Whether it’s acne, dryness, eczema, or premature aging, most of us have experienced feeling dissatisfied with the health or appearance of our skin. Fortunately, nature has provided us with the tools to heal and support our body’s largest organ—in the form of tea!
Here are 5 of the most potent teas for skin health and beauty.
Dandelion
Although you may think of dandelion as a weed, this herb has actually been used medicinally for centuries. Native Americans used it to promote skin health, and some of today’s herbalists and naturopathic doctors recommend it for the same purpose. Dandelion is thought to help the skin by improving liver function, which cleans the blood and removes toxins from the body.
Dandelion root also contains a ton of antioxidants, which help prevent premature aging, as well as vitamins A, B, C, and the minerals iron, potassium and zinc, which all support clear skin.
Spearmint
Delicious and refreshing spearmint tea works in multiple ways to protect your skin. Like the other teas on the list, it’s full of antioxidants which are great for general skin health. But, spearmint is especially helpful for female sufferers of acne.
Acne is often caused by the body producing too many male hormones, or androgens, which trigger sebum production and sebaceous gland enlargement. Spearmint possesses anti-androgenic properties that can stop the inflamed, oily cycle of hormonal acne in its tracks. Try two cups a day for this purpose.
Chamomile
Chamomile is a bit of a ‘wonder’ herb, as it has so many beneficial uses. In terms of skin health, it can both be applied topically and consumed. When applied topically, chamomile can reduce the inflammation associated with conditions like acne or eczema. When consumed, chamomile tea also contains potent anti-inflammatory properties, but its main mechanism of aiding the skin comes from it’s power to help reduce stress and anxiety and induce sleep.
As we know, stress can increase inflammation in the body, which chamomile can help to prevent. Lack of quality sleep, on the other hand, is one of the main factors in premature aging. Chamomile tea holds potential benefits in both of these areas.
Green Tea
That’s right, this famous health drink is also awesome for your skin! Green tea contains a ton of antioxidants that help to fight the free radicals that cause premature aging and inflammation. It also contains many nutrients including vitamin E, vitamin C, Vitamin A, and zinc—all of these, as you probably know, are crucial for skin health and repair.
Drink a cup (or several) per day, or use it as a toner on its own or mixed with apple cider vinegar in the morning and evening.
Stinging Nettle
According to some herbalists, stinging nettle can be used to make a herbal tea that supports skin and hair health. Its power comes from the fact that it’s anti-inflammatory, it aids in digestion, and it’s rich in vitamins and minerals—notably B vitamins, vitamin K, selenium, and zinc. These factors combine to help give the drinker firmer and clearer skin.
Stinging nettle tea, like dandelion, is also thought to purify and detoxify the blood, which naturally clears the skin right up. Fresh nettle will give you a ‘stinging’ rash (hence the name), so look for the dried variety in your local health food store or online.
Just because these teas and herbs are natural, doesn’t mean they don’t come with possible side effects or reactions. Nature is very powerful! Consider speaking to a herbalist or other health practitioner to make sure you don’t have any contraindications or health issues that would make these teas unhelpful or even harmful to you.
-The Alternative Daily
Sources:
http://www.progressivehealth.com/acne-tea.htm
http://www.livestrong.com/article/110841-dandelion-root-acne
http://www.livestrong.com/article/359359-herbal-teas-that-are-good-for-skin
