Sebaceous Cysts with the Menstrual Cycle
Answered by: Susan Eagles
Question from: Name not given
Posted on: August 28, 1998

Every month around the time of my menstrual cycle I suffer with huge boils that are very painful and are infected. I was wondering if this is due to a virus of the blood. I’ve been to the doctor and they say that they are sebaceous cysts.

Sebaceous cysts are caused by blockage of the sebaceous gland in the hair follicle, causing lumps filled with keratin and other materials from the gland and skin. Growth can be stimulated by hormonal changes, often around the time of puberty. A diet and herbs that nourish the skin and support elimination functions should help to keep the cysts from forming.

The herb to use to regulate female hormones is Vitex agnus-castus, which works via the pituitary gland. A daily dose of two to three ml of a 1:5 tincture can be taken first thing in the morning, on waking. For other strengths of the herbal tincture, follow directions on the bottle.

A diet for healthy skin is low in fat and high in essential fatty acids, such as in sunflower seeds, fish, pumpkin seeds (which also contain high amounts of zinc, essential for healthy skin). Increasing fresh fruit and vegetables in your diet will provide nutrients for the skin and support healthy elimination. Foods to be avoided include fried or greasy food, and white flour and white sugar products.

Other herbs that can help are: Red Clover, which supports elimination by the lymph glands, Dandelion leaf and root which help liver processing and elimination from the bowel and kidney, Nettles which support the blood and circulation; Turmeric is effective internally and externally for skin problems, contains vitamins and minerals and has anti-oxidant, liver supportive, anti-inflammatory and blood purifying properties. Evening Primrose Oil’s essential fatty acids provide good nutrition for the skin.

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