Exploring Natural Solutions for Acne: The Potential of Spearmint Tea

Natural Hormonal Acne Treatment

Spearmint tea is a treatment option for hormonal acne

Acne, especially when it is hormonal in nature, can be persistent and challenging to manage. With the increasing interest in natural treatments for acne, spearmint tea emerges as a promising remedy.

The Science

Research indicates that spearmint tea possesses significant anti-androgen effects, which can be beneficial for those suffering from hormonal acne. Androgens play a crucial role in the development of acne by increasing sebum (oil) production, which can lead to clogged pores and breakouts. By potentially lowering free and total testosterone levels, spearmint tea offers a natural approach to mitigating the hormonal imbalances that contribute to acne.

The effectiveness of spearmint tea in reducing hirsutism (excessive hair growth) in women with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) further supports its role in balancing hormones. Given the link between hormonal imbalances, PCOS, and acne, spearmint tea's ability to adjust androgen levels suggests it could be a useful, natural treatment option for those looking to manage their acne symptoms without the need for pharmaceuticals.

Treatment Guidelines

Incorporating spearmint tea into one's diet could therefore be a simple, natural strategy for addressing the underlying hormonal factors that contribute to acne. While more research is needed to fully understand the extent of its benefits and optimal consumption guidelines, but we recommend 2-3 cups per day of spearmint tea if you are not trying to conceive, pregnant or breast feeding.

Spearmint tea represents a hopeful avenue for those exploring natural treatments for hormonal acne.

As with any natural remedy, it's important to consult with a healthcare provider before incorporating spearmint tea into your acne treatment plan, especially for individuals with specific health conditions or those on medication. Spearmint tea is not safe if you are trying to convince, pregnant or breastfeeding.

References

Akdoğan M, Tamer MN, Cüre E, Cüre MC, Köroğlu BK, Delibaş N. Effect of spearmint (Mentha spicata Labiatae) teas on androgen levels in women with hirsutism. Phytother Res. 2007 May;21(5):444-7. doi: 10.1002/ptr.2074. PMID: 17310494.

Grant P. Spearmint herbal tea has significant anti-androgen effects in polycystic ovarian syndrome. A randomized controlled trial. Phytother Res. 2010 Feb;24(2):186-8. doi: 10.1002/ptr.2900. PMID: 19585478.

Grant P, Ramasamy S. An update on plant derived anti-androgens. Int J Endocrinol Metab. 2012 Spring;10(2):497-502. doi: 10.5812/ijem.3644. Epub 2012 Apr 20. PMID: 23843810; PMCID: PMC3693613.

Mehraban M, Jelodar G, Rahmanifar F. A combination of spearmint and flaxseed extract improved endocrine and histomorphology of ovary in experimental PCOS. J Ovarian Res. 2020 Mar 20;13(1):32. doi: 10.1186/s13048-020-00633-8. PMID: 32197626; PMCID: PMC7085145.

Caren Campbell