Echinacea reduces acne inflammationThe potential use of Echinacea in acne: control of Propionibacterium acnes growth and inflammation.
We explored the potential of Echinacea purpurea, specifically in the form of Echinaforce®, to help manage acne, which is caused by the bacterium Propionibacterium acnes. The study aimed to see if this herbal remedy could serve as a viable treatment option due to its well-known antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial properties.
Remarkably, we found that Echinacea was effective in killing not only a standard laboratory strain of P. acnes but also several clinical isolates. This suggests that it could reduce the bacterial load that contributes to acne flare-ups.
Additionally, we observed that when P. acnes was introduced to human bronchial and skin cell cultures, it caused significant inflammation marked by the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines like IL-6 and IL-8. However, the application of Echinaforce® completely reversed this inflammatory response, bringing the cytokine levels back to normal.
Overall, our findings suggest that Echinacea could offer a dual benefit for those struggling with acne: it may help reduce the growth of the bacteria responsible for breakouts while also calming the inflammation that comes with it. This makes Echinaforce® an exciting alternative treatment for acne sufferers seeking natural options.
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Echinacea supports acne treatment strategiesFacial Acne: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study on the Clinical Efficacy of a Symbiotic Dietary Supplement.
We explored the potential benefits of a dietary supplement that includes echinacea and probiotics in treating mild to moderate acne. Through a well-structured clinical study involving 114 participants, we compared the effects of this supplement against a placebo over eight weeks.
Participants taking the supplement experienced a notable reduction in superficial inflammatory lesions. The results showed a significant decrease in acne-related symptoms along with changes in skin microbiota, which are often linked to acne development. In particular, those taking the botanical extracts, including echinacea, reported a 40% reduction in inflammatory lesions.
While the study highlights echinacea's role within a multi-faceted approach to acne treatment, it is important to note that we cannot isolate echinacea's effect due to its combination with other components. Even so, our findings suggest that these supplements could serve as a promising option for managing acne-prone skin.
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