Herbal Journey: Clearing Your Skin Naturally

Lately, I’ve been turning to herbal remedies for everything I can think of. It started with my struggle to get a good night’s rest—chamomile and peppermint worked wonders for me and my husband. I wish I had taken before-and-after pictures because, within two nights, my breakout was nearly gone with the help of the mighty patches. I know some people swear by lavender for its antibacterial and antifungal properties, but it doesn’t always agree with me when I drink it—though I absolutely love its scent.

Chamomile + Nettle + Rose + Hibiscus

How did I come to this combination?

Karen M. Rose’s beautifully written and thoughtfully laid-out book, The Art & Practice of Spiritual Herbalism: Transform, Heal, and Remember with the Power of Plants and Ancestral Medicine, provided the perfect foundation. In her book, she recommends Burdock Root, Vitex, Chamomile, Mullein, and Echinacea for managing acne.

I didn’t have Vitex or Echinacea on hand (though they’re now at the top of my herbal shopping list!), but I decided to start with what I already had: Chamomile, Nettle, Rose, and Hibiscus.

Each herb brought something special to the table:

• Chamomile: Known for its calming and anti-inflammatory properties, it’s perfect for soothing irritated skin.
• Nettle: A detoxifying herb similar to Burdock Root, it helps cleanse the body and supports clear skin.
• Rose: Gentle and hydrating, it balances the skin’s pH while reducing redness.
• Hibiscus: Packed with antioxidants and natural AHAs, it gently exfoliates and promotes cell renewal.

I also love the bold, tangy flavor of hibiscus, which made the tea not just healing but enjoyable to drink. With this combination, I felt confident I was giving my skin the nourishment and care it needed.