Herbal remedies have been used for centuries to treat illnesses ranging from mild stomach upset to cancer. Recent research supports the use of herbs in the treatment of various medical problems. However, many people believing that "natural" is better have tried unproven and uncontrolled treatments, sometimes with disappointing or even dangerous results.

There exist some herbal treatments that may be helpful in treating common skin conditions that do not always require medical attention. Listed below are some of the more common herbal remedies used to treat simple skin ailments.

Aloe Vera

"If I had to choose only one herbal remedy for the treatment of skin problems, aloe vera would be my No. 1 choice," says Dr. Doris Day, a Manhattan dermatologist and clinical assistant professor of dermatology at NYU Medical Center. "It has been widely recognized as a plant with special healing capabilities." Aloe vera is used in its pure form as a skin softener and moisturizer. The gel, which is the fluid within the leaves, has been used for centuries to accelerate wound healing and relieve pain. Some studies have demonstrated aloe vera to be very effective in the treatment of psoriasis, which results in itchy, red scaly patches on the skin and scalp.

But some store products that list aloe vera as an ingredient do not have adequate concentrations of the substance in them to make them effective, warns Day.

Arnica Flower

Topical preparations of arnica flower are especially helpful for healing wounds. It is effective as a pain reliever, antiseptic and anti-inflammatory cream. Day recommends this treatment for bruises and swelling due to trauma or surgery. It also is helpful in speeding the healing of simple skin abrasions, insect bites and for soothing joint pain. The German government has approved the use of arnica for wound healing therapy.

Chamomile

Chamomile has been used for thousands of years for treatment of various medical problems. Dried and fresh flowers made into a tea have been used for minor stomach upset, as an oral rinse to treat gingivitis and painful mouth lesions, and topically to improve wound healing and treat mild skin problems, such as itchy lesions, hives and sunburn.

Calendula Flower

Also known as the common marigold, calendula flower has a long history of effectiveness in the treatment of burns, bruises, skin infections, cuts and rashes. Compresses made with calendula tea also are useful. The tea can be used as a mouth rinse to treat painful lesions in the mouth.

Comfrey

Both the roots and leaves of comfrey have been used for centuries to improve healing of cuts and bruises. It also has been useful as an anti-inflammatory for treatment of rashes. It is thought to promote healing of closed fractures when applied on the skin over the site of injury. Day warns: "Although topical use of the roots or leaves is safe, application over broken skin can lead to toxicity and so should not be applied more than three days in a row." Tea made from the comfrey leaf also is useful but should not exceed three cups per day.

Tea Tree Oil

The tea tree is a tall evergreen found in Australia and Asia. The leaves have been used for centuries as an antiseptic and were used in World War I as a disinfectant. More recently the oil from the leaves has been harvested to treat cuts, insect bites and other common skin problems. The oil has been shown to kill both fungus and bacteria. The oil is available in stores, without a prescription, and can be diluted as necessary for various conditions. Tea tree oil may be toxic and should never be taken by mouth.

Capsaicinc

Commonly known as cayenne, this spicy red pepper has been used for a multitude of medical problems such as high blood pressure, stomach ulcers, poor circulation, lung and skin infections. There are many formulas that combine capsaicin with other herbal products to maximize antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects. Capsaicin has been shown to deplete substance-P from nerve endings, which makes it an effective pain reliever, according to Day. Initially the pain may be increased or there may be a burning sensation due to the release of substance-P, which is usually temporary.

There are many herbal remedies that are useful in treating common skin conditions. Day maintains that certain herbal remedies may produce adverse reactions if the person using them is sensitive to any of the active ingredients. It is recommended to see your doctor if a skin condition persists or worsens.

(From NYdailyNews)