Researchers at Ken Hee University in Korea have advanced an anti-acne medicine formula built from herbal ingredients. The study outlining their findings appears in the latest issue of a peer-reviewed medical magazine.
Acne is a persistent inflammatory skin condition that arises when dead skin cells and excess oil clog hair follicles. Common signs include blackheads, whiteheads, pimples, oily skin, and potential scarring. The usual culprits are bacteria such as Propionibacterium acnes and Propionibacterium granulosum, along with staphylococci and certain skin mites. These microorganisms are often harmless passengers until specific conditions—chiefly oily skin and high sebum production—create a favorable environment for inflammation and tissue damage.
Across dermatology, a range of treatments exists, including retinoids, topical antimicrobials, chemical peels, and hormonal therapies. While effective for many, these options can be costly and sometimes carry undesirable side effects, limiting their long-term use for some patients.
Researchers have increasingly explored plant-based extracts as affordable alternatives with fewer adverse effects. Among these is an extract derived from the lacquer tree (Rhus verniciflua), which has a long history in traditional medicine but can trigger allergic reactions in some individuals. The current work seeks to harness the benefits of such botanicals while minimizing safety concerns, offering a practical option for broader populations.
The researchers developed a formula named FRO, which blends fermented extracts of the lacquer tree and Orostachys japonicus (Japanese griswort) in equal parts. In laboratory and early clinical assessments, FRO demonstrated a notable capacity to slow acne progression. The formula showed antimicrobial activity against skin bacteria implicated in acne and exhibited anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce redness and swelling associated with lesions.
Additional observations suggest that fermentation processes may enhance the bioavailability and stability of plant-derived compounds, potentially improving their therapeutic effects. The study emphasizes that FRO is designed to provide a balanced approach, targeting microbial growth while moderating inflammatory responses without causing the hypersensitivity reactions sometimes seen with other herbal preparations.
In related discussions on diet and acne, nutritionists and clinicians note that certain foods can influence skin health. This line of inquiry supports a broader view of acne management that combines topical and dietary strategies to support overall skin condition.
Ongoing work aims to further validate FRO through larger trials, assess long-term safety, and compare its outcomes with established treatments. If confirmed, this plant-based approach could offer a cost-effective alternative that appeals to patients seeking non-synthetic options for acne control.