While we all probably recognize garlic as a common herb used to flavor some of our favorite foods, garlic has a place outside the kitchen as well. This potent herb has been used as a natural medicine for years and is a known treatment for a variety of diseases and other disorders. One of our favorite uses for garlic is curing acne.
Garlic is most effective for treating acne that is related to bacterial infections of the skin. This type of acne is caused by the overproduction of oil in the skin which leads to the buildup of bacteria in the pores, translating into acne breakouts. Garlic possesses a variety of qualities that make it an effective treatment for this type of acne.
In essence, garlic is a potent antioxidant, so it functions to remove infectious pathogens from the skin. Garlic also contains a compound called allicin, which is responsible for the herbs intense flavor and smell as well as its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory capabilities. Additionally, garlic serves as an effective antifungal and antiviral, so it eliminates the basic causes of acne.
Garlic can be used in a number of different ways to effectively treat acne. You must be careful when using the treatments, however, as garlic is a particularly strong compound.
A garlic spot treatment is especially effective for treating stubborn acne, but always be sure to dilute the treatment with water or another substance to avoid damaging the skin. To make the treatment, crush a clove of garlic and mix it in 1/2 teaspoon of water. Rub the garlic mixture on your spots of acne and let it dry for 5-10 minutes. Rinse thoroughly and pat the face dry.
Garlic is also effective for treating acne as an internal use. Eating or even drinking garlic will help clear your acne from the inside out. Either add 1 or 2 crushed garlic cloves to your favorite meal or mix the cloves with water or juice and drink it.
While garlic is a strong acne treatment, it won't give you results overnight. However, if you continue with the treatments you'll see clear skin in no time and have the benefits of a boosted immune system as well.
Continue reading below for reviews from Earth Clinic readers who have tried garlic to treat acne issues!
