Acne and Garlic

Is Garlic a Natural Acne Cure?

I'm not aware of any scientific reasearch into any possible link between garlic and acne control, however it has a long-standing reputation in folk medicine. No-one claims it's a miracle acne cure - personally I'm middle-aged and eat loads of garlic but still get the occasional bad spot. However many people do believe it can help treat the symptoms. It is said to do this in two ways: internal and external.

As always, consult your doctor before attempting any home treatment.

First of all, garlic has powerful antibiotic properties (1) and is a general blood cleanser. Eating garlic might help your system internally to clean itself out and hence reduce acne symptoms. Garlic's most powerful medicinal compunds are released when it's eaten raw and crushed. A little raw garlic can be sprinkled on top of a meal at the end of cooking, added to a salad, included in a sandwich, etc. Be warned that the taste and the smell of raw garlic is very stong.

The antibiotic and cleansing properties of garlic also give it a reputation in folk medicine as being an effective acne treatment when a little is applied gently externally. However although some people seem to think it works, others have reported nothing other than skin burning and reddening. So for safety I would not use garlic on the skin.

Note: Raw garlic is very powerful and can cause problems. Some people are actively allergic to garlic. Do not use garlic if you suspect you are allergic. Even if you don't have an allergy, use garlic with caution and don't overdo it.

If you suffer from acne, seek the advice and treatment of a doctor, professional dermatologist or nutritionist. Garlic certainly isn't a substitute for these. However as part of a healthy diet it might be useful for some people in the control of acne symptoms.

References:

(1): Garlic: A natural antibiotic (American Chemical Society)