Za’atar is a natural acne remedy

New research has found that thyme, the main ingredient in Zaa’tar, could be more effective in treating acne than prescription creams

In the Levante no breakfast is complete without a small plate of oil and Zaa’tar, a special herb mix of wild thyme, sesame seeds and salt. New research has now found that herbal preparations of thyme could be more effective in treating acne than prescription creams.

Researchers at the Leeds Metropolitan University found that thyme was able to kill spot-causing bacterium after five minutes and also soothe the skin with natural anti-inflammatory properties.

Old Wive’s wisdom finds that herbal treatments make great skin remedies

What’s more, they discovered that the thyme tincture had a greater antibacterial effect than standard concentrations of benzoyl peroxide – the active ingredient in most anti-acne creams or washes. Dr Margarita Gomez-Escalada who is heading the project said: “While thyme, marigold and myrrh are common herbal alternatives to standard antibacterial skin washes, this is the first study to demonstrate the effect they have on the bacterium that causes the infection leading to acne.”

A herbal remedy to deal with acne would surely be a welcome alternative to those concerned about the long term implications of using harsh chemical treatments. In fact, Dr Gomez-Escalada added that the problem with treatments containing benzoyl peroxide is the side-effects they are associated with. “A burning sensation and skin irritation are not uncommon. (But news in 2025 suggests that some benzene-contaminated acne products are linked to cancer and are being recalled by the FDA.)

Related: Za’atar is a natural treatment for acne

“Herbal preparations are less harsh on the skin due to their anti-inflammatory properties while our results suggest they can be just as, if not more, effective than chemical treatments.”

Proof if you ever needed it that nature knows best.

For more on natural remedies see:
Some Tips to Consider Before Buying Beauty Products
5 Natural Ways to Keep Your Skin Beautiful
The ABCs of Middle East Spices Medicines, Part IV – Oregano to Rosemary

Author: Arwa Aburawa

Arwa is a Muslim freelance writer who is interested in everything climate change related and how Islam can inspire more people to care for their planet and take active steps to save it while we can. She is endlessly suspicious of all politicians and their ceaseless meetings, especially as they make normal people believe that they are not part of the solution when they are the ONLY solution. Her Indian auntie is her model eco-warrier, and when Arwa is not busy helping out in the neighborhood alleyway garden, swap shopping or attempting fusion vegetarian dishes- with mixed success, she’d like to add- she can be found sipping on foraged nettle tea.