Using Basil to Treat Acne Breakouts and Pimples

Basil for Acne

This is one of the newer home remedies in acne treatment and prevention.  Basil has long been used in cooking, but few know about it's powerful antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. Since acne is primarily caused by an overgrowth of bacteria, any remedy that contains antibacterial properties should be helpful; however, basil has extremely powerful antibacterial properties in comparison to other home remedies. In fact, it has been shown to stop the growth of some bacterias that have become resistant to antibiotics (such as staph infections).  Due to it's strong antibacterial properties, it is a very effective method of treating and preventing acne breakouts. It's anti-inflammatory properties help keep down swelling of pimples, especially cystic acne. The antioxidants provide excellent benefits for overall skin health.  Basil really is an all around great natural remedy for acne.

Does using basil for acne actually work? The International Journal of Cosmetic Science has conducted a study on the effectiveness of basil for acne and pimples.  The study concluded that the antibacterial properties of basil are very effective in eliminating acne causing bacteria.

There are various ways that you can use basil to treat your acne.  You can simply purchase fresh basil (organic, if possible) and use those to make your own basil toner or you can purchase an all natural basil essential oil.  If you're interested in using basil for acne, here's a few easy home remedies using basil:

• Boil 6-10 basil leaves in 1 cup of water for about 5 minutes.  Allow it to cool completely and then strain out the basil leaves. Apply the basil liquid with a cotton ball all over your face as you would with any other toner. This basil and water mixture can be stored in the refrigerator for 1 week. (To make this method more effective, pack the basil leaves into a small bowl and use the round end of spoon to mash up the leaves until they are bruised.  This will help them release more of the oils while boiling.)
• Boil 2-4 teaspoons of dried basil in 1 cup of water for 8-10 minutes. Strain out the basil particles and store in a glass container in the refrigerator, use as you would any other toner. The mixture will keep in the fridge for 1 week.
• Use basil essential oil to make your own toner.  Mix 8-10 drops of basil oil into 1/4 cup of water.  Use this mixture as a toner, store in fridge for about 1 week.

If you liked this article on using basil oil for acne, be sure to browse this blog for other great natural remedies for acne!