food sensitivities can disrupt gut health, leading to dysbiosis and increased intestinal permeability, commonly referred to as "leaky gut," which can contribute to the development of acne.
Micronutrient Panel
This micronutrient test examines 40 essential vitamins, minerals, amino acids, fatty acids, and other markers. Nutrient deficiencies have been associated with the susceptibility of warts. Zinc deficiency, for instance, has been linked to increased occurrence of warts. Adequate levels of various micronutrients are crucial for a strong immune response, including defense against HPV, the virus that causes warts.
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Summary
Essential oils and herbal medicine can be an effective way to improve skin conditions and overall skin health. They have been beneficial for inflammatory skin conditions like acne, warts, and cold sores. Essential oils and herbal medicine have also improved wrinkles, skin tone, and pigmentation. However, it's critical to understand that these approaches may have some side effects, and the botanical quality should be assessed. They may also interact with certain medications and supplements. Therefore, you should consult with a qualified functional medicine practitioner if you would like to incorporate these into your skin regimen.
Lab Tests in This Article
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