Alternative Treatments for Rosacea
Rosacea is characterized by a red, acne-like outbreak on the skin. It affects the face and manifests itself with redness on the cheeks, small visible veins and pimples. There are standard treatments, such as prescription medications and laser therapy, as well as herbal alternatives. This article focuses on the herbal treatments.
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Significance
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Rosacea is an emotionally debilitating disease that can affect people's self-esteem, as well as their professional and social lives.
Causes
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No one knows what causes rosacea, and there is no known cure.
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Prevention
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There is no known way to prevent acquiring this disease.
Treatments
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Several alternative treatments are used, some successfully, others not. All are applied to the face. Oatmeal helps control itching, while chamomile applied to the area has a soothing effect. Green tea is known to protect against sunlight, which can aggravate rosacea. Licorice is an anti-inflammatory, and feverfew stops blood platelet aggregation. The Rosacea Support Group reported that in a 45-day trial, Aveeno Daily Moisturizer Ultracalming product showed some improvement in mild acne, which they believe points to the potential of feverfew as a treatment.
Warning
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Tea tree oil has been mentioned as a treatment, but it also can cause contact dermatitis. Camphor oil also is cited, but is a known skin irritant. Both of theseoils should be used with caution.
Availablility
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All the herbs mentioned here be bought at groceries or specialty stores that sell bulk herbs. They also can be purchased online or grown at home.
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