Integrative homoeopathic management of acne vulgaris: A narrative review combining constitutional prescribing with targeted topical mother tincture

Background: Young adults and adolescents are predominantly affected by acne vulgaris, a chronic inflammatory condition of the pilosebaceous unit. Comedones, papules, nodules, pustules and scarring, which is occasional, are its defining features. Follicular hyperkeratinization, increased sebum production, inflammatory reaction and Cutibacterium acnes are all part of the etiology. In addition to its physical effects, acne has a substantial negative impact on psychological health, resulting in anxiety, social disengagement and despair. While topical benzoyl peroxides, retinoids, antibiotics, isotretinoin and hormonal therapies all are examples of conventional treatments that may alleviate symptoms, they have frequently linked to side effects, recurrence and antibiotic resistance. Aim: Explore the role of an integrative homoeopathic approach in the management of acne vulgaris by using topical application of specific homoeopathic mother tincture and constitutional prescribing. Materials and Methods: This narrative review analyses available literature on the conventional management and pathophysiology of acne vulgaris along with the principles of homoeopathy. Particular emphasis is placed on homoeopathic individualized constitutional treatment and topical use of mother tincture such as Calendula officinalis, Berberis aquifolium and Echinacea angustifolia in dermatological practice. Result: Available preliminary studies and clinical observations suggest that homoeopathic constitutional treatment, combined with topical application of selected mother tincture, may help in promoting healing, reducing inflammatory lesions and improving post-inflammatory pigmentation. The integrative approach also aims to address the underlying susceptibility and maintain overall systemic balance. Conclusion: Homoeopathy offers a holistic and individualized approach in the management of acne vulgaris. Previous evidence indicated potential benefits of combining constitutional treatment with topical mother tincture; current data remain limited due to small sample size and methodological variations. Well-designed clinical trials are required to establish stronger scientific evidence for the effectiveness of integrative homoeopathic management in acne vulgaris.