By Dr. Gita Gupta, BHSc, DC, CAP

A common concern for my female patients is acne.  Most of them thought that their acne would clear up after puberty, but this was not the case. In fact, a large percentage of women experience acne well into their 50’s and 60’s even after trying several prescribed and over-the-counter treatments. It is a difficult problem to deal with.

What is the solution for these women?

From an ayurvedic perspective, acne and other forms of skin problems are directly related to excess heat, affecting the Pitta dosha, particularly the blood. When there is too much heat built up, the channels or nadis inflame creating a reaction underneath the skin, resulting in pimples.
A consistent increase in pitta or heat tends to be the result of eating foods of the salty, fried, or spicy variety AND not eating enough bitters, cooling, and soothing foods at the same time. I myself am a spicy-salty eater, but I have to keep it in balance for the sake of my doshic balance and am a big fan of bitter melon and triphala. Even though we all enjoy a spicy savoury snack now and then, some foods just aren’t worth it!

A few simple remedies to try if you have reoccurring adult acne:

• a daily cooled bitter tea (dandelion, aloe, neem)

• applying a mask of tulsi, neem and honey to the face weekly

• removing heating and inflammatory foods from the diet

Please keep in mind that these are general tips, and some individuals require a more specific skin care program. If you have any questions or would like to set up an appointment please contact me at ggupta@integrativehealthinstitute.ca

Though Dr. Gupta has always had a passion for helping others, it was a personal experience that initially lead her down her current path in health care.  While training as a long distance runner, she began to experience many painful injuries which did not improve with conventional prescription medications or general exercises. It was only through the safe and natural process of chiropractic care that she noticed an extensive improvement.

While receiving chiropractic treatment she became fascinated with the body’s ability to heal itself, especially with regard  to the spine and the central nervous system. Through many therapeutic endeavors, Dr. Gupta gained first-hand experience of the profound healing power of chiropractic medicine, enabling her to bring enthusiasm and dedication to each of her patients’ treatments.

Her passion for healing has only intensified as she has had the fortune to learn about and experience the amazing and powerful effects of Ayurvedic Medicine and she brings that practice with her to IHI. Dr.Gupta continues to share her knowledge and experience as a natural healing practitioner  with family, friends and patients, and encourages everyone she meets to “find a conscious way to live so that we can preserve our bodies, and as importantly, so we can preserve the earth.”

image via flickr