5 Herbs That Changed How I Handle HS Flares
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Okay, let's talk about herbs. You know, those things you mostly see in the spice aisle or in fancy teas. For me, they’ve gone from kitchen staples to sacred tools in my self-care routine, especially when my skin is acting up. Living with HS (Hidradenitis Suppurativa) means constantly learning how to soothe your skin, protect your energy, and reclaim your peace. Over the years, I've tried just about everything, I even contemplated using Compound W to freeze them (worst idea ever!) but it wasn’t until I turned to herbs that things started to shift in a powerful way.
I realized that most treatments only targeted symptoms, not the rhythm of a flare itself. So, I created a routine rooted in intention, not just reaction. These five herbs became part of the foundation of what I now call the CPC Ritual™: Cleanse. Pull. Close.
This isn't medical advice, just me sharing what these plants have done for me and why they continue to show up in the way I care for my skin, body, and spirit.
Phase 1: Cleanse
🌿 1. Rosemary: The Gentle Warrior
You probably know rosemary from roasted potatoes or lamb. But for me, it’s a gentle warrior with serious skin street cred. It's got this awesome, invigorating scent that instantly makes me feel a bit better. I love rosemary for her antimicrobial and antibacterial properties. It's a great little astringent that helps calm things down without being super harsh. I’ll use it in herbal rinses and infusions, and I'll sometimes use a toner or a product with rosemary oil to help give my skin a fresh, clean feeling. It's like a deep, herbal breath for your skin, one that refreshes your body and uplifts your spirit at the same time.
Phase 2: Pull
🌿 2. Neem: The Tough Love Herb
Neem is what I call my "tough love" bestie. She doesn't coddle; she gets ish done. It's more of a power player and, honestly, doesn't get enough love. Most people know neem as a garden helper, but for me, she's a powerful infection puller. It's potent, with a really distinct, strong scent, some people love it, some people think it's... well, intense. But it's worth getting to know. For me, when I'm dealing with a bigger, more stubborn spot, a tiny bit of diluted neem oil is a total powerhouse. It's known for its antibacterial and antifungal action, and for helping to draw out deep inflammation and pus. It reminds me that healing is not always pretty, but it's always powerful.
🌿 3. Turmeric: The Golden Healer
This one you know! Turmeric is all the rage for good reasons. Turmeric is a star anti-inflammatory thanks to its active compound, curcumin. I use it two ways: internally and externally. Taking a supplement helps with inflammation on a systemic level, which is huge for chronic conditions. And for an extra boost, I'll sometimes mix a tiny pinch with some honey and a carrier oil to make a paste.
Warning: it stains. But honestly? The way it helps calm an inflamed spot and the magical glow it gives your skin makes it totally worth it.
Phase 3: Close
🌿 4. Aloe: The Ultimate Soother
When a flare gets fiery, aloe is my go-to. If you don't have an aloe plant, go get one asap! They're super easy to keep alive and give back so much. For me, pure aloe vera gel, especially fresh from the plant, is like a big, soothing "shhhh" for my skin. It’s my absolute go-to for instant relief when something feels hot, red, or just angry. It cools, hydrates, and helps with that uncomfortable tension and "fire" feeling that comes with a flare. Aloe is also loaded with compounds that support tissue regeneration, which is a great bonus. It’s my desert island plant, for sure.
🌿 5. Calendula: The Gentle Soul
When a flare is on its way out, calendula is my "seal the deal" herb, the one I lean on to help the skin calm down and come back to softness. This pretty little marigold flower is like the kind, gentle hug of the herbal world. It's famous for its healing and soothing properties, which are perfect for skin that feels raw and sensitive. I love using calendula in oil infusions, compresses, and spiritual baths to help ease the skin back into balance after the fire has passed. It's a great way to show some extra love to areas that are feeling vulnerable, helping the skin feel calm and protected. Calendula reminds me to nurture, not just fix.
The Magic in the Ritual
Finding what works for you is a process of trial and error. For me, creating a holistic care plan that combines medical advice with these natural additions has been the most effective way to manage my HS. It’s a journey, not a sprint, but every step toward better managing my symptoms feels like a win.
If you’re tired of random advice, drugstore fails, or feeling like you’re the only one, I see you. I created the CPC Ritual™ to help HS warriors like us care for our skin with intention, integrity, and results.
🧴 More details coming soon on how to get your hands on the CPC kit
📲 Follow me on Instagram @empoweredhswarrior for rituals, tips, and truths
🌿 And let me know in the comments, which of these herbs are in your ritual?
Sending you healing vibes, always.