Beautiful Skin: An Inside Job
Calendula (Calendula officinalis) A soothing remedy for the skin Acne, an inflammatory skin disorder characterized by the presence of blackheads, pimples, whiteheads and clogged pores, is the most common of all skin problems. It most often occurs during puberty when the body is flooded with androgens: hormones, which stimulate the production of the protein keratin, and an oily skin lubricant, called sebum. When sebum is produced more quickly than the pores can be cleared, a blemish develops. An over-abundance of this oil makes the pores sticky, creating an opportunity for bacteria to grow, and local infections can develop. Often, the skin is red and painful, but the pain is not just physical; embarrassment can lead to social isolation, lack of confidence, and low self-esteem. According to Phyllis Balch, CNC, best-selling author of Prescription for Nutritional Healing, and, Prescription for Herbal Healing, acne affects 80% of Americans between the ages of 12 and 44, to one deg...