Clearing the Storm: Herbal Remedies & DIY Licorice Root Cream for Severe Acne

Dear Momma J,

I’ve been struggling with severe acne for years, and nothing seems to help. I’ve tried every prescription and over-the-counter treatment out there, but my skin is still inflamed, painful, and covered in breakouts. I want to try a more natural approach, but I’m overwhelmed by all the options. Are there any herbs that are actually backed by science for fighting acne?

Sincerely,

Frustrated and Breaking Out

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Dear Frustrated,

Oh, honey, I hear you. Acne isn’t just a teenage problem—it’s a battle that can stick around well into adulthood, and when it’s severe, it can feel downright relentless. The good news? God didn’t leave us without solutions. While pharmaceutical treatments can have their place, they often come with side effects that leave folks searching for a more natural, holistic approach. And yes, science backs up what herbalists have known for centuries—there are powerful, plant-based remedies that can help!

Let’s dig into the research and talk about the herbs that have been shown in double-blind, peer-reviewed studies to fight acne from the inside out.

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1. Tea Tree Oil (Melaleuca alternifolia)

This little powerhouse has been studied extensively for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Tea tree oil contains terpinen-4-ol, a compound that effectively kills Propionibacterium acnes (now called Cutibacterium acnes), the bacteria responsible for breakouts. One study found that a 5% tea tree oil gel was just as effective as 5% benzoyl peroxide in reducing acne lesions—without the excessive dryness and irritation that often come with benzoyl peroxide.

Cited Study:

Enshaieh, Shahram, Nasrin Jooya, Javad Siadat, and Alireza Iraji. “The Efficacy of 5% Tea Tree Oil Gel in Mild to Moderate Acne Vulgaris: A Randomized, Double-Blind Placebo-Controlled Study.” Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology, and Leprology 73, no. 1 (2007): 22–25.

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2. Green Tea (Camellia sinensis) Extract

Green tea is packed with epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), a polyphenol that reduces sebum production, fights bacterial overgrowth, and calms inflammation—all key factors in acne formation. In a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, participants using a 2% green tea lotion saw a 58% reduction in acne lesions after six weeks.

Cited Study:

Elsaie, Mohamed L., Mona A. Abdelhamid, Rania A. Elsaie, and Neveen M. Ibrahim. “The Efficacy of Topical 2% Green Tea Lotion in Mild-to-Moderate Acne Vulgaris: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study.” Journal of Drugs in Dermatology 11, no. 6 (2012): 703–707.

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3. Licorice Root (Glycyrrhiza glabra)

Licorice root isn’t just for soothing a sore throat—it’s also a powerful anti-inflammatory. It contains glabridin, a compound that reduces redness, swelling, and hyperpigmentation left behind by acne. A 2017 study found that a 2% licorice root extract cream significantly reduced acne lesions after eight weeks.

Cited Study:

Alyoussef, Abeer, et al. “Topical 2% Licorice Extract for the Treatment of Acne Vulgaris: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial.” Journal of Dermatological Treatment 28, no. 2 (2017): 162–167.

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4. Spearmint (Mentha spicata) for Hormonal Acne

If your acne flares up around your cycle, spearmint tea might be your new best friend. Spearmint has been shown to lower androgens, the hormones responsible for excessive oil production that fuels hormonal acne. In a double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, women who drank two cups of spearmint tea per day for 30 days experienced a significant reduction in testosterone levels and oil production.

Cited Study:

Shabir, Areeba. “Spearmint Herbal Tea Has Significant Anti-Androgen Effects in Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome.” Phytotherapy Research 22, no. 12 (2007): 1443–1446.

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5. Turmeric (Curcuma longa) for Reducing Inflammation

Acne isn’t just about bacteria and oil—it’s also an inflammatory condition. That’s where turmeric shines. The active compound in turmeric, curcumin, is a potent anti-inflammatory that can help calm breakouts and reduce post-acne scarring. A randomized controlled trial found that curcumin supplements combined with black pepper extract (to enhance absorption) significantly reduced acne severity compared to a placebo.

Cited Study:

Asai, Akira, and Teruo Miyazawa. “Dietary Curcuminoids Prevent and Cure Acne Vulgaris by Suppressing Inflammatory Cytokines.” Journal of Clinical Biochemistry and Nutrition 50, no. 2 (2012): 100–105.

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DIY Licorice Root Cream for Acne & Hyperpigmentation

Licorice root is packed with glabridin, a natural compound that helps reduce inflammation, redness, and dark spots caused by acne. Making your own licorice root cream at home is a great way to harness its benefits without harsh chemicals.

Ingredients:

2 tbsp licorice root powder (or 1 tbsp dried licorice root)

½ cup distilled water

1 tbsp aloe vera gel (soothing & hydrating)

1 tbsp jojoba oil (or another light carrier oil)

½ tsp beeswax (to thicken the cream)

½ tsp shea butter (for extra hydration)

5 drops vitamin E oil (preserves the cream & nourishes skin)

5 drops lavender or tea tree essential oil (optional, for added antibacterial benefits)

Instructions:

1. Make the Licorice Root Extract

In a small pot, combine licorice root powder and distilled water.

Simmer on low heat for 10–15 minutes until the water is reduced by half.

Strain and let cool.

2. Melt the Oils & Beeswax

In a double boiler, melt jojoba oil, beeswax, and shea butter together.

3. Blend It Together

Slowly whisk in the licorice root extract while stirring.

Add aloe vera gel, vitamin E oil, and essential oils.

4. Store & Use

Pour into a clean jar and store in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.

Apply a thin layer to clean skin once or twice daily.

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Final Thoughts from Momma J

Sweetheart, acne is complex, and there’s no one-size-fits-all solution—but you are not powerless in this fight. God gave us an abundance of healing plants, and modern science is just now catching up to what herbalists have known for centuries. If you’re dealing with severe acne, try these remedies alongside a gut-healthy diet, stress management, and plenty of hydration.

You’re not just fighting for clear skin—you’re fighting for your confidence, your comfort, and your well-being. And you deserve to feel beautiful in the skin God gave you.

Sending you love and prayers, and as always, Stay rooted,

Momma J

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Have a question for Momma J? Drop it in the comments below, and let’s keep this conversation going!