Neem - An Effective Acne Treatment

The leaf of the neem tree is considered to be the cornerstone of Ayurveda, one of the oldest medical systems of the world. You might have come across soaps, creams and toothpastes that contain neem as the active ingredient. Every part of the tree - leaf, bark, root and seed - has therapeutic properties. Neem is an excellent remedy for various skin diseases and problems, including acne. Regardless of the type of acne you are suffering from, be it whiteheads, blackheads, pimples or papules, neem can play an efficacious role in acne removal and control. Let's get into the details!

What's the reason behind the hype of neem as an effective acne remedy? The antioxidant, astringent, antiseptic, antiviral, antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties of neem are responsible for its therapeutic properties. The antioxidant content of neem is about hundred times more effective than that of antioxidant-rich foods like broccoli or blue berries. Antioxidants are known for their ability to neutralize harmful free radicals and boost the immune system. In terms of skin health, they delay the formation of wrinkles and fight inflammation, which triggers acne breakouts. Neem leaf contains a compound called quercetin, which combats acne-induced irritation and itching, by soothing and cooling the skin. It also contains salicylic acid, which helps reduce redness and inflammation. Neem oil, an extract of neem seeds, is an excellent skin nourishing agent owing to its fatty acid and hydrate content. Neem's blood purifying property also contributes to combat acne.

How can I use neem for my acne problem? For centuries, crushed neem leaves have been used to treat acne and improve the skin texture. Alternatively, dried neem leaves can be ground into a fine powder, mixed with water and applied on the skin. The powder is also used in the preparation of supplements. You can prepare a face mask by mixing betonite clay with a few drops of neem oil. Apply the mixture on your face and wash off after ten minutes. Or, you can dab neem oil on the affected area a few times daily to cure acne. Why not try a ready-to-use neem spray that can be simply sprayed on the affected area? After the spray, you may use a neem-based lotion to moisturize your skin and retain its suppleness. A lot of ready-to-use neem products are available in the market. These include neem acne soaps, neem lotions, neem capsules, neem tea and neem powder.

When taken internally, a neem supplement works as a detoxifying agent and blood purifier; this in turn helps maintain a natural clear skin that exudes a healthy glow. Reputable acne products and supplements administer the active ingredients to your body in the right dosage to bring about positive results. For instance, Clearade acne treatment helps eliminate acne by administering acne vitamins in proper doses. Eating a few neem leaves on a regular basis helps boost your immunity.

Neem, one of the most effective home remedies for acne, is virtually free from any side effects. It provides a mild and safe treatment that not only helps your skin recover quickly but also prevents the recurrence of acne. Apart from adhering to an effective herbal remedy, such as neem, you must be cautious with other habits, such as eating healthy, drinking enough water, exercising regularly and maintaining a clean skin-care routine. During the course of your treatment, be careful not to use your nails to itch or squeeze your pimples.

If you are resolute, you're sure to experience the best results.

MIJ Sadique is specializing in skin issues and has made several studies about acne and acne remedies. He has more resources about scientifically proven acne vitamins, as well as pantothenic acid acne treatment.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=MIJ_Sadique

Which Fruits Are Bad For Acne?

Though everyone goes through acne at some stage in their lives, some acne sufferers are embittered by this unwelcome skin condition because of its intensity. Many people have been advocating natural acne cure, with particular regard to lifestyle and diet modifications. To this end, several theories and diets have been formulated to explain the complexion-diet link. What is the recommended diet? Perhaps, you would respond by saying, "one that's rich in fruits and vegetables." But, have you heard that some fruits can aggravate acne? If that seems surprising, just read on to see if it is true!

Fruits are packed with health-giving nutrients like vitamins, minerals, phytonutrients, etc. and hence, are universally recommended for optimal health. Citrus fruits contain bioflavonoids and minerals like potassium and magnesium that combat inflammation. And, you know that inflammation is the chief cause for acne breakouts. Vitamin C, an important nutrient of most citrus fruits, is a potent antioxidant, meaning that it keeps your skin safe from free radicals that contribute to inflammation. If you look at Clearade acne treatment, you can understand how it addresses the root cause of the problem to help your skin metabolize oil and overcome inflammation. Fruits contain fiber that aids in digestion and elimination of toxins from your body.

They also provide the much-needed hydration for your skin and body.

How then, can fruits trigger or aggravate acne breakouts? Apart from the essential nutrients, many fruits are also packed with natural sugar, which is not good for acne-prone skin. Given that acne is caused by unstable blood sugar levels and chronic inflammation, sugary fruits can raise your blood sugar, which in turn sets off a chain of reactions that favor acne. What happens is that high blood sugar causes a spike in your insulin, which increases cellular inflammation and stimulates androgen production, thereby affecting your skin. Such fruits can actually cause acne for those who are resistant to insulin. This is because the sugar content in these fruits kindles hormonal reactions.

Is there a way out? Yes, you just need to stay away from fruits that are too sugary or syrupy. You may have to avoid fruits like mangoes, bananas, plums, watermelons, pineapples and peaches. Sweetened fruits juices must, of course, be avoided. Those who suffer from insulin resistance will have to find a way to reduce the resistance and eliminate fat through lifestyle changes. Citrus fruits are actually safe, except if you are allergic to them. If you come across allergic symptoms like hives and itching after consuming citrus fruits, it is advisable to confirm the reaction with a doctor and eliminate those fruits from your diet. A few citrus fruits that have a relatively higher content of simple carbohydrates may have a negative effect on acne.

In general, if you want to minimize your acne problem, you must give heed to low alkaline foods, such as carrots, tomatoes, cucumbers, apples and grapes. Citrus fruits like oranges, lemons and strawberries contain a particular type of acid that renders an alkalizing effect, i.e. they tend to reduce the acidity in your body. Part of your acne treatment may also involve the intake of acne vitamins or supplements to address any nutrition deficiencies.

MIJ Sadique is specializing in skin issues and has made several studies about acne and acne remedies. He has more resources about scientifically proven acne vitamins, as well as pantothenic acid acne treatment.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=MIJ_Sadique